The GATE Grind

GATE 2014 CS (CS3) – Question 41

Operating System · Deadlock · 2 marks · Numerical answer

Three programs each require three tape units. Find the minimum number of tape units that guarantees deadlocks never arise.

Practise this question in The GATE Grind →

Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: 7 to 7

Explanation

With three processes each needing3units, six units can be split2,2,2with all processes waiting. One additional unit ensures some process can obtain its third, finish and release its allocation, enabling others. Thus3(3−1)+1=**7units** is the minimum guarantee.