This SDK has been prepared by DayStar Digital and Apple to help you get started using the Multiprocessing API.
This document describes briefly what you will find on this disk and how you can put it to use.
MP API FAQs
This document provides answers to a number of frequently asked questions. It provides contact information and covers such issues as developer support and supported hardware. It also provides a few programming tips. At least scan this document so that you can be familiar with what types of information you can expect to find there.
MP API.pdf
This is the technical specification of the Multiprocessing API. This document introduces the API and the key concepts behind it. It goes on to describe every function call in detail. It is required reading if you intend to program for multiprocessor systems.
MP_Technote.pdf
This document was prepared for inclusion in the Apple Technote collection. It provides a practical, step by step description of the types of things an application writer needs to do to implement multiprocessing. It also discusses the types of things that can and should be done from tasks as well as the types of things that cannot. It is highly recommended reading.
MacTech Article.pdf
This long article was prepared for inclusion in a March 1996 MacTech article on multiprocessing. It was significantly abridged before appearing in print. It contains some useful pointers and tips regarding the use of the MP API. It is recommended but not required reading.
Multiprocessing
"Multiprocessing.h" -the universal interface for the MP library. Replaces "MP.h"
"Multiprocessing API Library" -the multiprocessing library.
Only developers using environments older than CodeWarrior Pro 2, or environments that do not provide these files, will need to install these. These two files are now part of the standard installation of Universal Interfaces 3.0.1 and higher. CodeWarrior Pro 2 released in October of 1997 was the first CodeWarrior release to install these files by default.
Even if these files are present in your environment, every developer should be sure to consult the MP API FAQs entry: "What is a good way to install the library for development purposes?" for further instructions. This entry explains certain steps that are necessary to use MP on uniprocessor machines running System 7 and how to correctly set machines up to debug tasks using the Metrowerks Debugger (attempting to debug using the default installation will NOT work).
Sample Code
Two sample applications: MPHelloWorld and PowerFrax. Additional documentation can be found with each sample.