Computer Systems Flashcards
(31 cards)
Purpose of a Computer?
Input, Process, Output
Why were computers created?
Process data, complete tasks more efficiently than humans
What is hardware? Examples?
Physical components of a computer like CPU, HDD
What is software? Examples?
Programs and application a computer systems runs like os, a word processor or a video game
What are embedded systems? Examples?
Computers built into other devices like dishwashers for one purpose, TV
What are control systems?
Monitor and control machinery to achieve a desired result like a dishwasher
Why are embedded systems good?
Easier to design
Cheaper to produce
More efficient than a general purpose computer
List hardware and their function
Power supply - power supply to motherboard, optical and hard Optical drive - RAM slots - Motherboard - HDD - SSD - Graphics card - CPU - Heat sink Extractor fan -
What is an open source software?
Free and openly available to everyone to use and edit
What is a proprietary software?
A software that legally remains the property of the organisation, group, or individual who created it. Closed source code
Generic Software
Generic – general software used by anyone for similar purpose. Eg: word processors and spreadsheets
Integrated Software
Integrated – Group of software’s which have a common set of commands/icons
Specific Software
Specific – specific purpose one job Eg: Photoshop - edit photos
Bespoke Software
Bespoke – Specific software written for a company which requires a piece of software to perform a specific task Eg: Accountancy
Give 3 purposes of the Operating system.
- Monitors and controls what applications are being used
- Saves data that is frequently used in applications and gets rid of unused data
- Multitask: allows more than one application to be used
What is the difference between hardware and software?
Hardware is a physical component whereas software is not. Software are programs that run applications whereas the hardware does not.
What is a peripheral device?
A device that can be inputted into a computer which can produce an input and output.
What is system software?
A software that needs to be on the computer to function by controlling it e.g the operating system in order for the computer to function.
Give an example of utility software
Anti-virus
EXPLAIN the purpose of the CPU
The CPU fetches information and data from the main memory and cache via buses, decodes the information translated to a low level language e.g binary so that the transistors can translate the information into instructions using a 2 base system (0s off/1s on). The instructions are then executed (carried out) by the computer which could mean data is saved.
List 3 ways you can improve the performance of a CPU.
Increase the clock speed, add more cores, and have a level one cache (nearest to the CPU)
What is clock speed?
The amount of times the fetch, decode and execute cycle is executed in a second.
Give 3 examples of solid state storage.
USB, SD card, Memory stick, MP3 Player
Describe the process of defragmentation.
Data is joined together
No gaps
Easier to find
Quicker
