Hardware and Software Flashcards
What is a software?
Software refers to the programs or coded instructions that make the computer run.
What is a Hardware?
Hardware refers to the physical parts that make up a computer system
What is a system software?
Systems software is needed to carry out the tasks to operate the hardware.
What is an Application Software?
- Applications software is needed to help carry out user-related tasks, such as: Word processing (GP), Payroll (SA) or Air Traffic Control (BA).
What are the main features of an operating system?
- resource management
- creation of user interfaces.
- Other competing processes that need to be managed are processor allocation, peripheral hardware devices, memory management and multi-tasking
What is an operating system?
The operating system (OS) is the software that controls the hardware and hides the complexity of the hardware by creating a platform to run application software
OPERATING SYSTEM - Why is it important to hide the complexity of a hardware?
Hiding the complexity of the hardware with a Windows-based operating system helps to create a virtual machine that has a user-friendly interface and operates in the same manner irrespective of the manufacturer of the computer system
What are library programs?
- Library programs are pre-written software that is stored in compiled format and can be included by the programmer within one or more programs.
Why are library programs used?
Library functions are widely used to assist the programmer in interacting with peripherals such as printers.
What is an example of a library function?
A typical example of a library function from the mathematics library <cmath> in C++ is sqrt (which is used to calculate a square root.</cmath>
What are utility programs?
Utility programs are a range of systems software that is designed to help the user to manage, maintain and optimise the system
What are the main functions of utility programs?
Main functions include: disk formatting, file compression, data synchronisation, firewall, memory testing and anti-virus protection
What are programming language translators used for?
Programming language translators are used to translate a program in one programming language into a different programming language and to maintain the functionality of the original code
What are examples of programming language translators?
- Assembler – used for assembly language programs
2.Compiler – used for program languages such as: C++, Visual Basic and Pascal
3.Interpreter – used for program languages such as: some versions of Basic and Python
