Operating System
When a computer is first turned on, it first runs some basic diagnostic tests and then (automatically) transfers a copy of the operating system (for both MS Windows and Mac OS) from the hard disk to the RAM (not the entire operating system but just a pre-determined amount). The operating system program itself is always operating (executing instructions) the entire time the computer is turned on.
The major Operating Systems are:
- Microsoft Windows Win3x, Win9X, WinNT, WinME, Win2000, WinXP, WinVista, Win7
- MacIntosh OS 7.0, 8.0, 9.0 and OS X and OS 10.1
- Linux (several version)
- Sun Microsystem’s Solaris
- BeOS
- Free BSD
The major Server Operating Systems are:
- Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 and Win2000 Server
- MacIntosh OS X
- Netware
- OS 2
- Novell
- BeOS
- Linux (Open and Red Hat)
- Sun Microsystem’s Solaris
- Free BSD
The operating system program is a seamless interface that allows the various hardware devices attached to the computer, different types of software applications and the basic functions of the computer system to interact together on a common platform. The relationship between the operating system and an application (program) is such that the operating system allows the application program to load into RAM and execute instructions for the computer’s devices.
Then, for instance, when one works within an audio application and clicks on the icon (input) to retrieve a digital audio file (the program issues instructions to the operating system) to include the file in the mix, it is the operating system that accesses the hard drive and retrieves a copy of the file (reads from hard drive) temporarily into RAM (memory) along with the audio application instruction set and a portion of the operating system itself, and then saves your composition (output) when you click on Save (writes to hard drive). Additional output during the processing of instructions are changes on the screen (when the audio file is represented graphically) and sound emanating from the speakers (when the PLAY is pressed to listen to the change in the mix). If there is insufficient capacity in RAM for the application program, the operating system and the file you are working on then portions of each are cleared, swapped with the hard drive and reloaded all while the application program is executing. To save some space the audio application is specifically written for the operating system (MS Windows, Mac or Linux) to access the routines already written within the operating system program.
Thus, the operating system is responsible for: Microprocessor management: the OS schedules the sequence of hardware and software access to the CPU, and makes sure that there is sufficient time to complete instructions prior to moving on to the next request
File and memory management: the OS determines the necessity of what data is being stored in RAM and / or swapped with a data file on the hard drive (virtual memory)
User interface: this an environment that operates on top of the OS and allows the human input and the human review of the output
Device management: all of the peripheral devices such as the monitor, mouse and keyboard input data to the CPU and receive output from the CPU, thus the OS will manage the schedule of interchange by queing data and buffering data and interfacing with driver application of each specific device.
Application management: the OS provides a consistent set of functions such as file openning, file saving and accessing hardware that all software applications will utilize, and programmers can access these set, repetitive conventions to create an application that will work smoothly with the OS
The operating systems that most people are familiar with on the personal computer have millions of lines of code that were designed to coordinate and execute all aspects of the functions of a computer. Each operating system has its own advantages and disadvantages. MS Windows based operating system PCs and software applications are the most prevalent while the Apple OS based system has a long history of high quality audio capabilities integrated into the system. Linux and BeOS are viable operating systems if still somewhat not prevalent within the general public. Unix is a professional programmer’s, server-side operating system. The only answer concerning the debate over which is the best or correct operating system is that you should purchase what you may already be familiar with, or are comfortable with after research or what you can afford financially. There are abundant hardware and software applications for both the Mac and Windows operating systems, and there is constant development of Linux and BeOS applications. Remember, however, that many audio software applications are not universal. Rather, some are entirely just for a Windows or Mac operating systems exclusively. The reality is that the technology changes so rapidly that no matter what you purchase you may wish to update the system within a very short time frame.
BIOS
BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), is an actual microchip on the motherboard. However, it is also the fundamental software application that commences immediately after the computer ON switch has been pressed. The BIOS application commences the self-test that tests the connection to the motherboard and configuration of all peripheral hardware. The BIOS also tests the memory capabilities of the microprocessor and its chipset system and sub-systems.
BIOS also continues to function while the computer is in operation. The BIOS is ROM, thus is may contain some instructions for various hardware components of the computer. However, because of the developing plug-and-play architecture, the BIOS cannot contain instructions for new peripheral components. Thus, the BIOS is programmed to turn the management of the device over the software driver that is installed with the device.
The performance of the chipset and motherboard can be reconfigured by calling up the BIOS application changing various parameters. The most popular reconfiguration is the over-clocking, in 1 MHz adjustments, of the system clock speed. Most off-the-shelf computer manufacturers will provide access to the BIOS application only through determined efforts by the computer owner. One must usually depress one of the Function Keys (F4, F10, etc.) while the system is booting. The only way to determine the correct key is to consult the owner’s manual for the particular computer that you own.
System File(s)
After the BIOS completes the basic tests the computer continues to boot up by reading the System Files. These files (.sys, .com, and .bat in MS Windows) contain the instructions for the set-up of the operating system. The computer checks the A Drive first for a disk and then checks the hard drive for the systems files. The systems files are successively loaded into the RAM, with each file building on the previous file, leading up to the installation of the operating system and various other programs scheduled to be opened when the computer is turned on.
Interface
The operating system provides the user with an interface, which is the means of accessing the hardware of the computer and accessing the specific function software. Both Mac OS and MS Windows are entriely graphic in nature with icons, dialog boxes and drop-down menus (GUI / Graphical User Interface), as so are Linux and most UNIX although some UNIX operations are carried out in a text-only Command Line Interface (CLI). CLI requires a knowledge of specific commands. A GUI only requires that one click with a cursor on an image that represents a specific function or have knowledge of some short-cut keystrokes.