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HOW I TEST MC68030 CPUs & FPU's

Last updated June 21, 2024


For quite some time, the market has been plagued by the prevalence of counterfeit, defective, and poorly specified CPUs. Currently, obtaining authentic new components is nearly unattainable without being willing to shell out over £150 per chip, which is impractical for enthusiasts. The primary recourse for more affordable parts is often resorting to Chinese suppliers. Regrettably, as many are aware, these components are frequently misrepresented with inflated specifications, posing a challenge in identifying trustworthy sources for reliable CPUs.

At the Exxos store, we go beyond the common practice of "drop shipping" CPUs or FPUs, a method frequently employed by other suppliers. Unlike those who often distribute untested and unverified components with questionable genuine speed ratings and functionality, we take pride in our commitment to thorough testing and verification processes for every CPU and FPU we provide. This ensures that our customers receive reliable and accurately specified components, contributing to a superior experience with our products.

Our verified CPUs and FPUs can be found in our store HERE.

 

TEST 1 - FPU TEST

Each function within the FPU undergoes several hours of rigorous testing, during which it is assigned a suitable speed grade of 16MHz, 40MHz, or 50MHz. When testing CPUs, they are consistently operated at the maximum speed of 50MHz. This ensures that the CPU is subjected to the highest and most prolonged clock speed achievable during FPU tests, causing it to inherently reach its peak temperature. If the tests reveal any failures, it indicates that the CPU is incapable of sustaining the 50MHz speed. In such instances, we adjust the speed to 40MHz and conduct the tests again.

 

TEST 2 - GB6 BENCHMARKING

Benchmarking stress tests thoroughly assess various components of the system, with a particular focus on the CPU. These tests are conducted over several hours to not only evaluate the overall system performance but also to confirm the CPU's capability to operate at specified speeds. This extended testing duration ensures a comprehensive examination of the CPU's stability and reliability under sustained stress, providing valuable insights into its performance characteristics.

 

TEST 3 - RAM TEST

We conduct extensive memory tests that serve a dual purpose: not only do they comprehensively examine the system's memory, but they also act as stress tests for the CPU, assessing its reliability under prolonged and demanding conditions. These tests involve in-depth evaluations of the memory subsystem, pushing the CPU to its limits to ensure that it can consistently and dependably handle the demands placed on it. The extended duration of these tests enhances the thoroughness of our examination, reinforcing the reliability and robustness of both the memory and the CPU within the system.

 

TEST 4 - THERMAL TEST

Even after successfully passing the aforementioned tests, we take an additional step to artificially raise the CPU's temperature beyond normal working conditions. This process verifies the stability of the CPU even when subjected to higher-than-usual temperatures. Some CPUs may function without issues for a few hours before encountering thermal problems. Apart from the prolonged testing, our deliberate heating of the CPU ensures its reliability under the most extreme operational temperatures. This is a practice that sets us apart, as many suppliers neglect such comprehensive testing procedures.

 

TEST 5 - VOLTAGE TEST

In addition to the mentioned procedures, we go a step further by running the CPU at 5.3 volts to confirm its sustainability under higher voltage conditions. This not only aids in elevating the internal temperature of the CPU beyond the norm at 5 volts but also ensures its stability at increased voltage levels. This meticulous testing approach, including both elevated temperature and voltage assessments, reinforces our commitment to guaranteeing the reliability of the CPU under a diverse range of operating conditions. Such comprehensive testing practices set us apart from suppliers who often overlook these critical aspects.

The voltage test is done with a Falcon voltage adjustment board as shown in the above image.

It is important to emphasize that we strongly advise against running these CPUs without a heatsink. Installing a heatsink and fan is highly recommended, as it significantly extends the processor's lifespan and should be regarded as a standard practice to ensure effective cooling measures.

 

 

 

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