Introduction to Computer Systems

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is an example of embedded software?

Microwaves (correct)

Spreadsheet

Python

Word Processing

A compiler translates a program one line at a time.

False

What are the three categories of programming languages?

Machine Language, Assembly Language, High-level Language (HLL)

____ Software is designed to demonstrate what a purchased version of the software can do and provides a restricted set of features.

Demo Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a general-purpose application?

Spreadsheet Signup and view all the answers

Match the following types of software with their descriptions:

OEM Software = Bundled with hardware Shareware = Try for free for a limited time Retail Software = Sold in retail stores Demo Software = Restricted features to demonstrate product Signup and view all the answers

Specialized applications are designed for a broad range of tasks.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using a compiled program over an interpreted program?

Compiled programs are faster to execute. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of system software?

Linux Signup and view all the answers

Application software is used to perform specific tasks by the users.

True Signup and view all the answers

List two main functions of an operating system.

Process Management and Memory Management Signup and view all the answers

The ______ interface allows users to interact with the computer using graphical elements such as windows and icons.

Graphical User Signup and view all the answers

What type of operating system allows multiple users to perform tasks simultaneously?

Multi-user, multi-tasking Signup and view all the answers

Match each operating system type with its description:

Single-user, single-task = Palm OS, MS-DOS Real-time operating system = Scientific instruments and industrial systems Multi-user, multi-tasking = UNIX Single-user, multi-tasking = MS-Windows Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of system software?

To provide basic functionality to computer and manage hardware resources. Signup and view all the answers

The main function of an operating system is to store files permanently.

False Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Introduction to Computer Systems - Lecture 3: Computer Software

Objectives: Learn software types and their purposes, understand operating systems, categorize operating systems, differentiate programming language generations.

Computer Software

Software are programs that run on hardware.
Programs are a set of instructions to perform a task.
Software categories:
- System software (e.g., Operating System)
- Application software (e.g., web browser).

Type of Software

Application software: Used by users for specific tasks.
System software: Provides basic functions for the computer.

System Software

Functionality: Provides basic functions for the computer, controls hardware, and acts as an interface between users, application software, and hardware.
Categorization:
- Management: BIOS, OS, Device drivers, System Utilities.
- Development: Compiler, Interpreter, Linker.

Operating System

A special program loaded automatically when the computer starts.
Designed to allow application software and users to interact with hardware without understanding the hardware details.
Functionality: Manages and controls computer hardware resources such as different types of memory.
Components: Large and complex software with multiple components.
Examples: Windows, Android, Linux, UNIX

Operating System Functions

Process Management: Manages processes (running programs).
Memory Management: Manages the computer’s memory.
File Management: Manages files on the storage devices.
Device Management: Manages connected devices.
Protection and Security: Protects the system from unauthorized access and damage.
User Interface (or Command Interpreter): Provides a way for users to interact with the operating system.

Operating System Types

Command-line Interface (e.g., DOS, UNIX)
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
Single-user, single-task (e.g., Palm OS, MS-DOS)
Single-user, multi-tasking (e.g., MS-Windows)
Multi-user, multi-tasking (e.g., UNIX)
Multiprocessing (e.g., UNIX)
Real-time operating system (RTOS) for real-time applications (e.g., scientific instruments, industrial systems, LynxOS)
Embedded used in appliances like microwaves, washing machines, and traffic control systems.

System Software Utilities

Device Drivers
Anti-virus
Data and Disk Compression
Cryptographic Utilities
Disk Cleaners
Backup
System Profiling
Network Managers

Programming Languages

Programming languages have vocabulary and grammatical rules to express computations and tasks.
Categories:
- Machine Language
- Assembly Language
- High-level Language (HLL).

Translator Software

Assembler: Translates assembly language to machine language.
Compiler: Translates entire programs at once, making compiled programs faster to execute. (e.g., C++, Java)
Interpreter: Translates one program line at a time, making interpreted programs easier to debug (e.g., Python, some versions of BASIC)

Program Execution Hierarchy

Source Code (High-level Language) -> Compiler -> Object Code (Machine Language) -> Linker -> Executable Code (Machine Language)

Application Software

Programs used by users.
General-Purpose Applications: Designed for relatively specific purposes or general use (e.g., Word Processing, Image Processing, Spreadsheets, CAD/CAM, Geographic Information Systems, Web Browsers)
Specialized Applications: Problem-specific programs focused on specific disciplines and occupations (e.g., user-written programs).

Software Acquisition

Retail Software: Off-the-shelf software sold in retail stores.
OEM Software: Bundled with hardware (Original Equipment Manufacturer).
Demo Software: Shows software features, often with restrictions.
Shareware: Free for a trial period, with potential licensing later.
Freeware: Free for personal use.
Public Domain Software: Free and without copyright restrictions.
Open-Source Software: Source code available for customization and alterations within specified guidelines.

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Description

Explore the types of software and their roles in computing. This quiz covers system software and application software, including a deep dive into operating systems and programming language generations. Understand how software interfaces with hardware.