Understanding Interrupts and Buffers

What are the main types of interrupts?

• Power interrupts

• The main types of interrupts are hardware interrupts, software interrupts, and timer interrupts.

• Network interrupts

• User interrupts

Define a hardware interrupt and give an example.

• A software interrupt triggered by a program error.

• A hardware interrupt caused by a software update.

• A network interrupt that occurs during data transmission.

• An example of a hardware interrupt is a keyboard interrupt, which occurs when a key is pressed, signaling the CPU to read the input.

What is a software interrupt?

• A software interrupt is a command that directly manipulates hardware.

• A software interrupt is a type of virus that affects programs.

• A software interrupt is a signal from a program to the operating system indicating a need for processing.

• A software interrupt is a hardware signal that stops the CPU.

Explain the purpose of an interrupt service routine (ISR).

• ISRs are used to increase the CPU's processing speed.

• The purpose of an ISR is to manage memory allocation.

• The purpose of an interrupt service routine (ISR) is to handle events that require immediate attention from the CPU.

• ISRs are designed to optimize power consumption in devices.

What happens when an interrupt occurs in a system?

• The CPU continues the current process without interruption.

• The system shuts down immediately without any warning.

• The interrupt handler is ignored and the process runs as normal.

• The CPU halts the current process, saves its state, and executes the interrupt handler.

Describe the role of the interrupt vector table.

• The interrupt vector table maps interrupts to their corresponding service routines.

• The interrupt vector table stores data for memory management.

• The interrupt vector table handles input/output operations.

• The interrupt vector table is used for CPU scheduling.

What is the difference between maskable and non-maskable interrupts?

• Maskable interrupts are used for hardware errors, while non-maskable interrupts are for software errors.

• Maskable interrupts are faster than non-maskable interrupts.

• Non-maskable interrupts can be disabled; maskable interrupts cannot.

• Maskable interrupts can be disabled; non-maskable interrupts cannot.

How does the CPU prioritize multiple interrupts?

• The CPU randomly selects which interrupt to handle next.

• The CPU prioritizes interrupts based on their assigned priority levels.

• The CPU processes interrupts in the order they are received, regardless of priority.

• The CPU ignores all interrupts until the current task is complete.

What is the function of a buffer in input/output operations?

• To permanently store data for quick access.

• The function of a buffer in input/output operations is to temporarily store data to manage speed differences between data producers and consumers.

• To encrypt data during transmission.

• To compress data for faster transfer.

How does buffering improve system performance?

• Buffering only affects the visual display of data on screens.

• Buffering enhances performance by reducing latency and optimizing data transfer rates.

• Buffering has no impact on system performance whatsoever.

• Buffering slows down data processing by increasing wait times.