Operating Systems & Intro to UNIX

Class 6

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What is an Operating System?

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What is an Operating System?

The software that supports a computer's basic functions, such as scheduling tasks, executing applications, and controlling peripherals.

Introduction to Web Design & Computer Principles CSCI-UA.0004-003

Early Computers

Didnt have operating systems Ran one program at a time Operators would have to allocate computer resources and memory The first OS was developed in the late 1950s

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Operating Systems

An Operating System (OS) is a piece of software The kernel is the main part of the OS that is the bridge between the applications/peripherals and the actual data processing Application software, also known as an application or app, is a piece of computer software designed to help the user to perform specific tasks Runs on top of the OS Depends upon the basic capabilities of the OS Usually only works on one type of OS A peripheral is a device that is connected to a computer but not part of it. It expands the computers capabilities but does not form part of the core computer architecture. It is often completely independent.

Introduction to Web Design & Computer Principles CSCI-UA.0004-003

Operating Systems

Introduction to Web Design & Computer Principles CSCI-UA.0004-003

Operating Systems

Introduction to Web Design & Computer Principles CSCI-UA.0004-003

More OS tasks/terms

Process Management - keeping applications running, scheduling applications so they share the processor A central processing unit (CPU), also referred to as a central processor unit, is the hardware within a computer that carries out the instructions of a computer program by performing the basic arithmetical, logical, and input/ output operations of the system. Storing Data in the Computers Memory - retrieving data from the hard drive, caching data, making sure the computer doesnt run of out memory Random-access memory (RAM) is a form of computer data storage. A random-access device allows stored data to be accessed quickly in any random order. Other types of data storage memory: Hard Disks, CD-ROMs, Flash Drives, External Hard drives,

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OS usually have...

A file system where data is stored using the metaphor of a filing cabinet: Files Folders Applications that allow you to easily browse the file system

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The Desktop Metaphor

The monitor is the top of your desk // The Desktop Documents and Folders sit on top of your desk // Files and Folders Documents can be opened up on your desk // Windows Office accessories can be used with your files // Applications

Are their aspects of this metaphor that dont make sense?

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CLI vs GUI

CLI: Command Line Interface = issues commands to an OS by typing lines of code GUI (gooey): Graphical User Interface = interacting with the OS by manipulating images rather than text commands

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UNIX

Developed by AT&Ts Bell Labs in 1969 Uses a Command Line Interface (CLI) Free distribution, Open System (open source) Portable, mutli-tasking, multi-user Servers, workstations, mobile devices Basis of Linux and Mac OS, BSD Unix, AIX....

Many OS are based off of UNIX and are considered unix-like systems

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So why use CLI vs GUI?

The car metaphor: Automatic vs Manual Transmission With CLI you are working directly with the data, so non-data elements cant get in the way Powerful for many tasks (ie: moving, copying, renaming 100s of files) Ability to use scripts Uses less memory

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TERMINAL

Terminal is a Mac application that works with the UNIX shell program, allowing you to type commands to the OS directly Uses Command Line Interface You can find terminal under Applications > Utilities > Terminal

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Use Command + or Command - to shrink or grow the window Use up and down arrows to see previous commands Type exit or close window to end

COMMAND LINE PROMPT USER

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COMMAND STRUCTURE

COMMAND

OPTIONS

ARGUMENTS

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Unix File System

File and directory paths use the forward slash / to separate the directory (folder) names in a path use cd to change the directory to your home directory cd.. ill take you up one level (think the back button) cd <dir name> will take you to that directory

Introduction to Web Design & Computer Principles CSCI-UA.0004-003

Introduction to Web Design & Computer Principles CSCI-UA.0004-003

Reading for Class

UNIX Cheat Sheet

Introduction to Web Design & Computer Principles CSCI-UA.0004-003