ACtE04 · Chapter 4Computer Organization & Embedded Systems🏛️ Past Licensure QuestionID: 8497429f
What does a multiprocessor do?
What does a multiprocessor do?
Multiple Choice Options
- A
Executes a single task
- B✓ Correct Option
Processes multiple tasks simultaneously
- C
Manages memory allocation
- D
Controls I/O operations
Detailed Technical Solution & Explanation
A multiprocessor system contains two or more CPUs that share main memory and I/O devices. Its primary capability is to process multiple tasks simultaneously (parallel processing), which provides:
•
Higher throughput (more tasks completed per unit time)
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Fault tolerance (if one processor fails, others continue)
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Better resource utilization
Option Analysis:
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Option A (Executes a single task): A single-processor (SISD) system does this — not the purpose of multiprocessing.
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Option B (Processes multiple tasks simultaneously): ✅ Correct. The defining characteristic of multiprocessor systems.
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Option C (Manages memory allocation): Memory management is an OS function, not specific to multiprocessors.
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Option D (Controls I/O operations): I/O control is handled by I/O controllers, not specific to multiprocessors.
Reference: Demo2 · Set 1NEC Licensure Syllabus