Programmable Interrupt Controller (PIC)

A Programmable Interrupt Controller (PIC) is a hardware component inside a computer that manages how the CPU handles multiple simultaneous requests from various devices, like keyboards or network cards. It prioritizes these requests so that the most important tasks are addressed first, preventing conflicts and ensuring smooth operation. The "programmable" aspect means it can be configured to customize priorities and behavior based on the system's needs. Essentially, the PIC acts as a traffic cop, coordinating and organizing interrupt signals to allow the computer to respond efficiently to different hardware events.