Module IV QB (IA 2) - PP
1. Explain the characteristics of window.
Ans) A window possesses the following characteristics:
1. A name or title that allows to identify the window.
2. A size in height and width (which can vary).
3. The contents of active windows can be altered.
4. It highlights, that is, the part that is selected.
The Attraction of Windows:
Windows are valuable in the context of tasks or jobs.
In single-screen technology, only one screen of information can be viewed at one time.
To support memory, a person is often forced to write notes or obtain printed copies of screens.
Windows act as external memories that are an extension of one’s internal memory.
Switching between tasks is difficult and disruptive.
Windows are useful in different ways:
• Presentation of Different Levels of Information.
• Presentation of Multiple Kinds of Information.
• Sequential Presentation of Levels or Kinds of Information.
• Access to Different Sources of Information.
• Combining Multiple Sources of Information.
• Performing More Than One Task.
The problems with windowing systems can be attributed to three factors:
• Historical Considerations:
Historically system developers were more interested in solving hardware problems than user
considerations.
Lack of guidelines makes it difficult to develop acceptable and agreeable window standards.
• Hardware Limitations:
Screens are not large enough to take full advantage of windowing capabilities.
Many users of personal computers expand their windows to cover a full screen.
• Human Limitations:
A windowing system, requires the learning and using of more operations.
Much practice is needed to master them.
2. Explain the components of window.
Ans)
1. Frame:
A window will have a frame or border, usually rectangular in shape, to define its boundaries and
distinguish it from other windows.
A border need not be rectangular but this shape is a most preferred shape.
2. Title Bar:
The title bar is the top edge of the window, inside its border and extending its entire width.
Title bars are included on all primary and secondary windows.
3. Title Bar Icon:
Located at the left corner of the title bar in a primary window.
Consists of menu of commands that apply to the object in the window.
4. Window Sizing Buttons:
Buttons located at the right corner of the title bar.
They are used to manipulate the size of a window.
5. What’s This? Button:
To provide contextual Help about objects displayed within a secondary window.
It is inscribed with a question mark.
6. Menu Bar:
Used to organize and provide access to actions.
Located horizontally at the top of the window, just below the title bar.
7. Status Bar:
Information of use to the user can be displayed in a designated screen area or areas.
They may be located at the top of the screen in some platforms and called a status area, or at the
screen’s bottom.
8. Scroll Bars:
A scroll bar is an elongated rectangular container consisting of a scroll area or shaft, with arrows
or anchors at each end.
Vertical scrolling is positioned at the far right side and Horizontal scrolling is positioned at the
bottom of the work area.
9. Split Box:
Also referred to as a split bar.
Splitting a window permits multiple views of an object.
10. Toolbar:
Also called command bars.
Designed to provide quick access to specific commands or options.
11. Command Area:
Command area can be provided for a command to be typed into a screen.
Located at the bottom of the window.
12. Size Grip:
A size grip is a Microsoft Windows special handle included in a window to permit it to be
resized.
When the grip is dragged the window resizes.
13. Work Area:
Portion of the screen where the user performs tasks.
Also referred to as the client area.
3. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of tiled window.
Ans)
Tiled windows derive their name from common floor or wall tile.
Tiled windows appear in one plane on the screen.
Advantages:
Open windows are always visible, eliminating the possibility of them being lost and forgotten.
Every window is always completely visible, eliminating the possibility of information being
hidden.
They are easier for inexperienced people to learn and use.
Better user performance for completing tasks.
Disadvantages:
Only a limited number can be displayed in the screen area.
As windows change in size or position, the movement can be confusing.
They are crowded and more visually complex.
Crowding is highlighted if borders contain scroll bars or control icons.
As the number of displayed windows increases, each window can get very tiny.
4. Explain the window presentation styles.
Ans)
1. Tiled Windows:
Refer 3rd ans.(Write 2-3 points each)
2. Overlapping Windows:
May be placed on top of one another like papers on a desk.
Sizes of some types of windows may also be changed.
Advantages:
Windows can maintain larger sizes.
Windows can maintain consistent sizes.
Better user performance for completing tasks.
Disadvantages:
Information in windows can be hidden behind other windows.
Much more complex than tiled windows.
3. Cascading Windows:
Special type of overlapping window.
Each window is slightly offset from others.
Advantages:
Bringing any window to the front is easier.
It provides simplicity in visual presentation and cleanness.
5. Explain the advantages of Cascaded window.
Ans)
Special type of overlapping window.
Windows automatically arranged in a regular progression.
Each window is slightly offset from others.
Advantages:
No window is ever completely hidden.
Bringing any window to the front is easier.
It provides simplicity in visual presentation and cleanness.
(Explain these points in own words if asked for more than 5 marks)
