2. Types of Operating System Flashcards
Name the 5 types of operating systems
- Distributed
- Embedded
- Multi-tasking
- Multi-user
- Real-time
How does a distributed OS work?
- Runs across multiple devices
2. Means the load of a task is spread across multiple computer processors
How does an embedded OS work?
- Built to perform small range of specific tasks
2. Catered towards specific device (e.g. household appliance)
What is the advantage of an embedded OS?
Consume less power than other types of OS
What are the disadvantages of an embedded OS?
- Limited functionality
2. Hard to update
How does a multi-tasking OS work?
- Enables user to carry out task simultaneously
2. Time slicing used to switch quickly between programs and applications in memory
How does a multi-user OS work?
- Multiple users make use of one computer
2. A scheduling algorithm is used to allocate processor time fairly between jobs and prevent processor starvation
How does a real-time OS work?
- Used in time-critical computer systems
2. Designed to perform a task within a guaranteed time frame
Define BIOS (Basic Input Output System)
The first program that runs when a computer system is switched on
How does BIOS work?
- Runs series of tests before OS is loaded to memory
- POST (Power-On Self Test) ensures all hardware is correctly connected and functional
- Checks CPU clock, memory and processor
- Tests for external memory devices
Define the term device driver
Computer program that allows OS to interact with hardware
What 2 things are device drivers specific to?
- Computer’s architecture
2. OS
Define the term virtual machine
Theoretical computer and software implementation of computer system
What does a virtual machine provide?
An environment with a translator for intermediate code to run
