Microcomputer Software

Abstract

The software of a computer is the detailed set of instructions to be obeyed in performing a specific task; it is either a program, a set of programs or an interrelated suite of programs. A user obviously needs an application program to perform a specific task, e.g. updating a sales ledger. However, even the simplest application program can only be loaded and run on a computer in conjunction with another set of programs termed the operating system. In normal usage of a computer a number of special and general purpose programs will be employed and this chapter provides an overview of the type and functions of typical packages.