This book will give the UNIX and NT programmer a solid, basic understanding of threads -- and the powerful new POSIX Pthreads library. The book begins with an overview of the need for, and evolution of multithreading. Understand how threads are constructed, and how operating systems like Solaris(r) provide support for them. Learn the fundamentals of thread scheduling and synchronization, understanding the trade-offs involved in using synchronization variables. Learn how to dispose of (cancel) unwanted threads; and manage asynchronous events via signaling. The book includes detailed coverage of writing and compiling multithreaded programs, including sample applications, libraries, design choices, performance optimization and hardware considerations. For all experienced C, UNIX and NT programmers who need to understand the new Pthreads library. Read Less