Computer System

A modern, general-purpose computer system

consists of a CPU and a number of device controllers
that are connected through a common bus that provides
access to shared memory (Figure1.1).Each device
controller is in-charge of a specific type of device ( for
example, disk drives, audio devices and video displays).
The CPU and the device controllers can execute
concurrently, competing for memory cycles. To ensure
orderly access to the shared memory, a memory
controller is provided whose function is to synchronize
access to the memory.
Computer System Architecture

Figure 1.1 1.1

Figure
 Components Of A Computer System

A computer system can be divided into four

components as follows:
1. Hardware
2. The Operating System
3. The Applications programs
4. The Users
 Components Of A Computer System
Continuation of...

1. HARDWARE- the control processing unit (CPU),

memory, and input/output (I/O) devices) provides the basic
computing resources.

2. OPERATING SYSTEM- controls and coordinates the use

of the hardware among the various applications programs
for different users. [SILBERSCHATZ,1991]
 Components Of A Computer System

Continuation of...

3. APPLICATION PROGRAMS- The application programs

(compilers, database systems, video games, and business
programs) define the ways in which these resources are
used to solve the computing programs of the users.

4. USERS- refers to the application programmers or users

of the computer system.[SILBERSCHATZ,1991]
Abstract View of the Computer System
Components
User 1 User 2 User 3 User 4

Compiler Assembler text editor database

Application programs system

Operating system

hardware
Figure 1.2
 Input Devices

Input devices refers to the devices that feed data into the
CPU. They convert the data, which are recorded in some
medium, into a string of electrical impulses which are
transmitted to the CPU for processing.
 Example of Input devices
Keyboard- is composed of keys for alphabetic, numeric,
and special symbols.
 Example of Input devices
Mouse- is used to move your cursor or activate something.
 Output Devices

Output devices write processed information for the user

on request. They retrieved the data from the CPU.
 Example of Output devices
Printer- produces high quality output presented in hard
copy.
 Example of Output devices
Plotter- draws hand copy graphics output in the form of
engineering.
 Example of Output devices
Monitor / Screen- display photographs and video in full
color.
 Memory
A computer’s main memory holds binary digits or
bits. Most computers use integrated circuit chips (Figure
1.5). A small computer might contain enough memory to
store thousands of bits; a large machine might store
millions.
Most main memory is random access memory
(RAM).The programmer can read or write RAM; its
contents are easy to change.Usually, this flexibility is an
advantage. But it also makes sense to record key software
or data in a more permanent, read-only memory (ROM).
[DAVIS,1992]
Example of Integrated Circuits
 Memory
Continuation of...

• Secondary storage – extension of main memory that

provides large nonvolatile storage capacity.
• Magnetic disks – rigid metal or glass platters covered
with magnetic recording material
– Disk surface is logically divided into tracks, which are
subdivided into sectors.
– The disk controller determines the logical interaction
between the device and the computer.
[SILBERSCHATZ,2002]
 Central Processing Unit

CPU, also called main processor is the component

that manipulates data. A processor can do nothing without
a program to provide control; whatever intelligence the
computer has is derived from software or hardware. The
processor manipulates data stored in the main memory
under the control of a program stored in memory (Figure
1.6). [DAVIS,1992]
 Processor

Main Memory

Program Data

Figure 1.6
The Processor manipulates data stored in memory
under control of a program stored in memory.
 Components of the CPU

The processor contains four key

components(Figure 1.7). The instruction control unit (ICU)
fetches instructions from memory. The arithmetic and logic
unit consists of the circuits that add, subtract, multiply and
so on. It executes instructions. Registers are temporary
storage devices that hold control information, key data and
intermediate results. The clock generates precisely timed
electronic pulses that synchronize the other
components.[DAVIS,1992]
 Clock

Instruction Arithmetic and

control unit Logic Unit

Registers

Figure 1.7
A processor contains four key components.
 What is an Operating System ?
✓ An operating system (OS) manages all other applications
and programs in a computer, and it is loaded into the
computer by a boot program.
✓ It enables applications to interact with a computer’s
hardware. Through a designated application programme
interface, the application programmes request services
from the operating system (API).
✓ The kernel is the software that contains the operating
system’s core components. To run other programs, every
computer has to have at least one operating system
installed.
Operating System
What is Kernel in Operating System?

✓ A kernel is the core component of an operating

system that acts as an intermediary between
hardware and software.

✓ It is responsible for managing the system’s

resources such as CPU time, memory, and
input/output (I/O) operations, and for enforcing
security policies.

✓ The kernel provides essential services such as

memory management,
 Roles of an Operating System
Operating System acts as:
1. A government- the operating system provides
the means for the proper use of the computer
resources in its operation. It simply provides the
environment within which other programs can do
useful work.
2. A resource allocator- the OS acts as the
manager for the computer resources and allocates
them to specific programs and users as necessary
for their tasks. [SILBERSCHATZ,1991]
 Roles of an Operating System
Continuation of...

