The main difference between multiprocessor and multicomputer is that the multiprocessor is a system with two or more CPUs that is capable of performing multiple tasks at the same time while a multicomputer is a system with multiple processors that are connected via an interconnection network to perform a computation task.
A processor is a vital component in the computer. It carries out arithmetic and logical operations and handles input-output operations. It also generates signals to synchronize the operations of the other components. Most modern computers consist of multiple CPUs to execute multiple tasks simultaneously. Therefore, it supports parallel computing. On the other hand, a multicomputer is a collection of processors that are connected together. It has multiple processors and these processors can communicate with each other by message passing. Multicomputer is commonly used in distributed computing.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Multiprocessor
– Definition, Functionality
2. What is Multicomputer
– Definition, Functionality
3. Difference Between Multiprocessor and Multicomputer
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Multiprocessor, Multicomputer
What is a Multiprocessor
A multiprocessor is a system with two or more CPUs or processors. Multiple processors can execute tasks at the same time. Failure in one processor will not affect the tasks of the other processors. Therefore, a multiprocessor is more reliable.
There are two types of multiprocessors called shared memory multiprocessor and distributed memory multiprocessor. In shared memory multiprocessors, all the CPUs shares the common memory. The processors communicate with each other by reading and writing to the memory. It is also called the symmetric multiprocessor system.
Figure 1: Symmetric Multiprocessor
In a distributed memory multiprocessor, every CPU has its own private memory. If the required data is not available in the private memory, the processor communicates with the main memory or the other processors via the bus. Overall, a multiprocessor provides a high computation speed, high performance and it is more tolerance to failures.
What is a Multicomputer
A multicomputer is a system with multiple processors that are connected together to solve a problem. Each processor has its own memory and it is accessible only by that particular processor. The processors can communicate with each other via an interconnection network.
Figure 2: Multicomputer
As the multicomputer is capable of passing messages between the processors, it is possible to divide the task between the processors to complete the task. Therefore, a multicomputer can be used for distributed computing. It is easier and cost effective to build a multicomputer than a multiprocessor. On the other hand, programming a multicomputer is difficult.
Difference Between Multiprocessor and Multicomputer
Definition
A multiprocessor is a system with two or more CPUs that allows simultaneous processing of programs. A multicomputer is a set of processors connected by the communication network that works jointly to solve a computation problem.
Programming
It is easier to program a multiprocessor compared to a multicomputer.
Construction
Furthermore, it is easier and cost effective to build a multicomputer than a multiprocessor.
Main Usage
ALso, while multiprocessor supports parallel computing, multicomputer supports distributed computing.
Conclusion
The difference between multiprocessor and multicomputer is that the multiprocessor is a system with two or more CPU that is capable of performing multiple tasks at the same time while a multicomputer is a system with multiple processors that are connected via an interconnection network to perform a computation task.
Reference:
1. “Multiprocessing.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 27 July 2018, Available here.
2. “Distributed Memory.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 27 July 2018, Available here.
Image Courtesy:
1. “SMP – Symmetric Multiprocessor System” By Ferry24.Milan – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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