Identify two functions of an operating system.

Explain one benefit of using a dedicated operating system on the mobile phone instead of a generic operating system.

Explain how sensors and microprocessors are used to ensure that the air conditioning system is able to maintain a constant temperature in the smart house.

The developers of the smart home system are considering developing a smart home system that uses a distributed control system to manage the temperature.

Contrast the use of a distributed air conditioning system with a centralized air conditioning system for maintaining a constant temperature in the smart home.

Award [2 max].
Managing memory;
Managing peripherals;
Processor management;
Scheduling;

Note to examiners: allow any valid feature of an operating system

Award [3 max].

Example 1
A dedicated operating system for a mobile phone will take up less storage space than a full-sized operating system;
This will allow the device to function more quickly;
Because it doesn’t contain features that aren’t needed;

Example 2
A dedicated operating system for a mobile phone can be customized;
Benefits the end users;
As they deal with a familiar interface;

Example 3
The dedicated OS is designed specifically for the mobile phone (hardware equipment);
This avoids compatibility issues;
While a generic operating system is designed for multiple types of hardware (which can lead to compatibility / various issues);

Award [5 max].
A desired temperature is input/pre-set by the user;
Sensors detect temperature;
And regularly/continuously send (temperature) readings to the microprocessor;
The microprocessor compares the actual readings with the pre-set (by the user) / input temperature;
If the temperature is too hot/too cold the microprocessor sends signal to actuator;
To adjust temperature (no need for complex details regarding actions of a heating/cooling system);

Note to examiners: Award [1] for evidence of the use of analogue-to-digital converter (sensors) and/or digital-to-analogue convertor(actuators).

Award [3 max].
Award [1] for each contrast/comparison, up to [3].

Centralized system allows control at a central point, which is then transmitted to the various rooms whilst distributed system allows individual control of settings at each unit / room so is more flexible // Centralized system will have same or constant temperature throughout the home whilst distributed system allows individual control of setting at each room;

Easier to control settings centrally whilst distributed system is more complicated to control remotely (due to limited / no connectivity of the control system);

Centralized system is more difficult to install due to the connectivity required between the various components whilst distributed system is easier to install due to fewer connection issues;

If a computer system / or any connection fails in the centralized system, the whole system is not able to function correctly whilst the distributed system as whole would still function correctly;

Centralized system is cheaper / has lower operational cost whilst distributed system is expensive as it requires additional hardware / software;

Centralized systems are difficult to expand whilst distributed systems are easily expandable because self-sufficient systems can be added or removed at any point in time without affecting the overall system;

All parts were mostly well answered although many candidates lost marks for repetition and using vague common-sense terminology, rather than technical and complete terminology.