Microsoft Offers Software Solution to Disable Faulty Floating-Point Hardware in Intel Pentium Processors

Strategic Insights -

Microsoft Corporation has developed a software solution to address concerns about floating-point division errors in Intel Pentium processors. The software will allow customers to disable the faulty floating-point hardware, providing an alternative to replacing the flawed processors or waiting for replacement chips. The solution will be available to customers free of charge and will provide an option to use software floating-point emulation instead of the faulty hardware. The software can test the processor to determine whether the division flaw is present and will use software floating-point emulation if chosen by the customer.

Key Takeaways:

  • The software solution will be available to customers of Microsoft Windows and Windows NT operating systems.
  • The solution will provide three options: use floating-point hardware, use software floating-point emulation if the division flaw is present, or always use software floating-point emulation.
  • The software will be free of charge and will be available for download from Microsoft's website, CompuServe, GEnie, and Microsoft OnLine.
  • The solution will be provided to PC manufacturers to preinstall on Pentium-based systems and to their customers.
  • The software will work with Windows 3.1, Windows 3.11, and Windows for Workgroups 3.11.
  • The version for Windows NT is scheduled to be released in the same time frame and will be available as part of the Microsoft Windows NT Service Pack 1.
  • Microsoft is also updating the compiler in the Visual C++ development system to ensure accurate division results while still using the Pentium processor's floating-point hardware.

Statistics:

  • The software solution is scheduled to be released in the second half of January 1995.
  • The solution will be available to end users free of charge through the options listed in the press release.
  • The software will be provided to PC manufacturers to preinstall on Pentium-based systems.
  • The updated compiler is expected to be available through the Visual C++ subscription program or through Microsoft's online services.
  • The division flaw in the Pentium processor affects division operations, which are checked and corrected if necessary.

Sources:

  • Microsoft Corp. press release, dated January 9, 1995
  • CompuServe press release, dated January 9, 1995
  • GEnie press release, dated January 9, 1995
  • Microsoft OnLine press release, dated January 9, 1995
  • Intel Corp. press release, dated January 9, 1995
  • Waggener Edstrom press release, dated January 9, 1995