Week 2 Flashcards
What is a single-processor system?
A system with one main CPU capable of executing a general-purpose instruction set, including instructions from user processes.
What are multiprocessor systems also known as?
Parallel systems or tightly-coupled systems.
What is a key feature of multiprocessor systems?
They have two or more processors in close communication, sharing the computer bus, memory, and peripheral devices.
What is an advantage of multiprocessor systems regarding throughput?
Increase throughput by completing more work in less time.
What does economy of scale mean in the context of multiprocessor systems?
Multiprocessor systems can cost less than equivalent multiple single-processor systems due to shared peripherals and resources.
How do multiprocessor systems increase reliability?
By distributing functions among several processors, the failure of one processor does not halt the system.
What happens when one processor fails in a multiprocessor system with ten processors?
The remaining nine processors can share the workload of the failed processor.
What is an asymmetric multiprocessor?
A multiprocessor system where processors have distinct roles, typically with one master processor and several slave processors.
What is a symmetric multiprocessor?
A multiprocessor system where all processors share the same memory and are treated equally.
What are clustered systems?
Systems that consist of multiple computers linked together to work as a single system.
What does multiprogramming allow?
Multiple programs to run simultaneously on a single processor.
What is multitasking?
The ability of an operating system to execute more than one task simultaneously.
What is dual-mode operation?
An operation mode that allows the system to switch between user mode and kernel mode.
What is the purpose of a timer in operating systems?
To control the execution time of processes and manage multitasking.
Fill in the blank: Multiprocessor systems increase reliability through _______.
graceful degradation or fault tolerance.
