Unit 1: Computer Operations and Fundamentals

Vocabulary flashcards covering key definitions, functions, examples, and types of operating systems from Unit 1.

Operating System (OS)

System software that controls the hardware, allows communication between the user and the computer system, and consists of essential files needed for the computer to function.

Microsoft Windows

The most common and used operating system in personal computers.

MAC OS X

Operating system used in computers manufactured by Apple Inc.

Linux

Free operating system which can be installed on personal computers.

Android

Operating system used with Android compatible smart phones and PC tablets.

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

An interface on modern computers that allows the user to interact with the computer system through icons and menus.

Memory Management

Operating system function that deals with loading and running application programs, allocates memory space to programs and data, and keeps track of which parts of memory are in use and free.

Processor Management

Operating system function that allocates processor time (CPU time) to the different tasks being performed simultaneously by the computer.

Time Slice

A portion of processor time given to each job that needs to be processed.

File Management

Operating system function that manages the transfer of data and files, helping users save work, organise files, find saved files, and load files.

Hardware Management (Peripheral Management)

Operating system function that controls all attached devices, accepts and transfers data from input devices to memory, sends output to correct output devices, and manages data transfer with backing storage devices.

System Security Management

Operating system function that monitors and restricts access to programs and data, preventing unauthorised access by checking usernames and passwords.

Error Handling

Operating system function that deals with errors occurring when a program is running or when data is being transferred, informing the user if necessary.

Single-User System

An operating system that supports only one user at a time.

Multi-User System

An operating system that allows multiple users to access a computer's resources at the same time using a server and terminals.

Server

A computer that provides data to other computers.

Terminal

A personal computer connected to a network.

Multi-Processing System

An operating system capable of supporting and utilising more than one computer processor.

Multi-Tasking System

An operating system capable of allowing several programs to run at the same time.