PCI IRQ conflict refers to a situation that occurs within a computer system when two or more peripheral devices connected to the PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) bus request the same Interrupt Request (IRQ) line.
An IRQ is a unique identifier assigned to each hardware device in a computer system, which enables the CPU (Central Processing Unit) to respond to requests from these devices by interrupting ongoing tasks and prioritizing the incoming signal. The IRQ line ensures that multiple devices can communicate seamlessly with the CPU without causing conflicts.
However, in the case of a PCI IRQ conflict, two or more devices on the PCI bus request the same IRQ line simultaneously. This conflict disrupts the proper functioning of the devices and may cause system instability or even crashes.
These conflicts can arise due to outdated or incompatible device drivers, faulty hardware installations, or incorrect system configurations. When a conflict occurs, the affected devices may stop working, freeze, or exhibit erratic behavior. Common symptoms include device malfunctions, error messages, system crashes, or the inability to use certain functions.
Resolving a PCI IRQ conflict typically involves identifying the conflicting devices, accessing the system BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) to manually assign unique IRQ values to each device, or changing the PCI slot for one of the devices. Updating device drivers and ensuring compatibility among devices can also prevent such conflicts.
Overall, a PCI IRQ conflict is a situation where two or more peripheral devices within a computer system are assigned the same IRQ line, resulting in disrupted functionality and potential system instability.
