What is i486/i686

curos · 02-01-2006, 05:57 PM

I was looking at linuxpackages to download some packages and I was wondering what the difference between i486 and i686 is. I see them under the column "Arch" between the "Version Column" and "Slack" version. I know it has something to do with my computer and I should get the one that matches my computer, but how do I know which one I have; i486 or i686?

bosewicht · 02-01-2006, 06:01 PM

i386 works with any x86 processor (Intel, AMD,etc.),
i486 has some performance tunning.
i586 for Pentium and Pentium-MMX
i686 for Pentium-Pro, P2,P3, P4, etc.

Hairulfr · 02-01-2006, 06:09 PM

Hi there, here is a bit, and two wiki articles, hope it'll explain!

"The Intel i486 (also called 486 or 80486) is a range of Intel CISC microprocessors which is part of the Intel x86 family of processors."

i686
"The Pentium Pro is a sixth-generation x86 architecture microprocessor (P6 core) by Intel originally intended to replace the original Pentium in a full range of applications, but later reduced to a more narrow role as a server and high-end desktop chip"

Tinkster · 02-01-2006, 06:17 PM

And since you (the OP) are using Slack (if the version isn't too old,
that is) you'll most definitely have a 486 build. Pat moved away from
386 not that long ago, and 486 is the default for Slack these days.

Cheers,
Tink

amosf · 02-01-2006, 07:33 PM

"i386 works with any x86 processor (Intel, AMD,etc.),"

Well, anything after the 80386 anyway

Which is all that matters with linux...

foo_bar_foo · 02-01-2006, 10:30 PM

yes even using x686 you are running a 20 year old instruction set which is like hooking up the controll systems of a 1964 chevrolet to a lotus europa. Might as well take your processor out and through it in the garbage and use your grandmas old computer with the teletype machine attached to it.