Running Head: SOFTWARE ACQUISITION

Software Acquisition

Kaplan University

January 16, 2017

Introduction

What is system software? System software is a means of making the hardware in the computer work together. This can include the Operating System and the system software that you use to perform tasks such as Control Panel on Windows. They are necessary software to make a computer function the way it is intended to. The operating system, on the other hand, is what makes the hardware communicate to be used by the software. You will generally come across operating software such as Windows or Mac OS X, it is often important to know which is the current version. The operating system gives you a desktop, icons and network access to be able to use your computer to the maximum effect.

How does the OS manage the processor?

The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, has the ability to manage several tasks at once. The operating system, and its CPU, have to take every component a piece of software has and make sure it runs properly and the way it is supposed to. It does his by accessing the RAM (Random Access Memory), the Hard Drive, and all of the software components loaded when it is downloaded or ran. The higher the processor, the better ability it will have to maintain and process multiple applications at once.

What activities are coordinated by the OS?

The operating system coordinates the memory, the processor, the software and the hardware. It facilitates all of these components, while also allowing network connectivity as well. It makes sure all of these can work together to achieve each of their goals, and enable all of the functionality of the PC or Mac. The hardware effects how the software functions, and the operating system effects how they function together.

How does the OS manage the computer’s memory?

The most important part of a computer’s memory are the Hard Drive and RAM. Each one is measured in bytes for the amount of space they can hold or process. A Hard Drive is a collection of data stored on your device, while a RAM is what bandwidth of space can process the data at one time. It is important when purchasing a device to check all factors in your budget for an efficient RAM and Hard Drive allowance to achieve what is needed.

What is virtual memory and how does it work?

Virtual Memory allows for temporary files of data to go to the RAM disk storage to counteract insufficient RAM. When the RAM is running low some background processes need to be moved back to the Hard Drive so that it can allow for new and current processes to be carried out, so it moves around files as needed to keep the RAM running. This is useful so that the ongoing processes of the device do not freeze.

How does the OS manage peripheral devices?

In order to use external or even internal devices with the operating system a device manager will be equipped with the operating system. This enables the user to be able to see and use all of the external devices needed and/or wanted – such as the monitor. Not only do the hardware parts to connect it to the others need to exist, but the operating software has to be allowed to accept the device, and that is done with a Device Driver. The device driver sends the commands from the port to the operating system itself to allow them to communicate.

PNP stands for Plug ‘n Play. This is a feature in which when the hardware registers a new device, the software will immediately carry out the task of whatever device it may be without user response. Example: If you plug in, or insert, a disc with a game on it. It has the option to immediately run the game on your screen without you having to choose the application on the disc. This is done by the operating systems communication with the hardware.

How does the OS coordinate software?

All system software has to communicate and interact with the software in all ways. Applications can sometime require a certain kind of operating system, while others are wide across numerous devices. They also require certain kinds of hardware, which effect how the software will run. The operating system can only work as well as it’s hardware allows it to, which is important to know that it can handle the types of needed software. The operating system must be able to physical process every component of an application. The CPU (Central Processing Unit) must be able to communicate with the files needed to run the program, so they must be in a type that is recognized by the main software.

What is the BIOS?

The BIOS is a basic input and output system. It assists the operating system in booting properly on startup, so that all internal and external devices are connecting. It makes sure that everything is communicating in a timely manner and efficiently. It takes a strain off of the other software enabled to have to do as much of the work, because it acts as a filter for the important tasks each bit of software should run on startup.

POST (power-on self-test) is the initial process the BIOS takes upon startup. It is used as a diagnostic to ensure that all devices are being connected to the operating system correctly. The POST runs a troubleshoot quickly and in the background unless an error occurs with any connectivity. This will be apparent when the device refuses to start up, and can sometimes emit a sound.

A kernel is a part of the entire system that is always running. Its process begins on startup and ends on shut down. The kernel is not something that communicates with the user, but it communicates with every other part of the system. It ensures all abilities of the computer are being taken out correctly.

When the BIOS begins running and the POST achieves the diagnostic the results will be indicated by beep codes. Each type or variation of beep has a definition for the problem the BIOS met. Different models of computers have different beep codes, but they will always be included in the manual of purchased devices.

What are three operating systems?

macOS is the type of operating system equipped on Apple brand computers. It is my personal use operating system, and I love it and most of its features. I can handle most programs that many suggest are hard to be compatible with, I never run into. I do believe that in a business environment it would needed to be a subject thoroughly looked over for what is better in a particular setting. I personally recommend Microsoft Windows in a busy office, especially where administrative tasks are taken out. Both have been known to perform well, but with the Windows connectivity it can be very beneficial. Another new coming computer software is Google Chrome OS, which is loosely based after Linux software, and it operates like a web browser. It only allows web applications, so it is not intended for many hard drive programs.

References

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Tech. Retrieved from URL http://computer.howstuffworks.com/operating-system5.htm

Rouse, M. (2014). Virtual memory. Tech target. Retrieved from URL http://searchstorage.techtarget.com/definition/virtual-memory

Retrieved from URL http://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia/term/48510/operatingsystem

Rouse, M. (2014.) BIOS (basic input/output system). Tech Target. Retrieved from URL http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/BIOS-basic-input-output-system

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(2004). Kernel definition. The Linux Information Project. Retrieved from URL http://www.linfo.org/kernel.html

Evans, A. & Martin, K. & Poatsy, M. (2014). Application software: programs that let you

work and play. Technology in Action, Introductory, 11^th Edition. 159-221. Kaplan.

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