Revise Computingrevisecomputing.co.uk
Free student revisionSee questionsFor schoolsSchool enquiry
Free revisionSee questionsFor schoolsSchool enquiry
Knowledge/A Level/H446/01 Computer systems/Types of processor/Multicore and parallel systems

Multicore and parallel systems

Multicore and Parallel systems

1.1.2 Types of processor

Practise exam questions

Types of processor — Note 3 of 3

Candidates need to understand what is meant by a parallel system and the benefits and limitations of parallel processing. Candidates need to understand that parallel processing can be achieved through different methods (i.e. multiple processors in the same computer or distributed across multiple cores in a CPU or GPU). Candidates need to understand the benefits of a multicore system in terms of parallel processing and running multiple programs at the same time.

What you need to know

Parallel processing means carrying out more than one instruction at the same time. This can be achieved with multiple cores in one processor, multiple processors in one computer, or by distributing work across computers. You need to know the benefits and limitations of parallel systems.

What to know

  • Parallelism can be achieved with multiple cores in a CPU, multiple processors in one computer, the many cores of a GPU, or many computers working together (distributed processing).
  • Benefits: tasks that can be split complete faster; several programs can run at the same time; the system stays responsive while a heavy task runs.
  • Limitations: not every task can be split, because some steps depend on the results of earlier steps.
  • Limitations: extra time is spent splitting the task, coordinating the cores and combining the results.
  • Limitations: programs must be written specifically to use multiple cores, and shared data can cause conflicts.

Key terms

Exam tipCommon mistake

Parallel processing

Using two or more processors or cores to carry out different parts of a task at the same time.

  • Common mistake: Confusing parallel processing with multitasking on a single core, which only switches rapidly between tasks.
Multicore processor

A single chip containing two or more independent cores, each able to execute its own instructions.

Exam technique

  • Tip:When explaining a benefit of more cores, say tasks or threads can be processed SIMULTANEOUSLY, and link it to the scenario.

Ready to test yourself?

Practise 1.1.2 questions
← Previous noteGPUs and their uses (including those not related to graphics)1.1.2 Types of processorNext topic →Applying input, output and storage devices to the solution of different problems1.1.3 Input, output and storage

Back to Types of processor

Types of processor

Note 3 of 3

  1. 1The differences between and uses of CISC and RISC processors
  2. 2GPUs and their uses (including those not related to graphics)
  3. 3Multicore and parallel systems
Topic overview