6. Resource Management Flashcards
Define resource management. (5 marks)
Definition: Efficient allocation and control of system resources (2).
Importance: Ensures smooth operation of applications (1).
Examples of resources: CPU, memory, storage, network bandwidth (2).
List three types of computer memory. (3 marks)
Types: RAM, ROM, Cache (1 mark each).
What is the primary function of the CPU? (5 marks)
Definition: Central Processing Unit, executes instructions (2).
Controls all other hardware components (1).
Executes operations and calculations for applications (1).
Manages program flow and system tasks (1).
Explain the difference between primary and secondary memory. (5 marks)
Primary Memory: Temporary, fast, e.g., RAM (2).
Secondary Memory: Long-term storage, slower, e.g., HDD, SSD (2).
Use cases: Primary for active processes, secondary for file storage (1).
What does network bandwidth refer to? (5 marks)
Definition: Maximum data transfer rate of a network (2).
Measured in bits per second (1).
Higher bandwidth improves data flow and reduces lag (2).
Name two tasks that a GPU is responsible for. (4 marks)
Task 1: Rendering images and graphics (2).
Task 2: Parallel processing for tasks like machine learning (2).
What is cache memory? Why is it important? (5 marks)
Definition: Fast memory storing frequently accessed data (2).
Importance: Reduces CPU access time to data (2).
Increases overall system speed (1).
Describe one consequence of insufficient RAM. (5 marks)
Consequence: Increased reliance on slower virtual memory (2).
Result: Slower application performance (2).
May lead to system lag or crashes (1).
What is virtual memory? How does it benefit a computer system? (5 marks)
Definition: Uses storage as additional RAM (2).
Benefits: Allows multitasking beyond physical RAM limits (2).
Prevents crashes when RAM is insufficient (1).
Define thrashing in resource management. (5 marks)
Definition: Excessive paging between RAM and virtual memory (2).
Occurs when RAM is too low for running applications (2).
Consequence: Decreased system performance (1).
List two symptoms of CPU limitations. (4 marks)
Symptom 1: High CPU usage and system slowdown (2).
Symptom 2: Delayed response or lag in applications (2).
What is the purpose of scheduling in an OS? (5 marks)
Purpose: Allocates CPU time among multiple tasks (2).
Ensures efficient multitasking and resource use (2).
Reduces waiting time for tasks (1).
Explain the term multitasking. (5 marks)
Definition: Running multiple tasks simultaneously (2).
Managed by OS through task switching (2).
Allows for efficient use of CPU and memory (1).
What is polling? Provide an example of its use. (5 marks)
Definition: Repeatedly checking device status (2).
Example: CPU checking keyboard for input (2).
Ensures device readiness for data transfer (1).
Identify one advanced resource management technique and explain its significance. (5 marks)
Example: Load balancing (2).
Significance: Distributes workload evenly across resources (2).
Prevents bottlenecks and improves system efficiency (1).
What is the impact of network limitations on online activities? (5 marks)
Impact: Slower data transfer, affecting video streaming and gaming (2).
Results in buffering, lag, and connection drops (2).
Decreases user experience and productivity (1).
Describe the OS’s role in memory management. (5 marks)
Manages allocation of memory to programs (2).
Tracks free and occupied memory (1).
Frees up memory when programs are closed (1).
Ensures memory usage is optimized (1).
What is paging? How does it help in memory management? (5 marks)
Paging: Divides memory into fixed-size pages (2).
Benefit: Allows non-continuous memory allocation (2).
Optimizes RAM usage and reduces fragmentation (1).
Explain the concept of interrupt handling. (5 marks)
Definition: OS responds to urgent hardware/software events (2).
Pauses current task to address interrupt (2).
Ensures critical tasks are handled promptly (1).
What are the consequences of poor resource management in a computer system? (5 marks)
Consequences: Slower performance, system instability (2).
May lead to crashes and inefficient task execution (2).
Reduces overall user experience and productivity (1).
