Computer Soft
Computer Soft
COMPUTER SOFTWARE.
Software refers to the various programs & data used in a computer system that enable it perform
a no. of specific functions.
Software instructs the computer on what to do and how to do it.
All programs (software) are written using programming languages.
Programmers usually write programs in Source Language (a language that is like broken
English). The Source language is then converted into Machine language; the language that the
computer can understand.
Machine language is usually in form of bits (series of 0’s & 1’s).
SYSTEM SOFTWARE.
This is a set of programs, which is developed & installed in a computer system for the purpose of
developing other programs, and to enhance the functional capabilities of the computer system.
System programs control the operation of the various hardware parts & make them available to
the user. They also enable users make efficient use of the computing facilities in order to solve
their problems.
System programs manage the computer resources such as Printers, Memory, disks, etc, automate
its operations & make easier the writing, testing and debugging of users’ programs.
They also control the various application programs that we use to achieve a particular kind of
work.
Notes.
System software are developed & installed by the manufacturer of the computer hardware.
This is because to write them, a programmer needs in-depth knowledge of the hardware
details of the specific computer.
Some of the system software are supposed to put initial ‘life’ into the computer hardware and
are therefore, held permanently in the ROM.
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Program routines that are permanently maintained in the computer’s memory are called
Resident software/ routines.
System programs dictate how the programs relate to the hardware, and are therefore said to be
Hardware-oriented.
System programs consist of Operating Systems, Language translators (Assemblers, Compilers),
System utilities, and Device drivers.
System software is further sub-classified as:
(a). Operating system.
(b). System utilities.
EXAMPLES OF SYSTEM PROGRAMS.
(a). FIRMWARE (or Microprogram).
Firmware is fixed into the ROM, and cannot be changed.
Firmware is usually a combination of hardware and software. It deals with very low-level
machine operations, such as moving data, making comparison, etc, and thus acts as an
essential substitute for additional hardware.
(b). OPERATING SYSTEMS.
An Operating System is a set of programs designed to ensure the smooth running of the
computer system.
They are developed to manage all parts of the basic computer hardware & provide a more
hospitable interface to users and their programs.
It controls the way the way the software uses the hardware. This control ensures that the
computer system operates in a systematic, reliable & efficient manner as intended by the
user.
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Therefore, a computer system that uses disks would have a utility program for
initializing or formatting these disks.
Debugging (removing program errors).
The programming process usually includes debugging (removing errors from) a
program. Statements of the program are studied to determine the cause of an error.
Again, useful information can be obtained by studying the contents of memory at the
time the program failed.
Examples of the common Service programs.
(i). Text Editors.
(ii). Language Translators.
(iii). Diagnostic Tools/ Programs.
(iv). Sort utility.
(v). Merge utility.
(vi). Copy utility.
(vii). Core/ Dump utility.
(viii). Linker.
(ix). Loader.
(x). Library Program.
(xi). Database management system (DBMS) – a utility program that manages data contents.
Text Editor.
This is a utility program that enables/ allows users to create files in which they can store any
textual information they desire using the computer.
Once the files are created, the Text editor provides facilities which allow the user modify
(make changes to) the files; such as adding, deleting, or changing information in the file.
Data can be copied from one file to another. When a file is no longer needed, it can be
deleted from the system.
The operations of the Text editor are controlled by an interactive OS that provides a
‘dialogue’ between the user and the Operating system.
There are 3 major classes of Text editors:
(i). Character text editors – deals with 1 character at a time.
(ii). Line text editors – deals with a whole line at a time.
(iii). Page text editors - deals with a whole screen full of text at a time.
Note. The Text Editor is probably the most often used utility program of an OS.
Sort utility.
The Sort utility is used to arrange the records within a file according to some predetermined
sequence. The arrangement can either be in Ascending or Descending order of the alphabets
or numerals.
For example, a user may wish to sort data into some desired sequence, such as; sort a student
file into ascending order by name or into descending order by average grade or sort a mailing
list by postal code, etc.
Merge utility.
Merging is the process by which the records in two or more sorted files are brought together
into one larger file in such a way that, the resulting file is also sorted.
The Merge utility is used to influence the combining of the contents of 2 or more input files
to produce one output file.
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Copy utility.
It is usually advisable to maintain duplicate copies of the operational files so that in case
something goes wrong with the original files, then their contents can be recreated from the
duplicate/ backup copy or copies.
The duplication process, i.e. copying the contents of one file to another is done through the
influence of the Copy utility. The copying can be from one media to a different media or
from one media to another media of the same make, e.g. from diskette to hard disk or from a
diskette to another diskette.
