Types of OS and BIOS Flashcards
There are various types of operating systems which have…
different uses
Describe the mechanics of distributed operating systems
This is a type of operating system which is run across multiple devices, allowing the load to be spread across multiple computer processors when a task is run.
Describe the mechanics of embedded operating systems.
Built to perform a small range of specific tasks, this operating system is catered towards a specific device.
What are the pros of using embedded operating systems?
they consume significantly less power than other types of OS
What are the cons of using embedded operating systems?
They are limited in their functionality and hard to update
Describe the mechanics of multi-tasking operating systems.
Multi-tasking operating systems enable the user to carry out tasks seemingly simultaneously. This is done by using time slicing to switch quickly between programs and applications in memory.
Describe the mechanics of multi-user operating systems.
Multiple users make use of one computer, typically a supercomputer, within a multi-user system. Therefore a scheduling algorithm must be used to ensure processor time is shared fairly between jobs.
What are the cons of using multi-user operating systems?
Without a suitable scheduling algorithm, there is a risk of processor starvation.
Describe the mechanics of Real Time operating systems.
A real time OS is designed to perform a task within a guaranteed time frame.
What are some examples of where a real time OS may be used?
In time-critical computer systems such as the management of control rods at a nuclear power station or within self-driving cars.
Any situation where a response within a certain time period is crucial to safety.
What does BIOS stands for ?
Basic Input Output System
Define BIOS.
The Basic Input Output System is the first program that runs when a computer system is
switched on.
What happens when a computer switches on?
The PC register points to the location of the BIOS upon each start-up of the computer as the BIOS is responsible for running various key tests before the operating system is loaded into memory.
What are some of the key test that the BIOS is responsible running?
-POST (Power-on self test) which ensures that all
hardware (keyboards, disk drives) are correctly
connected and functional
- Checking the CPU clock, memory and processor is
operational - Testing for external memory devices connected to
the computer
