4.6 Fundamentals of computer systems

Question 1

What are the key aspects of a desktop OS?

Answer 1

• Support for a wide range of peripheral devices
• Support for a wide range of software packages
• Must be customisable (by user)
• Must manage security

Question 2

What are the key aspects of an embedded system OS?

Answer 2

• Needs less power requirements/ often made with minimal processor requirements and low costs
• No/minimal user interface required
• Designed to deal with inputs from sensors
• Efficient power management

Question 3

What are the key aspects of a real-time (embedded system) OS?

Answer 3

• Must be designed to guarantee speed of response
• May need a failsafe
• My incorporate redundancy
• May need to deal with multiple inputs simultaneously