Microsoft KB Archive/20776

Using a Math Coprocessor with Multiplan 2.x, 3.x PSS ID Number: Q20776 Article last modified on 12-15-1988 PSS database name: D_MPlan

2.x 3.x

MS-DOS

Summary:

The Multiplan Version 2.x math package is about three to four times faster than the math packages of previous versions.

The addition of the 8087/80287 processor yields slightly more speed. Generally, the more complicated the formula, the more noticeable the increase in calculation speed. Basic arithmetic functions (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, etc.) realize only about a 5 to 15 percent increase in calculation speed with the math coprocessor.

However, an IBM PC AT with an 80287 coprocessor installed does not yield a significant increase in calculation speed. Furthermore, the chip runs only at the lower speed on the PC AT.

This speed difference is a peculiarity in the hardware and is independent of Multiplan’s functioning.

The Multiplan Version 3.x math package is faster than the package in Version 2.x, but the difference made by the 8087/80287 math coprocessor is about the same for both versions.

Copyright Microsoft Corporation 1988.