1.2.2 Applications Software Flashcards
What is the difference between applications and system software?
Applications software is utilised directly by the end-user whereas systems software ensures the high performance of the computer.
Give 3 examples of utilities:
Three from:
- Compression
- Disk defragmentation
- Antivirus
- Automatic backup
- Automatic updating
Gives 1 advantage of using closed source code:
Any from:
- Thorough, regular and well-tested updates
- Expert support and user manuals from company
- High levels of security as it is developed in a professional controlled environment
State 2 features of open source code:
Any 2 from:
- Does not require a license to be used
- Distributed with the source code
- Can be modified and sold on
Give 2 advantages of using compiled code over interpreted code:
- Faster to execute
- Does not require a compiler to run
Give 2 advantages of using interpreted code over compiled code:
Two from:
- Is platform independent
- Runs instantly without tile waiting for compilation
- Useful for debugging
What is assembly language?
A low-level language that almost has a 1-to-1 relationship with machine code. It is platform specific.
What are the stages of compilation?
Lexical analysis
Syntax analysis
Code generation
Optimisation
What happens during syntax analysis?
- Tokens are compared to the rules of programming language
- Syntax errors are identified
- Symbol table updated with more details
- Semantic analysis (finding logic errors)
What are the similarities and differences between static and dynamic linkers?
Similarities: Both link external modules and libraries to main program
Static: Library code copied into the file. File size increased
Dynamic: Addresses libraries included within file. External updates automatically feed through to main program
Give 3 advantages of using libraries:
Three from:
- Error free
- Saves time
- Re-usable
- No need to “reinvent the wheel”
- Designed by experts
Describe the function of a loader:
Provided by the OS, a loader retrieves the library or subroutine from the given memory location.
What is the purpose of optimisation stage of compilation?
- Reduce execution time
- Reduce inefficient sections of code
- Remove redundant code