Page 43 - DCAP507_SYSTEM_SOFTWARE

Unit 2: Evolution of Operating System

The operating system provides for several other functions including: Notes
 System tools (programs) used to monitor computer performance, debug problems, or
maintain parts of the system.

 A set of libraries or functions which programs may use to perform specific tasks especially
relating to interfacing with computer system components.
The operating system makes these interfacing functions along with its other functions operate
smoothly and these functions are mostly transparent to the user.

2.3.2 Operating System Concerns

As mentioned previously, an operating system is a computer program. Operating systems are
written by human programmers who make mistakes. Therefore, there can be errors in the code
even though there may be some testing before the product is released. Some companies have
better software quality control and testing than others so you may notice varying levels of
quality from operating system to operating system. Errors in operating systems cause the
following main types of problems:

System Crashes and Instabilities: These can happen due to a software bug typically in the
operating system, although computer programs being run on the operating system can make
the system more unstable or may even crash the system by themselves. This varies depending
on the type of operating system. A system crash is the act of a system freezing and becoming
unresponsive which would cause the user to need to reboot.
Security Flaws: Some software errors leave a door open for the system to be broken into by
unauthorized intruders. As these flaws are discovered, unauthorized intruders may try to use
these to gain illegal access to your system. Patching these flaws often will help keep your
computer system secure.
Sometimes errors in the operating system will cause the computer not to work correctly with
some peripheral devices such as printers.

Self Assessment

Fill in the blanks:
9. In a .................................... system where multiple programs are run at the same time, the
operating system determines which applications should run in what order and how much
time should be allowed for each application before another application gets its turn.
10. A .................................... is the act of a system freezing and becoming unresponsive which
would cause the user to need to reboot.

2.4 Batch Control Language

The vision of much Batch Control standardization has been the expansion of a common Batch
language. Practically, Batch languages are superposed on collections of ancient control data
bases and illustrative demonstrations. A common Control Language could incorporate all aspects
of control. Such a language could capture the imminents of continuous, logical, and batch control
together, and still be calculated against the different standardized Batch Models or diagrams.
It is usual for batch engineers to sight their control as a more common and inclusive practice
than nonstop control. Here we will hold that view to its logical ending: It will present a single
information model and language framework to incorporate the full range of both control practices.

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