4.6 Hardware and Software

Question 1

What is Hardware?

Answer 1

Hardware is the physical components of the computer both internal and external the core components include

1) CPU
2) Main Memory
3) Input/Output Controllers

Question 2

What is Software?

Answer 2

Software is a set of instructions that allow the computer to carry out a wide range of tasks

Question 3

What is System Software?

Answer 3

System software covers a range of programs that are concerned with more technical aspects of setting up and running the computer

Question 4

What is Application Software?

Answer 4

Application software refers to all the programs that the user uses to complete a particular task
e.g., MS Teams

Question 5

What is Operating System Software?

Answer 5

1) OS software is a collection of software designed to act as an interface between the user and the computer
2) Connection between the Hardware, applications and the user
3) Used to simplify the complexity of hardware

Question 6

What are Utility Programs?

Answer 6

1) Utility Programs cover software that is written to carry out general tasks on your computer
2) Designed to enhance the use of your computer
3) Non-essential

Question 7

What are Libraries?

Answer 7

1) Library programs are a collection of software tools that are critical for the application that they are built for
2) Essential programs such as Windows DLL files

Question 8

What are Translators?

Answer 8

1) Translators are software used to convert programs from one language to another three types
1) Assemblers
2) Compilers
3) Interpreters
Used to translate programmed code into machine code

Question 9

What is the function of the Operating System

Answer 9

1) OS handles resource management through scheduling so multiple programs can run at the same time
2) Managing hardware to collect processors and memory management
3) Manages Input and Output devices how there controlled and used
4) Manages primary memory (RAM) usage to optimise computer performance