31 Questions
What is the main function of an operating system?
Controlling the execution of application programs and acting as an interface between applications and the computer hardware
What are the three objectives of an operating system, as mentioned in the text?
Convenience, Efficiency, Ability to evolve
What is the role of a device controller in a computer system?
Handling a specific type of device (e.g., disk drives, audio devices)
When a computer is powered up or rebooted, what does it need to have for it to start running?
An initial program to run (bootstrap program)
What does the term 'parallel' refer to in the context of CPU and device controllers?
Simultaneous execution of instructions by the CPU and device controllers
Which statement best describes the structure of a modern general-purpose computer system?
Comprises one or more CPUs and several device controllers connected through a common bus
In the context of computer booting, what is the function of the bootstrap program?
Locating and loading the operating-system kernel into memory
What is the significance of system daemons in a computer system?
They provide services outside of the kernel and are loaded into memory at boot time
What triggers an interrupt from the hardware in a computer system?
Sending a signal to the CPU through the system bus
What is the main purpose of interrupts in a computer system?
To improve CPU utilization
Which section of an I/O program prepares for the actual I/O operation?
Sequence of instructions labeled 4
What does the solid vertical line represent in the context of the given timeline of operations?
Segments of code in a program that do not involve I/O
What is the typical function of user interfaces in a computer system?
Means by which users can issue commands to the system
What role do system programs play in a computer system?
Providing services outside of the kernel and becoming system processes
What is the primary purpose of resource allocation in a computer system?
To manage and distribute resources effectively among processes and users
What is the main function of protection and security in a computer system?
To ensure data integrity and prevent unauthorized access
What is a disadvantage of Simple Batch Systems?
Mechanism to prioritize the processes
What is the prime focus of Time Sharing Systems compared to Multiprogramming batch systems?
Minimizing the response time
What is the main advantage of Multiprocessor Systems?
Enhanced performance
What is a defining feature of Desktop Systems?
Single user and single tasking
What does a Multiprogramming system aim to achieve?
Maximize the CPU usage
In a Simple Batch System, why is the CPU often idle?
Because I/O devices are much slower than the speed of the CPU
What is the main goal of distributed operating systems?
Maximizing user convenience and responsiveness
What characterizes a peer-to-peer system in a distributed operating system?
Tasks are partitioned between peers
What defines a real-time operating system?
It provides minimum time for critical operations
What are the characteristics of handheld systems?
Limited size, small amount of memory, slow processors, and small display screens
What is a characteristic of a simple structured operating system like MS-DOS?
Application programs can access basic I/O routines directly
What is the main advantage of a layered structure in an operating system?
Simplicity of construction and debugging
What is the primary purpose of microkernels in operating systems?
To make the kernel as small and efficient as possible
What is the advantage of the layered approach in an operating system?
Simplicity of construction and debugging.
What is the disadvantage of a layered approach in an operating system?
Higher efficiency in processing requests.
Test your knowledge of operating system basics with this quiz covering topics such as what an operating system is, its functions, organization, interrupts, services, types, structure, user interface, and system calls.
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