Dump utility.
The term Dumping is used to describe the copying of the contents of the main memory. The
Dump utility is therefore, used to transfer (copy) the contents of the computer’s internal
memory into a storage media, e.g. the disk or through the Printer (to get a Hard copy output).
The result of dumping is that the main memory ‘image’ is reflected by the stored or the
printed contents.
Language Translator.
Programs written in high-level languages have to be translated into binary code (Machine
language), before the computer can run these programs.
A Translator is a utility program written & supplied by the computer manufacturers, used to
convert the Source Codes (the program statements written in any of the computer
programming languages) to Object Codes (their computer language equivalents).
Each language needs its own translator. Most OS provide users with Compilers or
Interpreters for the common high-level languages. In addition, an Assembler is usually
available for those wishing to write programs in the Assembly language of the particular
machine.
Note. These translators are not part of the OS, but they are designed to be used under the
operating system & are accessible to it.
Linker.
Computer programs are usually developed in Modules or Subroutines (i.e. program
segments meant to carry out the specific relevant tasks).
During the program translation into their machine code, these modules are translated
separately into their object code equivalents.
The Linker is a utility software that accepts the separately translated program modules as its
input and logically combines them into one logical module, known as the Load Module that
has got all the required bits & pieces for the translated program to be obeyed by the computer
hardware.
Loader.
The Loader is a utility program that transfers the load module (i.e. the linker output) into the
computer memory, ready for it to be executed by the computer hardware.
The transfer process is from the backing store, e.g. magnetic disk into the computer’s main
memory. This is because some systems generate object codes for the program, but instead of
being obeyed straight away, they store them into the media.
Diagnostic Tools (Programs).
Diagnostic tools/programs usually come with the translators and are used to detect &
correct system faults –both hardware and software.
They provide facilities which help users to debug (remove errors from) their programs more
easily.
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APPLICATION SOFTWARE.
Application programs are written to solve specific problems (or to handle the needs) of the end-
user in particular areas.
They interface between the user & system programs to allow the user to perform specific tasks.
Application software helps to solve the problems of the computer user, and are therefore said to
be user-oriented.
They are designed specifically to carry out particular tasks. For example, they can be used to
type & create professional documents such as letters, solve mathematical equations, draw
pictures, etc.
Notes.
Application programs can be written by the user, programmers employed by the user, or by a
Software house (a company specializing in writing software).
Application programs can be written with very little knowledge of the hardware details of a
specific computer, and can run on several different computers with little or no modification.
Application software falls into 2 main categories/groups: -
(i). General-purpose packages (Application packages).
(ii). Special-purpose applications (User programs).
General-purpose packages (Application packages).
They are usually pre-written programs made for non-specialists, in the home or business, and
may be used for a wide variety of purposes.
They are off-shelf programs that are developed & supplied by manufacturers, Bureaux &
software houses at a price.
They provide a general set of facilities that are used in dealing with similar types of tasks, which
arise in a wide variety of different application problems.
The range, quality and variety of the packages are continuously changing.
Examples of Application packages are: -
* Word processors * Spreadsheets.
* Databases * Graphic packages, etc.
Package - a set of fully described & related programs stored together to perform a specific task.
They are developed to solve particular problems in one or more organizations with little or no
alterations.
Advantages of Application packages as compared to other forms of applications.
(i). Packages save a lot time & programming effort, because the company buys the software
when it is ready-made.
(ii). Are relatively cheap to the user. These programs are usually sold in large numbers. Again,
the cost of developing the programs is effectively shared between the purchases.
(iii). They are appropriate for a large variety of applications.
(iv). Most packages are menu-driven, i.e., the user is provided with a set of options displayed on
the screen; hence, they are easy to learn & use, making them suitable for people with little
or no computing knowledge.
(v). Packages are extensively/thoroughly tested & debugged (has all errors corrected), i.e. if it
is a popular package, it is usually tried & approved by a large no. of people. The testing is
done by a pool of professional programmers and analysts.
(vi). Are usually provided with extensive documentation to help the user.
(vii). Relatively quick results are obtained.
(viii). The packages are generally portable. In addition, there is usually a maintenance agreement
between the supplier & the buyer.
(ix). Application packages can be rented, especially by users who might require to use them
only periodically, hence cutting on costs, e.g. maintenance.
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SPREADSHHETS.
Spreadsheets are application packages used for manipulation of figures. A spreadsheet
application lets the user enter numerical data.
A Spreadsheet usually consists of a series of rows & columns in which data entries can be made.
