486DX

The Intel 486DX is a 32-bit microprocessor introduced by Intel in 1989, succeeding the 286 and preceding the Pentium. It was the first in the x86 family to feature a true 32-bit architecture, although it could also operate in 16-bit and 8-bit modes for backward compatibility. The 486DX was a significant upgrade from its predecessors, offering improved performance, increased addressable memory, and enhanced instruction set.

The 486DX was fabricated using Intel's CHMOS IV process, which allowed for a higher clock speed and better power efficiency compared to the 286. It featured a 32-bit data bus and a 32-bit address bus, enabling it to address up to 4 gigabytes of memory. The processor also included a built-in floating-point unit (FPU), which significantly improved the performance of floating-point operations.

The 486DX was available in various clock speeds, with the most common being 25 MHz, 33 MHz, and 50 MHz. It was used in a wide range of systems, from desktop computers to servers, and was a popular choice for businesses and consumers alike. The 486DX was succeeded by the Pentium in 1993, which introduced superscalar architecture and further improved performance.

The 486DX played a crucial role in the evolution of personal computing, providing a stable and powerful platform for software development and application use. Its 32-bit architecture laid the groundwork for the modern computing landscape, and its influence can still be seen in today's processors.