Introduction to Programming Language & Classification of Software

Submitted by: Shikha Gupta BBM- III Section B

Computer software
A computer system consists of two sub-systems: Computer hardware physical units of a computer system Computer software sets of programmed instructions(programs) It is the computer software which enables the computer hardware to perform various activities and makes it a versatile machine.

Classification
Computer software can be classified into two categories: System software consists of sets of programs to support the efficient use of hardware resources that include primary and secondary memory, display, and other peripherals. For example operating systems, language translators, and utility programs.

 Application software refers to programs or sets of programs that actually process data to generate information under various applications. For example payroll processing system, inventory control, information system, etc

System software
Operating systems It manages and controls the activities of the computer that include control of input/output devices, scheduling of operations, and monitoring the activities. For example MS-DOS, Unix, Windows, etc Utility programs These are pre-written programs that are stored to be shared by various users for routine, repetitive tasks. For example sorting records, copying files, etc

Language translators Computer programs that are written in any of the computer languages must be converted into machine language. This task of conversion is performed by a system software known as language translator. They are of two types: Compiler Interpreter

Programming languages
Programming languages are the basic building blocks for all types of software. It allow users to tell(instruct/program) computers what to do. Types of languages are: Machine language Assembly language High level languages Fourth generation languages Object-oriented languages

 Machine language: The internal representation of instructions and data in digital computers Assembly language: Instead of writing the binary digit language like acronyms and short words are used High-level languages: They require programmer to describe the step by step procedure for solving a particular problem

 Fourth generation languages: it enable users to specify the results they want, while the computer determines the sequence of steps, or procedures Object oriented languages: it combines data and procedures into objects they select objects from a library and copy into specific location in the program.