Home

Answers to your most Frequently Asked Questions about Cyrix/IBM 6x86 processors.

Note: The 6x86 FAQ is completely current as of 02/22/99.

Introduction
Things you should know before you upgrade to a Cyrix 6x86 processor

General Information
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Cyrix over Intel processors?
Where can I read feature articles about Cyrix processors?
How is Cyrix able to sell CPUs for less than Intel?
Is Cyrix in financial trouble?
When is the last time Cyrix officially announced 6x86 price cuts?
What are the Top 5 things that you can do with the money that you saved by buying a Cyrix processor?
Does the Cyrix 6x86 support multi-processing?
What is the Cyrix 6x86MX?
Did Cyrix recently merge with National Semiconductor?
Is there a troubleshooting guide available for Cyrix 6x86 processors.

Performance
Does the Intel Triton FX, Triton HX, Triton VX, and Triton TX offer optimal performance for Cyrix 6x86 processors?
What's the deal with the P rating and why does it exist?
Why should I care about the system bus speed?
How poor is the Cyrix 6x86 FPU performance?
Why do all of these Cyrix 6x86 optimizers exist and are they beneficial?

Software
Can I run Windows NT 4.0 on my Cyrix 6x86?
Are there any other operating systems that have the 6x86 performance problem found in NT 4.0?
Is there a software fix to remedy the NT 4.0 performance problem found in 6x86 processors that are pre-revision 2.7?
Is there really a bug with Windows NT 4.0 and 6x86 processors that are pre-revision 2.7 or is it Microsoft’s fault?
How does a Cyrix 6x86 (post-revision 2.7) perform when running Windows NT?
Why does Windows 95 identify my Cyrix 6x86 as a 486? Is this a problem?
Is there a workaround to the Windows 95 identification problem?
Is there a software compatibility list for games?
Why won't the SoundBlaster AWE64 work with a 6x86?

Processor Identification and Replacement (Including information that Cyrix and IBM doesn't want you to know)
Are the Cyrix 6x86 and the IBM 6x86 the same chip? (Overclocking types should read this)
What are the differences between 6x86 chip revisions?
What do the 6x86 revision numbers mean?
How do I know what revision of the Cyrix 6x86 chip I have?
How do I know what revision of the IBM 6x86 chip I have?
Can I download a utility that will tell me my 6x86 revision number?
What is the OFFICIAL Cyrix policy on how to get a replacement Cyrix 6x86?
What is the IBM policy on how to get a replacement IBM 6x86?
Will Cyrix cross-ship a replacement 6x86?
Is Cyrix still selling 6x86s that are below revision 2.7?
Is Cyrix still producing the 686L?
Can I still buy a standard voltage 6x86 part?
Why has Cyrix changed the naming convention of the 6x86 chip from Pxxx+ to PRxxx+?
Is SGS Thomson selling and manufacturing the Cyrix 6x86?

Heat
How much heat does the 6x86 produce?
Does Cyrix provide a heatsink/fan with every 6x86 processor?
My Cyrix supplied heatsink/fan sounds like a jet engine. Is this normal?
My Cyrix 6x86 can operate using both 3.3V and 3.52V. Which voltage setting should I use?
Why is everyone talking about overclocking? Should I do it?
Will using a heatsink compound help reduce processor heat?

Systems
Does it make sense to consider buying a complete PC with a Cyrix 6x86 instead of an Intel Pentium?
Why should I buy a dual voltage motherboard rather than a single voltage motherboard?
Which motherboards do you recommend for use with 6x86 processors?

Feedback
Please send comments