4. What is Software?
Software is a set of electronic instructions that
tells the computer how to do certain tasks. A
set of instructions is often called a program.
When a computer is using a particular program, it is
said to be running or executing the program.
The two most common types of programs are
system software and application software.
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6. Types of Software
There are two (2) types of software:
System Software
Application Software
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7. System Software
A System software exists primarily for the computer itself,
to help the computer perform specific functions.
One major type of system software is the operating system
(OS). All computers require an operating system.
The OS tells the computer how to interact with the user and
its own devices.
Common operating systems include Windows, the
Macintosh OS, OS/2, Linux, and UNIX.
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8. Kinds of System Software
System Software Consists of Four (4) Kinds of
Programs:
Bootstrap Loader
It is a program that s stored permanently in the computer’s electronic
circuitry. When the computer is turned on, the bootstrap loader
obtains the operating system from the hard disk and loads it into
the memory. This is called “BOOTING” the system.
Diagnostic Routines
It is a programs stored in the computer’s electronic circuitry.
They test the primary storage, the CPU, and other parts of the
system to make sure the computer is running properly.
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9. Kinds of System Software
Basic Input-Output
System Consist of service programs stored in
primary
storage. These programs enable the
computer to
interpret keyboardcharacters or transmit characters to the
monitor or to a disk.
Operating System
Collection of programs that helps the computer manages its
resources. The operating system takes care of a lot of
internal matters in order for the computer to run
smoothly.
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11. Types of Application
Software
Word Processing
Word processing software creates, edits, saves, and prints
documents. Examples of packages: MS Word, WordPerfect, Ami
Pro, MacWrite.
Spreadsheets
An electronic spreadsheet consisting of rows and columns is used to
present and analyze data. Examples of packages: MS Excel, Lotus
123, Quattro Pro.
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12. Types of Application
Software
Database Management
Database management software is used to structure a database, a
large collection of computer programs. Data is organized as fields
and records for easy retrieval. Example of packages: MS Access,
dBase, Fox Pro, Oracle
Graphics Software
Graphics programs display results of data manipulation for easier
analysis and presentation. Examples of packages: MS PowerPoint,
Macromedia Flash, Harvard Graphics, 3D Studio Max
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14. Communication Software
Communication software enables users to
connect with and share resources with
others. Communication software permits
connectivity and allow computers to connect
with other information resources.
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