A waiting state occurs when a CPU is waiting for a command or result, causing delays and communication problems. Zero wait state is preferable, but some computers induce wait states to reduce power demand and keep the computer cooler. Computing can develop out of sync, causing the wait state effect.
A waiting state is a period in which a computer’s central processing unit (CPU) cannot function because it is waiting for something to happen. During this time, the computer slows down and can create a bubble, where a communication problem delays all commands until the processor can fix it. This is an especially common problem in a computer with a central processing unit that runs at faster speeds than memory. The processor has to wait for the memory to achieve certain operations and as a result can have a lot of lag time.
In a wait state, the CPU is waiting for a command or has sent a command and is waiting for a result. A common example occurs when a user wakes a computer from sleep mode. Instead of starting up immediately, it may hang for a moment while the CPU and random access memory (RAM) get back in sync and restart the operating system and any programs that were running when the computer went to sleep.
A computer in zero wait state does not experience these delays. Commands are instantaneous and the CPU never has to wait for a response from RAM to perform a task. This calls for a design where the two run at similar speeds and the CPU doesn’t have to stop to allow the RAM to sync with it. For users, this is preferable as it is more efficient and there is no need to wait for the computer to fix a delay and become fully operational again.
Some computers naturally induce a wait state. Instead of constantly running the CPU, your computer can shut it down when it’s not needed. This reduces power demand, which can be important for mobile devices. It also keeps your computer cooler and can reduce the need for a cooling system. For a laptop, which can heat up very quickly, a standby state can maintain a safe operating temperature and limit fan run time, if at all, which in turn will save power and conserve battery life.
Computing often develops out of sync, with some components getting faster and more capable while others lag behind. This can enhance the wait state effect, as a computer might have an extremely fast CPU but slower RAM, and the CPU is limited by the speed of the RAM. Users willing to pay a premium may be able to access faster components if available.
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