1. SOFTWARE

2. Software… Instructions that are stored electronically that tell the computer what to do

3. Software can be broken up into three categories… 1.Programming software (languages) 2.Operating system software 3.Application software

4. 1. PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES A vocabulary (rules) for instructing the computer to perform certain tasks Used to write other programs e.g. Basic, C++, Fortran, Pascal

5. Example of programming code:

6. 2. OPERATING SYSTEMS Perform basic tasks… –recognize input –send output –keep track of files and folders on the hard drive –control peripheral devices (e.g. scanners, printers, etc.) –manage memory Every computer must have an operating system running in the background

8. 3. APPLICATIONS Programs designed to perform a specific task for an end-user end-user - someone using an application program

9. Applications can be further subdivided into five categories… Productivity Tools Utility Programs Specialized Tools Communication Tools Planning Tools

10. 3a) Productivity Tools Used to perform a specific task Useful to an “average” person Examples: –Word processor –Spreadsheet –Database –Graphical Presentation Often packaged into a suite (e.g. Microsoft Office)

11. Word Processors – to create text based documents

13. Spreadsheets – to create primarily numeric-based files where performing calculations and graphing is important

14. Databases – used to create, store, sort and report large volumes of data

15. Graphical Presentation – to create slideshows, notes and handouts for presentations

16. 3b) Utility Programs Help manage your computer, it’s components or it’s programs Some examples are: –Disk defragmenter –ScanDisk –Disk Cleanup –Virus checkers –Spyware checkers –Backup utility

17. Disk Defragmenter - Over time, related files on a hard drive become scrambled. When the computer goes to read from the hard drive, it is slowed down because it must search for the next file. Defragging your hard drive puts related files in order so that the system runs faster.

19. ScanDisk – checks the hard disk for errors and tries to repair them; runs automatically when the operating system shuts down improperly

20. Disk Cleanup – helps you free up space on your hard drive; searches your drive for unnecessary files (temporary files, Internet cache files, and unnecessary program files)

21. A virus is a malicious program intended to do bad things to your computer. Virus programs scan your system for these programs to try and prevent damage.

22. Spyware is a type of program that intercepts or takes partial control of your computer without consent. It collects information about what you do with your computer and sends it over the Internet. Anti- spyware programs try to detect it and remove it.

23. Backup program - allows you to make a copy of either all information on a computer or selected files in case of disk failure or accidental deletion

24. 3c) Specialized Tools Programs with very specific purposes Probably not useful to the “average” person Some examples are: –Accounting software –Desktop publishing software –Photo editing software –CAD programs

25. Accounting software – used by businesses to keep track of financial records

26. Desktop publishing: - to layout publications such as brochures, newspapers, magazines, textbooks, etc.

27. Photo editing – to manipulate photos and create photo-based layouts

28. CAD (Computer Aided Design) – to create blueprints and technical drawings

29. 3d) Communication Tools Programs that allow people to communicate electronically through their computers Some examples are: –Web browsers –E-mail programs

30. Web browsers – allow you to locate and view web pages on the World Wide Web

31. E-mail programs - allow for the electronic transmission of messages using computers

33. 3e) Planning Tools Programs that allow people to better plan a process or plan their time Some examples are: –Project management programs –Time management programs

34. Project Management Programs – used in manufacturing to schedule employees shifts, keep track of materials and costs, etc.

36. Time Management Programs – to schedule appointments, plan your days, keep track of phone numbers, addresses, etc.