Why do some programs take so long to install?

Jskid

Posts: 348   +1
I installed a program that takes 1.5GB and it took an hour to install! This leads me to believe the time taken to install is not a function of size. Another thing interesting is I looked at the task manager and not all of the RAM nor CPU was being utilized. Why?
 
This leads me to believe the time taken to install is not a function of size.
true
Another thing interesting is I looked at the task manager and not all of the RAM nor CPU was being utilized. Why?
Use of RAM is dependent upon the size of the INSTALLER program, not that of the program being installed :)

CPU usage is highly variable. When Install is I/O dominant (moving files to the HD), the system is not CPU dependent, but rather is limited by how fast data can move from an archive (ie memory to HD) or from the Install CD to the HD.

CPU will be a factor only when there is little or NO I/O requirements and the installer needs to prepare a custom binary (ie assemble or compile code) or pure registry manipulation.
 
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