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.