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GCSE Computing > Chapter 3 - Software > Flashcards

Chapter 3 - Software Flashcards

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1
Q

Software

A

The programs we run on our computers, usually produced by a programming language

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2
Q

Programs

A

Stored sets of instructions that are given to the processor to carry out

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3
Q

System software

A

Controls the hardware, acts as an intermediary between application and hardware. It hides the complexity of hardware (programmers don’t need to worry about precise data movement) and allows user to operate the computer without writing code

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4
Q

Application software

A

Handles the real world jobs

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5
Q

Utility software

A

Used to maintain computer systems

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6
Q

Operating system

A

A set of programs that controls hardware and lets a user interact with the computer. Also responsible for keeping track of all files in a system

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7
Q

Kernel

A

Heart of the operating system, actually makes the hardware do things

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8
Q

Interface

A

Boundary between human and machine, providing a place for inputs and outputs

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9
Q

Shell (scripts)

A

Software that a user needs to communicate with the kernel

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10
Q

GUI

A

Graphical User Interface, uses images to represent resources, files, programs and actions

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11
Q

Defragmentation

A

A process used to tidy up memory in order to reduce the time taken to reach files

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12
Q

Multi-tasking

A

When several programs are loaded into memory at the same time (multi-programming) and it appears to the user that they are all running at the same time

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13
Q

Process

A

A program that is being executed

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14
Q

Scheduler

A

Allocates time for processes according to a policy e.g. shortest first, all jobs equal time

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15
Q

Hierarchical file systems

A

Stores files in directories that may include subdirectories

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16
Q

File extensions

A

Indicates what type of file something is e.g. doc

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17
Q

Attributes

A

Provide extra information about a file and stored with a file e.g. date and size

18
Q

Viruses

A

Programs that replicate themselves and attach themselves to legitimate files to cause harm

19
Q

Privileges

A

Rights assigned to users and groups

20
Q

Encryption

A

Transforming files so that an unauthorised person cannot understand them

21
Q

Linkers

A

Combine modules of object code (machine-level code) into a single executable program

22
Q

Interpreters

A

Convert typed commands into machine instructions that a processor understands. One instruction at the time that runs before next translation

23
Q

Custom written software

A

Software specially commissioned for a particular customer

24
Q

Off the shelf software

A

Software that can be bought from a supplier

25
Q

Open source software

A

Software that has been placed in the public domain by programmers (produced collaboratively) so the source code is publicly available

26
Q

Proprietary software

A

Software developed for profit by a company - source code not available and licence does not allow editing

27
Q

What are the advantages of using a GUI? (3)

A

1) No special training required
2) Keyboard use is limited
3) No commands to be learnt

28
Q

What is a device driver?

A

Software in a deivce that creates an interface, allows the OS to communicate with the device, allows devices to operate independently

29
Q

What should a multi-programming OS do? (3)

A

1) Make sure the CPU is used as much as possible
2) Try and speed up all tasks
3) Share resources fairly between tasks

30
Q

What jobs does an OS do? (8)

A

1) Controls hardware (hides complexities)
2) Provides interface
3) Memory management
4) File tracking
5) Authentication of users
6) Utilities
7) Allows user to operate without coding
8) Sets attributes to files for users e.g. read only

31
Q

What harm can viruses cause? (3)

A

1) File damage
2) Take control of a computer
3) Retrieve confidential info

32
Q

What are examples of utilities software?

A

Antivirus, firewall, disk organisation, system maintenance - clear away redundant files, system information - checks for problems on secondary storage, automatic updates

33
Q

What are the advantages of custom written software? (5)

A

1) Exact features required
2) Maintenance contract possible
3) Developer can be contacted
4) Should not require special adaptations
5) Compatible with hardware

34
Q

What are the disadvantages of custom written software? (3)

A

1) Not tested as much
2) Expensive
3) Long time to develop

35
Q

What are the advantages of off the shelf software? (4)

A

1) Ready immediately
2) Extensive testing
3) Forums of customers that can help
4) Cheaper

36
Q

What are the disadvantages of off the shelf software? (3)

A

1) Might not be exactly what needed
2) May need extensive customisation
3) Hard to look for trainers

37
Q

What are the advantages of open source software? (3)

A

1) Free
2) Can be altered
3) Reliable - many people contribute

38
Q

What are the disadvantages of open source software? (3)

A

1) No one to contact
2) Tech knowledge needed to adapt
3) Easy to get viruses

39
Q

What are the advantages of propriety software? (3)

A

1) Someone to contact with problems
2) Tested
3) Regular updates

40
Q

What are the disadvantages of propriety software? (3)

A

1) Expensive
2) Deliberate incompatibilities
3) Infelxible

41
Q

Why is command line used? (3)

A

1) Can group commands
2) More control
3) Quicker

GCSE Computing (7 decks)

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