9.2.4. Non-Maskable Interrupts (NMI)

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does 'non-maskable' mean in Non-Maskable Interrupt?

   Hint

   Think about what it means for something to be ignored.

2. 2.

   Can NMIs be triggered by software events?

   Hint

   Consider the nature of hardware vs software.

3. 3.

   What does NMI stand for?

   • Normal Maskable Interrupt
   • Non-Maskable Interrupt
   • Non-Mutable Interrupt

   Hint

   Think about what it means to not be able to mask something.

4. 4.

   True or False: NMIs can be disabled by the processor.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember what 'non-maskable' implies.

5. 5.

   Describe a two-step process for how a system should respond once an NMI is triggered.

   Hint

   Consider what priorities the system must set after detecting an NMI.

6. 6.

   Imagine you are designing an embedded system that requires NMI handling. What considerations should you take into account regarding performance and reliability?

   Hint

   Think of how fast reactions are necessary for urgent events.