Operating System and Graphical User Interface Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering Operating System concepts, basic functions, classification types, and Graphical User Interface elements from Year 13 Computer Studies.

Software

A sequence of codes and instructions that a computer follows to perform tasks, also called programs.

Operating System Software

Main control software of the computer system, with examples including Windows, DOS, and Mac O/S.

Application Software

Software designed to perform specific tasks for the user, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access.

Language Software

Software used to create other types of software, with examples including C++, Visual Basic, and Java.

Operating System (O/S)

Control software used for any type of device or computer system, categorized as chip-based or disk-based.

Disk-Based O/S

Large, complex operating system software used by computers that can multi-task, or do many things at once.

Chip-Based O/S

Small, simple operating system software used by electronic devices like mobile phones, digital watches, or game systems, which is usually single-tasking.

Processor Management

An OS function that helps the CPU by breaking up tasks into small tasks before sending them to the CPU and managing multi-tasking.

Memory Management

An OS function that controls the flow of data in and out of RAM and gives each program enough space on memory.

Buffer

An area of RAM where data read from an input device or data waiting to be sent to an output device is stored.

Device Management

An OS function that manages hardware components and works with device drivers to ensure peripherals communicate with each other.

Device Driver

A program that controls a peripheral or device attached to the computer.

Storage Management

An OS function that directs where data will be stored, whether in primary memory, secondary memory, or cache.

Cache

A memory chip attached to the CPU that is smaller but faster than RAM.

Application Interface

An OS function that provides a way for applications to communicate and use hardware resources, ensuring running programs do not interfere with one another.

User Interface

An OS function that creates a Graphical User Interface (GUI), allowing users to easily interact with the computer.

Task

Every program run on an operating system.

Singletasking O/S

An operating system designed to manage a device so that the user can do one thing at a time, such as on a cell phone or calculator.

Multitasking O/S

An operating system that lets a user have several programs running at the same time, such as Microsoft Windows or Apple Mac O/S.

Network O/S

Operating system configuration where machines are connected together in a network (like a LAN) to share resources such as HDD storage space or printers.

Standalone O/S

Operating system configuration typical for home computers that are not connected to any other machine.

DOS (Disk Operating System)

A non-GUI, single-tasking operating system created before Windows that operates via a command-line interface.

Command-Line Interface

An interface where users type instructions using a keyboard instead of using a mouse.

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

An interface that allows users to interact with an electronic device or computer through graphics and pictures.

Window

A viewing area on the screen with a surrounding frame or border that opens when a folder, file, or program is launched.

Icon

Small pictures that represent a thing or an action on a computer, such as files, folders, programs, or toolbar buttons.

Menu

A list of commands or actions the computer can do in a program or window when an option on the menu bar is clicked.

Drop-Down Menu

A menu that appears when clicking on an option on the Menu bar and drops down to show commands.

Contextual Menu

A menu that appears when right-clicking, displaying options that change depending on what was right-clicked on.

Pointing Device

An input device that lets you control the pointer or movement in the computer, including mice, touchpads, touch screens, joysticks, and game controllers.

Desktop

The main workspace environment in a Windows operating system that opens as soon as you log on.

Taskbar

A desktop component designed to show all programs and files currently open, including minimized windows.

Start Menu/Button

A component located on the left side of the taskbar that provides access to programs, system tools, folders, and the Search feature.

Workspace

The desktop area where opened files or programs appear and where files and folders can be added for easy access.

Windows XP Folder Window Components

Standard components of a Windows XP folder window including Standard Buttons, Menu Bar, Address Bar, and Explorer Bar.