How to tell if a processor is compatible

Archived Articles, Hardware Issues

Question: I have a Compaq with a 486 DX33 processor that I’ve been meaning to upgrade with an overdrive or Pentium 133 upgrade CPU.

Recently I’ve noticed a number of used DX2-66 and DX4-100 processors for sale.

If I cheaped out and bought one of these, would I be inviting some compatibility problems?

I only have ISA slots, would this cause a bus vs. CPU mHz problem and how about internal voltage? — T.W.

Answer: How about an easy short answer?

“As long as it’s an Intel Overdrive processor (DX4-100) or an Intel 5VDX2-66 (Overdrive or regular chip) you will be OK,” said Kirk Reid, a field technician with MicroAge Technical Services in Calgary.

“This is straight from Compaq.”