A computer has six tape drives, with n processes competing for them. Each…

19982025

A computer has six tape drives, with n processes competing for them. Each process may need two drives. What is the maximum value of n for the system to be deadlock free?

  1. A.

    6

  2. B.

    5

  3. C.

    4

  4. D.

    3

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Correct answer: B

To ensure the system is deadlock-free, apply the formula n(k-1) + 1 <= R. Here resources R=6 and max need k=2, so n(1) + 1 <= 6. This simplifies to n <= 5, meaning the maximum number of processes is 5.

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