Software Flashcards
(27 cards)
What is System Software?
Provides services that the computer requires
What is Application Software?
Software that allows a user to perform specific tasks using the computer’s resources
It can be a single program or a suite of programs.
Give an example of System Software.
- Compiler
- Linker
- Device driver
- Operating system
- Utility programs
What is the role of a Compiler?
Translates high-level language into machine code
It allows direct use by a computer to perform tasks without re-compilation.
What does a Linker do?
Combines object files produced by a compiler into a single program
This allows the use of separately written code modules in the final program.
Define Device Driver.
Software that enables hardware devices to communicate with a computer’s operating system
Without it, devices like printers cannot function.
What is the primary function of an Operating System?
Manages basic computer functions such as input/output operations, program loading and running, and security management
It makes computers more user-friendly.
What does Utility Software do?
Manages, maintains, and controls computer resources by carrying out specific tasks
Examples include virus checking, disk repair, and file management.
What is the purpose of Virus Checkers?
Protect computers from malware by scanning files and comparing them against a database of known viruses
They should be kept up to date for effectiveness.
What does Disk Defragmentation Software do?
Rearranges data blocks on a hard disk drive to store files in contiguous sectors
This reduces head movements and improves data access time.
What is Backup Software?
Utility software that creates and manages backup copies of data files and programs
It allows scheduling backups and only backs up files if changes have been made.
What are the primary functions of Security Software?
- Manages access control
- Protects network interfaces using firewalls
- Uses encryption and decryption for data security
- Oversees software updates
What was the original purpose of Screensavers?
To protect CRT monitors from ‘phosphor burn’
Now primarily used for device customization and security.
What do Device Drivers do?
Translate data into a format understood by the associated hardware device
Without the appropriate driver, a hardware device cannot work with a computer.
What are the functions of a typical Operating System?
- Managing files
- Handling interrupts
- Providing an interface
- Managing peripherals and drivers
- Managing memory
- Managing multitasking
- Providing system security
- Managing user accounts
What is an interrupt?
A signal sent to the microprocessor to pause its ongoing tasks and handle the interrupt temporarily
It can be triggered by hardware faults, user interaction, or software errors.
What are High-Level Languages?
Languages that are easier to read and understand as they are closer to human language
They are easier to write, debug, and maintain.
What is Assembly Language used for?
To write code that makes use of special hardware or runs quickly
It must be translated into machine code using an assembler.
What is a Compiler?
Translates a program written in a high-level language into machine code
An executable file of machine code is produced.
What does an Interpreter do?
Executes a high-level language program one statement at a time
No executable file of machine code is produced.
What features does an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) typically include?
- Code Editor
- Translator
- Debugger
- Error Reports
- Auto-Completion and Auto-Correction
- Auto-Documenter
- Pretty Printing
Firmware
Stored in ROM, contaains BIOS and bootloader
Software interrupts
Division by zero
Two processes accessing the same memory location
Null value
Hardware interrupts
Moving the mouse
Clicking a mouse button
Plugging in a device
Paper jam in printer
Printer out of paper
Key presses
