Abstract
This research study focused on design and implementation of an operating system tutorial, using Computer Science Laboratory, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic as a case study. Maintenance of system’s operating system is necessary if the system must perform well for a long period of time. Since the operating system resides on the hard disk, it is important to carry out regular disk maintenance to avoid damage to the disk and consequently the computer system. Most times users are not aware of what they should do to maintain their system unless they are taught maintenance. However, to solve this problem, an automated maintenance software system can be developed that will enable the user to perform maintenance utilities such as disk clean up and defragmentation with few button clicks. This will enable the operating system and the computer system as a whole to function properly.  The software development methodology used is spiral model and the programming language used is Visual Basic 6.0.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
It is very important to maintain the operating system so as to create a system configuration that will provide a desired system response. In the context of this research study, an automated maintenance system for operating system is an interconnection of software modules, making up a system that enables users to monitor and perform maintenance activities on the computer system on which the operating system is installed so that it can give the desired system response. Just like a car and a house, a computer also needs maintenance to ensure its durability. Most times, users do not remember to perform maintenance operations on their systems hence, a control system that will ensure it is done becomes very necessary. The condition of a system or asset is the physical ability considered relevant for fulfillment of the functions of its functions. As the condition deteriorates due to aging, use and other factors, the system or asset may loose its capability to fulfill it function and a failure occurs. Maintenance assists organizations in controlling, preventing and reducing periods of unavailability (Arnold, 1992).
Preventive Maintenance Inspection (PMI) is very important to preserve the reliability of a computer system and it peripherals. Through careful inspection, cleaning, and maintenance, our computer workstations will perform better and last longer than those that are neglected. The PMI is a type of control system for the maintenance of computers that allow system users to detect serious problems before they occur and perhaps prevent system crashes and reduce equipment down time. Preventive maintenance is also periodic in nature. In fact, PMI sometimes stands for Periodic Maintenance Inspection. This information can be programmed so as to have a computerized system that will facilitate monitoring of computer maintenance activities.
1.2 Theoretical Background
         The computer system has grown to become an indispensable tool in the processing, storage, retrieval and transmission of information. In view of these vital functions of the computer system, it is adequate that the maintenance of computer systems is performed to enable the system last longer. To ensure this, computer maintenance engineers perform some regular routine activities to monitor the state of the computer system so that it performs its expected functions. In the light of the importance of computer maintenance activities, it is adequate for a control system for the maintenance of computers to be developed. It will go a long way to ensure that the systems are in good condition and it will also help to monitor the maintenance state of the systems.
