Interrupts & Processing
This is a signal sent to the processor when attention is needed.
What is an interrupt?
This type of software manages hardware and runs the computer.
What is system software?
This OS function ensures programs have enough RAM to run.
What is managing memory?
This interface uses windows, icons, menus, and pointers.
What is a GUI (Graphical User Interface)?
This OS function allows users to copy, delete, and rename files.
What is managing files?
Interrupts can be divided into these two main types.
What are hardware and software interrupts?
This type of software allows users to perform tasks like writing documents.
What is application software?
This allows a computer to appear to run multiple tasks at once.
What is multitasking?
This interface requires users to type exact commands.
What is a command line interface (CLI)?
Input and output devices connected to a computer are called this.
What are peripherals?
This type of interrupt includes events like division by zero or program requests for input.
What is a software interrupt?
This system software searches for and removes unused programs and data.
What is a utility program?
These signals tell the processor that something needs attention.
What are interrupts?
This interface allows users to speak or type naturally.
What is a natural language interface?
This software translates data between a computer and a peripheral.
What is a driver?
This component manages interrupts and decides which one to process based on priority.
What is the interrupt handler (IH)?
Give one example of application software.
What is a word processor / database / web browser / spreadsheet?
This OS role allows applications to run by executing their instructions.
What is providing a platform for running applications?
Which interface is best for beginners and why?
What is GUI because it is intuitive and easy to use?
Put these in order: OS, bootstrap, application, firmware.
What is bootstrap → firmware → operating system → application software?
This is the sequence of instructions that handles an interrupt after it is detected.
What is an interrupt service routine (ISR)?
Why can application software not run without system software?
What is because it needs the operating system to run and control hardware?
This OS function keeps user data separate and secure with passwords.
What is managing user accounts?
Which interface is best for expert users and why?
What is CLI because it allows precise control with commands?
Why are drivers needed for peripherals?
What is because different devices use different data formats, so drivers translate data between the computer and the device?