The figures or text are inserted into the Cells. A cell is referred to by the column letter and row
number (e.g., A1 refers to the first cell).
The package is suited for Accounts oriented work since it has in-built formulas that enable users
to perform complex calculations.
Spreadsheets provide an easy & streamlined means for financial planning.
- Using Spreadsheets, Sales & purchases can be recorded, Invoices produced and
statements compiled.
- The management can keep track of the current state of payments from customers in
relation to goods dispatched.
Researchers can compile and analyse their results.
Teachers can compile their students’ marks and produce results.
Clerks and secretaries can easily create tables of figures and manipulate them quickly as
required.
Examples of Spreadsheet packages in the market today: -
* Microsoft Excel. * Lotus 1-2-3.
* Quattro Pro.
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GRAPHICS PROGRAMS.
Graphics applications are used to create artwork that can be printed or incorporated into other
applications such as, Desktop publishing packages and Word processing programs.
They can be used to create simple line drawings, charts or presentations.
There are different kinds of Graphics programs, all designed to help the user create drawings and
illustrations that can be used for different purposes.
Examples of Presentation Graphics packages: -
* Microsoft PowerPoint. * Corel Draw.
* Adobe Photoshop. * Harvard Graphics.
* Lotus Freelance Graphics. * Adobe Illustrator.
MULTIMEDIA PROGRAMS.
Multimedia refers to a combination of text, graphics, sound, animation and video.
Multimedia is essential in many software applications. For example, Word processing and
Desktop Publishing documents can be enhanced with graphics, photos and charts. Sound and
animation can be added to make presentations exciting.
Multimedia subjects include; children’s learning, History, Geography, hobbies, sports and
games.
Multimedia software comes on a Compact Disk (CD-ROM), because they require a large storage
space.
The minimum requirements for Multimedia software as set by the Multimedia Personal
Computer (MPC) Marketing Council include: -
CD-ROM Drive.
VGA monitor
Hard disk drive with sufficient storage capacity.
A Sound card with Speakers or headphones. A Microphone (is optional) if you want to record
your own sounds.
Examples of Multimedia packages: -
* Animation Master 99. * 3D Studio Max.
* Extreme 3D. * Morpher.
COMMUNICATION SOFTWARE.
Communication software is used to exchange information, messages and ideas with people
around the world who have PCs equipped with Modems & communications software.
To use a communications package, you need a Modem & a Telephone line.
The basic purpose of a communication program is to control the way the computer transmits &
receives data.
Examples of communications packages: -
* WinFax Pro. * Zoc.
* ProComm Plus. * HyperAccess.
INTERNET SOFTWARE.
E-Mail (Electronic mail).
E-mail is a quick, convenient, efficient & cheap way of communicating with both individuals and
groups.
E-mail is much faster than regular mail. With e-mail, the message can reach the recipient in hrs,
minutes or even seconds.
E-mail is also convenient since you can send your messages when it is convenient for you and
your recipients respond at their convenient times.
Examples of e-mail packages: -
* Microsoft Exchange. * Outlook Express.
* Netscape Mail/Messenger.
Note. All e-mail software must have the capability of writing messages, sending & receiving
e-mail.
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Browsers.
Browsers are software that enable the user to surf (log in / use) the World Wide Web (www). The
WWW provides users on computer networks with a consistent means to access a variety of
media in a simplified fashion.
The most commonly used browsers are: -
* Internet Explorer. * Netscape.
* Cello Internet browser. * NCSA Habanero.
SOFTWARE SUITES.
A Software Suite is a group of different compatible applications sold by one software company.
The programs are each individual applications, but they usually work in a similar manner, and
have some common features, such as menu commands, buttons, or keystrokes.
Although each of the programs in a suite can be purchased separately, they cost less when
purchased as a bundle.
Typically, a suite includes a Word processor, a Spreadsheet, a Database, Presentation graphics
applications, Personal Information Managers, and E-mail applications.
The applications are integrated with one another, making it easy to use them together and to
transfer data from one into the others.
Examples of Software Suites are: -
* Microsoft Office. * LotusSmart Suite.
* WordPerfect Suite. * Microsoft Works.
* ClarisWorks.
Exercise (a).
1. (a). Briefly discuss the two broad categories of software.
(b). Giving examples, name 3 different types of computer programs found on a typical
computer systems.
2. Give 4 examples of System software and Applications software.
3. Why do people prefer special–purpose applications (developed applications) to general-
purpose applications (bought off-the-shelf)?
4. Give THREE factors to consider when choosing an Application package.
Exercise (b).
1. (a). What is a program?
