System Software Flashcards
Identify three tasks performed by a single user operating system
Memory management, allocation of resources, handling user input, handling output
What is the purpose of data compression software?
Reduces the physical size of data in order to save storage space, reduces transmission time
What is the purpose of disk fragmentation software?
Decreases access times and uses storage more efficiently, merges fragmented files into one contiguous block or space
Summarise how an OS manages computer resources
«It communicates with and sends data output to a printer
«It communicates and receives data input from mouse
«It offers data compression which can be used to save disc space
«manages RAM by ensuring all programs have enough memory allocated
Describe the features of GUI that are provided by the operating system
Manages peripherals such as input and output devices
Receives data from input and output devices such as a mouse
Manages printing using spooling
Manages backing store- ensures data is stored and can be retrieved correctly from any disc drive
Carries out file compression- files made smaller to save space
What is a suitable mode of operating system for selling individual seat tickets for a play at a theatre, and why?
Real time processing- transactions have to be dealt with as they occur to ensure no double bookings
What is a suitable mode of operating system for running the monthly payroll application, and why?
Batch processing- because data and program can be put together and run with no need for user interaction, therefor can be carried out overnight when computer not required
Explain how a multi user operating system uses Time Slices
A time slice is a finite amount of processor time, each task has a set time slice and the processor will switch between tasks, making it feel like the user is the sole user of the processor, even though it is being shared.
Explain what is meant by fragmentation, one possible effect of it, and explain defragmentation
Fragmentation is when data is split and stored on different parts of disc, meaning it takes longer for disc head to move between parts of file which slows down process of loading data. Defragmentation is when the files are physically rearranged on disk so they ae no longer fragmented, which speeds up accessing data from disk
Explain the main features of Multi-user
Number of users can use system simultaneously
Each user allocated a time slice so they appear to be sole user of system
Resources (peripheral etc.) are shared among users
Used where several users need to access applications at same time
Describe the main features of multi tasking
For an interactive user where a number of different tasks can be run simultaneously
The user can switch from one task to another without having to close one and open the other.
Tasks run in background
Used in windows environment so user can switch between different windows
Describe the main features of Real-time
Can react fast enough to influence behaviour in outside world. Essential for many control applications where immediate feedback is necessary- airport
What is meant by the term operating system?
It is a program which controls the hardware of the computer directly
Identify main resources managed by single user multi tasking OS
Internal memory, External memory, CPU, IO devices
Identify main functions of multi user OS
Resource allocating and scheduling- time slicing, internal memory management, external memory management, IO Control, Security
