What is Semaphore? ( SM50, sem)

[sivakumar_kilari3]

What is Semaphore?

In computer science, particularly in operating systems, a semaphore is  a variable or abstract data type that is used for controlling access,  by multiple processes, to a common resource in a parallel programming or a multi user environment.

What do the semaphores mean in SAP?

In trace files or in transaction SM50 (process overview),

Semaphores are mentioned. How do you determine which semaphores control what?

Reason and Prerequisites ?

If a work process locks a particular resource, it sets a semaphore. Another work process that also wants to access it must then wait. In this case, the number of semaphores is displayed by SM50.

Example: if any user while login (6: ROLL_ADM (roll administration)) semaphore will be locked, semaphore 6 is set.

How to Monitor Semaphores ?

Using SM50 transaction code. Find below screen shots.

Find below screen shot , How to see all the sap related semaphores by pressing F1 key.

In Operating system level ( MMC ) also you can observe in sem column (10 & 4 )

Thanks

Shiva Kumar