Introducing Software

Computer ConceptsUnit A

Introducing Software

• What is an Operating System?• OS is the master controller for all the activities

that take place within a computer system.• It is a System Software because its primary

purpose is to help the computer system monitor itself in order to function efficiently

Introducing Software

• What is a Computer Platform?• Consists of the underlying hardware and software

of the computer system• Factors:– Processor– OS

• PC Platform>>> Windows Platform• Macintosh Computers>>> Apple computer, Inc• Linux OS>>> Windows OS

Introducing Software

• What is Windows Software?• It is software designed to run on a PC

platform.• When you buy a software package, make sure

that software designed to work with your computer platform.

Introducing Software

• How do I use operating System?– Starting programs– Locating (finding) data files.

• What is GUI stands for?– Graphical User Interface• On-screen icons• Menus• Buttons• Graphical controls

Windows GUI

ThumbnailApplication Buttons

Task bar

Icon

Notification area with icons

Desktop

Gadget

Open Windows

Mac GUI

Linux GUI

Introducing Software

• My mobile phone has an Internet access. Does it use the same OS as my personal computer?– Phones and other handheld computers usually use

a mobile version of an existing OS

Introducing Software

• How does the operating system help me do my work?– The operating system runs Application software on

my computer.Application Programs are computer programs that help you use the computer to carry out tasks.

Application softwareWord Processing Software

Application softwarePersonal Finance Software

Introducing Software

• If my computer runs Windows and my friend’s computer runs Mac OS X, can we share files?– You are able to share your files with your friend, as

long as your friend has the same software installed on her computer