On Tue, 31 May 2005, Sam MacDonald wrote: > While the "batch code" (stepping) is very important, the serial number > is not as important. > > The stepping tells you the microcode version burnt on to the chip. If > you get a mismatched set of processors they may work but I wouldn't bet > the bank on how reliable they would be. > > The serial number is a tracking number and may tell you where and when > the chip was made. > > Just because the serial number is within a few digits it doesn't mean > the stepping is the same. > > Use the stepping to measure the compatibility. Is it possible to specify stepping codes when placing an order? Is it possible to get the stepping code from a chip without opening the case and looking at the chip? If I do have to look at the CPU chip, how do I know which number is the stepping code? Thanks. Mike