Chapter 1: Fundamentals Of Computer Systems Flashcards
What aspects of computer systems allow them to be used everywhere?
They are versatile, cheap and small.
Generally define a system.
A collection of parts working together for a common purpose.
Fill in the blanks:
Processes and System Boundary
Where can we find computer systems?
Most electronic gadgets.
What is a dedicated system?
A system that has been designed for a specific purpose.
Give an example of a general purpose system.
A PC.
Where are dedicated systems used?
Everywhere, a car’s cruise control system for example.
What is an embedded system?
A computer system that forms part of a computer system.
Define Kernel.
The lowest level of the operating system which controls the hardware.
Give 3 areas where we use computer systems.
Safety, Travel, Business, Retail, Entertainment, Communications, Education, Politics and Science.
Give 3 examples of where we use computer systems in education.
Taking attendance, unlimited source of information from the web, exam marking.
Why do we need computer systems to be reliable?
We have become so dependant upon computer systems that we need them to function properly in order to live. If computer systems are unreliable, there would be many catastrophes, both small-scale (a toaster burning your toast) and large-scale (plane crashes).
Why do we test computer systems?
We test the system to try to uncover errors within the code so we can then fix it.
Name the two types of testing.
Alpha and beta.
What is maintenance?
Continued modification of a system after it’s release to improve and fix it.
What are the four standards?
Proprietary, Open, De Facto, Industry.
Who owns proprietary standards?
Individual companies.
Outline the advantages of proprietary standards.
- The system will allow a sense of familiarity to users.
- The system will work in a predictable way
- The system will be maintained by one company, so minor updates will generally be free of charge.
- The system will be maintained to a high standard, in order to reflect well upon the company.
Give an example of where an industry standard is used.
USB, the standard way to connect devices to a computer.
Give an example of where De Facto standards are used.
HTML, a text based system used for defining web pages.
True or False? Open standards are openly available and the software can be modified by the user.
True.
True or False? Software developed under open standards are generally low quality.
False, the software is modified by different people, it is a good form of beta testing and the modifications usually improve the software.
What is old computer equipment called?
e-waste.
What are the two acts passed and when were they passed?
Data Protection Act (1998)
Computer Misuse Act (1990)
