Software Definition and 996 Threads

Software is a collection of instructions and data that tell a computer how to work. This is in contrast to physical hardware, from which the system is built and actually performs the work. In computer science and software engineering, computer software is all information processed by computer systems, including programs and data. Computer software includes computer programs, libraries and related non-executable data, such as online documentation or digital media. Computer hardware and software require each other and neither can be realistically used on its own.
At the lowest programming level, executable code consists of machine language instructions supported by an individual processor—typically a central processing unit (CPU) or a graphics processing unit (GPU). A machine language consists of groups of binary values signifying processor instructions that change the state of the computer from its preceding state. For example, an instruction may change the value stored in a particular storage location in the computer—an effect that is not directly observable to the user. An instruction may also invoke one of many input or output operations, for example displaying some text on a computer screen; causing state changes which should be visible to the user. The processor executes the instructions in the order they are provided, unless it is instructed to "jump" to a different instruction, or is interrupted by the operating system. As of 2015, most personal computers, smartphone devices and servers have processors with multiple execution units or multiple processors performing computation together, and computing has become a much more concurrent activity than in the past.
The majority of software is written in high-level programming languages. They are easier and more efficient for programmers because they are closer to natural languages than machine languages. High-level languages are translated into machine language using a compiler or an interpreter or a combination of the two. Software may also be written in a low-level assembly language, which has strong correspondence to the computer's machine language instructions and is translated into machine language using an assembler.

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  1. S

    Any physics simulation software?

    Is there any software for simulating physical phenomena? I've googled it and found one named Physion. It is great for fun but is too limited. Would programming be the only way or is there some ready-made program that could provide an easy environment to develop simulations.
  2. DeusAbscondus

    MHB Hardware & Software question: Device for doing math by stylus

    Hi folks, I'm looking for a device with a screen smaller than a laptop, bigger than a phone, which can do the following very well! 1. allow me to enter math by stylus and have it convert to latex for export via various file extensions; 2. link with my linux OS on my main computer (so, perhaps...
  3. E

    Quartus II simulator OR recommended simulation software?

    Hello, I'm learning digital logic and design, I was told that I should use Quartus II, which so far works very well for me. Unfortunately, I noticed that simulating was eliminated on recent versions of Quartus II on the web edition. So, while new versions are better and I still prefer the...
  4. D

    Can you become a software developer with an EEE degee?

    I'm aware that the answer is probably yes but if so would you need to spend a lot of time catching up or is the programming you learn in an EEE degree enough to place with a good stead for a job as a beginner software developer? Would it limit you from certain roles?
  5. J

    How to Compile MSES Software with Unexpected Syntax in Fortran?

    Hello, I'm trying to compile some software called MSES, its written by Mark Drela in some fortran flavour. I've successfully compiled a number of subroutines through make files but there is one subroutine giving me grief. It's called dplot.f. It has a strage syntax I can't seem to work...
  6. T

    Maple The best software for math and physics?

    Which program is the best for math and physics? What do you think about Maple 17?
  7. E

    Academic presentation software or template?

    I'm curious how scientists make such pretty presentations. I've used Microsoft Powerpoint for all of my presentations since middle school. But my powerpoints lack the style I notice in many academic presentations. There seems to be a standard format on which I am missing out. See, for...
  8. I

    Design the software and the hardware for servo controllers

    I search information about design the software and the hardware of controllers especially servo controllers. I have several questions about this subject and I will glad if you can write your opinion and add some relevant links. A. I want to understand these things: A.1. What is servo...
  9. Ascendant78

    What software is useful for a physics major?

    I am just finishing my freshman year as a physics major. I am wondering what software might be useful to get my hands on at this point? In chemistry, we used computers with Linux because he said they are able to process the information much faster than a Windows-based computer. Will most of...
  10. A

    Free Finite Element Analysis Software

    Anyone know of some good, free finite element analysis software? I used NASTRAN in college, but from what I can tell that costs at least several thousand.
  11. M

    Online Interactive Curve (B-Spline, NURBS) Software?

    Is there available any online interactive curve (e.g. Bezier, B-spline, NURBS) software? Thanks guys
  12. M

    User friendly circuit schematic software

    Hello, I am wondering if there is any free circuit schematic software that is pretty basic and easy to use. I just need it to draw capacitors, resistors, inductors, and batteries so I can have drawings of circuits for when I have homework questions on this page to ask so I have a reference...
  13. Z

    Anyone here who has studied/is studying software engineering?

    It's what I recently decided to go into. If anyone has any experiences/advice/suggestions to help get into good universities, that'd be great. I love programming and physics, both for the same reason, which is the logic behind it. They both make logical sense. I math, chem, etc as well, I know...
  14. T

    Is this a good salary for a software developer?

