What is the Intel 287XL?

The Intel 287XL is a low-power (CHMOS) math coprocessor which works in ALL 
286-based systems.  It works in sockets designed for the Intel 80287-6, 
80287-8, 80287-10, and 80C287A.  In any given PC, the 287XL runs 50% faster 
than the 80287-6, -8, or -10 would.

How fast does the 287XL run? 

The 287XL will run as fast as the PC allows.  It is the PC which actually 
determines the speed at which the math coprocessor will run.  (With the 
older Intel 80287's, the number after the dash is the maximum speed at 
which that chip could be run.  For example, the 287-8 could be used in any 
PC which ran its coprocessor at 8 MHz or slower.)  

The 287XL can run up to a maximum of 12 MHz.  Currently, all 286- based 
PC's (even those with 16 & 20 MHz CPUs) run the math coprocessors at 12 MHz 
or slower.


Does that mean that you are obsoleting all of the old 80287's?

We will continue to ship all of the older 80287's at their current prices.  
We will let the market tell us which parts are no longer in demand.


But isn't everyone just going to switch to the 287XL?

Many users will want to switch right away because the 287XL is faster than 
the older 287's, and it is priced lower than the 287- 10 and 80C287A.  
However, the 287-8 and 287-6 will still appeal to more price-conscious 
buyers with slower PC's that can use those chips.  The 287-8 and 287-6 
prices will not change, making them less expensive than the 287XL. 


Are you going to "one-size-fits-all" chips for the 8087 and 387 lines as 
well?

We always have many products in development - it's difficult to say which 
ones may or may not come to market.


What's the difference between the 287XL and the 287XLT?

Internally, the 287XL and 287XLT are the same.  The only difference is that 
the 287XLT is small and square for space-constrained hardware designs (such 
as laptops & notebook computers), and the 287XL is rectangular like other 
287 chips.


What compatibility issues should I be aware of with the 287XL?

The 287XL is fully compatible with any 286-based system (except the Compaq 
LTE/286 and Tandy 2800 which are designed for the Intel 287XLT).  There are 
two situations which you should be aware of:

 1.  The Intel 287XL incorporates the latest 387(TM) technology. 
     If the diagnostics that came with the PC are run, they may
     detect a math coprocessor problem.  This does NOT reflect a
     problem with the 287XL or its compatibility with the system. 
     It simply reflects the effect of a new technology.  To verify
     that the chip is compatible and working correctly, the Intel
     Math CoProcessor test program, Chkcop, should be run.  It is
     included in the 287XL box.

 2.  There were some very early 386(TM)-based PC's which had 287
     sockets.  These systems require the regular Intel 80287;  they
     will not function correctly with the Intel 287XL.  Users who
     have purchased a 287XL for this type of 386-based PC should
     see their dealer or call the Intel PCEO technical support line
     to replace their chip.