This multitasker is purposely limited to simple mechanisms permitting a fast response to external events, efficient resource protection and quick context switching. Actual performance will vary with micro controller, due to varying suitability of instruction sets. The multitasker has been implemented so that state diagrams can be coded almost directly. The WAIT syntax allows simultaneous waiting on several events. The synchronization mechanism is based on a generalization of the semaphore concept.
Mutual exclusion uses an even simpler mechanism.
The MMM is believed to be the fastest real time executive for the Intel 8085. The key to the fast response was its macro implementation and the use of an AMD-9519A interrupt controller as the scheduler. A somewhat modified version of the Mickey Mouse Multitasker has been transported to the Motorola 68HC11 microprocessor as the MTK-11. Most functions have been retained except the task kill call. It also makes the Multitasker safer, since it is difficult to insure that all the housekeeping needed to properly terminate a task is done.