Exercise 1: Hardware & Software Part A:

Report on your computer.

To examine your computer's specifications, follow these steps:

• Device Name:
• Processor:
• Installed RAM:
• System Type → 64 or 32 bits:
• User Profiles:
• Windows specification:
• Storage Capacity:
• Used space:
• Free space:
• Anti-Virus Software:
• Operating System:
• Display → Display resolution.
Take a screenshot of the specifications screen(s) on your computer:
Part B: Hardware

a. Research and list the 5 main hardware components that an operating system manages and
interacts with. For each component, explain its function and how the operating system
utilizes it.

1. The CPU is responsible for processing tasks such as issue resolution and app launching. The
operating system coordinates this labor so that everything functions smoothly.

2. Memory: Imagine a desk with everything you're working on put out. The operating system
ensures that there is adequate room for whatever you are doing right now.

3. Storage: Use this as a filing cabinet for all your data and programs. The operating system helps you
stay organized and find items when you need them.

4. Input/Output Devices: These allow you to communicate with your computer and get responses.
The operating system turns your commands into something that the computer can comprehend, and
vice versa for keyboards and printers.

5. Networking Hardware: This enables your computer to connect to the internet or other computers,
such as Wi-Fi cards. The operating system handles these connections, ensuring that data arrives
where it is meant to.

b. Investigate the concept of device drivers and their role in facilitating communication between
hardware devices and the operating system.

Device drivers are necessary because they allow your computer to interact successfully with the
devices attached to it. They serve as a link between the operating system and hardware such as
printers, keyboards, and cameras, ensuring that when the computer issues a command, the device
understands it and replies accordingly. This guarantees that all of your devices communicate
properly with your computer, resulting in a seamless and hassle-free experience.

Part C: Software

a. Identify the different types of software that an operating system.

System software contains the operating system, which manages the computer's basic
operations, device drivers, which assist the computer in understanding external devices, and
utility applications for maintenance duties. Application software are applications that you
use to perform certain tasks, such as composing papers, visiting the internet, playing music
or videos, participating in games, educational activities, or utilizing professional tools for
work, such as database administration or project planning.
b. Investigate the concept of system calls and their importance in allowing applications to
request services from the operating system.
- Safety: They ensure that apps do not interfere with something they shouldn't.
- Talking: They enable applications to communicate safely with one another.
- Ease: They assist app developers by completing the tedious work for them.
- Use Anywhere: They let apps to function on a wide range of devices without requiring
adjustments.
- Order: They ensure that everything runs well and that no programs interfere with one
another.

c. Investigate file system management and how operating systems organize and manage files
and directories on storage devices.

- It remembers where things are: When you store anything, your computer selects a location
for it and remembers it so you can access it anytime you need it.
- It protects your belongings safe: There are built-in locks that ensure that only you or the
individuals you authorize may see or edit your files.
- It helps you discover things quickly: Whenever you seek for a file, your computer knows
just where to find it.
- It arranges everything. Your computer organizes things into folders, much as you would use
separate drawers for different types of paperwork.
- You can label things: You may name your files and folders to make it easier to recall what is
inside them.

Lab exercise 1. Operating System , 18/03/2024