Computer Fundamentals - Questions and Answers

Multiple Choice
Fill in the Blanks
True or False
Short Answers
Long Answers
Conversions

1. Choose the correct option

a. Which of the following is not an output device?
i. Speaker ii. Mouse iii. Printer iv. Monitor
ii. Mouse
b. Which one of the following is the "brain" of a computer?
i. CPU ii. ALU iii. CU iv. MU
i. CPU
c. A collection of eight bits is called ______.
i. Byte ii. Word iii. Record iv. Nibble
i. Byte
d. Second-generation computers were manufactured using which technology?
i. Vacuum tubes ii. Transistors iii. ICs iv. None of these
ii. Transistors
e. Storage of 1KB means the following number of bytes:
i. 1000 ii. 1024 iii. 1064 iv. 1012
ii. 1024
f. Which of the following is not hardware?
i. Hard disk ii. Printer iii. Assembler iv. CPU
iii. Assembler
g. Fourth generation computers used:
i. Vacuum tubes ii. Transistors iii. Microprocessors iv. ICs
iii. Microprocessors
h. Which one of the following is a special-purpose application software?
i. Word-processing software ii. Operating system software iii. Compiler iv. Payroll system
iv. Payroll system
i. The base of Octal Number System is ______.
i. 2 ii. 10 iii. 16 iv. 8
iv. 8
j. Who is known as the father of the modern computer?
i. Charles Babbage ii. Blaise Pascal iii. Herman Hollerith iv. John Atanasoff
i. Charles Babbage

2. Fill in the blanks

a. The first-generation computers used ______ for storage.
Vacuum tubes
b. The third-generation computers replaced ______ with ______.
transistors, integrated circuits (ICs)
c. ______ are high speed temporary storage area.
Registers
d. ______ is the short form of binary digit.
Bit
e. A group of four bits is called ______.
Nibble
f. ______ holds data, programs and instructions for computer.
Memory
g. A microphone is ______ device.
an input
h. A ______ is set of instructions to perform a specific task.
program
i. ______ software are used to scan the computers for viruses.
Antivirus
j. The decimal system is composed of ______ digits.
10
k. ______ was the first fully electronic general-purpose computer.
ENIAC
l. ______ was one of the first commercially available computers.
UNIVAC I
m. An ______ converts the program written in assembly language into machine language.
assembler
n. Processing takes place in the ______.
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
o. The ALU performs the ______ and ______ operations.
arithmetic, logical
p. RAM is ______.
Random Access Memory
q. ROM stores basic ______ instructions to operate the computer.
input/output
r. ______ memory is an electronic non-volatile storage medium that can be electrically erased and reprogrammed.
Flash
s. Data and instructions are given to the computer through its ______ device.
input
t. Raw data is processed by the computer to produce ______.
information
u. Results are obtained from the computer through its ______ device.
output
v. 1 MB = ______ KB.
1024
w. ______ is an example of primary memory.
RAM
x. The octal number system uses the digits from ______ to ______.
0, 7
y. A computer system comprise of both ______ and ______.
hardware, software
z. ______ represents the set of programs that directs the computer how to work.
Software

3. State true or false

a. Another name for internal memory is primary memory.
True
b. A hard disk can store less data than CD.
False
c. A projector is input device.
False
d. Interpreter is an utility software.
False
e. The first-generation computers used transistors.
False
f. Atanasoff Berry Computer was the first electronic digital computer.
True
g. IBM 604 is an example of second-generation computers.
True
h. UNIVAC I was one of the first commercially available computers.
True
i. ROM is volatile.
False
j. A group of eight bits is called nibble.
False
k. Computer does not understand any language other than machine language.
True
l. Pen drives use flash memory to store data.
True
m. The monitor is a soft copy output device.
True
n. A compiler translates a program written in machine language into a program written high level language.
False
o. Bit is the smallest unit of data in a computer.
True

