Operating Systems Flashcards

1
Q

What is an operating system?

A
  • Software that helps to manage the resources of a computer system and provide the interface between the user and the computer’s hardware.
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2
Q

Memory Management:

A
  • The OS transfers programs in and out of memory from the hard drive (or virtual memory) when processing is required.
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3
Q

Why must all programs be temporarily stored in RAM?

A
  • All programs must be temporarily stored in RAM for the CPU to be able to process them.
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4
Q

Why are programs removed from RAM when closed?

A
  • Programs are removed from RAM when closed to free up space for other tasks.
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5
Q

Multitasking Definition:

A
  • Appearing that more than one process is being executed at the same time.
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6
Q

What is a peripheral?

A
  • An external device connected to a computer system to input or output data.
  • Data is transferred between external devices and the processor and this process needs to be managed by the OS.
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7
Q

What is a device driver?

A
  • A program that provides an interface for the OS to interact and communicate with an external device.
  • They are hardware dependant and OS specific.
  • The driver translates the OS’ instructions into a format the specific hardware can understand.
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8
Q

Why is a buffer used?

A
  • Because the CPU and the peripheral will process data at different speeds, a buffer is typically used to temporarily store data until it can be processed.
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9
Q

User Management:

A
  • The OS allows users to create, manage, and delete individual accounts. User accounts can be granted different access rights such as administrator or guest.
  • The OS will manage security settings such a allowing passwords to be reset and can also be used to monitor login activity.
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10
Q

File Management:

A
  • The OS creates and maintains a logical management system to organise files and directories (folders).
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11
Q

What does file management allow?

A
  • File management allows files to be:
  • named
  • renamed
  • opened
  • copied
  • moved
  • saved
  • searched for
  • sorted
  • deleted.
  • users to set access rights for specific files
  • to view file properties.
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12
Q

What is a user interface?

A
  • Allowing a human to interact with the computers system.
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13
Q

Define human-computer interaction:

A
  • The way in which a user can navigate a computer system.
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14
Q

Icons:

A
  • Icons are displayed to represent shortcuts to applications and files.
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15
Q

Windows:

A
  • Multiple windows can be opened at the same time and switched between.
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16
Q

Interface:

A
  • Interface can be customised e.g changing font sizes and desktop background.
17
Q

Folder and file system:

A
  • Folder and file system is displayed and manipulated allowing for copying, searching, sorting and deleting data.
18
Q

System settings:

A
  • System settings can be accessed (network, hardware settings).
19
Q

Taskbar:

A
  • Taskbar allows shortcuts to be pinned for quick access.
20
Q

Menus:

A
  • Menus can be opened from the Start button to display files and shortcuts.
21
Q

Command-Line Interface:

A
  • Entirely text based
  • Requires users to interact with the system by typing commands.
  • Complicated, could accidentally delete data.
  • Only trained experts can efficiently make use of it.
22
Q

Touch-Sensitive Interface:

A
  • Press on a touchscreen
  • Very intuitive
  • Suitable for users without training.
  • Won’t work with dirty/wet fingers
  • Takes longer to write text than using a keyboard.
23
Q

Menu-Driven Interface:

A
  • Displays data in a series of linked menus
  • Cash machines, iPods
  • User friendly
  • Easy to use (no commands).
  • Annoying to find specific data through a large number of menus without a search feature.
24
Q

Voice-Driven Interface:

A
  • Controlled by speaking commands aloud.
  • Siri, Google Home, Alexa.
  • Intuitive
  • Hands-free
  • Speed up processes.
  • Commands may be misheard
  • Commands may be limited in what can be performed.