DPC Latency
Definition
Delay associated with Windows Deferred Procedure Call processing.
Detailed explanation
DPC Latency refers to delay associated with Windows Deferred Procedure Calls, which drivers use to finish interrupt-related work at a lower priority. Long-running DPC activity can delay time-sensitive audio or input processing. Measurements describe scheduling behavior across the system rather than proving one specific device is defective. A latency tool samples execution and attributes time to loaded modules, but a high value can reflect upstream interrupt load or a downstream dependency. Real-time audio is sensitive because its buffer deadline is short; ordinary throughput can remain high even while occasional scheduling delays cause audible gaps.
Where you are likely to see it
This term usually appears in Device Manager, Windows recovery tools, Event Viewer, or the installation details for a device package. The definition above gives the short meaning; the detailed explanation describes the term's role in the operating system and hardware stack.
Device status, hardware IDs, and event text identify which Windows subsystem produced a label. This glossary is informational and does not provide repair, installation, or technical-support services.
Related vocabulary
Explore connected concepts and nearby entries in the Windows hardware vocabulary.
- WHQLWindows Hardware Quality Labs, Microsoft’s certification program for drivers.
- INF FileA Setup Information file that declares package installation and hardware support.
- Filter DriverA driver that observes or modifies requests in another device stack.
- FirmwareSoftware that runs on an embedded controller or platform below the host OS.