Relay-Version: version B 2.10 5/3/83; site utzoo.UUCP Path: utzoo!mnetor!seismo!brl-adm!rutgers!lll-lcc!ames!ucbcad!ucbvax!uwovax.UWO.CDN!BRENT From: BRENT@uwovax.UWO.CDN (Brent Sterner) Newsgroups: mod.computers.vax Subject: Query about priorities in VMS Message-ID: <0543063732@uwovax.UWO.CDN> Date: Wed, 18-Mar-87 11:02:12 EST Article-I.D.: uwovax.0543063732 Posted: Wed Mar 18 11:02:12 1987 Date-Received: Fri, 20-Mar-87 04:27:25 EST Sender: daemon@ucbvax.BERKELEY.EDU Distribution: world Organization: The ARPA Internet Lines: 34 Approved: info-vax@sri-kl.arpa Hmmm, another "interaction" with management. I have proposed that our site implement a "background batch" queue, and charge certain users of that queue at a discounted rate. This sort of queue would run with a priority less than interactive. In fact I suggested a "long" and "fast" version of this queue type, with priorities of 2 and 3 (relative to 4 for interactive users). There is a fear that if these queues are allowed to continue to run while the system is busy with interactive users, that the interactive users will be adversely affected. I have argued that any such effect will be minor to the magnitude of being not detectable to 99% of interactive users. Obviously, if I'm right and can "prove" myself, (a) I face no batch queue management hastles, and (b) we can effectivel utilize "NULL" job cycles (and generate income from them) during the day. My question to the wizards: "Is our management's fear in any way justified?" What can I do to alleviate the fear if in fact it IS justified? I'm aware of the ways that queues can be controlled. But we have *other* systems here whose interactive performance IS (apparently) affected by batch (CYBER/NOS to be specific). Is VMS being tarred with the same brush unfairly? I know. Another very general question requiring a specific answer (I try not to ask "easy" questions). Thanks to all who I'm sure will reply. Brent. -- Brent Sterner *********************** Lord Protector, d i g i t a l Systems * * Computing & Communications Services * ...this space * Natural Sciences Building * for rent... * The University of Western Ontario * Apply within. * London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5B7 * * Telephone (519)661-2151 x6036 *********************** Network ! VAX 8600 ! IBM 4341