In a uniprocessor system, multiprogramming increases processor efficiency by:
A) Taking advantage of time wasted by long wait interrupt handling
B) Disabling all interrupts except those of highest priority
C) Eliminating all idle processor cycles
D) Increasing processor speed

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

With multiprogramming, multiple processes are loaded into the memory and whenever one process is waiting for an I/O operation or for any other reason, the processor can switch to another ready process. This way, the processor can utilize the time that would otherwise be wasted due to long wait interrupt handling, thus increasing efficiency. Disabling interrupts (B) may affect the responsiveness of the system and eliminating idle processor cycles (C) is not possible as there will always be some idle time due to I/O operations or other external factors. Increasing processor speed (D) may help, but it is not the primary benefit of multiprogramming.

In a Uniprocessor System, Multiprogramming Increases Processor Efficiency By