Operating Systems (Cambridge (CIE) AS Computer Science): Exam Questions

Exam code: 9618

30 mins8 questions
1a4 marks

A student uses a laptop to write a program that is saved as a text file.

The laptop has utility software and an Operating System (OS).

(i) Describe the file management tasks carried out by an OS.

(2)

(ii) Explain the need for back-up software.

(2)

1b3 marks

The student used a program library when writing their program.

Explain the benefits to the student of using library files when writing a program.

24 marks

The computer has an Operating System (OS). One of the key management tasks of the OS is process management.

Describe the process management tasks performed by an OS.

33 marks

The programmers created a new program library whilst developing the program.

Describe the benefits to the programmers of creating a program library.

44 marks

A computer has an Operating System (OS).

Memory management and process management are two OS tasks.

Explain how memory management and process management support multi-tasking.

52 marks

The programmer uses program libraries when developing the program.

Describe two benefits to the programmer of using program libraries.

65 marks

Robots are used to serve food and drink to customers at a restaurant.

Cartoon robot waiter with tray shelves stands near restaurant tables and chairs, prepared to serve or collect dishes.

Program libraries were used when writing the robot’s software.

(i) State what is meant by a program library.

(1)

(ii) Some program libraries include Dynamic Link Library (DLL) files.

Describe the benefits of a programmer using a library with DLL files instead of using a library that does not include DLL files.

(4)

7a1 mark

A computer has an Operating System (OS).

State one purpose of the Operating System.

7b3 marks

The Operating System has utility software.

The purpose of some utility software is to improve security.

Identify one example of utility software that is not intended to improve security.

Explain why this software is needed.

81 mark

The program makes use of complex statistical functions. The required functions are not built-in to the programming language and are too complicated for the programmer to write.

One solution would be to employ another programmer who has experience of writing these functions, as there is no time to train the existing programmer.

State one other way that these functions may be provided for inclusion in the program.