MICROCOMPUTER OPERATING SYSTEMS

1. When triggering a System call, it is needed sometimes to pass input parameters to the OS as part of the system call. Describe three general methods for passing parameters to the operating system.

4) What are the two models of interprocess communication? State one strength and one weakness of the two approaches?

a) Model of IPC:

Strength:                                      Weakness:

b) Model of IPC:

Strength:                                     Weakness:

3) Put the following "layers" in the right order, based on "calling sequence", when a user writes code in his program that requires a system call, and the code compiled and then executed.

1. System Call is made (_____)

2. Application Programming Interface (API) is used (_____)

3. User writes program code that requires a system call (e. g., I/O service). (_____)

4. System call interface intervenes (i.e., is being utilized/used) (_____)

4) It is sometimes difficult to achieve a layered approach if two components of the operating system are dependent on each other. Identify a scenario in which it is unclear how to layer two system components that require tight coupling of their functionalities.

5) What is the main advantage of the micro-kernel approach to system design?

6) How do user programs and system services interact in a micro-kernel architecture?