HP Vectra XU 6/XXX HP Vectra XU 6/XXX - Guide to Optimization Performance - Page 10

Other Benefits of Dual Processing

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This distinction is important. If you are running a multithreaded operating system, and use multithreaded applications or multiple single-threaded applications, installing a second Pentium Pro processor will significantly improve the performance of your PC. If, however, you run just one single-threaded application, then installing a second processor will offer little, or no performance advantage. The following table summarizes the benefits of installing a second Pentium Pro processor according to the operating system and applications you use. Single-threaded operating system Multithreaded operating system Multiple applications None Performance improvement for all applications (even single-threaded) One multithreaded application None Greatest benefit from multiprocessing Other Benefits of Dual Processing One of the most important functions that a processor performs is handling interrupts. An interrupt is a request for attention or service from another area of the PC. The processor's ability to respond to interrupts is an essential part of your PC's operation. Interrupts allow your PC to respond to unexpected events. To handle an interrupt, your processor must first suspend its current activity. This means that your PC's operation will be slowed temporarily while the interrupt is being handled. With two Pentium Pro processors installed the responsibility of handling interrupts is shared between them. When an interrupt request is received, the two processors arbitrate between themselves to see which processor is performing the lowest priority work. The selected processor will be allocated to handle the interrupt, leaving the other processor free to continue with its work.

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This distinction is important. If you are running a multithreaded operating system, and use
multithreaded applications or multiple single-threaded applications, installing a second Pentium
Pro processor will significantly improve the performance of your PC. If, however, you run just
one single-threaded application, then installing a second processor will offer little, or no
performance advantage.
The following table summarizes the benefits of installing a second Pentium Pro processor
according to the operating system and applications you use.
Multiple applications
One multithreaded application
Single-threaded
operating system
None
None
Multithreaded
operating system
Performance improvement for all
applications (even single-threaded)
Greatest benefit from multiprocessing
Other Benefits of Dual Processing
One of the most important functions that a processor performs is handling interrupts. An
interrupt is a request for attention or service from another area of the PC. The processor’s
ability to respond to interrupts is an essential part of your PC’s operation. Interrupts allow your
PC to respond to unexpected events.
To handle an interrupt, your processor must first suspend its current activity. This means that
your PC’s operation will be slowed temporarily while the interrupt is being handled.
With two Pentium Pro processors installed the responsibility of handling interrupts is shared
between them. When an interrupt request is received, the two processors arbitrate between
themselves to see which processor is performing the lowest priority work. The selected
processor will be allocated to handle the interrupt, leaving the other processor free to continue
with its work.