    I'm fresh out of college (21 years old) and i was recently offered an offer for 25/hour (40 hours) as an entry level software developer. My original plan was to go to graduate school but, ~52,000+ sounds too good for me to pass up. The company also supports its employees by paying for them to...
  15. B

    Questionable results with simulation software

    I am doing an assignment for college, (though my question is more general, rather than based on questions I have been set, hence the reason this post not being in the homework forum). It is basic DC circuit analysis using, Kirchhoff, Thevenin and Norton theorems. Nothing taxing, so I know my...
  16. T

    Dynamic Math Software for Online Tutoring

    I'm thinking about doing online tutoring. I already know how to use latex on a website but I need to be much faster for a live tutorial session. Is there a way that I can write my math down on a tablet and have it automatically converted in rich math text and also have it automatically...
  17. A

    Is there a object tracking software?

    I'm doing experiment of a small moving object. The observation is made through a digital camera with microscope installed in front. I want to study the motion of it and I already recorded a video of it's motion. The next thing comes to track the trajectory and record the position of the object...
  18. f95toli

    What is the best quiz software for language learning and retention?

    Good language "quiz" software I have -unsuccesfully for some reason- been trying to find a "quiz" type program for learning languages. The reason is that I have a 12 year old at home who struggles a bit when it comes to learning new words on his own. All I (well he) need is a program which...
  19. C

    A good archiving/library software for notes?

    Hi, is there are good archive/library database software that enables me to archive and easily search for documents. The idea is regarding University: I would like to make a database of notes digitally for all semesters, but creating maps within maps on my desktop and clicking all those folders...
  20. L

    Top Software Picks for Electric Circuit Diagram Design

    Hello, I wasn't sure where exactly to make the topic. The question is what kind of program/software would you recommend using for designing electric circuit diagrams. Cheers
  21. M

    Which Circuit Simulation Software Includes PIC 18F4550 Microcontroller?

    Hi I am working on a project at the moment and I was wondering if there is any circuit simulator that includes the PIC 18F4550 microcontroller. I currently use Crocodile Technology and I have tried editing the code to get the chip to just appear (I don't need it to do anything just sit there so...
  22. I

    Looking to be proactive for Software Engineering program

    Good day everyone, I'm currently looking for people who have gone or are currently into any Software Engineering program and that could provide information. I won't be getting into any program for another year or two and I would like to know of any ways I could possibly start improving my...
  23. STEMucator

    Engineering Which Career Is Better: Computer Science or Software Engineering?

    You know the deal. Very controversial topic. I'm currently enrolled in double major computer science and honors math, computing theory and numerical methods. Lots of different opinions on which one is better than the other in terms of a career. Pay is always debatable in the sense that...
  24. B

    What Is the Best Software for Drawing Graph Theory Networks?

    Can anyone recommend me software for efficiently drawing graphs? By graphs, I mean graphs from graph theory, i.e. pictoral representation of a network with edges and vertices. I need to minimize the wire crossings in a certain Boolean circuit network I have developed. If the software can...
  25. H

    I need a simulation software for Frequency Planning really need it

    Any suggestion or hints for any software that helps in Frequency Planning for Communication networks... please give links! thank you all.
  26. H

    Engineering From MS in Math to software engineering, experience with webapps

    First, I'll describe my situation. Also, I apologize if this is the wrong place to ask my question. If it is, please let me know, and (if possible) suggest a more appropriate venue for my question. I graduated with a BS in Math a few years ago. I worked for 4 years for a web app company...
  27. K

    Engineering Computer engineer to a software developer?

    I have a degree in B.S. Computer Engineering w/ focus in networking, and after helping my little brother with his capstone project in game design at his school, I somewhat wanted to make a game of my own. Consequently, I purchased Gamemaker during Steam Sale and finished all of their tutorials...
  28. S

    Software to solve Nonlinear Systems (ineq and eq)

    Hi everyone, I've got an optimisation/computing question. I have a system of nonlinear equalities and inequalities, which I've written below for reference. It's the conditions for a minimiser of a Karush-Kuhn-Tucker problem. Would anyone be kind enough to explain how I could use software to...
  29. W

    Software for General Relativity

    What is the best software for GR calculations ? GRTensor ?
  30. E

    Computer Science vs. Computer Engineering vs. Software Engineering

    I'm applying to universities (the deadline is the 16th) and I've decided on engineering, and narrowed my choices down to 5 universities. I'm deciding between computer engineering and software engineering, but I notice that some universities only have computer science and computer engineering...
  31. G

    About nuclear fuel cycle simulation software

    Hello ,everybody I plan to develop a nuclear fuel cycle simulation software . Is there any body interesting it. I think this is a very complex project. :)
  32. D

    Mathematica Allotting more resources to mathematical software

    Is there a way to allot more resources for Mathematica to use? I have 16GB of RAM and the Intel i5 but Mathematica is still too slow at many things. Is there a way I can allot more of my computers resources to the program?
  33. T

    Music Music conversion software (to 12 notes only)

    Greetings PFers I've got a Capricorn Electronics Caroling Christmas Bells. http://www.digitalfires.com/bells/ I'm not going to pay $90 for another music cartridge, so I've decided to program in my own songs... yay!... My trouble is that I need a piece of software to convert some simple...
  34. C

    Computer Science or Software Engineering?

