Operating systems and user interfaces Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology revision
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In plain words
An operating system is the software that runs the computer and lets you use it. The part you meet is the user interface, and there are four kinds: you can type, point, talk or wave.
5 things to know
- An operating system is system software that manages the hardware and software of a computer and provides an interface for the user.
- A command line interface (CLI): the user types commands. It uses little memory and gives direct control, but the commands have to be learned and typed exactly.
- A graphical user interface (GUI): the user selects windows, icons and menus with a pointer or a finger. It is easy to learn and nothing has to be memorised, but it uses more memory and processing power.
- A dialogue-based interface: the user speaks commands. It is hands-free, which is useful while driving, but it can be confused by background noise or accents, and only a limited set of commands is understood.
- A gesture-based interface: the user moves a hand or body in front of a sensor. Nothing needs to be touched, but gestures can be picked up by mistake and only a few are available.
Worked example
A car's entertainment system can be operated by voice. Give one advantage and one disadvantage of this for the driver.
- Advantage: it is hands-free, so the driver's hands stay on the wheel and eyes stay on the road.
- Disadvantage: noise from the engine, the road or passengers may stop the command being recognised.
Tips and tricks
- Compare interfaces by saying what the user has to do, and then one good and one bad point. "It is easier" is not enough: say why.
- WIMP stands for windows, icons, menus and pointer. It describes a GUI.
It lands in your notebook with its questions as flashcards.
Operating systems and user interfaces: 5 questions and answers
These are the quiz’s questions. Do the quiz first, then come back here for the ones that got you.
Which interface requires the user to type commands?
The commands must be typed exactly.
Which interface uses windows, icons, menus and a pointer?
WIMP.
Which is an advantage of a command line interface?
There are no graphics to store or draw.
Which interface would best suit a surgeon who must not touch anything during an operation?
Images can be moved with a hand movement, with no contact.
Which is a disadvantage of a dialogue-based interface?
It relies on hearing the user clearly.
Quiz
5 questions
Tap an answer and you’ll see straight away whether it’s right, and why.
Worksheet
2 questions, 4 marks. Write your answers on paper, then check them.
Operating systems and user interfaces
Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology 0417 · 4 marks · papermunch.org
Name ______________________________ Date ______________
Give two advantages of a graphical user interface compared with a command line interface.[2]
Show answerHide answer
Commands do not need to be learned or memorised. It is easier for a beginner to use, because options are chosen by pointing at icons and menus.
Give two disadvantages of a dialogue-based interface.[2]
Show answerHide answer
Background noise can prevent commands being recognised. Only a limited range of commands is understood. (Also: accents may not be recognised.)
Answers: Operating systems and user interfaces
- 1. Commands do not need to be learned or memorised. It is easier for a beginner to use, because options are chosen by pointing at icons and menus.
- 2. Background noise can prevent commands being recognised. Only a limited range of commands is understood. (Also: accents may not be recognised.)