1. Section 8.2. Classification of Software
Section 8.2. Classification of Software
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2. Software Types of Software
The programs – the sets of instructions – that determine how the computer behaves
Types of Software
System Software
Application Software
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3. Operating System Library Programs System Software Utility Programs
Language Translators
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8.2. Classification of Software

4. Operating System Interface between user and hardware
Allows user to perform tasks without having to know how they are done
Save a file on disk
Install a printer
Device driver takes care of printing a document
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5. Library Programs
Pre-written routines that can be shared by different applications
Same print routines used by many programs
For multi-user computer systems
Carries out common tasks required by everyone
search for lost files
restore corrupted files
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8.2. Classification of Software

6. Utility Programs
Provides tools to manage, configure and maintain the computer (housekeeping facilities).
anti-virus tools
File compression tools
Back up and archiving
File managers (move, delete etc)
Disk defragmenters
Disk partitions
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8.2. Classification of Software

7. Language Compilers, Interpreters and Assemblers
translates high-level language program into a computer’s machine code or some other low-level language.
It produces an independent program which is capable of being executed by itself (compilation)
After compilation the original translator is no longer needed
Interpreter
Translates and executes a program one statement at a time
Slower as the analysis of each statement in a loop has to be repeated each time
Assembler
Translates a program written in assembly language into machine code
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8. Applications Software
Programs that do the ‘real’ work for users.
Perform specific tasks
The software may be designed specifically for one particular company
Software purchased ‘off the shelf’
Examples
Order entry, payroll
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9. General Purpose Software
Application Software
General Purpose Software
Special purpose Software
Bespoke Software
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8.2. Classification of Software

10. General Purpose Software
All common application packages
Word Processing, Desktop Publishing, Spreadsheet, Database, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Presentation packages
Sold as a package, including a CD containing the software and manuals
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11. Integrated packages and Software Suites
Combine all features (word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation graphics and communications software) into one single product for a low price e.g. Microsoft Works, Microsoft office, Lotus SmartSuite
All programs are completely compatible
Import and export data between applications
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12. Generic and Special Purpose Software
Generic – can do many different tasks
Word processing, spreadsheet and database software
Special Purpose – designed to do one particular task
Income tax return program, Accounting package
Web browser
Air Traffic Control
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13. Bespoke or off-the-shelf
Bespoke Software
Specially written, tailor-made or commissioned software
Advantages
Designed to the exact specifications of the user
Can be written to run on specific hardware
Software can be integrated with existing software
There may not be a suitable software package on the market
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14. Bespoke or off-the-shelf
Off-the-shelf Software
Advantages
Is generally less expensive to buy
Feedback from other users of the package is available
Software can be bought and installed straight away
Software is tried and tested, fewer bugs
Is usually well documented
Training may be available
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15. A single application that combines the major features of several types of applications is called _____.
integrated software
a suite
a combo package
high-end a

16. The operating system for a computer does the following:
manages the disks and files
manages the computer's resources
manages the computer's memory
all of the above
none of the above d

17. A proprietary operating system is ____.
unique to a manufacturer
similar to those of other manufacturers
used by many different computer manufacturers
properly configured to operate a

18. A computer's BIOS will ____
check for the presence of peripherals like mouse, sound card, scanner
run a check of memory
be loaded first when the computer is powered on
none of the above c

19. A backup program _____. makes a copy of files you select.
returns you to the previous program
undoes the last change you made
none of the above a

20. Disk formatting software is an example of:
Application software
Library program
Utility program
Operating system c