asymmetric multiprocessor

Incorrect. This describes symmetric multiprocessing.

Correct! This is the defining characteristic of asymmetric multiprocessing.

Incorrect. This is more characteristic of symmetric multiprocessing.

Incorrect. This is not related to multiprocessing, but rather a single processor system.

Incorrect. Asymmetric multiprocessing simplifies design due to centralized control.

Incorrect. The master processor manages communication, reducing inter-processor communication.

Correct! Scalability can be a challenge in asymmetric architectures due to the single point of failure in the master processor.

Incorrect. Asymmetric architectures can be cost-effective by using cheaper slave processors.

Incorrect. Real-time embedded systems often use asymmetric multiprocessing for reliability and deterministic behavior.

Incorrect. Routers and switches often utilize asymmetric processors for traffic management.

Correct! Personal computers generally use symmetric multiprocessing for their general purpose tasks.

Incorrect. Asymmetric architectures can be used in specialized hardware for optimization.

Incorrect. The master processor manages the system and assigns tasks.

Correct! The master processor controls all communication with the outside world for slaves.

Incorrect. While the master processor might handle some tasks, it primarily focuses on management.

Incorrect. This is the characteristic of symmetric multiprocessing.

Correct! Asymmetric architectures can be less flexible compared to SMP due to the hierarchical structure.

Correct! This is a key concern in asymmetric systems, as failure of the master processor can halt the entire system.

Incorrect. Asymmetric architectures are often designed to be simpler than SMP.

Incorrect. Asymmetric architectures can be more cost-effective due to the use of less powerful slave processors.

1. **Why Asymmetric Multiprocessing is Suitable:**

Asymmetric multiprocessing is suitable for this scenario due to the following reasons:

• **Real-time requirements:** The system requires precise, fast response to sensor input, demanding deterministic behavior, a characteristic of asymmetric architectures.
• **Hierarchical control:** The robot arm requires a central authority to coordinate movements based on sensor data, aligning with the master-slave structure of asymmetric systems.
• **Simplified design:** A dedicated master processor can manage the complex coordination of movements, simplifying the overall system design.

2. **Roles of Master and Slave Processors:**

• **Master Processor:**
  • Collects data from sensors.
  • Processes sensor data to determine the required movements.
  • Sends movement commands to the slave processors controlling individual actuators.
  • Monitors the system's status and handles any errors or exceptions.
• **Slave Processors:**
  • Receive movement commands from the master processor.
  • Control specific actuators of the robot arm, responsible for individual joint movements.
  • Report their status back to the master processor.

3. **Advantages and Disadvantages:**

**Advantages:**

• **Real-time performance:** Asymmetric multiprocessing ensures deterministic control for precise and timely movements.
• **Centralized control:** The master processor manages the system, ensuring consistent behavior and coordination of movements.
• **Reduced complexity:** This simplifies the system design compared to a distributed, symmetric approach.
• **Potential cost-effectiveness:** Using cheaper slave processors for actuators can be cost-efficient.

**Disadvantages:**

• **Single point of failure:** The master processor is critical, and its failure would stop the entire system.
• **Limited scalability:** Expanding the system with more actuators might become challenging due to the centralized control model.
• **Flexibility:** The system might be less flexible to adapt to sudden changes or unexpected events.