Processor Queue Length counter

According to Microsoft Processor Queue Length is a number Number of threads in the processor queue. Unlike the disk counters, this counter counters, this counter shows ready threads only, not threads that are running. A sustained processor queue of greater than two threads generally indicates processor congestion. There is a single queue for processor time, even on computers with multiple processors. Therefore, if a computer has multiple processors, you need to divide this value by the number of processors servicing the workload. A sustained processor queue of less than 10 threads per processor is normally acceptable, dependent on the workload. This property displays the last observed value only; it is not an average.

The clearest symptom of a processor bottleneck is a sustained or recurring queue of more than two threads. Although queues are most likely to develop when the processor is very busy, they can develop when utilization is well below 90 percent. This can happen if requests for processor time arrive randomly and if threads demand irregular amounts of time from the processor.

For busy systems that experience processor utilization in the 80 to 90 percent range and use thread scheduling, the queue length should range from one to three threads per processor. For example, on a four-processor (4P) system, the expected range of processor queue length on a system with high CPU activity is 4 to 12. On systems with lower CPU utilization, the processor queue length is typically 0 or 1.

If the processor queue length exceeds the value recommended above, it generally indicates that there are more threads than the current processor can service in an optimal way. Reducing the number of threads or providing more CPU power, either by adding processors or upgrading to faster processors, are optional methods of shortening the processor queue.

Our System Monitor II gadget will show you your Processor Queue Length in real time.