Intro Flashcards
(39 cards)
What distinguishes symmetric multiprocessing (SMP) from asymmetric multiprocessing?
In SMP, each processor performs all tasks; in asymmetric multiprocessing, each processor is assigned specific tasks.
How does resource utilization concern differ between users and shared computer systems?
Users typically do not care about resource utilization, whereas shared systems like mainframes must optimize it for all users.
What is a clustered system and what are its typical features?
Multiple systems working together, sharing storage via SAN, providing high availability and often supporting parallel applications.
How does a virtual memory system enhance process execution?
It allows processes to run even if not fully in physical memory by swapping parts in and out.
What is dual-mode operation in an operating system and why is it important?
It distinguishes user mode from kernel mode, protecting system integrity by restricting privileged instructions.
What is the difference between hardware and software interrupts?
Hardware interrupts are triggered by devices to signal events, while software interrupts are caused by software errors or requests for OS services.
What is the purpose of setting a counter with a privileged instruction in an operating system?
It initializes a timer that, when reaching zero, generates an interrupt to regain control or terminate a process.
What are the main activities involved in process management?
Creating and deleting processes, suspending and resuming processes, and providing mechanisms for synchronization, communication, and deadlock handling.
How does the timer facilitate process management?
It interrupts processes after a set time to prevent hogging resources, enabling time-sharing and process switching.
What is the function of the operating system’s I/O structure following I/O initiation?
Control returns to the user program upon I/O completion or without waiting, using system calls and device-status tables.
What are the benefits of multiprocessor systems?
Increased throughput, economy of scale, and higher reliability through fault tolerance.
How do device controllers and the CPU communicate during I/O operations?
Device controllers manage specific devices with local buffers, and the CPU transfers data to/from these buffers, receiving interrupts upon completion.
What activities are involved in memory management?
Tracking memory usage, deciding what to load/unload, and allocating/deallocating memory as needed.
What is a clustered system and how does it operate?
A clustered system involves multiple interconnected computers sharing storage and resources for high availability and performance.
Why is dual-mode operation important in an operating system?
It protects system integrity by allowing privileged instructions to execute only in kernel mode, preventing user processes from causing system errors.
Define a process in the context of operating system management.
A program in execution, active and requiring resources like CPU, memory, I/O, and files.
What is mass-storage management and why is it important?
It manages disks and tertiary storage to ensure data is stored efficiently and access speeds are optimized, impacting overall system performance.
What are the primary goals of an operating system from a user’s perspective?
To provide convenience, ease of use, and good performance.
How does the operating system use the counter to manage process scheduling?
It sets the counter before scheduling to ensure processes do not exceed their allotted time, triggering an interrupt when it reaches zero.
What is an interrupt and how does it function in an operating system?
An interrupt transfers control to an interrupt service routine, allowing the OS to respond to hardware or software events asynchronously.
What is the difference between a single-threaded and a multi-threaded process?
A single-threaded process has one program counter and executes instructions sequentially, while a multi-threaded process has multiple program counters, allowing concurrent execution within the same process.
How does virtual memory improve process execution?
It allows processes to run even if their entire memory image isn’t in physical memory by using disk space to simulate additional memory.
What is the role of the kernel in an operating system?
The kernel is the one program running at all times, managing core system functions and resources.
What is loaded during computer startup and where is it stored?
The bootstrap program, stored in ROM or EPROM, initializes the system and loads the OS kernel.
