Interrupts

Interrupts

1. Examples of Interrupts

   • I/O Device requesting attention
     • i.e. Printer out of paper
   • Run time error
     • i.e. Division by zero
   • User interrupt
     • i.e. ctrl + break

2. What is an interrupt?

   • A signal generated by a device or software
     • This signal may cause a break in the execution of the current routine

3. When an interrupt arises...

   • the O/S suspends the current routine
     • Runs the higher priority interrupt routine
       • Finally, the O/S returns to the original interrupt routine or services a higher priority interrupt