Computer systems and system software

Computer systems and system software

Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. In this lesson, we will discover two types of computer systems: general purpose and embedded. Following this, we will explore the need for system software to facilitate communication between software and hardware in computer systems. We will explain the role of an operating system in controlling a computer while it is running.

Licence

This content is made available by Oak National Academy Limited and its partners and licensed under Oak’s terms & conditions (Collection 1), except where otherwise stated.

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5 Questions

Q1.
Which of the following is only true of general purpose computers?
Correct answer: They are able to accomplish a variety of tasks.
They have a screen.
They process data into useful information.
They use hardware and software.
Q2.
What do embedded systems have in common?
They all control motors.
They are small.
Correct answer: They are specialised to a specific use.
They need to be plugged in to turn on.
Q3.
Which of these are examples of embedded systems? (Tick 3 boxes)
Correct answer: Bluetooth speaker
Correct answer: Coffee maker
Games console
Laptop
Mobile phone
Correct answer: Thermostat
Q4.
What is the main role of an operating system?
Correct answer: Facilitating communication between hardware and software.
Playing video from the internet.
Providing power to the computer.
Used to type text into a document.
Q5.
Which of these is not an operating system?
Android.
Linux.
Correct answer: Microsoft Word.
Windows.

Lesson appears in

UnitComputing / Computer Systems

Computing