Computer Systems - Hardware And Software Flashcards
What is hardware?
The physical components of the computer, both internal and external.
What is software?
The general term for all the programs that run on a computer.
What are the categories of software?
System software.
Application software
What does system software do?
It is essential to running the computer.
Boots up, manages hardware, connects devices and controls security features.
Manages the operating system, utilities, libraries and translators.
What does application software do?
Used for general tasks.
When writing an essay, sending emails, playing games and browsing the internet and web-page.
For general purpose, special purpose, bespoke and off-the-shelf software.
What does the operating system do?
It’s loaded into memory when a computer switches on.
It communicates and controls hardware, including; memory, CPU, secondary storage and connected devices.
Users also manages their files using the functions of the OS.
What are the 5 functions of the operating system?
File management
User interface
Memory management/ multitasking
Peripheral management and device drivers
Security (User Access Management)
Explain file management in terms of the operation system?
The OS manages copying moving, deleting etc. files such as documents, images, videos and music.
The file extensions identify the file type and provides the OS with the information to operate them correctly with the correct software.
The OS keeps track of files stored in the hard disk and how much space is available.
What is user interface?
Software that allows a user to control the computer system.
What is the Command-Line interface?
Where the user writes commands and the computer executes the commands.
What are advantages of Command-Line interface?
Faster
Less memory
Less CPU time
Can use low-resolution monitor
Doesn’t require graphics
What are the disadvantages of Command-Line interface?
Need to know commands
Precision typing
Not intuitive
What is a menu-drive interface?
A user interface where you pick what you want from a menu
What are the advantages of a menu-driven interface?
Easy to use
No commands
Doesn’t require much memory nor processing power
What are the disadvantages of a menu-driven interface?
May struggle if poorly designed
No search facility