Computer-System Architecture: Clustered Systems

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Questions and Answers

What is the main characteristic of a single processor system?

Multiple main CPUs

General-purpose instruction set (correct)

No user processes

Special-purpose processors only

Which type of system is also known as parallel systems?

Tightly-coupled systems

Asymmetric Multiprocessing

Multiprocessor Systems (correct)

Single Processor Systems

What are the advantages of Multiprocessor Systems?

Decreased throughput

Decreased reliability

Economy of scope

Increased throughput (correct)

In which type of multiprocessing does each processor perform all tasks?

Symmetric Multiprocessing Signup and view all the answers

What is the key difference between Symmetric and Asymmetric Multiprocessing?

Memory sharing Signup and view all the answers

Which system allows only the master processor to run tasks in the operating system?

Asymmetric Multiprocessing Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between asymmetric clustering and symmetric clustering?

Asymmetric clustering has one machine in hot-standby mode, while symmetric clustering has multiple nodes running applications. Signup and view all the answers

Why is multiprogramming necessary in batch systems?

To organize jobs so that the CPU always has one to execute and increase efficiency. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a distributed lock manager (DLM) in clustered systems?

To avoid conflicting operations between multiple systems. Signup and view all the answers

How does the operating system handle a situation where processes don't fit in memory?

Swapping moves processes in and out of memory to run when they don't fit. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of dual-mode operation in an operating system?

To distinguish when the system is running user code or kernel code. Signup and view all the answers

Why are some instructions designated as privileged and only executable in kernel mode?

To prevent user processes from accessing critical system functions. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of an operating system as a resource allocator?

It manages all resources of the computer system. Signup and view all the answers

In terms of computer-system architecture, what does an operating system control and coordinate?

Resource utilization among various applications Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of an operating system in managing resources?

Ensure efficient and fair resource use Signup and view all the answers

How does the number of general-purpose processors used categorize computer-system architecture?

By classifying based on the available processing units Signup and view all the answers

Which component of a computer system defines the ways in which system resources are used to solve computing problems for users?

Application programs Signup and view all the answers

What is the main responsibility of an operating system as a control program?

Preventing errors and improper use of the computer Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Characteristics of Processor Systems

The main characteristic of a single processor system is that it uses one processor to execute all tasks.

Types of Multiprocessing Systems

Parallel systems are also known as multiprocessor systems.
In asymmetric multiprocessing, each processor performs all tasks, but one processor controls the others.
In symmetric multiprocessing, all processors are equal and can perform any task.

Advantages of Multiprocessor Systems

Multiprocessor systems have several advantages, including increased processing power, improved system reliability, and enhanced system availability.

Clustering Systems

Asymmetric clustering is a system where one processor (the master) controls the others and is responsible for running tasks in the operating system.
Symmetric clustering is a system where all processors are equal and can perform any task.

Multiprogramming and Batch Systems

Multiprogramming is necessary in batch systems because it allows multiple programs to run simultaneously, improving system efficiency.

Distributed Lock Manager (DLM)

The purpose of a DLM in clustered systems is to manage and coordinate access to shared resources.

Memory Management

When processes don't fit in memory, the operating system uses techniques such as paging and segmentation to manage memory.

Dual-Mode Operation

The purpose of dual-mode operation in an operating system is to provide a secure and isolated environment for executing privileged instructions.

Privileged Instructions

Some instructions are designated as privileged and can only be executed in kernel mode because they require direct access to system resources.

Operating System Roles

The role of an operating system as a resource allocator is to manage and allocate system resources such as CPU, memory, and I/O devices.
The operating system controls and coordinates the use of system resources, such as CPU, memory, and I/O devices, to solve computing problems for users.
The primary goal of an operating system in managing resources is to provide an efficient and fair allocation of resources to competing programs.

Computer-System Architecture

The number of general-purpose processors used categorizes computer-system architecture into single-processor, multiprocessor, and clustered systems.
The computer system architecture component that defines the ways in which system resources are used to solve computing problems for users is the operating system.
The main responsibility of an operating system as a control program is to manage and coordinate the use of system resources to solve computing problems for users.

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Description

Explore the concept of clustered systems in computer-system architecture, where multiple systems work together and share storage. Learn about asymmetric clustering with a hot-standby mode and symmetric clustering with multiple nodes running applications. Discover how some clusters are used for high-performance computing.