Q82575: Windows Programs Rely on BIOS to Detect Coprocessor

Article: Q82575
Product(s): Microsoft Windows 95.x Retail Product
Version(s): WINDOWS:3.0,3.0a,3.1,3.11
Operating System(s): 
Keyword(s): 
Last Modified: 15-OCT-1999

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The information in this article applies to:

- Microsoft Windows versions 3.0, 3.0a, 3.1, 3.11 
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SUMMARY
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Strange behavior with applications that use math coprocessors (Microsoft Excel,
for instance) can be due to the BIOS reporting the presence of a math
coprocessor when one does not exist. For example, if you have a 486SX machine
with a BIOS designed for a 486DX and you type a number in Microsoft Excel, an
incorrect floating-point number is displayed.

MORE INFORMATION
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Windows issues an INT 11h (equipment check) function call to determine whether a
math coprocessor is present.

Do the following to determine test whether there is a coprocessor detection
problem on a computer:

1. Run Microsoft Diagnostics (MSD).

2. Choose the Computer option.

3. If a coprocessor is detected, and the machine does not have one, the BIOS
  will need to be replaced with a BIOS that does not incorrectly report a
  non-existent coprocessor.


Additional query words: 3.10 3.11 3.00 3.00a excel

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Keywords          :  
Technology        : kbWin3xSearch kbZNotKeyword3 kbWin300 kbWin300a kbWin310 kbWin311
Version           : WINDOWS:3.0,3.0a,3.1,3.11

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