(b). Outline the difference between the two classes of programs.
2. Outline the range and functions of Application programs.
3. Name FIVE programs which can be classified as ‘Application programs’.
4. What are Text Editors and where are they most commonly used?
5. (a). What are Spreadsheets?
(b). Name THREE commonly used spreadsheet packages.
6. (a). What are Database management system software?
(b). Give 3 examples of database software.
7. (a). List four categories of Graphics packages.
(b). State some of the essential features of a Graphics package.
(c). Give THREE examples of the most commonly used Presentation Graphics package.
8. What is Desktop Publishing? How does it differ from Word processing?
9. State one computer software used in industrial systems. Give examples.
10. (a). What is Multimedia?
(b). State any four devices of a computer that can be classified under Multimedia devices.
(c). List four applications of multimedia programs.
(d). What are the minimum hardware requirements to run multimedia applications?
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11. What are communication software used for?
12. (a). What are the advantages of e-mail?
(b). What is a browser and what is it used for?
13. What are Software Suites? Give the advantages of using suites?
Exercise (c).
1. Briefly distinguish between System Software and Application Software.
2. (a). What are Application packages?
(b). Identify FIVE types of Application software that may be installed in a microcomputer.
Briefly explain what each type of software you have listed does, and give two examples
where necessary.
(c). List THREE advantages and disadvantages of general-purpose application software as
compared to the other forms of applications.
3. Name FOUR major application packages. Outline four features of each.
4. List the advantages and disadvantages of Integrated packages/Software Suites over Standard
packages.
COMPUTER VIRUSES.
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A Computer virus is a program (or a piece of software), which attaches itself to another program
or a system.
It is designed specifically to copy itself to other programs & cause some undesirable effect on the
programs (or damage them) without the knowledge of the user. E.g., it may attach itself to the
FORMAT command, and be run every time you format a diskette.
A virus is a computer code usually designed to carry out 2 tasks: -
(i). To replicate (duplicate/ copy) itself from one computer system to another.
(ii). To locate itself within a computer system making it possible for it to amend/ destroy
programs & data files, by interfering with the normal processes of the Operating system.
The program is written by people who are cruel, unethical and malicious.
RISKS POSED BY VIRUSES.
The risks posed by viruses and the primary impacts of a virus attack can be broadly classified
into 2 categories: -
Destructive viruses.
Type of Destruction Symptoms
Massive Destruction The virus attacks the format of disks, or Delete all files on the disk
making any damage on programs or data on that disk unrecoverable.
Partial Destruction The virus erases & modifies a specific portion of a disk affecting
any files stored in that location.
Selective Destruction The virus erases & modifies specific files or file groups.
Random Havoc It randomly changes data on a disk or in memory during normal
program execution. They also change keystroke values, or data
from other I/O devices.
Network Saturation The virus systematically uses up computer memory or space thus
impeding (slowing down/ obstructing) performance or causing the
system to crash.
Non-destructive viruses.
These viruses do not cause any destruction, but are usually annoying.
What Non-destructive viruses do?
1. They might lock the Keyboard.
2. Change keystroke values (e.g. changing the effect of the SHIFT key).
3. Display an obnoxious (loathsome/ horrible/ intolerable) message on the screen.
4. Change the display colours.
5. Delete characters displayed on a visual display.
SOURCES OF VIRUSES (Virus transmission - ways in which a virus can spread).
The most common sources of virus transmission are: -
(a). Contact with contaminated systems.
Any diskette used on a contaminated system could become contaminated. If the same
diskette is used on another system, then the virus will spread.
(b). Pirated Software.
The use of rented disks containing Pirated computer software introduces the risk that the
software may be contaminated by a virus code or might have been amended to perform
some other destructive function, which may affect your system.
Symptoms of a Virus.
The presence of a virus can be indicated if one or more of the following symptoms appear on
your computer.
(i). Unfamiliar graphics or quizzical (surprising) messages appearing on the screen.
(ii). Programs taking longer than usual to load.
(iii). Disk access time seeming too long for simple tasks.
(iv). Unusual Error messages occurring more frequently.
(v). Less memory available than usual, e.g. Base memory may read less than 640K.
(vi). Access lights turning on for non-referenced devices.
(vii). Programs or files disappearing mysteriously.
(viii). Executable files or data files changing size for no obvious reason.
(ix). Changes of disk volume IDs.
(x). Frequent Read/Write errors.
(xi). Computer hags (gets stuck) anytime when executing or running a program.
Any evidence of these or similar events should be of an immediate concern. The PC should be
isolated at once and investigated.
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