Introduction to the PowerStacker 5x86


Congratulations on the purchase of your Trinity Works PowerStacker 5x86 processor upgrade for 80486 SX, SX2, DX and DX2 systems. We strongly recommend reading this entire manual prior to the installation procedure of the PowerStacker. Failure to do so may result in damage to your computer and/or the PowerStacker.

Package Contents

  • PowerStacker 5x86 133MHz Processor Upgrade
  • Chip Removal Tool
  • Installation Guide
  • Utilities Disk
  • Product Registration Card

Additional Items You Will Need

  • Your computer's manual
  • Any tools required to open your computer such as a screw driver
  • Chip extractor tool (included)

Compatibility and Performance

The PowerStacker 5x86 is capable of running 133 MHz, however, the actual speed and performance delivered depends on your system's bus speed. The PowerStacker will not work in systems with the 486 SLC or DLC processors. The following chart shows how the PowerStacker 5x86 133 MHz will perform based on the system's bus speed and the PowerStacker's clock multiplier (3x or 4x).

Original 486 CPU
Type and Speed

PowerStacker
3x Clock-Speed

PowerStacke
4x Clock-Speed

SX 25 MHz

75 MHz

100 MHz

DX 25 MHz

75 MHz

100 MHz

SX2 50 MHz

75 MHz

100 MHz

DX2 50 MHz

75 MHz

100 MHz

SX 33 MHz

100 MHz

133 MHz

DX 33 MHz

100 MHz

133 MHz

SX2 66 MHz

100 MHz

133 MHz

DX2 66 MHz

100 MHz

133 MHz

DX 40 MHz

120 MHz

Not Compatible

DX2 80 MHz

120 MHz

Not Compatible

DX 50 MHz

Not Compatible

Not Compatible

The Components

The PowerStacker consists of several main components which include:

  • The Heatsink - Cools the 5x86 processor. Some versions of the PowerStacker required a fan in addition to a heatsink.
  • The 5x86 Processor - The replacement for the 486
  • The Module - Contains the circuitry, switches, pins and 5x86 processor DO NOT attempt to separate any of the PowerStacker's components. Doing so will damage the PowerStacker and void your warranty.
Picture Picture Heatsink
Processor
Module

The Dip Switches

The current PowerStacker features two blocks of dip switches. Versions earlier than Rev. E had only one switch block. these switches are set at the factory for the highest speed and compatibility. DO NOT change the default settings without testing in your computer first

 

Dip Switches
Dip Switches REV. E
Note: PowerStacker's shipped prior to October 1997 are referred to as REV. D and have different dip switch settings than those shown here. Please refer to your Technical Guide or the REV. D settings page for more information on proper settings.

Pin 1 Orientation

Notice that one of the corners on the PowerStacker 5x86 upgrade has a white stripe and beveled edge or other distinguishing mark. This corner signifies Pin 1 and must lineup with Pin 1 on the processor socket. Before removing the old 486 processor, please take note of its Pin 1 location. This will aid you in aligning the PowerStacker in the correct position.

 

PowerStacker 5x86 Pin 1 486 Pin 1

 

Warn To avoid damage to your computer and/or the upgrade, the Pin 1 on the PowerStacker 5x86 must align with the Pin 1 on the socket.

Bus Speed

Some system boards allow you to alternate the bus speed. If possible set the bus speed to a maximum of 33MHz. This will allow you to run the PowerStacker at 133 MHz. To change the system board's bus speed, consult your owner's manual.

Highest Successful Operation Setting
To achieve the highest level of performance and successful operation,
configure your system board jumpers (see your owner's manual) to:
486 DX 33 MHz - 5 volt

Special Notes

The PowerStacker 5x86 employs the AMD Am5x86™ P-75 processor running 133 MHz. Your BIOS may recognize this upgrade as a 486 microprocessor. After installing the upgrade, run the utilities located on the enclosed disk to verify the speed and performance of your machine.

Trinity Works is NOT responsible for damages to your computer or lost data even if Trinity Works has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Trinity Works will only repair or replace defective modules within the warranty period. If you wish to return the PowerStacker for a refund, you must contact the original place of purchase. Returns are governed by the policy of each individual reseller. Do not return the product to Trinity Works for a refund.

If you do not have experience installing computer hardware or feel uncomfortable with the process, you may prefer to have a trained computer technician install this upgrade.

Do not add any additional peripherals or software until after the PowerStacker has been installed and proper operation verified.

Content created and/or collected by:
Louis F. Ohland, Peter H. Wendt, David L. Beem, William R. Walsh, Tatsuo Sunagawa, Tomáš Slavotínek, Jim Shorney, Tim N. Clarke, Kevin Bowling, and many others.

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Last update: 14 Apr 2024 - Changelog | About | Legal & Contact