This section presents the basic system requirements for Net PC design.
Any requirements that are defined as specific architecture or hardware implementations are stated in this way because there are no common industry-accepted benchmark tests for system performance.
1. Minimum CPU: 133-MHz Intel Pentium processor or compatible processor with similar performance, or Windows NT – compatible RISC-based processor
Required
This minimum computational capability is required to ensure that the customer is purchasing a product optimized to run Windows-based applications.
The requirement for Windows NT – compatible RISC-based systems includes Digital Alpha 21064 (EV4) or higher processors.
2. Level 2 cache with 256K minimum, for systems with Pentium or compatible processors
Required
This minimum L2 cache is required for performance on Net PC systems that use Pentium or compatible processors. This requirement does not apply for a Net PC system with a Pentium Pro or compatible processor with a built-in L2 cache, or processors whose architecture permits equivalent performance without an L2 cache.
3. Minimum RAM: 16 MB
Required
Recommended: 32 MB
This minimum memory is required to ensure that the customer is purchasing a product optimized to run Windows-based applications.
4. Upgrade capabilities for RAM and CPU
Optional
If the capability for memory and CPU upgrade is provided, this capability must not be end-user accessible.