Explanation:

In parallel priority interrupt, multiple devices can request an interrupt simultaneously. To handle this situation, a register called the mask register is used to control the status of each interrupt request. The mask register is a binary number in which each bit corresponds to an interrupt request from a device.

When an interrupt request is made by a device, the corresponding bit in the mask register is checked. If the bit is set to 1, the interrupt request is granted and the device is serviced. If the bit is set to 0, the interrupt request is ignored.

The mask register is used to prioritize the interrupts. The higher priority interrupts are assigned lower bit positions in the mask register, while the lower priority interrupts are assigned higher bit positions. This ensures that the higher priority interrupts are serviced first.

The mask register can be modified by the operating system to change the priority of interrupts. For example, if a critical task needs to be performed, the operating system can mask all interrupts except for the highest priority interrupt to ensure that the critical task is completed without interruption.

Conclusion:

In summary, the mask register is an important component of parallel priority interrupt systems. It allows multiple devices to request interrupts simultaneously, while ensuring that higher priority interrupts are serviced first. The operating system can modify the mask register to change the priority of interrupts as needed.

Explanation:


In a parallel priority interrupt, we have multiple interrupt requests that can occur simultaneously. To handle such requests, the system uses a mechanism called a mask register. Here, the mask register is used for controlling the status of each interrupt request.

What is a Mask Register?


A mask register is a hardware register that is used in a computer system to control the generation of interrupts. It is basically a binary number that is used to mask or block certain interrupt requests from being processed. The mask register is a part of the interrupt controller, which is responsible for managing and prioritizing the interrupt requests.

How does Mask Register work?


When an interrupt request occurs, the interrupt controller checks the mask register to determine whether the interrupt should be processed or not. If the corresponding bit in the mask register is set to 1, the interrupt is blocked, and the system continues to execute the current program. If the corresponding bit is set to 0, the interrupt is allowed to proceed, and the system jumps to the interrupt service routine to handle the request.

Why is Mask Register important?


Mask Register is important because it helps in reducing the interrupt latency and preventing unwanted interrupts from being processed. By using the mask register, the system can prioritize the interrupts based on their importance and handle them in an efficient manner.

Conclusion:


In summary, the mask register is a crucial component in a parallel priority interrupt system. It helps in controlling the status of each interrupt request and ensures that the system handles the interrupts effectively.