JavaScript operating system simulation of processes for instructional use

Abstract

Operating Systems is a core topic in computer science, but difficult to learn as a careful balance of theory and practice is needed. This is because purely theoretical models alone do not ensure complete understanding since some of the concepts require detailed explanations. In this final year project (FYP), the focus is on developing a web based simulation of operating system concepts, focusing on the concepts related to processes. The processes are simulated down to the execution of their individual instructions, in order to simulate processes in a way that can show synchronization issues in a multi-programming environment. The simulation provides the practical aspect required by allowing users to specify and modify their own processes and the instruction set architecture which the process's individual instructions execute. The system also allows users to plug-in and modify their own process scheduling algorithm. Similarly certain hardware parameters of the system can also be created or modified such as the registers and I/O devices the instruction set operates on. In a lecturing environment, this allows for lecturers to create their own custom examples using simplified instruction sets and processes which can be used to visualize specific topics or algorithms and use them during lectures or present them to the students. The system runs solely in JavaScript which reduces time spent to set up the system since users have immediate access to web browsers and also since this increases compatibility with the users' hardware and existing software. In order to hide the internal simulation components from the users so that they can better develop these implementation examples, the user instead interacts with a framework built on top of the simulator.