Multithreaded (MTHD)
We have all been there, waiting for a complex calculation to finish, printer spooler to get done…even by just looking at the term, we infer that this has to do with numerous, simultaneous, multi- threaded, layered, stringed-together types, actions or events. No surprise to learn then that this in a .NET Framework pertains to an/any/specific application(s), that uses multiple threads.
Review the chapter on Fundamentals and Threading, with the main exam objective being to develop these MTHD applications. Overcome the limitations of single-linear or single-threaded type programming (with one process following another). Multi-threaded then actually provides an attractive alternative, to improve timeliness, response and processing, performance. Starting a method in the background, run-allowed and enabled, while other programs, commands, applications are still processing (as well). It takes and asks for more complex processes, set-up and programming. Starting and managing the threads are crucial skills to master. Accessing resources at the same time, sequencing, permissions, security et al all matter too.
Access through System.Threading namespace, ThreadPoolQueueUserWorkItem, can help you set up things like printing spooling in the background for example, while user keeps working on something else. A single process can have multiple threads, more than one action or activity going on, to it. Simultaneous operations, multiple cores, processors, processing times vary too- this is a performance booster with potential. It is perfect for processor-intensive tasks.
Some of what forms part of this process: Threadpool class for running methods in the background, pass an object to a method, run it multiple times, simultaneously, (250 workthreads by default per processor), difference between main, foreground and background threads, console, VB build and run applications, with multiple threads, starting and stopping Multiple , threads, suspend, resume, priorities (highest, above normal, normal, below normal, lowest) – normal is the default setting. Know how to check states: (unstarted, running, stopped, waitsleepjoin, SuspendRequested, suspended, AbortRequested, Aborted), exchanging, passing data from one thread to another, retrieval, synchronicity, monitor, locking, interlocking, waiting (time), managing threads,
Key Exam Points
- Web-based, windows-based, distributed applications Visual Studio, VB, C#
- For the exam, study examples of real-life examples of/for multiple threads, that help you to gain a better understanding on this topic
- Take the practice test
Related Terms
Thread, thread-safe
This article is based on the 2nd edition of the Microsoft .Net Framework Application Training Kit with the purpose to help 70-536 Exam takers to succeed. I constantly look for ways to improve the content. Please leave a comment about this article or drop me a message if you would like to see changes for this site.
