Лекция: Classes of Software
Practical computer systems divide software into three major classes: system software, programming software and application software, although the distinction is arbitrary, and often blurred.
· System software helps run the computer hardware and computer system. It includes operating systems, device drivers, servers, windowing systems, utilities and more. The purpose of system software is to insulate the applications programmer as much as possible from the details of the particular computer complex being used, especially memory and other hardware features, and such accessory devices as printers, readers, displays, keyboards, etc.
· Programming software usually provides tools to assist a programmer in writing computer programs and software using different programming languages in a more convenient way. The tools include text editors, compilers, interpreters, linkers, debuggers, etc.
· Application software allows end users to accomplish one or more specific tasks. It is often purchased separately from computer hardware. Sometimes applications are bundled with the computer, but that does not change the fact that they run s independent applications. Typical applications include industrial automation, business software, educational software, medical software, databases, and computer games. Businesses are probably the biggest users of application software, but almost every field of human activity now uses some form of application software.
Ex. 2.Give Russian equivalents of the following words and expressions:
encompass, interconnections, execute, carry out, alter, arbitrary, insulate, compilers, debuggers, accomplish, tools, CPU, paste, precede, blurred.
Ex. 3. Answer these questions.
1. Who was the term first used by? 2. How do computer hardware and software correlate? 3. What major classes are software systems divided into? Describe each one. 4. How do computer operate?
Ex. 4.Say which of the following statements are true or false. Correct the false ones.
1. Computer software is divided into 2 major classes. 2. Software encompasses the physical interconnections and devices required to store and run the program. 3. Programming software allows end users to accomplish one or more specific (non-computer related) tasks. 4. Application software always comes bundled with the computer and you will have the ability to change it on a PC. 5. Once the software is loaded, the computer is not able to execute the software.