Introduction to System Software and System Programming

Front

What is the primary difference between system software and application software?

Back

System software controls the basic operations of a computer system, while application software is used to accomplish specific tasks for users.

Front

What are some examples of system software?

Back

Operating systems, communications control programs, interpreters, compilers, debuggers, text editors, linkers, loaders.

Front

What are the benefits of system software?

Back

It hides the complexities of computer operations from users and allows programmers to write software without needing to understand hardware details.

Front

What is system programming?

Back

The act of developing system software.

Front

What is machine language?

Back

A natural or primitive language that the computer understands.

Front

What is assembly language?

Back

A language that uses mnemonics in place of binary patterns to simplify programming.

Front

What is an assembler?

Back

A special translator program that converts assembly language mnemonics into machine language instructions.

Front

What are high-level programming languages?

Back

Languages that use English-like commands and are easier to use, containing advanced instructions.

Front

What is a compiler?

Back

A special translator program that converts high-level language instructions into machine language.

Front

What is a language translator?

Back

System programs that convert programs written in high-level or assembly languages into machine language.