    Im looking to do a masters program. I am sort of torn between computer science and software engineering. I am interested in software engineering but I am wondering if computer science would be more reputable and give me more job options. I am looking to get a job in either the space or defense...
  35. M

    Calculators Which Anti-Virus Software is Best for Windows 7?

    http://www.av-test.org/en/tests/home-user/windows-7/sepoct-2012/ Above compares many anti-virus programs (both free and paid).
  36. C

    Software engineering instead of mechanical engineering

    I have been talking on this forum for a while about going back to school for engineering. I've been considering though getting a masters in software engineering. I am sort of conflicted though. I like computers but my main passion is aircraft. Since aircraft are becoming increasingly reliant on...
  37. J

    From Software Development to Math/Science?

    Hi, I am a Software Developer in a company. I work on cutting edge technologies in System Software and High Performance Computing. But, I'm also interested in Pure Math and also Physics. I get excited about Number Theory and I want that to be part of my career. What do I do?. Where do I...
  38. P

    DSP Software for Communication Systems

    Homework Statement DSP Technology Report Research a particular application of DSP, gathering enough information to deliver a 10 min oral report to the rest of the class. You can focus on hardware, software issues, or a specific algorithm. Give as much detail as possible. Homework Equations...
  39. A

    Open source math software for Mac OS X

    Is there an open source math software for Mac OS X which is equivalent to Mathematica? I intend to use it for vector geometry problems (drawing planes, lines in 3-D space).
  40. P

    Laptop for CAD Software (Entry Level)

    As suggested on my last post 'how to become a design engineer' self practice is the key to learn a design program to a competent level.. At this point, I am looking for a computer so to be able to train myself, refresh my pro/E skills, and be able to apply what I read in tutorials and watch...
  41. C

    Which Standalone Software Converts Handwritten Math Equations for Homework?

    I am looking to be able to do my homework on the computer instead of writing it. I really hate writing out homework, erasing it, etc.. Does anyone know of any software I am able to write out equations with proper math symbols? (not looking for a word plugin, a completely standalone...
  42. J

    Is there free software for drawing chemical stick models?

    Is there any free software for drawing nice neat chemical stick models? I'm just looking for simple software to make the simple stick drawings of the chemical structures. I have software for drawing "ball and stick" type drawings, i use Avogadro chemistry software. Its software for drawing...
  43. V

    What Degree Should I Pursue for a Career in VFX and Animation?

    I am really interested in the VFX and animation industries and actively pursue learning vfx applications such as Autodesk Maya/3DS/Mudbox, Adobe After Effects, Blendr, and other programs. My university does not offere a real degree in animation or visual effects so which would be best for me...
  44. U

    Graphing/plotting software in Linux

    Hi, I was just wondering if there exists an alternative to the graphing program xmgrace, i.e. a WYSIWYG graphing software that runs under Linux and can do everything that Grace 5.1.22 can do (or almost everything; preferably more), and preferably free/open-source? I think xmgrace is good, but...
  45. C

    Good software for writing chemistry (chemical equations)

    Hi, what's a good program/software for writing chemical equations, redox reactions etc. I find Office Word to be a bit slow for that (or perhaps it's my who is slow at using it :P ), And I'm having a difficult time compiling oxidation numbers on top of the elements. Any chemistry friendly...
  46. S

    Engineering Job market for software engineers for the next few decades?

    Hello dear members, I am a college freshman majoring in undeclared major. (:P) I have strong passion for music and mathematics, but I think I will have a hard time finding a decent job if I combine those two. So as of now I am thinking of majoring music and computer science. I hear that the...
  47. C

    Best math software for writing math?

    What's the best and easiest software when it comes to write equations. If I have to write a lot of math language It would be nice to have a program where I can write rapidly. I tried the math editor in Word (office), but every time I need a multiplication symbol I have to find it in the...
  48. M

    Which Software Visualizes N-Body Interactions with Electric and Magnetic Forces?

    Is there any other software to visualise n-body interaction of charged particles in real time by modelling both electric AND magnetic forces, like this: "Virtual Bubble Chamber" Electric and Magnetic Fields: Positron & Electron do the helix dance...
  49. M

    Software to draw specific triangles?

    Hello, I am working on a project that involves using 2D triangles to build 3D models and I am looking for software that will allow me to draw 2D triangles based on the triangles 3 edge lengths (ex: 4 cm x 5 cm x 3 cm). Most of the software I have found requires knowing either the triangles...
  50. P

    Physics A physics major is not good preparation for a career in software development

    Whenever people ask what jobs they can do with a B.S. in physics (and to a lesser extent with an M.S. or Ph.D.), one of the first suggestions offered is that they can become a programmer. In my opinion, this is seriously wrong and harmful advice. Look at the standard courses that physics...
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