A3 Flashcards
What is an operating system?
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.
List the features built into an operating system to improve security.
- User Authentication
- Anti-virus and firewall software
- Back-up facilities
These features help protect the system from unauthorized access and data loss.
What is the role of networking in an operating system?
Manages communication (protocols) within the network and externally
Governs and controls data transmission as well as managing and maintaining the network using utility programs.
What does memory management in an operating system involve?
- 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.
What is the purpose of multi-tasking in an operating system?
- 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.
How does an operating system manage peripheral devices?
Uses programs called device drivers
Device drivers communicate with hardware and translate requests between a device and the computer.
What are factors affecting the performance of an operating system?
- 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.
What are the characteristics of a Single User – Multi Tasking OS?
- 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.
Name some built-in accessibility features of operating systems.
- 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.
List some peripheral accessibility features for people with disabilities.
- 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.
What are the advantages of using an open source operating system?
- 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.
What are the disadvantages of using an open source operating system?
- 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.
What does GUI stand for?
Graphical User Interface
A GUI is an interface designed around graphical icons and images.
What is a key advantage of Graphical User Interfaces?
More intuitive and easier to learn/use
Users recognize icons instead of learning complicated code or commands.
What is a disadvantage of Graphical User Interfaces?
They use a lot of memory and processing power
This can lead to slower performance compared to command-line interfaces.
What does WIMP stand for in the context of user interfaces?
Windows, Icons, Menus & Pointers
This type of interface uses graphical icons and a pointer for navigation.
What is one advantage of Command Line Interfaces?
Quicker for experienced users to complete tasks
Familiar users find it much more efficient than navigating a GUI.
What is a significant disadvantage of Command Line Interfaces?
Not intuitive and requires knowledge of commands
Beginners may find it very difficult to use.
What is an Adaptive Interface?
A user interface that adapts to the needs of the user
It collects data over time to anticipate user actions and preferences.
List two advantages of Adaptive Interfaces.
- Creates less confusion for the user
- Tailor-made interface for the user’s needs
What is a disadvantage of Adaptive Interfaces?
Can be difficult to create and prone to mistakes
They may also have security issues as they store user preferences.
What is the purpose of a user interface?
Provides a method for a user to communicate/interact with the computer system
This includes navigating the hardware and software to carry out tasks.
What is a Menu Driven Interface?
An interface that presents the user with a list of options
Commonly used in self-service kiosks like ATMs.
True or False: Command Line Interfaces are still commonly used by novice users.
False
They are primarily used by experienced users for tasks like network management.
Fill in the blank: A _______ interface is designed to be user-friendly for the target audience.
Graphical User
What is one key feature a user interface should have for ease of data entry?
At least one appropriate method to ease data entry
Examples include drop-down menus or radio buttons.
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
The design should be user-friendly to encourage usage.
How does a Command Line Interface benefit older equipment?
It requires much less memory and processing power
This makes it suitable for weaker computer systems.
What can be a barrier when using Command Line Interfaces?
The language of the commands
If commands are in a language not known by the user, it can cause difficulties.
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
What is a key takeaway from the lesson regarding user interfaces?
User interfaces are the way users interact with computer systems
Different types of interfaces have their own advantages and disadvantages.
What determines whether the software upgrade will be ‘off the shelf’ or bespoke?
The current software
If the software is bespoke, it allows for features tailored to specific needs.
What must be ensured for software compatibility?
Compatibility with:
* Current operating system
* Current hardware
* Previous versions of application software
This is crucial to avoid issues with existing setups.
What is the importance of minimizing downtime during software implementation?
To reduce disruptions during the changeover
Especially important for designers who need to demonstrate designs to clients.
When is the best timing for a software upgrade?
When the software is least likely to be in use, e.g., overnight
This helps minimize impact on productivity.
Who should carry out the software upgrade?
In-house IT or an outside agency
Using an outside agency may raise security concerns.
What type of support is needed post-implementation?
Onsite help and call desk facilities
Important for designers traveling who may encounter software issues.
What is a key advantage of JPEG file types?
Reduced file size and faster rendering
JPEG uses lossy compression, which helps in these aspects.
What is a disadvantage of using JPEG file types?
Lower image quality compared to bitmap
JPEG images may appear pixelated or distorted.
What should be considered when choosing file types for podcasts?
Common/popular file type and small file size
This maximizes audience reach and reduces software installation needs.
What are the characteristics of AVI file formats?
Versatile, compatible with multiple platforms, less compression
Results in larger file sizes, which may delay content streaming.
What is a key feature of MP4 file formats?
Supported by most digital platforms and retains high video quality
MP4 files can store video, audio, images, and text.
What does AVCHD stand for?
Advanced Video Coding High Definition
Used for HD video playback and digital recording.
What is the main advantage of using WebM video format?
Open source and enables online video streaming on most devices
Requires minimal power for compression and decompression.
What is a video codec?
Software or hardware that compresses and decompresses digital video
Essential for viewing video files effectively.
What is the difference between lossy and lossless codecs?
Lossy codecs save larger amounts of space compared to lossless
Affects the quality of the video and file size.
What is the purpose of disk utilities in utility software?
To maintain the performance of a computer’s disk drive
Disk utilities include functions like disk cleanup and defragmentation.
What are network utilities designed to do?
Maintain good network traffic and keep networks secure
Examples include software firewalls and network monitoring tools.
What is the function of a software firewall?
To ensure security by stopping/monitoring incoming and outgoing traffic
Firewalls help protect against unauthorized access.
What does anti-virus software do?
Prevents computers from receiving viruses and detects/removes existing viruses
Anti-virus software is essential for system protection.
What is the purpose of disk cleanup utilities?
To free up disk space and increase performance by removing unnecessary files
This includes temporary files, cached webpages, and items in the Recycle Bin.
What is open source software?
Software that provides access to the source code, allowing customization
Users can modify it to meet specific needs.
What is a primary advantage of open source software regarding cost?
Generally free or very cheap to purchase
This contrasts with proprietary software, which can be expensive.
How does open source software support differ from proprietary software?
Community support is usually cost-free, while proprietary support can be expensive
Open source relies on user contributions for maintenance.
What is a disadvantage of open source software concerning user experience?
Interfaces and functions may differ from proprietary software, causing problems
Users may face a learning curve when switching.
What is a compatibility issue associated with open source software?
Difficulties sharing files if not saved using portable formats
Proprietary formats can hinder access to documents.
What is a potential issue regarding support for open source software?
Support and development may be sporadic or stop/change without notice
This can affect users who rely on ongoing updates.
What vulnerability is associated with open source software?
Vulnerable to malicious users who can exploit unpatched vulnerabilities
Regular updates are crucial to maintaining security.
Fill in the blank: Disk defragmenters are utilities designed to _______.
optimize disk performance
They rearrange fragmented data to improve access speed.
