Types Of Software And Interrupts
Overview
A computer is useless hardware until software brings it to life, but not all software does the same job. Some of it manages the machine itself; some of it lets you write a letter or browse the web. Sorting software into system and application, and understanding the operating system that sits between them and the hardware, is the foundation for everything a computer does.
In this lesson you will tell system software from application software, learn the main jobs an operating system performs, and see why hardware, firmware and the operating system are all needed before an app can run. You will finish with interrupts, the signals that let a processor drop what it is doing to deal with something urgent.
Objectives
- 1 Describe the difference between system software and application software and provide examples of each
- 2 Describe the role and basic functions of an operating system
- 3 Understand how hardware, firmware and an operating system are required to run applications software
- 4 Describe the role and operation of interrupts
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Lesson Evaluation
Congratulations on completing the lesson on Types Of Software And Interrupts. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.
You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- Which of these is an example of system software? A. a spreadsheet B. a web browser C. an operating system D. a word processor Answer: C
- What is the main purpose of application software? A. to manage the hardware B. to let the user perform a useful task C. to load the firmware D. to control interrupts Answer: B
- Which is loaded first when a computer is switched on? A. application software B. the operating system C. the bootstrap D. a web browser Answer: C
- An interrupt is best described as: A. a permanent shutdown of the processor B. a signal to the processor that something needs its attention C. a type of application software D. a way of compressing files Answer: B
- Which of these is a software interrupt? A. a key being pressed B. a printer running out of paper C. division by zero D. a new device being connected Answer: C
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