Which of the following is also called the manager of computer system resources?

Appeared in: AIIMS Bhopal NO - 2018 (Shift-1st)

Explanation

The Operating System (OS) is defined as system software, a collection of programs that control the computer's functions and manage its resources.
It acts as the primary interface between the computer's hardware (like the CPU and memory) and the application software (like MS Office).
Key management functions include process management (CPU scheduling), memory management, file system management, and device management.
Without an OS, a computer cannot run applications or perform useful tasks for a user.

Option A: The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the 'brain' of the computer that executes instructions. It is a resource that is managed by the OS, not the manager itself.
Option B: Antivirus software is a specific type of application (utility software) designed to protect the system from malware. It operates under the control of the OS.
Option D: MS Office is an application software suite. It is a user of system resources and relies on the OS to allocate the memory, processing time, and file access it needs to function.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Role of the Operating System in a Computer System as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
In modern healthcare, nurses extensively use computers for Electronic Health Records (EHR), medication administration systems, and patient monitoring.
A basic understanding of a computer's OS helps in troubleshooting common issues (e.g., a slow system, a non-responsive application) and communicating problems effectively to the IT department.
Knowing that the OS manages all programs can help a nurse understand why running too many applications simultaneously might slow down a critical system like the EHR.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the question to identify the key function described: 'manager of computer system resources'.
Next, evaluate each option based on its fundamental role in a computer system.
Recall the definition of an Operating System (OS). Its primary purpose is to manage hardware and software resources.
Consider the CPU. It processes data but is controlled by the OS.
Think about Antivirus and MS Office. These are applications that run 'on top of' the OS and request resources from it.
Conclude that the OS is the only option that fits the description of a system-wide resource manager.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Textbook of Nursing Management and Leadership I. Clemen — Subpart C (pp 655-967 of 982) p. 37-39

Practise the full AIIMS Bhopal NO - 2018 (Shift-1st)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.