A CDE Definition

The math coprocessor for the 286 CPU. See 286.

The second generation of the Intel x86 family of CPU chips. The term may refer to the chip or to a PC that used it. Introduced in 1982, it was the successor to the 8088/8086 chips used in the first PCs. The 286 broke the infamous one-megabyte memory barrier, but although faster than the previous generation, it was never capable of supporting Windows and other graphics-based applications. See AT class and x86.

Technical Specs
Type: 16-bit multitasking microprocessor
Transistors: 134,000
Package: 68-pin PGA, PLCC or LCC
Registers: 15 16-bit
Real Mode: Performs as 8086 CPU; addresses 1MB memory.
Protected Mode: Addresses 16MB physical and 1GB virtual memory and provides access to memory protection.