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BTEC IT > A3 > Flashcards

A3 Flashcards

1
Q

What is an operating system?

A

Coordinates all the operations of your computer

Manages all resources such as CPU and RAM usage, controls software and hardware, and is essential for user interaction with the computer.

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2
Q

List the features built into an operating system to improve security.

A
  • User Authentication
  • Anti-virus and firewall software
  • Back-up facilities

These features help protect the system from unauthorized access and data loss.

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3
Q

What is the role of networking in an operating system?

A

Manages communication (protocols) within the network and externally

Governs and controls data transmission as well as managing and maintaining the network using utility programs.

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4
Q

What does memory management in an operating system involve?

A
  • Allocates space/memory to files/programs/clipboard items
  • Decides how much each process gets memory and at what time
  • Monitors each memory location’s status (free/allocated)

This ensures efficient use of system memory.

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5
Q

What is the purpose of multi-tasking in an operating system?

A
  • Allocates each task a slice of processor time
  • Keeps track of the user’s position in each task
  • Allows switching between tasks without losing information

This enhances user productivity by enabling simultaneous task execution.

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6
Q

How does an operating system manage peripheral devices?

A

Uses programs called device drivers

Device drivers communicate with hardware and translate requests between a device and the computer.

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7
Q

What are factors affecting the performance of an operating system?

A
  • Malware (Viruses, Worms, Spyware)
  • Unsupported systems
  • Limited size of Memory (RAM)
  • Limited CPU Speed
  • Fragmented Hard Drive
  • Virtual Memory usage
  • Cost of OS and training
  • Compatibility with software and hardware

Each factor can significantly impact system efficiency and security.

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8
Q

What are the characteristics of a Single User – Multi Tasking OS?

A
  • Familiarity for users
  • Improves productivity/efficiency
  • Only one user accesses the PC at a time
  • No additional costs for the OS

This type of OS is common in personal computers.

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9
Q

Name some built-in accessibility features of operating systems.

A
  • Adjust system settings (screen resolution, brightness)
  • Font/text size adjustments
  • Use of narrator/text to speech
  • Speech recognition
  • On-screen keyboard
  • Adapted user interface

These features improve usability for individuals with disabilities.

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10
Q

List some peripheral accessibility features for people with disabilities.

A
  • Microphone
  • Braille/concept/large-key keyboard
  • Braille printer/embosser
  • Braille screen/display
  • Speakers/headphones
  • Large monitor

These peripherals enhance interaction for users with specific needs.

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11
Q

What are the advantages of using an open source operating system?

A
  • Access to source code for customization
  • Collaboration with other users for improvements
  • Quicker bug fixes than proprietary software
  • Potentially more secure
  • Free ongoing support from the community

These benefits can lead to a more tailored and secure user experience.

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12
Q

What are the disadvantages of using an open source operating system?

A
  • Compatibility issues with existing software
  • Some specialized applications may not run
  • Possible lack of features
  • Reliance on community support
  • Compatibility with college systems may be difficult

These drawbacks can hinder functionality and user experience.

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13
Q
A
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14
Q

What does GUI stand for?

A

Graphical User Interface

A GUI is an interface designed around graphical icons and images.

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15
Q

What is a key advantage of Graphical User Interfaces?

A

More intuitive and easier to learn/use

Users recognize icons instead of learning complicated code or commands.

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16
Q

What is a disadvantage of Graphical User Interfaces?

A

They use a lot of memory and processing power

This can lead to slower performance compared to command-line interfaces.

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17
Q

What does WIMP stand for in the context of user interfaces?

A

Windows, Icons, Menus & Pointers

This type of interface uses graphical icons and a pointer for navigation.

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18
Q

What is one advantage of Command Line Interfaces?

A

Quicker for experienced users to complete tasks

Familiar users find it much more efficient than navigating a GUI.

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19
Q

What is a significant disadvantage of Command Line Interfaces?

A

Not intuitive and requires knowledge of commands

Beginners may find it very difficult to use.

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20
Q

What is an Adaptive Interface?

A

A user interface that adapts to the needs of the user

It collects data over time to anticipate user actions and preferences.

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21
Q

List two advantages of Adaptive Interfaces.

A
  • Creates less confusion for the user
  • Tailor-made interface for the user’s needs
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22
Q

What is a disadvantage of Adaptive Interfaces?

A

Can be difficult to create and prone to mistakes

They may also have security issues as they store user preferences.

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23
Q

What is the purpose of a user interface?

A

Provides a method for a user to communicate/interact with the computer system

This includes navigating the hardware and software to carry out tasks.

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24
Q

What is a Menu Driven Interface?

A

An interface that presents the user with a list of options

Commonly used in self-service kiosks like ATMs.

