Software Technologies

Software
- Based on O’leary’s definition is the set of instructions that tells the computer how to process data into
the form you want.
- Found also in other devices like TVs, refrigerators, mobile phones, clocks and etc
- Devices have Integrated Chip inside and are set of instructions (programs/algorithms) that allows it to
function or move

Divided into two different categories:

1. System Software
- is a software that sits directly on the top of your computer’s hardware components. It includes
the range of software you would install to your system that enables it to function. It includes
operating systems, drivers for hardware devices, linkers and debuggers.
- Can be used for managing computer resources.
- According to O’leary is a collection of software that is classified as Operating Systems, Utilities
and Device Drivers.
- Operating Systems are programs that coordinate computer resources, provide an interface
between users and the computer and run applications.

2. Application Software
- is defined as Software designed to be used by end-users.
- sits at the top of system software, as it is unable to run without the operating system and other
utilities.
- Includes things like database programs, word processors and spreadsheets, e-mail applications,
computer games, graphic programs and such
- According to O’leary is categorized as General-Purpose or Special-Purpose Applications
- General-Purpose applications or basic applications are kinds of programs that you have to
know to be considered as computer component.
- Special-Purpose applications or advanced applications are programs that are more narrowly
focused on specific discipline and occupations.
Hardware Technologies

Hardware
- Physical computer (tangible parts of the computer, which you can touch and see)

Classified to four types:

Super computer
- “most powerful computer in terms of performance and data processing.”
- Specialized and task specific computers used by large organizations.
- Used for research and exploration purposes
- Very expensive and very large in size
- Seymour Cray is the one who designed the first super computer CDC 6600 in 1964

Mainframe Computers
- Not as powerful as supercomputers, but quite expensive
- Many large firms and government organizations uses to run their business operations
- Can be accommodated in large air-conditioned rooms
- Can also process and store large amount of data
- Banks and educational institutions and insurance companies use mainframe computer
- Popular mainframe computers: Fujitsu ICL VME and Hitachi Z800

Minicomputers
- Used by small business and firms
- Called as “Midrange Computers”
- Not designed for a single user
- Individual departments of a large company or organization use Minicomputers for specific purpose
- Popular Minicomputers: K-202, Texas Instrument TI-990, SDS-92 and IBM Midrange Computers

Microcomputers
- Includes Desktop computers, laptops, personal digital assistant, tablets and smart phones
- Cheapest among the three types of computers
- Usually designed for general usage like entertainment, education and work purposes
- Well known manufacturers: Dell, Apple, Samsung, Sony, Toshiba