Chapter 4

What is the difference between system software and application software?

• System software: services for the computer (e.g., operating system, utility software).

• Application software: services for the user.

What are the basic functions of an operating system?

• Managing files

• Handling interrupts

• Providing an interface

• Managing peripherals and drivers

• Managing memory

• Managing multitasking

• Providing platform for applications

• Providing system security

• Managing user accounts

What is an interrupt in computing?

• Interrupt: Signal to microprocessor

• Function: Halts current operations for servicing.

What are some examples of software interrupts?

• Division by zero

• Concurrent memory access by two processes.

What is the role of an assembler?

• Assembler: Translates assembly language to machine code.

What is the difference between a compiler and an interpreter?

• Compiler: Translates entire code into an executable file.

• Interpreter: Translates and executes code line-by-line.

What features are commonly found in an Integrated Development Environment (IDE)?

• Code editors

• Translators

• Error diagnostics

• Auto-completion

• Runtime environment

• Debugging tools.

What does utility software do?

• Utility software: Maintains computer efficiency and safety

• Functions: Manages system files and applications.

What is multitasking in an operating system?

• Multitasking: Running multiple programs simultaneously.

What is the purpose of device drivers in an operating system?

• Device drivers: Translate OS instructions to hardware commands.

What is the significance of high-level programming languages?

• High-level programming languages:

  • Easier to read and write

  • Promote machine independence

  • Simplify debugging.

What does 'pretty printing' refer to in programming?

• Pretty printing: Formatted code presentation

• Features: Automatic color-coding, indentation.

Explain the concept of firmware.

• Firmware: Low-level software in hardware

• Purpose: Enables basic functions.

How does a BIOS function in a computer system?

• BIOS: Initializes hardware during booting

• Function: Loads OS from storage.

What happens when an interrupt service routine (ISR) is executed?

• ISR execution:

  • Saves current task's state

  • Runs ISR for interrupt handling

  • Resumes interrupted task.

What is the difference between high-level and low-level programming languages?

• High-level languages:

  • More abstract, easier to use

  • Machine independent.

• Low-level languages:

  • Greater control over hardware

  • Tied closely to machine code.

Operating system

A type of software that manages the main functions of the computer, including managing files and managing memory.

Firmware

A type of software that is stored in the read only memory (ROM). It includes the basic input output system (BIOS) and the bootloader.