2 System Board

Chip-Set

accesses to related addresses, they do not need four independent accesses to main memory, but can be organized as a pipelined burst. The second, third and fourth cycles in each burst require less time to complete than the first. This is because the first cycle includes the addressing phase and memory pre-charge timing. The read and write access timing has the pattern 3-1-1-1. However, the timing for 64-byte burst reads can be even better than this (3-1-1-1,2-1-1-1 for a dual bank back-to-back burst read1, and 3-1-1-1,1-1-1-1 for a single bank back-to-back burst read2) provided that the main memory banks have been filled contiguously.

There are two programmable non-cacheable regions, with an option to disable local memory in these regions. A 64 KB to 1 MB cache summary is provided.

Main Memory Controller The main memory controller supports up to 512 MB of main memory (dynamic random access memory, DRAM), arranged in banks of any mixture of memory capacities, provided that each bank contains a pair of identical single interline memory modules (SIMMs). The HP Vectra VL 5/

xxxSeries 5 and XA 5/xxx PCs have provision for three banks. With the 32 MB module from HP, this gives a total capacity of 192 MB. With a future 64 MB module from HP, it will give a total capacity of 384 MB.

In the case of 66 MHz PL bus operation, memory accesses have a timing pattern of 5-2-2-2 for a page-hit. This degrades to 8-2-2-2 for a row-miss, and to 11-2-2-2 for a page-miss. When the banks have been filled in an arbitrary order, back-to-back burst reads keep to the 5-2-2-2,5-2-2-2 timing pattern. When the banks have been filled contiguously (bank A, then bank B, then bank C), back-to-back burst reads are improved to a 5-2-2-2,3-2-2-2 timing pattern.

The controller supports relocation of system management memory. It supports a read cycle power saving mode, and a CAS before RAS Intelligent Refresh mode of operation, with a CAS# driving current that is programmable.

The controller is fully configurable for the characteristics of the shadow RAM (640 KB to 1 MB). It supports concurrent write back. To implement the optional error correcting code (ECC) or parity checking, 36-bit SIMMs must be installed exclusively (see page 33 for more details).

1.As used for the HP 512 KB cache memory module.

2.As used for the HP 256 KB cache memory module.

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HP Vectra VL 5/xxx 5 manual System Board Chip-Set
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Vectra VL 5/xxx 5 specifications

The HP Vectra VL 5/xxx was a series of desktop personal computers introduced by Hewlett-Packard in the mid-1990s. These machines were designed for both business and professional environments, making them suitable for a range of applications from basic office tasks to more demanding computing needs. This series played a significant role in HP's efforts to strengthen its market presence in the PC sector during a time when competition was intensifying.

One of the standout features of the HP Vectra VL 5/xxx line was its versatility. The series included various configurations designated by the '5/xxx' nomenclature, which indicated different performance levels and specifications. The performance was driven primarily by Intel Pentium processors, widely acclaimed for their reliability and efficiency. This allowed users to choose a model that suited their specific requirements, whether for everyday tasks or more resource-intensive applications.

In addition to its strong processing capabilities, the Vectra VL 5/xxx featured advanced graphics support, which was critical for visual applications and presentations. Many units in this series came equipped with onboard graphics capabilities that supported a range of resolutions, enhancing the user experience in both standard office environments and more creative settings.

Storage options were another highlight of the HP Vectra VL 5/xxx series. The machines typically featured a variety of hard drive configurations, allowing for ample data storage. Some models included the option for expanding storage through additional hard drives or external devices. Coupled with considerable RAM options, these machines ensured smooth multitasking and efficient performance across various applications.

Connectivity was also a core aspect of the Vectra VL 5/xxx. The systems typically included multiple USB ports, parallel and serial ports, and integrated networking capabilities. This made it easy for businesses to integrate the Vectra machines into their existing infrastructure, facilitating seamless interaction with peripherals and networks.

In terms of design, the HP Vectra VL 5/xxx series presented a robust yet compact form factor, which was ideal for office environments with limited space. Additionally, HP emphasized the reliability and serviceability of these machines, which included easy access to internal components for maintenance and upgrades, thereby extending the product life cycle.

Overall, the HP Vectra VL 5/xxx line offered a balanced combination of performance, flexibility, and reliability, making it a solid choice for organizations looking to leverage computing power for a range of professional applications. The series embodied HP's commitment to delivering quality and innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of personal computing.
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