Introduction to Computing:
Lecture 5
Computer Software
Overview
This Lecture covers:
The different types of software
Application software
System software etc.
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Computer Software
“Software is a program that enables a
computer to perform a specific task, as
opposed to the physical components of the
system (hardware)”. [www.wikipedia.org]
The term “software” was first used in this
sense by John W. Tukey in 1957.
The theory that is the basis for most modern
software was first proposed by Alan Turing
in 1935.
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Computer Software
Software
Application software System software
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Role of Computer Software
User Software Hardware
Applications Systems
Software Software
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Application Software
Application Software consists of programs
that tell a computer how to produce
information. Some of the more commonly
used packages are:
Word processing
Electronic spreadsheet
Database
Presentation graphics
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Word Processing
Word Processing software is used to create and
print documents. A key advantage of word
processing software is that users easily can make
changes in documents.
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Electronic Spreadsheets
Electronic spreadsheet software allows the user to
add, subtract, and perform user-defined calculations
on rows and columns of numbers. These numbers
can be changed and the spreadsheet quickly
recalculates the new results.
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Database Software
Allows the user to enter, retrieve,
and update data in an organized and
efficient manner, with flexible inquiry
and reporting capabilities.
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Presentation Graphics
Presentation graphic software allows the user to
create documents called slides to be used in making
the presentations. Using special projection devices,
the slides display as they appear on the computer
screen.
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Systems software
Hardware
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System Software
Itlies between application
software and computer hardware.
The most important system
software is the operating system.
Examples of operating systems:
Windows, DOS, Linux, UNIX
What is an operating system?
An OS is a computer program that:
Controls the hardware of the computer,
Enables you to communicate with the
computer.
Details would be in next lecture.
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Summary
Details about different types of
software.
Application software & system
software.
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