Does the BeOS for Intel run on 486 systems?

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BeOS for Intel
Hardware Requirements

Does (or will) the BeOS for Intel run on 486 systems?

BeOS for Intel:
Hardware Requirements

FAQ Number:
FAQ-0440

Last Modified:
6/26/98

Keywords:
BeOS, Intel, Hardware, Requirements, processor, CPU, 486, compatible

It is an unfortunate reality, but our engineering resources are limited, and we have chosen to concentrate those resources on supporting the BeOS on Pentium-or-better processors. We have our hands full (and then some) just trying to support a broad range of modern systems.

The reality is that the number of 486-based systems is not growing (indeed, it is likely shrinking, as they are replaced by newer systems), while Pentium-or-better systems are selling like crazy.

You can buy a complete 200+ MHz Pentium II system today for well under $1,000, and even systems costing as little as $500 outperform 486 systems. Investing in better hardware will improve the performance of all your software, for all operating systems, not just the BeOS.

Will the BeOS run on the "Merced" processor?

Does the BeOS run on 386 (or lower) systems?