Investigating SSMEC's (State Micro) 486s with the UCA

The article delves into the investigation of State Microelectronics Co. Ltd.'s (SSMEC) 486 CPUs, particularly the SM486DX33 and SM486DX266 models. These CPUs, discovered in recent years, are analyzed using the Universal Chip Analyzer to determine their origin and characteristics. The SM486 CPUs are found to be exact replicas of Intel's 486 CPUs microarchitecturally, with identical performance metrics. However, discrepancies in power consumption suggest they may be built on more advanced processes than Intel's genuine 486s. The article speculates on how SSMEC obtained Intel's 486 IPs and questions the legality of their use. The rarity and unique characteristics of these CPUs hint at potential applications in critical systems or as test ICs for a new Chinese foundry. The demand for vintage microprocessors in China, including these specific 486 models, is noted, indicating a market for such CPUs. The investigation raises questions about the origins, legality, and potential uses of these State Micro 486 CPUs, shedding light on a niche aspect of CPU history and technology.