5 Questions
What is a multiprocessor system?
A multiprocessor system is an interconnection of two or more CPUs with memory and input-output equipment.
How are multiprocessors classified?
Multiprocessors are classified as multiple instruction stream, multiple data stream (MIMD) systems.
What is the main distinction between a system with multiple computers and a system with multiple processors?
The main distinction is that computers are interconnected with each other by means of communication lines to form a computer network, while a multiprocessor system is controlled by one operating system that provides interaction between processors.
What does a multi-processor system imply?
A multi-processor system implies the existence of multiple CPUs, although usually there will be one or more IOPs as well.
How do multiprocessors and multicomputer systems differ?
Multiprocessors and multicomputer systems have some similarities since both support concurrent operations, but an important distinction is that a system with multiple computers forms a computer network, while a multiprocessor system is controlled by one operating system.
Study Notes
Characteristics of Multiprocessors
- A multiprocessor system consists of two or more CPUs with memory and input-output equipment.
- The term "processor" in multiprocessor can refer to either a central processing unit (CPU) or an input-output processor (IOP).
- A system with a single CPU and one or more IOPs is typically not considered a multiprocessor system unless the IOP has computational facilities comparable to a CPU.
- Multiprocessor systems are classified as multiple instruction stream, multiple data stream (MIMD) systems.
- Multiprocessors and multicomputers have similarities in supporting concurrent operations, but there is a crucial distinction between the two.
- In a multicomputer system, computers are interconnected to form a computer network, whereas a multiprocessor system is controlled by one operating system that facilitates interaction between processors.
- A multiprocessor system implies the existence of multiple CPUs, with the possibility of one or more IOPs as well.
- The network in a multicomputer system consists of autonomous computers that may or may not communicate with each other.
- In a multiprocessor system, all components cooperate under the control of one operating system to solve a problem.
- Multiprocessors are designed to handle multiple CPUs and support concurrent operations, typically categorized as MIMD systems.
- The primary distinction between multiprocessor and multicomputer systems lies in the control mechanism, with the former being controlled by one operating system.
- The interconnection of components and the cooperation between processors are key characteristics of multiprocessor systems.
Test your knowledge of multiprocessor systems with this quiz. Explore the characteristics and components of multiprocessors, including CPUs, memory, and input-output equipment. Learn about the distinctions between central processing units (CPUs) and input-output processors (IOPs) in multiprocessor systems.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
