Software Notes

4 Software

Key Objectives

• Revise the following:

  • Types of software and interrupts

    • System software and application software

    • Role and function of operating systems

    • Need for hardware, firmware, and operating systems when running applications

    • Role and operation of interrupts

  • Types of programming language, translators, and integrated development environments (IDEs)

    • Advantages and disadvantages of high-level languages and low-level languages

    • Assembly languages

    • Advantages and disadvantages of compilers and interpreters

    • Role and function of IDEs when writing programming code

4.1 Types of Software and Interrupts

4.11 System Software and Application Software

• Components of Computer Systems: Composed of hardware, system software, and application software.

  • Categories:

    • Hardware

    • System software

    • Application software

      • Operating System

      • Utility Programs

      • Device Drivers

      • Spreadsheet Software

      • Word Processor Software

      • Database Software

      • Editing Software

      • Internet Browser

General Features of System Software

• Controls and manages operation of computer hardware.

• Provides a platform for software execution.

• Human-Computer Interface (HCI).

• Allocates and manages resources.

General Features of Application Software

• Performs specific tasks for users.

• Allows for various user operations (e.g., creating documents, statistical analysis).

• Can be single programs or suites.

Types of Application Software

• Word Processor: Manipulate text documents (e.g., formatting, spell checking).

• Spreadsheet: Organize and manipulate numerical data (e.g., formulas, graphs).

• Database: Organizes and manipulates data in tables (e.g., queries, reports).

• Control and Measuring Software: Interfaces with sensors for control tasks (e.g., chemical processes).

• Apps: Software for mobile devices (e.g., gaming, banking).

• Photo Editing Software: Manipulates digital images for enhancements (e.g., brightness, contrast).

• Video Editing Software: Edits videos (e.g., rearranging clips, adding effects).

• Graphics Manipulation Software: Edits bitmap and vector graphics.

4.2 Types of Programming Language, Translators and Integrated Development Environments

High-Level Languages and Low-Level Languages

• High-Level Languages: Easier for programmers to develop applications; examples include Java, Python, Visual Basic.

  • Advantages: Easier to read, write, and maintain; faster development.

  • Disadvantages: Larger programs, slower execution.

• Low-Level Languages: Allow fine-tuning for hardware efficiency; include assembly and machine code.

  • Advantages: More efficient execution, direct hardware control.

  • Disadvantages: More complex, longer development time.

Translators

• Types:

  • Compilers: Translates high-level language to machine code in one go; produces executable files.

  • Interpreters: Translates and executes line by line; no executable file.

  • Assemblers: Translates assembly language to machine code.

IDEs (Integrated Development Environments)

• Purpose: Suite of tools for program writing and development.

• Features:

  • Code editor

  • Translators (compilers/interpreters)

  • Debuggers

  • Error diagnostics

  • Auto-completion

  • Documentation tools

4.1.3 Running of Applications

• Booting Process: Part of OS loaded into RAM; BIOS informs CPU of OS location.

• Apps controlled by OS requiring system software access.

4.1 Interrupts

• Definition: A signal to the microprocessor prompting a temporary pause to service the request.

  • Causes of Interrupts: Timing signals, hardware faults, user interaction, software errors.

• Service Orders: Each interrupt has a priority level determining service order.

• Buffers: Allow simultaneous tasks (e.g., while printing, CPU performs other functions).

  • Examples of Interrupts: Hardware errors (printer jam), user inputs (keyboard), software errors (division by zero).

Exam Style Questions

• Sample Questions: Cover aspects of Human-Computer Interfaces (HCIs), screen savers, specific OS functions, general operations, management of user accounts, security measures, and device drivers.

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