1.5) Operating Systems Flashcards Preview

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Flashcards in 1.5) Operating Systems Deck (12)
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1
Q

What is an operating system?

A

Software that manages a computer system.

2
Q

What is the operating system loaded by?

A

The bootstrap loader.

3
Q

How does the operating system manage peripherals such as input and output devices?

A

Communicates with + sends data to printer/monitor/other valid output device.
Communicates with + receives data input to keyboard/mouse/other valid input devices.

4
Q

How does the operating systems manage printing using spooling?

A

Data stored on hard disc/in memory/stored in queue.

Document printed when printer free/in correct order.

5
Q

What is the benefit of the operating systems managing printing using spooling?

A

User can carry on working/log off when waiting for job to print.

6
Q

How does the operating systems manage backing store?

A

Ensures data stored + can be accessed correctly from any disk drive.
Creates + maintains filing system such as FAT or NTFS (accepted but not expected).
Organises files in hierarchical directory structure.

7
Q

How does the operating systems manage memory (RAM)?

A

Ensures programs/data don’t corrupt each other.

Ensures all programs + data including itself stored in correct memory locations.

8
Q

How does the operating systems manage processes?

A

Ensure different processes can utilise CPU + do not interfere with each other or crash.
On multi-tasking O/S ensure that all tasks appear to run simultaneously.

9
Q

How does the operating systems manage security?

A

Allows creation + deletion of user accounts.

Allows users to logon + change passwords.

10
Q

What are some examples of how the operating system provides a user interface?

A

Allows copying/deleting/moving/sorting/searching of file or folders.
Allows access to system settings such as hardware.
Provides command lines interface.
Allows users to have more than 1 window open.
Provides graphical user interface (Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointers).
Provides user with errors/help messages.
Allows customisation of interface, e.g. change desktop background/layout.
Allows user to switch between tasks (programs/windows).

11
Q

What is the HCI used to describe?

A

HCI (Human-Computer Interaction) term used to describe communication between people + computer systems.

12
Q

What are some examples of different features of a graphical user interface?

A
windows.
icons.
menus.
pointers.
assistants/help files/tutorials.
favourite setting/change environment/customisation.
shortcuts/hot keys.
task bar/ribbon bar/tabs/customised tool bar.