80188

80188 refers to a family of Intel microprocessors. It is a derivative of the 80186, which itself is an enhanced version of the 8086. The 80188 is characterized by its 16-bit internal architecture but utilizes an 8-bit external data bus. This design choice allowed for cost savings by using simpler, less expensive 8-bit support chips and circuit boards, while still offering the performance benefits of a 16-bit processor.

The 80188 integrated several components that were previously separate chips on a motherboard. These included a clock generator, interrupt controller, timer/counters, and a local bus controller. This integration simplified system design and reduced component count. It was often used in embedded systems, personal computers, and other applications where cost and integration were important factors. Examples include early IBM PC compatibles, industrial control systems, and point-of-sale terminals. The 80188 operates at clock speeds typically ranging from 6 MHz to 10 MHz. It was part of Intel's x86 architecture and is software-compatible with earlier 8086 and 8088 processors.