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25
True or False: Command Line Interfaces are still commonly used by novice users.
False ## Footnote They are primarily used by experienced users for tasks like network management.
26
Fill in the blank: A _______ interface is designed to be user-friendly for the target audience.
Graphical User
27
What is one key feature a user interface should have for ease of data entry?
At least one appropriate method to ease data entry ## Footnote Examples include drop-down menus or radio buttons.
28
What is a practical activity related to user interfaces mentioned in the lesson?
Design a new interface for parents to access their child's progress ## Footnote The design should be user-friendly to encourage usage.
29
How does a Command Line Interface benefit older equipment?
It requires much less memory and processing power ## Footnote This makes it suitable for weaker computer systems.
30
What can be a barrier when using Command Line Interfaces?
The language of the commands ## Footnote If commands are in a language not known by the user, it can cause difficulties.
31
What should be included in the design of a user interface to gain maximum marks in an exam?
* All fields included with labels * Appropriate methods to ease data entry * Accessibility features * Onscreen instructions * Navigation buttons
32
What is a key takeaway from the lesson regarding user interfaces?
User interfaces are the way users interact with computer systems ## Footnote Different types of interfaces have their own advantages and disadvantages.
33
What determines whether the software upgrade will be 'off the shelf' or bespoke?
The current software ## Footnote If the software is bespoke, it allows for features tailored to specific needs.
34
What must be ensured for software compatibility?
Compatibility with: * Current operating system * Current hardware * Previous versions of application software ## Footnote This is crucial to avoid issues with existing setups.
35
What is the importance of minimizing downtime during software implementation?
To reduce disruptions during the changeover ## Footnote Especially important for designers who need to demonstrate designs to clients.
36
When is the best timing for a software upgrade?
When the software is least likely to be in use, e.g., overnight ## Footnote This helps minimize impact on productivity.
37
Who should carry out the software upgrade?
In-house IT or an outside agency ## Footnote Using an outside agency may raise security concerns.
38
What type of support is needed post-implementation?
Onsite help and call desk facilities ## Footnote Important for designers traveling who may encounter software issues.
39
What is a key advantage of JPEG file types?
Reduced file size and faster rendering ## Footnote JPEG uses lossy compression, which helps in these aspects.
40
What is a disadvantage of using JPEG file types?
Lower image quality compared to bitmap ## Footnote JPEG images may appear pixelated or distorted.
41
What should be considered when choosing file types for podcasts?
Common/popular file type and small file size ## Footnote This maximizes audience reach and reduces software installation needs.
42
What are the characteristics of AVI file formats?
Versatile, compatible with multiple platforms, less compression ## Footnote Results in larger file sizes, which may delay content streaming.
43
What is a key feature of MP4 file formats?
Supported by most digital platforms and retains high video quality ## Footnote MP4 files can store video, audio, images, and text.
44
What does AVCHD stand for?
Advanced Video Coding High Definition ## Footnote Used for HD video playback and digital recording.
45
What is the main advantage of using WebM video format?
Open source and enables online video streaming on most devices ## Footnote Requires minimal power for compression and decompression.
46
What is a video codec?
Software or hardware that compresses and decompresses digital video ## Footnote Essential for viewing video files effectively.
47
What is the difference between lossy and lossless codecs?
Lossy codecs save larger amounts of space compared to lossless ## Footnote Affects the quality of the video and file size.
48
What is the purpose of disk utilities in utility software?
To maintain the performance of a computer's disk drive ## Footnote Disk utilities include functions like disk cleanup and defragmentation.
49
What are network utilities designed to do?
Maintain good network traffic and keep networks secure ## Footnote Examples include software firewalls and network monitoring tools.
50
What is the function of a software firewall?
To ensure security by stopping/monitoring incoming and outgoing traffic ## Footnote Firewalls help protect against unauthorized access.
51
What does anti-virus software do?
Prevents computers from receiving viruses and detects/removes existing viruses ## Footnote Anti-virus software is essential for system protection.
52
What is the purpose of disk cleanup utilities?
To free up disk space and increase performance by removing unnecessary files ## Footnote This includes temporary files, cached webpages, and items in the Recycle Bin.
53
What is open source software?
Software that provides access to the source code, allowing customization ## Footnote Users can modify it to meet specific needs.
54
What is a primary advantage of open source software regarding cost?
Generally free or very cheap to purchase ## Footnote This contrasts with proprietary software, which can be expensive.
55
How does open source software support differ from proprietary software?
Community support is usually cost-free, while proprietary support can be expensive ## Footnote Open source relies on user contributions for maintenance.
56
What is a disadvantage of open source software concerning user experience?
Interfaces and functions may differ from proprietary software, causing problems ## Footnote Users may face a learning curve when switching.
57
What is a compatibility issue associated with open source software?
Difficulties sharing files if not saved using portable formats ## Footnote Proprietary formats can hinder access to documents.
58
What is a potential issue regarding support for open source software?
Support and development may be sporadic or stop/change without notice ## Footnote This can affect users who rely on ongoing updates.
59
What vulnerability is associated with open source software?
Vulnerable to malicious users who can exploit unpatched vulnerabilities ## Footnote Regular updates are crucial to maintaining security.
60
Fill in the blank: Disk defragmenters are utilities designed to _______.
optimize disk performance ## Footnote They rearrange fragmented data to improve access speed.

BTEC IT (4 decks)

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