Operating System acts as:

3. A control program- An operating system is a
control program. A control program controls the
execution of the user programs to prevent errors
and improper use of the computers. Its is especially
concerned with the operation and control of I/O
devices. [SILBERSCHATZ,1991]
 Functions of Operating System

1. Memory Management: The OS manages the main

memory, allocating and deallocating it as necessary for
various processes. It ensures that different processes
can coexist in memory without interfering with each
other.

2. Processor Management/Scheduling: This involves

managing the CPU’s time and resources among the
various processes. The OS selects which processes
receive CPU time and when, ensuring efficient and fair
use of the processor.
 Functions of Operating System

3. Device Management: The OS regulates the

connection and interaction with various input and output
devices through device drivers. It allocates and
deallocates devices to different processes and keeps
track of device statuses.

4. File Management: The OS manages files on a

computer, handling tasks like creation, deletion,
transfer, and storage. It also maintains the integrity and
security of the data within these files.
 Functions of Operating System

5. Storage Management: The OS is responsible for

storing and accessing files and directories, optimizing
the use of various storage devices, and ensuring data
integrity and efficient retrieval.

6. Security: Modern OSs employ security measures

like firewalls to protect against unauthorized access and
intrusion. They monitor system activity and block
potential threats.
 Functions of Operating System

7. Job Accounting and System Performance Control:

The OS keeps track of all system activities, including
memory, resource usage, and errors. It also monitors
performance indicators to ensure efficient operation.

8. Error Detection: The OS continually checks for

system errors and threats, protecting the system from
potential damage and alerting users to take appropriate
action.

9. Coordination Between Software and Users: It

coordinates hardware components and directs various
software applications, ensuring smooth operation and
user interaction.
There are also several advanced and evolving functions that
modern OSs are increasingly incorporating:

• Virtualization Support: allowing multiple virtual

machines to run on a single physical machine.
• Cloud Integration: enabling seamless access to
cloud storage and services, facilitating data
synchronization and backup across devices.
• Energy Management: focused on energy
management to extend battery life. This includes
optimizing the use of hardware resources and
managing background processes.
• Advanced Security Features: biometric
authentication, encryption, advanced firewall and
anti-malware systems, and continuous security
updates to protect against emerging threats.
There are also several advanced and evolving functions
that modern OSs are increasingly incorporating:

• Automated Updates and Maintenance: ensuring

that the system stays up to date with the latest
features and security patches without requiring
manual intervention.
• IoT Support: Internet of Things (IoT) devices,
operating systems are being designed to support IoT
applications, including managing and interacting with
a vast array of sensors and smart devices.
• AI and Machine Learning Integration: for predictive
analytics, personalization, and enhanced user
interaction is becoming a key feature in modern
operating systems.
 Features of Operating Systems

1. Provides a platform for running applications

2. Handles memory management and CPU
scheduling
3. Provides file system abstraction
4. Provides networking support
5. Provides security features
6. Provides user interface
7. Provides utilities and system services
8. Supports application development
 Types of Operating Systems

• Batch OS: used for executing a series of jobs

without manual intervention.
• Distributed OS: These systems manage a
network of interconnected computers,
distributing the workload among them. It is
critical for handling large-scale, distributed
applications efficiently.
• Multitasking OS: Modern multitasking OSs are
more efficient at resource allocation, ensuring
smoother operation even with numerous
applications running.
 Types of Operating Systems

• Network OS: These are designed to manage

networked computers, providing shared access to
resources like files and printers.
• Real-Time OS (RTOS): where time-critical operations
are necessary, such as in embedded systems,
robotics, and IoT devices. They ensure timely
processing and responses, a key requirement in
autonomous systems and industrial automation.
• Mobile OS: used integration with cloud services,
security features, and user interface enhancements.
The focus has shifted towards seamless
synchronization across devices and platforms,
providing a consistent user experience.
 Types of Operating Systems

• IoT Integration: controlling and monitoring these IoT

devices, offering unified interfaces for diverse smart
devices.
• AR/VR Support: augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality
(VR) technologies. Future operating systems are expected
to offer optimized environments for AR/VR applications,
with advanced capabilities in graphics rendering, motion
tracking, and spatial audio.
• Enhanced Security and Privacy: With digital threats
becoming more sophisticated, operating systems are
emphasizing stronger security measures and privacy
controls. This includes advanced encryption techniques,
secure boot processes, and user-centric privacy features.
 Types of Operating Systems

• Cross-Platform Compatibility: The trend is towards

operating systems that provide seamless integration and
compatibility across various devices and platforms. Edge
Computing and Distributed Systems: adapting to
manage resources in distributed architectures, including
edge computing scenarios.
• Machine Learning and Predictive Capabilities: This
includes intelligent power management and personalized
user experiences.
References:

[1] https://www.mygreatlearning.com/blog/what-is-operating-
system/
[2] https://www.techtarget.com/searchdatacenter/definition/kernel
[3] https://www.prepbytes.com/blog/operating-system/kernel-in-
operating-system/
 Thank You!

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School of Computer Science
Faculty Member

[email protected]

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