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This item is from the PC Hardware FAQ, by Willie Lim and Ralph Valentino with numerous contributions by others. (v1.25).

2.09 Would a math co-processor speed up my machine?

[From: jruchak@mtmis1.mis.semi.harris.com (John Anthony Ruchak)]

If you do a lot of number-crunching with CAD/CAM applications, spreadsheets, and the like, a math co-processor is likely to increase performance. If on the other hand, your primary work is word processing, a math co-processor will have barely any effect at all. Also, a math co-processor will not provide any benefit if your CPU already has one built-in (486/586-DX chips). In addition, a math co-processor is not likely to improve the over-all performance of Microsoft Windows, except when you are running the afore-mentioned number-crunching programs.

 

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