Which I/O method can lead to inefficient use of processor time if the processor is faster than the I/O module?

Understand the Problem

The question is asking about different I/O methods and how they relate to the efficiency of processor time in situations where the processor is faster than the I/O module. It seeks to identify which method can result in inefficient processor usage under those circumstances.

More Information

In programmed I/O, the processor continually polls the device to check if it is ready for data exchange. If the processor is much faster than the I/O module, it spends inefficient cycles waiting, hence it's not an ideal method when there's a speed mismatch.

Tips

A common mistake is confusing programmed I/O with interrupt-driven I/O. Remember, programmed I/O involves busy-waiting and can waste processor resources. Interrupt-driven I/O, on the other hand, allows the processor to perform other tasks until it is interrupted by the completion of I/O operations.

Sources

• Difference between Programmed and Interrupt-Initiated I/O - GeeksforGeeks - geeksforgeeks.org
• Chapter 7 - Input / Output - web.ist.utl.pt