The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 3 plus 4 letter word RUN TIME
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
R
U
N
T
I
M
E
More clues leading to the result RUN TIME
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "How long it takes to process" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case how long it takes to process = run time.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does RUN TIME mean?
RUN TIME noun- The stage during which a program is executing.
- The amount of time during which a program is executing.
- A software component designed to support the execution of computer programs.
- The length of a film, television program or audio track in minutes, usually with end credits included
- Of, relating to, or happening during run time.