What's the difference between i386,i586,i686 rpm's

daverino · 02-14-2002, 11:04 PM

Hi just wondering what rpm's to use with linux Red hat 7.2. I've noticed i386, i586, and i686 rpm versions available on various websites. What is the difference?

Thanks

Malicious · 02-14-2002, 11:21 PM

The binary RPMs are usually compiled for a specific CPU to gain increased performance by taking advantage of new architecture and instruction sets. Every new generation of CPU has some new features besides just increased clocks.

i386 - is the old 386/486 CPUS
1586 - is original Pentium/Pentium Pro
1686 - is the Pentium II/III

As a general rule, use the one for your CPU. Older versions will run on newer CPUs but newer ones might not run on older CPUs.

therion12 · 02-15-2002, 10:01 AM

i586 - Pentuim/Pro and 100% AMD Compatibles like K5 or Cyrix
i686 - Started with the P II and then the P III and amd Athlon/Duron/T-bird/XP

There, thats alittle more complete.