ECS 8517 © 199? Elitegroup Computer Systems
The ECS 8517 is a 386SX-based motherboard notable for its high level of integration and very small footprint (approximately 8.5" x 6.5"). Unlike the larger AT boards of the time, the 8517 was designed specifically for "low-profile" systems, stripping away unnecessary expansion space to focus on the essential components needed for an entry-level office or home machine.
Chipset: Typically built around the ALI (Acer Laboratories Inc.) M1217 chipset, which was a very common, cost-effective solution for 386SX designs.
CPU Support: Integrated or Socketed 80386SX (commonly found at 25 MHz or 40 MHz).
Expansion: Features a limited number of 16-bit ISA slots (due to its compact physical size).
Memory: Typically supports up to 16 MB or 32 MB of RAM using 30-pin SIMMs.
Cache: Most versions of the 8517 are "cache-less" designs (No L2 cache), which was a common compromise on these compact boards to keep the physical size and cost down.
The Compact Philosophy: The 8517 is a prime example of the early 90s push toward smaller PCs. Many of these boards were found in white-box "Slimline" cases that lacked the internal room for full-length ISA cards.
Collector's Warning: If you are sourcing this for your collection, it is notorious for the "Keyboard Error" issue upon boot. This is almost exclusively caused by battery corrosion from the onboard NiCd battery, which sits in close proximity to the keyboard controller (8042) and its associated circuitry.