Introduction to Multiprocessing

This document provides an introductory guide to multiprocessing, written for technical personnel. It defines multiprocessing as a computer system with two or more central processing units under a single operating system. The content covers the historical context of multiprocessors, differentiates them from multicomputers and array processors, and details the benefits including increased availability, performance, extensibility, and data protection. It further examines various hardware structures (shared bus, crossbar, multiport memory, and voted systems) and software considerations, such as operating system organization (hierarchical vs. symmetric), load balancing, concurrency, and deadlock prevention. Finally, it provides tools for management to analyze system availability and cost-of-ownership.