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1 Your PC’s Performance Features
Advantages of Dual Processor Configurations
The following table summarizes the benefits of installing a second
Pentium Pro processor according to the operating system and
applications you use.
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.
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
