Multiprocessor Systems

Most computer systems are single processor systems i.e they only have one processor. However, multiprocessor or parallel systems are increasing in importance nowadays. These systems have multiple processors working in parallel that share the computer clock, memory, bus, peripheral devices etc. An image demonstrating the multiprocessor architecture is −

Types of Multiprocessors

There are mainly two types of multiprocessors i.e. symmetric and asymmetric multiprocessors. Details about them are as follows −

Symmetric Multiprocessors

In these types of systems, each processor contains a similar copy of the operating system and they all communicate with each other. All the processors are in a peer to peer relationship i.e. no master - slave relationship exists between them.

An example of the symmetric multiprocessing system is the Encore version of Unix for the Multimax Computer.

Asymmetric Multiprocessors

In asymmetric systems, each processor is given a predefined task. There is a master processor that gives instruction to all the other processors. Asymmetric multiprocessor system contains a master slave relationship.

Asymmetric multiprocessor was the only type of multiprocessor available before symmetric multiprocessors were created. Now also, this is the cheaper option.

Advantages of Multiprocessor Systems

There are multiple advantages to multiprocessor systems. Some of these are −

More reliable Systems

In a multiprocessor system, even if one processor fails, the system will not halt. This ability to continue working despite hardware failure is known as graceful degradation. For example: If there are 5 processors in a multiprocessor system and one of them fails, then also 4 processors are still working. So the system only becomes slower and does not ground to a halt.

Enhanced Throughput

If multiple processors are working in tandem, then the throughput of the system increases i.e. number of processes getting executed per unit of time increase. If there are N processors then the throughput increases by an amount just under N.

More Economic Systems

Multiprocessor systems are cheaper than single processor systems in the long run because they share the data storage, peripheral devices, power supplies etc. If there are multiple processes that share data, it is better to schedule them on multiprocessor systems with shared data than have different computer systems with multiple copies of the data.

Disadvantages of Multiprocessor Systems

There are some disadvantages as well to multiprocessor systems. Some of these are:

Increased Expense

Even though multiprocessor systems are cheaper in the long run than using multiple computer systems, still they are quite expensive. It is much cheaper to buy a simple single processor system than a multiprocessor system.

Complicated Operating System Required

There are multiple processors in a multiprocessor system that share peripherals, memory etc. So, it is much more complicated to schedule processes and impart resources to processes.than in single processor systems. Hence, a more complex and complicated operating system is required in multiprocessor systems.

Large Main Memory Required

All the processors in the multiprocessor system share the memory. So a much larger pool of memory is required as compared to single processor systems.