Description of Windows 2000 Support for Multiple-CPU Computers with Mixed Stepping Levels

ID: Q234556

The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows 2000 Advanced Server
  • Microsoft Windows 2000 Datacenter Server
  • Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional
  • Microsoft Windows 2000 Server

SUMMARY

This article discusses Windows 2000 support for computers with multiple central processing units (CPUs) with mixed Stepping levels.


MORE INFORMATION

Computers with multiple CPUs that have mixed Stepping levels use the features of the least capable CPU. For example, if the first CPU supports features A, B, and C, and the second CPU supports feature A, only feature A is used on both CPUs. Also, for these two CPUs to work together, features B and C may need to be disabled on the first CPU.

NOTE: Windows 2000 logs Stepping-level mismatch occurrences as informational events in the system event log.

To view CPU Stepping levels on your computer:

  1. Click Start, point to Programs, point to Administrative Tools, and then click Computer Management.


  2. Double-click the System Information folder, and then click the System Summary folder.


Check the Processor line to view the CPU Stepping levels.

According to Intel, certain Intel CPUs with mixed Stepping levels can be used together if the Basic Input/Ouput System (BIOS) supports both Stepping levels. Intel does not prevent CPUs with mixed Stepping levels from working together, but they recommend that you use CPUs with identical Stepping levels because not all possible combinations of hardware and CPU Stepping levels have been tested. For more information, see the Intel Web site:
http://www.intel.com/
The third-party contact information included in this article is provided to help you find the technical support you need. This contact information is subject to change without notice. Microsoft in no way guarantees the accuracy of this third-party contact information.

For more information about using CPUs with mixed Stepping levels, contact your CPU manufacturer.

Additional query words:

Keywords : kbhw
Version : WINDOWS:2000
Platform : WINDOWS
Issue type : kbinfo


Last Reviewed: December 30, 1999
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