9618 · 5.1
Operating Systems flashcards
Revision flashcards for Cambridge 9618 Operating Systems (syllabus 5.1). Flip, recall, then mark a real past-paper question.
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Operating System (OS)
System software that acts as an interface between the user/applications and the computer hardware, managing all resources.
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Memory Management
The OS function of managing the computer's primary memory (RAM). It allocates memory to processes, keeps track of which parts are in use, and de-allocates it when no longer needed.
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Paging
A memory management technique where memory is divided into fixed-size blocks called pages (for logical memory) and frames (for physical memory). It allows for non-contiguous memory allocation.
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Segmentation
A memory management technique where a program is divided into variable-size logical blocks called segments, based on its structure (e.g., code segment, data segment). This is from the programmer's perspective.
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Virtual Memory
A memory management technique that uses secondary storage (like a hard disk) to simulate extra main memory. It allows a computer to run larger programs or more programs at once than its physical RAM would allow.
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Process Management
The OS function of managing the lifecycle of processes. This includes creating, deleting, suspending, and resuming processes, as well as scheduling which process gets CPU time.
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Scheduling
The process of deciding which 'Ready' process should be moved to the 'Running' state to be executed by the CPU. Examples include Round Robin, FCFS, and Shortest Job First.
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Interrupt
A signal sent to the CPU from a hardware device or software program, indicating an event that needs immediate attention. It causes the CPU to suspend its current task and handle the interrupt.
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Interrupt Service Routine (ISR)
A specific software routine that the OS executes in response to an interrupt. It determines the cause of the interrupt and takes the necessary action before returning control to the suspended process.
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Device Driver
A specific type of software program that allows the operating system to communicate with a particular hardware device (e.g., a printer driver or a graphics card driver).
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Buffering
A technique where data is temporarily stored in a memory area called a buffer while it is being transferred between two devices or between a device and an application. It helps to compensate for differences in speed.
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Spooling
Stands for 'Simultaneous Peripheral Operations On-Line'. It's a process where data for a slow device (like a printer) is placed in a queue on a fast device (like a hard disk) so that other processes can continue without waiting.