Despite Java's support for multi-threading and concurrency constructs, developing applications that fare well on modern, multi-CPU hardware can be difficult. Alternate environments like NetKernel might be an easier path to harnessing extra processing elements.
by Brian Sletten
November 21, 2008
s multi-core and multi-CPU systems become more prevalent, the opportunity to perform several tasks at once is now a reality. Unfortunately, the way most systems are designed it is not as easy as having another thread take a task on. The programming language you use needs to ask the execution environment to schedule work on system resources. The constructs of a language influence how easy it is to take advantage of higher-order concurrency functions.
Historically, you could hand things off to a "helper" through multiple threads. As the CPU waited for network or file I/O activity to complete on one thread, it could execute another thread to get some work done and switch back when the first one was ready. This certainly helped applications feel more responsive, but the computer was still really only doing one thing at a time.
It's quick, easy and you get access to all the articles on DevX.
This registration/login is to allow you to read articles on devx.com. Already a member?
To become a member of DevX.com create your Member Profile by completing the form below. Membership is free!
s multi-core and multi-CPU systems become more prevalent, the opportunity to perform several tasks at once is now a reality. Unfortunately, the way most systems are designed it is not as easy as having another thread take a task on. The programming language you use needs to ask the execution environment to schedule work on system resources. The constructs of a language influence how easy it is to take advantage of higher-order concurrency functions.
