170913312 7e65053858 m Processor Multitasking Methods
by cackhanded

In computer technology, multitasking is defined by a process, in which multiple tasks share common processing resources like CPU. In the single tasking computer, the CPU executes one task at any point in time. That means only one task utilizes the entire resource of the CPU. This reduces the efficiency of the CPU. Multitasking helps increase the utilization of CPU by scheduling multiple tasks. The process by which the CPU switched from one task to another is known as context switch. Parallel computing,in which many calculations are executed simultaneously, is accomplished through frequent context switching.

Scheduling Strategies

There are mainly three types of strategies,namely:-

1. Multiprogramming strategy: In this strategy, the currently executing task keeps getting executed till it performs an activity that demands waiting for an external event or until the computer’s scheduler forcefully takes the running task out of the CPU. CPU utilization is maximized through multiprogramming strategy.

2. Time sharing strategy: As per this strategy, the currently executing task releases the CPU either voluntarily or by an external event like a hardware interrupt. Time sharing strategy enables several programs to run  simultaneously.

3. Real time strategy: In real time strategy, the waiting tasks are allotted CPU time when an external event takes place.  This type of strategy is adopted to control mechanical devices.

Multiprogramming features

Allocating the computer system resources to more than one program is called multiprogramming.

Before this technology was invented, time and processing resources were often squandered when a single task awaited human intervention or other data input/output operations. Optimization of the use of the computer system was the main motive behind the development of  multiprogramming technology. Later the invention of virtual memory and virtual machine technology further enhanced the application of multiprogramming.

Features of cooperative multitasking/time-sharing

Cooperative multitasking/time-sharing is a special type of multitasking/time-sharing in which the current task releases the CPU and allows other tasks to utilize CPU. This concept was employed by both of Microsoft Windows and MAC OS to enable multiple programs to be executed simultaneously. A cooperatively multitasking system depends on each process regularly allocating time to other processes on the system. That is reason why a shabbily designed program can eat up all of the CPU time for itself or make the whole system hang. All software programs must be tested thoroughly and certified for use in a test environment before being installed on the multitasking system.

Features of preemptive multitasking/time-sharing

In the computing system, preemption is defined as the operation of temporarily interrupting a task being executed by a computer system, without requiring its consent, and with the intention of resuming the task at a later time. Such an operation is known as context switch. Preemptive multitasking enables the computer system to more reliably ensure each high priority process a regular period of processor time. It also helps the system deal with important external events which might need prompt attention. Preemptive multitasking sometimes might delay some low priority tasks ,which could make the system hang. In that case, online PC support could be of immense help.

Software Multi-threading

Software multi-threading is defined as the process by which the software utilizes more than one processor to execute multiple tasks simultaneously. Multi-thread applications can run on single core processor also but very slowly since multiple threads use the same hardware resource. The idea behind the invention of thread was that the most efficient way for cooperating processes to exchange data would be to share their entire memory space. So threads could be defined as processes that run in the same memory context. Sharing the same memory space by different multi-threads might cause problems which could be resolved through online computer support.

Daniel Hughes, 31, is one of the most heralded technical writers of www.pccarencure.com. He hails from Toronto, Canada. His educational qualifications include a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. His sublime articles have quenched the thirst of millions of knowledge seekers.

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