Description

This section describes the microprocessor, connectors, memory subsystems, and miscellaneous system functions and ports for the ThinkPad 600 computer.

Microprocessor

The

ThinkPad 600 uses

the Intel Pentium II

233

MHz

processor

with

MMX technology

or the Intel Pentium

233 or

266

MHz

processor.

 

 

 

 

The processor has a 32-bit address bus and a 64-bit data bus. It is software-compatible with all previous microprocessors. The

processor has an internal, split data and instruction, 32-KB write-back cache. It includes pipelined math coprocessor functions and superscalar architecture (two execution units).

Cache Memory Operation

In addition to the 32 KB of internal Level 1 (L1) cache memory in the microprocessor, the system board of the ThinkPad 600 computer

contains an additional 512 KB of external Level 2 (L2) cache memory.

The

cache

memory in the Intel Pentium II microprocessor and

the

L2

 

external cache memory enable the microprocessor to read

 

 

 

 

 

 

instructions

and data much faster than if the microprocessor

had

to

 

access system memory. When an instruction

is

first used

or

data

is

 

first

read

or written, it is transferred to the cache memory

from

main

memory.

This

enables future accesses to the instructions or data to

 

occur

much

faster.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The

cache

is disabled and empty

when

the

microprocessor

comes

 

 

 

out of the reset state. The cache is

tested and

enabled

during

the

power-on self-test (POST).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The

cache

memory in the Intel Pentium II microprocessor

is

loaded

 

from

system

memory in 32-byte increments, each referred to

as

a

 

 

cache line. A cache line is aligned on a paragraph boundary. A

 

 

 

 

reference

to any byte contained in a

cache line

results

in

the

entire

line

being

read

into

the cache

memory

(if the data was not

already in

the

cache). When

the

microprocessor gives up

control

of

the

system

 

2-2

System Board

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Image 24
IBM manual Microprocessor, Cache Memory Operation, ThinkPad 600 uses Intel Pentium 233, Processor, System Board

600 specifications

The IBM 600 series is a notable line of enterprise-level servers that has garnered attention for its robust performance, advanced features, and scalability suitable for large organizations. Originally introduced as part of IBM's initiative to provide businesses with powerful computing solutions, the IBM 600 servers have evolved to meet the growing demands of modern data environments.

One of the main features of the IBM 600 series is its capability for high scalability. The architecture of these servers allows organizations to expand their systems as needed, making it easier to adapt to changing business requirements. With various configurations available, users can select the specifications that best fit their workload, ranging from small businesses to large enterprises running mission-critical applications.

In terms of processing power, the IBM 600 is equipped with advanced multi-core processors. This technology allows for better parallel processing capabilities, enabling the server to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. The incorporation of IBM's Power architecture enhances the overall performance and energy efficiency of the servers, making them a suitable choice for organizations that rely heavily on data-intensive applications.

The IBM 600 series also excels in storage and memory capabilities. Users can equip the servers with large amounts of RAM and employ various storage options, including SSDs and traditional hard drives. This flexibility helps ensure that the systems can manage substantial data volumes while providing fast access speeds, essential for data-driven operations.

Security is another critical aspect of the IBM 600 series. IBM has integrated advanced security features to protect sensitive data, including encryption technologies and options for secure boot processes. This implementation is crucial for organizations that must comply with regulatory standards while safeguarding their information from potential breaches.

Additionally, the IBM 600 supports a variety of operating systems, including AIX, Linux, and Windows Server. This versatility makes it easier for businesses to integrate their existing software with the IBM infrastructure. Connectivity features, including multiple networking options, provide enhanced integration capabilities into organizational IT ecosystems.

Overall, the IBM 600 series combines powerful processing capabilities, flexible scalability, advanced security features, and a broad range of supported operating systems. These characteristics make it a compelling choice for enterprises looking to optimize their computing infrastructures and drive digital transformation initiatives. IBM continues to support and innovate within this server line, maintaining its relevance in the ever-evolving technology landscape.