ASYMMETRIC MULTIPROCESSING Meaning and
Definition
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Asymmetric multiprocessing refers to a system where multiple processors or CPU cores are employed, but they are not all equally utilized or have the same status within the system. In an asymmetric multiprocessing system, each processor is assigned a specific task or set of tasks, and these tasks are typically of different levels of complexity or importance.
In this system, there is often a main or primary processor, which is responsible for managing and coordinating the overall operation of the system. This primary processor is usually more powerful and has greater control over the system's resources compared to the secondary processors.
The secondary processors, on the other hand, are typically tasked with executing specific applications or handling particular functions. They may have limited access to the system's resources and may not have the same level of control as the primary processor.
Asymmetric multiprocessing systems are commonly found in environments where tasks have different levels of complexity or require specialized processing capabilities. This type of system allows for improved efficiency and performance by distributing tasks to the appropriate processors based on their capabilities and workload.
Overall, asymmetric multiprocessing systems aim to optimize system performance by assigning tasks to specific processors based on their capabilities, ensuring efficient use of resources and improved overall system performance.
Etymology of ASYMMETRIC MULTIPROCESSING
The word "asymmetric multiprocessing" can be broken down into two main components: "asymmetric" and "multiprocessing".
1. Asymmetric: The term "asymmetric" refers to the lack of symmetry or unevenness. It is derived from the Greek roots "a-" meaning "not" or "without", and "symmetria" meaning "having a common measure" or "proportionality".
2. Multiprocessing: The term "multiprocessing" refers to the simultaneous execution of multiple processes or tasks by a computer system. It is composed of two parts: "multi-" meaning "many" or "multiple", and "processing" referring to the execution of operations or calculations by a computer.
Therefore, "asymmetric multiprocessing" describes a system or architecture where multiple processes are executed in an uneven or non-symmetrical manner.
