Software
What are the two categories of software
Application and systems software
Identify three examples of an OS
MAC OS
Windows 10
Android
Linux
Identify the three different types of programming languages
High level
Assembly
Machine code
Identify the three types of translators
Interpreter
Compiler
Assembler
What does the acronym IDE stand for?
Integrated development environment
Describe application and systems software with an example for each
Application software allows the user to perform a task and provides services for the user. I.e. word processing
System software manages the running of the hardware, helping the computer to perform its functions for example the operating system
Describe the process involved when a printer experiences a printer Jam
If a paper jam happens
The printer generates a hardware interrupt (a signal sent to the CPU) to alert the system that something is wrong.
The CPU pauses its current tasks and checks the Interrupt Service Routine (ISR
The operating system notifies the user with an error message
What are the advantages of programming in a high level language (3).
Uses English-like syntax so easier to read, write and program in
Easier to debug
Portable code
Faster development time
Which translator is the best to use during development and why?
Interpreter, as it allows you to find and fix the errors easier as each line is translated one at a time
Identify three features of an IDE
Auto correction
Pretty print
run time environment
Debugging features
Describe why a computer needs both application and system software
System software is responsible for managing the computer’s hardware and providing a platform for application software to run.
Application software allows users to perform specific tasks
A computer needs both application software and system software because they serve different but complementary functions in making the system usable and efficient
Identify 5 functions of an operating system
Managing memory
Managing interrupts
Providing a user interface
Managing peripherals
Managing user accounts
Providing a platform for applications to run
What are the advantages of programming a low level language
Can directly manipulate the hardware
Machine code does not need translation
Which translator should be used when development is finished and the programmer wants to sell the application? Explain why
Compiler- produces an executable file, so the user does not need to see the code
Identify three debugging features that an IDE provides
Variable watch window
Stepping