The incredible shrinking computer: Intel's new 386 SL microprocessor

Business Wire

October 15, 1990

TOKYO -- PC users can look forward to a new generation of lightweight notebook PCs, thanks to new Intel products introduced here Monday.

The company's new 386 SL microprocessor, along with a peripheral chip, the 82360 SL, will enable computer manufacturers to build a powerful, 32-bit personal computer on a board as small as 4 by 6 inches (the original PC/AT (1) board was 164 square inches and included about 170 chips).

Through the integration of several functions onto the two tiny chips, Intel has taken a major technological step in reducing the size and power consumption of 386 microprocessor-based PCs.

The two chips run all 8086, 286 and 386 microprocessor family applications and operating systems without modification. Together, the chips integrate 1.1 million transistors.

A major feature of the new 386 SL microprocessor is Intel's implementation of a new architectural extension for power management. With this, users can now expect an increase in battery life of up to 50 percent on notebook computers using these new chips.

``Notebook computer users are asking for more functionality and they want 386 performance without compromising the system's size, weight and battery life,'' according to Mike Aymar, vice president and general manager of Intel's Santa Clara Microcomputer Division.

With the extra space on the PC board, computer manufacturers will also be able to add innovative features to notebook PCs such as handwriting recognition and new communications capabilities would allow the user to be ``on line'' wherever the location.

``We expect to see many new features on notebook computers in the future,'' said Aymar. ``Manufacturers can really get creative by using these new chips.''

Intel is an international manufacturer of microcomputer components, modules and systems. (1) PC/AT is a trademark of IBM Corp.

CONTACT: Intel Corp., Santa Clara Pam Pollace, 408/765-1435