1.3 Operating Systems

What is the primary function of an operating system?

• a) To run only games

• b) To control the operation of input, output, and storage devices

• c) To only supervise hardware components

• d) To perform arithmetic calculations

Answer explanation

The primary function of an operating system is to control the operation of input, output, and storage devices, ensuring that hardware and software work together effectively. Thus, option b is correct.

Which user interface requires the user to type commands?

• a) GUI

• b) CLI

• c) Gesture-based interface

• d) Dialogue-based interface

Answer explanation

The correct answer is b) CLI, which stands for Command Line Interface. This interface requires users to type commands to perform tasks, unlike GUI (Graphical User Interface) which uses graphical elements.

What is WIMP in the context of GUI?

• a) Windows, icons, menu, and pointing device

• b) Windows, internet, mouse, and pointer

• c) Widgets, internet, mouse, and peripherals

• d) Windows, icons, monitor, and peripheral

Answer explanation

WIMP stands for Windows, Icons, Menu, and Pointing device, which are fundamental components of graphical user interfaces (GUIs). This choice accurately describes the elements that facilitate user interaction with software.

Which of the following is NOT a feature of GUI?

• a) User-friendly interface

• b) Requires complex commands to operate

• c) Uses icons to represent applications

• d) Requires a pointing device to select icons

Answer explanation

A GUI (Graphical User Interface) is designed to be user-friendly, using icons and requiring a pointing device for interaction. It does not require complex commands, making option b) the correct choice as it contradicts GUI features.

Which type of user interface is commonly used by programmers?

• a) GUI

• b) Dialogue-based interface

• c) CLI

• d) Gesture-based interface

Answer explanation

Programmers commonly use the Command Line Interface (CLI) because it allows for efficient text-based commands, scripting, and automation, making it a powerful tool for development tasks compared to GUIs or other interfaces.

A disadvantage of the Command Line Interface (CLI) is that it is:

• a) Very simple and user-friendly

• b) Limited to icons on the screen

• c) Slow and easy to mistake with commands.

• d) Fully voice-controlled

Answer explanation

The Command Line Interface (CLI) can be error-prone and time-consuming because users must type commands accurately. Mistakes in typing can lead to errors, making it less efficient compared to more user-friendly interfaces.

Which user interface can use voice for interaction?

• a) Command Line Interface

• b) Dialogue-based interface

• c) Graphical User Interface

• d) Gesture-based interface

Answer explanation

The dialogue-based interface allows users to interact using voice commands, making it suitable for voice interaction. In contrast, the other interfaces do not primarily support voice as a means of interaction.

Gesture-based interfaces rely on which type of interaction?

• a) Typing commands

• b) Using a pointing device

• c) Human movement (hands, head)

• d) Voice commands

Answer explanation

Gesture-based interfaces rely on human movement, such as hands, head, and feet, to interact with devices. This distinguishes them from other interaction types like typing or voice commands.

What is a potential drawback of using a dialogue-based interface?

• a) Limited to on-screen icons
• b) High accuracy in noisy environments
• c) Commands must be typed manually
• d) Commands may need to be repeated due to poor recognition

Answer explanation

Dialogue-based interfaces rely on voice recognition to understand and execute commands. In noisy environments or when the system doesn't accurately recognize speech, users may have to repeat their commands multiple times. This can be frustrating and reduce the overall effectiveness of the interface.

Which of the following interfaces is particularly useful for individuals with physical disabilities?

• a) CLI
• b) GUI
• c) Dialogue-based interface
• d) Gesture-based interface

Answer explanation

Dialogue-based interfaces use voice commands, making them ideal for individuals with physical disabilities, as they can control devices hands-free.