Intel 80386

processor (Commonly abbreviated to "386", trademark

"Intel386") The successor to the Intel 80286

microprocessor. It was the first Intel processor with

32-bit data and address busses. It can address four

gigabytes (2^32 bytes) of memory; however, 16 megabytes is a

typical maximum in IBM PCs. The 386 allows multiple

application programs to run at the same time (when running

under 386-specific operating systems) using "protectedmode".

The first IBM compatible to use the 386 was the Compaq

386, before IBM used it in high-end models of their PS/2

series. It is also used in HP's RS series and many

others.

It does not require special EMS memory boards to expand

MS-DOS memory limits. With the 386, the EMS standard can be

simulated in normal extended memory, and many DOS add-ons

provide this "Expanded Memory Manager" feature.

See also Intel 80386SX, BSD386.

(1995-02-21)