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Solution: Maximum Running Time of N Computers

Explore how to determine the maximum number of minutes that n computers can run simultaneously using a given set of batteries. Learn to apply a modified binary search to optimize runtime by checking feasibility through battery power contributions. Understand the process and complexity to solve this resource allocation problem efficiently.

Statement

You are given an integer, n, representing the number of computers, and a 0-indexed integer array, batteries, where batteries[i] denotes the number of minutes the ithi^{th} battery can power a computer.

Your goal is to run all n computers simultaneously for the maximum possible number of minutes using the available batteries.

Initially, you may assign at most one battery to each computer. After that, at any moment, you may remove a battery from a computer and replace it with another battery—either an unused battery or one taken from another computer. This replacement process can be repeated any number of times and takes no time.

Each battery can power any computer multiple times, but only until it is completely drained. Batteries cannot be recharged.

Return the maximum number of minutes you can run all n computers simultaneously.

Constraints:

  • 1 \leq n ...