What is a kernel and what's the difference between batch and parallel processing?

Hi,

I just wanted to ask what is a kernel...

Moreover..

what is the difference between Batch processing and parallel processing...

Regards,

Simran..

Re: What is a kernel...

simrantogether said:

I just wanted to ask what is a kernel...

Click to expand...

it's the "piece of code" in an OS whose task is to directly interact with the hardware. Actually the kernel (german word for "nucleus") is the "brain" of the OS. This gives the basic process handling, memory handling, hardware handling, and so on, disposing a set of functions to the upper level programmer to design applications not having to worry about low level stuff, but just about higher level layers.

simrantogether said:

what is the difference between Batch processing and parallel processing...

Click to expand...

batch processing is when no human interaction is given. Let's say you have to configure 20 computers in a lab, and for that you create a script program. You set all parameters before running it, but once run, you just don't have to do anything because it won't be needing any interaction.
Parallel processing is associated with batch processing in some way. When you start a batch process, many times it is for distributed management. Imagine the same example as before, but a bit more complex. You want to configure 20 computers in a lab, but each computer takes many things to configure. You could set up a generic script that configures a computer, and then a second script that loads that generic script into each computer and changes the configuration values for every one.

You call that batch processing beacuse you are not taking part on it, you just run the script and forget about it until it's finished. The same way, you call that parallel processing because you have 20 processes going on at the same time (on different computers) regardless they need interaction or not.

hope this clarifies a little...

Re: What is a kernel...

Wonderful answer...

thanks...

Re: What is a kernel...

Hi guys,

I needed to know what's an Embedded C language acutally. Is it different from System C?

How can I use embedded C to develop device drivers?

What kind of knowledge do I need to Develop Device drivers?

Thanks.
Regards.
PNNAVIGATOR