object-oriented architecture

A Dictionary of Computing | 2004 | 700+ words | Copyright

object-oriented architecture An architecture in which everything (processes, files, I/O operations, etc.) is represented as an object. Objects are data structures in memory that may be manipulated by the total system (hardware and software); they provide a high-level description that allows for a high-level user interface. Objects have descriptors that are referred to variously as names, pointers, and labels. These descriptors also provide information as to the type of object and a description of capabilities that apply to the particular object. Object-oriented architecture systems can thus be considered as an extension or generalization of capability architecture systems, and have the same ability to provide a basis for protection and computer security.

Examples of object-oriented architecture systems are the IBM System 38, the Carnegie-Mellon experimental C.mmp/Hydra, and the Intel iAPX 432.

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JOHN DAINTITH. "object-oriented architecture." A Dictionary of Computing. 2004. Encyclopedia.com. 27 May. 2012 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.

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JOHN DAINTITH. "object-oriented architecture." A Dictionary of Computing. 2004. Retrieved May 27, 2012 from Encyclopedia.com: http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1O11-objectorientedarchitectur.html

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