Operating Systems

Computer TechnologyCreated by M. Guymon

Pleasant Grove High SchoolSpring 2003

Modified by M. CorbettLehi Junior High

Summer 2010

Development of computers

1st Generation computers Used vacuum tubes.

Vacuum tubes are electronic devices that control the flow of electrons.

Had no operating systems. Used custom application programs (hardwired) which were made for

the specific task that the computer was to perform. Instructions were necessary for every aspect of the computing job.

2nd Generation computers

Used transistors. Transistors performed

functions similar to vacuum tubes, but they were smaller, cheaper, less power-hungry, and more reliable.

Ran programming languages. Used English like commands

rather than binary numbers. Made it possible to develop

software.

3rd Generation computers Used integrated circuits. Minicomputers were introduced.

Smaller and more powerful than 1st and 2nd generation computers. Had the ability to run multiple programs for multiple users simultaneously. (terminals)

4th Generation computers

Used general-purpose microprocessors. Computer systems were smaller, faster, and less

expensive than 3rd generation computers.

Operating System Software

Master controller for all that takes place within a computer.

Interacts with application software, device drivers, and hardware to manage a computer’s resources.

Ensures that input and output proceed in an orderly manner.

Operating System Software

Windows is an Operating system

Mac OS is an Operating system

Platform

Underlying hardware and software of the computer system.

Two popular platforms for personal computersPC – (IBM compatible)Mac – (Apple Computers)

GUI (Graphical User Interface)

A type of user interface that features on-screen objects, such as menus and icons, manipulated by a mouse.

Abbreviation is pronounced “gooey”. Replaced the Command Interface (MS-

DOS)Example – to rename a fileRename c:\letters\home\moneyned.doc c:\letter\home\moneyFeb.doc

Multitasking

An important feature of today’s operating systems is the capability of running more than one program at a time.

The operating system makes sure that the instructions and data from one area of memory don’t interfere with memory allocated for other programs.

Definitions important to GUI Operating Systems

Drive A location on a network that is set aside for the

collection of data. Folder

The subdirectory or subdivision, of a drive that can contain files or other folders.

File A named collection of data that exists on a storage

medium.

Definitions important to GUI Operating Systems Icon

Small pictograms that are used to represent shortcuts to a program or file.

Menu An on-screen list of alternatives or commands.

Resources

Parsons, June Jamrich, and Dan Oja. Computer Concepts. Boston: Course Technology - Thompson Learning, 2002.