9.2.2. Software Interrupts

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a software interrupt?

   Hint

   Think about how programs communicate with the OS.

2. 2.

   Give one example of a system call.

   Hint

   Consider actions that programs perform leading to OS requests.

3. 3.

   What initiates a software interrupt?

   • Hardware signal
   • Software request
   • Manual command

   Hint

   Consider what happens within the program’s context.

4. 4.

   True or False: Software interrupts can reduce CPU inefficiencies.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall how polling affects CPU resources.

5. 5.

   Create a flowchart that depicts how a program uses a software interrupt to access data from an external database.

   Hint

   Think about the main steps involved in the interrupt process.

6. 6.

   Devise a scenario where a software interrupt might fail and discuss the potential consequences.

   Hint

   Consider what happens when requested services are unavailable.