What is Computer Software?

EQ: What are the software components of a computer?

T-IDT-4 4.3 Describe and explore current and emerging software, including operating systems and application software. a. Explain the function and purpose of software tools. 4.4 Compare and contrast various hardware and software options for personal and business use.

Hardware vs Software

Got to have both to get the job done!

How does Software work?

Algorithms have to be written Algorithm turned into computer language Another specialized program turned this

language into something the computer understands

Software development – multi-step process First programmer – Grace Hooper – created

FLOW MATIC (later known as – COBOL)

Types of Software

Applications Software / Productivity Microsoft Office

Systems SoftwareOperating systemsUtilities

Entertainment / Games

Applications Software

Operating Systems

Interface between user and the computer

Many brandsWindows – designed for processor IntelMacintosh computers use processor

made by Motorola – OSLinux / Unix

Utility Software

Helps perform housekeeping choresTasks include:

Antivirus programsCopy file from hard drive to another locationConvert graphics file so it can be used by

another programBackup copy of hard drive

User Interfaces

Determines how user friendly the computer is

Part we interact with when using the computer

Command-line interface such as DOSGraphical interfaces such as Windows

Command Line

Early computers used only thisHave to memorize codesNot very user friendlyNot colorful – usually written in black and

whiteNo pictures

Graphical User interfaces

Came about with menusGraphical user interface (GUI) Came about with Apple’s development of

Macintosh FinderPictures (icons) represent softwareColorfulContributed to the explosion of computer

use.

Games / Entertainment

Purely for leisureBillion dollar industryContributed hugely to jobs in software

programmingExtremely popular with the younger

generation of computer users

Assignment 1

Three types of software for our lesson are: ________________________ Systems Software ________________________

Windows is an example of this type software ____________ ___________. Graphical design programs like Pinnacle 17 or Adobe premier would be

considered a _______________ software application. ______________ is a precise set of rules created to solve a problem. Software applications are written in __________ __________ after the algorithm

is designed. Dos was and example of a __________ _____________ interface. GUI stands for _____________ _______________ _________________ An operating system is the interface between the __________ and the _________

Assignment 2

For the next scenarios, use one the three choices Application / Utility / Entertainment

Software to copy files from one location to another: __________________ Microsoft Powerpoint : __________________ Symantec System Backup:____________________ World of Warfare game: _____________________ Pinnacle Studio 17 – video editing software: _________________ Microsoft Excel _________________ Disk Optimizer software: ________________________ Youtube video player ______________________

Project

Research the three operating systems: Mac OS v.? Windows XP or 7 Unix

List 2 advantages and 2 disadvantages of each Which one do you think would be the best for

someone to use in a home business and why? List each OS and research what the best market or

use this operating system seems to be associated with. For example, on Windows, seems to be more associated with business productivity.