FPU
Technology & Computing abbreviation · Computer Hardware
| Stands for | Floating-point unit |
|---|---|
| Categories | Technology & Computing |
FPU stands for Floating-point unit, a computer hardware abbreviation.
Part of a processor that performs arithmetic on floating-point numbers, which represent fractions and very large or small values. Graphics, science, engineering and audio software depend heavily on it.
Example: Older 386 PCs needed a separate math coprocessor because the CPU had no FPU.
Usage notes
Early PCs offered the FPU as an optional coprocessor chip, such as the Intel 8087 (1980) for the 8086 and 8088. Intel integrated it into the 80486DX in 1989, while the cheaper 486SX had it disabled. Floating-point formats follow the IEEE 754 standard. A famous 1994 bug in the Pentium FPU's division unit cost Intel about 475 million dollars in replacements.
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