Multi Processing
If a system contains more than one processor (CPU) then it is known as multi processor system.
Single processor (single CPU) system executes a process at a time. As multi processor system has more than one processor, it executes more than one process at a time (multi processing simultaneously). So, we can save time.
These processors (CPUs) share memory, power supply, and peripheral devices. Thus, we can save money (we do not need extra peripheral devices, power supply or memory).
Let’s say we have four processes: P1, P2, P3, and P4. Let’s see how these processes are executed by single processor system and multi processor system.
Single processor system executes a process at a time. Then it executes another process and so forth.
In multi processor system, we have more than one processor. Hence, each process can be assigned to different processors. Let’s say we have a dual-core (2 CPU) system which has 2 processors. It executes two processes at a time. So, overall execution time is two times faster than overall execution time of single processor system. If we have a quad-core (4 CPU) processor then the execution will be a lot faster.
Advantages of Multi Processing
- We can save a lot of time.
- We can save money.
- Reliability: Just imagine, if we have a single processor system and if that processor fails, we will be in a trouble. In multi processor system, even if one processor fails to execute, other remaining processors finish the work.
