What is CPU scheduling?

CPU scheduling is the process by which the operating system determines which process runs at a given time. It's a fundamental concept in operating systems that ensures efficient CPU utilization and fair resource allocation among competing processes.

Which CPU scheduling algorithms are supported?

Our visualizer supports FCFS (First Come First Served), SJF (Shortest Job First) both preemptive and non-preemptive, Round Robin with custom time quantum, and Priority Scheduling in both preemptive and non-preemptive modes. All algorithms include Gantt chart visualization.

How do I calculate waiting time and turnaround time?

The CPU Scheduling Visualizer automatically calculates waiting time and turnaround time for each process. Waiting time is the total time a process waits in the ready queue, and turnaround time is the time from submission to completion. Simply input your processes and click submit to see the results.

What is the difference between preemptive and non-preemptive scheduling?

In preemptive scheduling, a running process can be interrupted and moved to the ready queue if a higher priority process arrives. In non-preemptive scheduling, once a process starts executing, it runs to completion without interruption. Our visualizer demonstrates both types clearly with animations.

Is this CPU scheduling visualizer free to use?

Yes! The CPU Scheduling Visualizer is completely free to use. No registration or sign-up required. Simply visit the website and start learning CPU scheduling algorithms with interactive Gantt charts and performance metrics.

How can this tool help with GATE exam preparation?

This visualizer helps GATE aspirants understand CPU scheduling algorithms through hands-on practice. You can input custom process data, visualize Gantt charts, and verify your manual calculations of waiting time and turnaround time - all essential skills for GATE Operating Systems questions.

What is Round Robin time quantum?

Time quantum (or time slice) in Round Robin scheduling is the fixed amount of CPU time allocated to each process. Our visualizer allows you to set custom time quantum values to see how different values affect average waiting time and turnaround time.

CPU Scheduling Visualizer

CPU Algorithm

Arrival Time

Burst Time

Input Process Table
Process ID	Arrival Time	Burst Time	Action

📋

Process Results Table

This table will display detailed scheduling results including completion time, turnaround time, and waiting time for each process. These metrics help you understand how efficiently the CPU handles different processes under the selected scheduling algorithm.

Quick Reference:
Turnaround Time = Completion Time − Arrival Time
Waiting Time = Turnaround Time − Burst Time

Gantt Chart

📊

Gantt Chart Visualization

The Gantt chart will appear here once you run a scheduling algorithm. It displays the execution timeline of processes, showing which process runs at each time unit. Each block represents a process with its ID, and timestamps below indicate execution boundaries.

Select an algorithm, add processes, and click "Submit" to see the visualization.

📈

Algorithm Comparison Chart

This chart compares the performance of similar scheduling algorithms using the same process data. You'll see average turnaround time and waiting time plotted for each algorithm, making it easy to identify which performs best for your specific workload.

Click "Compare similar algorithms" button after adding processes to generate this comparison.

Understanding Your Results

📊 Gantt Chart

The Gantt chart displays the execution timeline of processes. Each block represents a process running on the CPU, with the process ID shown inside and timestamps below indicating when execution starts and ends.

📈 Performance Metrics

Turnaround Time = Completion Time - Arrival Time
Waiting Time = Turnaround Time - Burst Time
Lower average times indicate better algorithm performance for your specific workload.