Understanding Operating Systems, Software, and Computer Hardware

Operating System Scheduling

1. The OS enables running multiple programs simultaneously. Several programs can reside in RAM concurrently, yet the CPU processes only one at a time. Only one process can be active at any given moment. CPUs are incredibly fast; even brief processing periods yield significant results. The OS determines the optimal method for switching between running, runnable, and waiting processes. It manages which process the CPU executes and distributes CPU access among processes. The task of determining when to switch processes is termed scheduling.

Disk Defragmentation

2. A disk defragmenter reorganizes files on a disk, ensuring they are stored contiguously. It arranges files on the disk into adjacent locations. This enhances efficiency by consolidating free space and accelerating read and write speeds.

Archive Software

Archive software facilitates the collection of data moved to a repository, allowing it to be deleted from the system and stored offline. However, it can be accessed again, potentially for historical, legal, or auditory purposes.

Generic Software

3. Generic software is general-purpose software capable of performing common tasks or processes. For example, accounting software used by multiple companies.

Command-Line Interface vs. WIMP

5. A command-line interface permits user interaction with the computer through typed commands. The computer presents a prompt, the user enters the command, and presses enter or return. This can be more efficient for experienced users who are familiar with commands and proficient in typing, potentially surpassing the speed of a standard WIMP interface. A WIMP interface, comprising windows, icons, menus, and pointers, may require more time to operate, even for experienced users.

File Compression Benefits

6. Compression reduces the number of bits required to store information. Smaller file sizes result in quicker transmission times over the Internet. Compressed files also consume less storage space. File compression can consolidate multiple small files into a single file for more convenient email transmission.

Program Counter Function

7. The program counter indicates the next instruction in the fetch-execute cycle. After an instruction is processed and sent to the MAR, the program counter immediately points to the subsequent one. It is a register within the computer processor that holds the address of the instruction currently being processed.

Internal Memory vs. Secondary Storage

8. Internal memory typically refers to RAM but can also include ROM and Flash memory. It resides within the CPU and is non-volatile (except for RAM). In contrast, secondary storage encompasses storage devices and data not always accessible to the computer system. It is external to the CPU and is non-volatile.