software and design Flashcards
(26 cards)
what is a software?
Software is a general term for the various kinds of programs used to operate computers and related devices.
what is computer hardware?
Computer hardware is the collection of all the parts you can physically touch in a computer system
what is programming?
The process of coding a program or developing software using a programming language such as Java, HTML, CSS
what do programmers do?
They write programs or software
what do software and programs do together?
Software or programs work together with hardware to make a computer work. Some software is crucial for a computer to operate whilst other software is optional and allows users to complete user specific tasks.
what does a system software do?
- Manages or controls a computer’s resources
- Is essential for the computer to operate
- Provides the interface between the hardware and application software
What are the two categories of system software?
Operating system software - controls the operations of a computer
Utility Software - Assists the operating system in the management of data
what are the functions of a system software?
Hardware support, Data access control, Usage records, Resource management, Security and access
what does hardware support do?
Allows use of peripheral hardware such as printers
what does Data access control do?
Restricts access to certain data but Allows creation, editing and recording of file locations
what does Resource management do?
Allocates time between tasks by switching from one task to another and back to the first task
what do Security and access do?
Protection of system resources
what does an application software involve?
It is a program written to solve users’ problems by carrying out specific tasks.
Examples: Word processors, games, database management software, spreadsheets
what are the main types of application programs?
- Off-the-shelf / General purpose software (Ready-made general programs that can be purchased in-store or online by consumers)
- Specialist software (Software made for specific industries )
- Tailormade/bespoke software (Software that is custom made for a certain company)
what are computer languages? (programming language)
Computer languages are used to wrte codes or programs.
what rules do computer languages use?
They use rules known as syntax, that computers understand so that they can carry out task set by the programs.
Examples: Java, Python, Ruby, HTML
what is program development?
a process undergone by programmers to develope a new software
(define problem - analyse - design solution - produce solution - evaluate the solution)
what are computer inputs?
Computer inputs are additional pieces of hardware plugged into computer that allows you to change information (mouse, keyboard)
what are computer outputs?
Hardwares from the computer that sends information to different devices (Printers, speakers)
what are some data types?
String, Real, Binary and Boolean
what are some professions in programming?
Software engineer, Game Animator, Audio Engineer, Game Designer, Game Programmer
software engineer
Software engineers specialise in a few areas of development, such as networks, operating systems, databases or applications, and each area requires fluency in its own set of computer languages and development environments.
Game Animator
Animators in the games industry are responsible for the portrayal of movement and behaviour of characters and objects.
Audio Engineer
Audio engineers are responsible for sourcing any sound effects that are needed,creating the soundtrack for a game, including music, sound effects, character voices, and spoken instructions
