Operating systems and interrupts

Question 1

What is an operating system?

Answer 1

The software running in the background of a computer system

Question 2

What are some functions of an operating system?

Answer 2

Batch processing/ real-time processing
Multitasking/multiprogramming 
Provides an interface
Manages user accounts
Manages interrupts 
Manages hardware 
Loads software

Question 3

What is an interrupt?

Answer 3

A signal sent from a device or software to the processor. It causes the processor to temporarily stop what it is doing and service the interrupt. They have different levels of priority. The previous process continues after the interrupt is serviced.

Question 4

State three devices that use interrupts

Answer 4

Keyboards
Mouse
Printer

Question 5

What is a buffer?

Answer 5

Used in computers as a temporary memory area. It is filled from the processor or memory unit. The processor carries on with its tasks while the buffer is emptied to the hardware device.

Question 6

Why do personal computers need an operating system?

Answer 6

Provides the user with a user interface
Allows the user to communicate with the computer using hardware.
Controlling hardware.