What is Multiprocessor?


A multiprocessor is a data processing system that can execute more than one program or more than one arithmetic operation simultaneously. It is also known as a multiprocessing system. Multiprocessor uses with more than one processor and is similar to multiprogramming that allows multiple threads to be used for a single procedure.

The term ‘multiprocessor’ can also be used to describe several separate computers running together. It is also referred to as clustering. A system is called a multiprocessor system only if it includes two or more elements that can implement instructions independently.

A multiprocessor system employs a distributed approach. In the distributed approach, a single processor does not perform a complete task. Instead, more than one processor is used to do the subtasks.

Advantages of Multiprocessor

There is the following advantage of Multiprocessor which are as follows −

  • It helps to improve the cost or performance ratio of the system.
  • It helps to fit the needs of an application when several processors are combined. At the same time, a multiprocessor system avoids the expenses of the unnecessary capabilities of a centralized system. However, this system provides room for expansion.
  • It helps to divide the tasks among the modules. If failure happens, it is simple and cheaper to identify and replace the malfunctioning processor, instead of replacing the failing part of the complex processor.
  • It helps to improve the authenticity of the system. A failure that occurs in any one part of a multiprocessor system has a finite result on the rest of the system.

If an error occurs in one processor, a second processor may take up the responsibility of doing the task of the processor in which the error has occurred. This helps in enhancing the reliability of the system at the cost of some loss in efficiency.

Updated on: 27-Jul-2021

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