4. Short answer questions

a. Who is known as the 'father of the modern computer'?
Charles Babbage
b. What is a computer?
A computer is an electronic device that processes data according to a set of instructions to produce meaningful information.
c. Name a popular pointing device.
Mouse
d. Who invented Jacquard's loom?
Joseph Marie Jacquard
e. Give the full form of ENIAC and EDVAC.
ENIAC: Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer
EDVAC: Electronic Discrete Variable Automatic Computer
f. Give two examples of second-generation computers.
IBM 1401 and IBM 7090
g. What is AI?
AI stands for Artificial Intelligence, which refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines.
h. Give two examples of secondary memories.
Hard disk and USB flash drive
i. What does the CPU do?
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) executes instructions, performs calculations, and manages data flow in a computer.
j. Why we use secondary memory?
We use secondary memory to store data and programs permanently, even when the computer is turned off.
k. Give two examples of pointing devices?
Mouse and touchpad
l. Which input device is used to record sound?
Microphone
m. What is the use of barcode reader?
A barcode reader is used to read barcodes and convert them into digital information that can be processed by a computer.
n. What is system software? Give two examples.
System software is a type of computer program designed to run a computer's hardware and application programs. Examples: Operating system (Windows, Linux) and device drivers.
o. What is the role of GUI?
GUI (Graphical User Interface) provides a visual way to interact with computers using icons, menus, and windows instead of text-based commands.
p. What is the function of ALU?
The ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) performs arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, etc.) and logical operations (AND, OR, NOT, etc.).
q. What do you understand by memory word?
A memory word is a fixed-sized group of bits that are handled together as a unit by the processor.
r. What is the function of compiler?
A compiler translates the entire program written in a high-level language into machine language before execution.
s. What is the main limitation of a computer?
Computers lack intelligence and cannot think or make decisions on their own; they only follow instructions.
t. Mention three main features of a computer.
Speed, accuracy, and storage capacity
u. What is a computer program?
A computer program is a set of instructions that tells a computer what to do.
v. What are the fundamental components of a computer system?
Input unit, output unit, memory unit, control unit, and arithmetic logic unit
w. What is application software?
Application software is a program designed to help users perform specific tasks, such as word processing or web browsing.
x. Mention various categories of application software.
Word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation, graphics, and educational software
y. What do you understand by computer memory?
Computer memory is the electronic holding place for instructions and data that a computer needs to access quickly.
z. What is the binary equivalent of hexadecimal 15?
00010101 (or 10101)

5. Long answer questions

a. Mention four features of a computer system.

Four features of a computer system are:

  1. Speed: Computers can process millions of instructions per second.
  2. Accuracy: Computers perform calculations with high precision and accuracy.
  3. Storage: Computers can store large amounts of data for future use.
  4. Versatility: Computers can perform various types of tasks and operations.
b. Mention the characteristic features of third-generation computers.

Characteristic features of third-generation computers include:

  • Use of Integrated Circuits (ICs) instead of transistors
  • Smaller size and lower cost compared to previous generations
  • Increased speed and reliability
  • Use of high-level programming languages
  • Development of operating systems
  • Reduced power consumption
c. What do you understand by generation of computers? Mention two disadvantages of first-generation computers.

Computer generations refer to the different stages of technological development in computer hardware.

Two disadvantages of first-generation computers:

  1. They were very large in size and occupied a lot of space.
  2. They consumed a large amount of electricity and generated a lot of heat.
d. Describe the functioning of CPU.

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of the computer that performs all processing. Its functioning involves:

  1. Fetch: The CPU retrieves instructions from memory.
  2. Decode: The CPU interprets the instruction to determine what operation to perform.
  3. Execute: The CPU performs the actual operation.
  4. Store: The CPU writes the result back to memory or registers.

This cycle repeats continuously while the computer is running.

e. Draw a block diagram of a computer system.

A block diagram of a computer system typically includes:

  • Input Unit: Devices like keyboard, mouse
  • Central Processing Unit (CPU): Control Unit, Arithmetic Logic Unit, Registers
  • Memory Unit: Primary Memory (RAM, ROM), Secondary Memory (Hard disk, etc.)
  • Output Unit: Devices like monitor, printer

The flow of data is: Input → CPU → Memory → CPU → Output

f. What are the categories of printers? Explain.

Printers are categorized into two main types:

  1. Impact Printers: These printers work by striking an ink ribbon against the paper. Examples include dot matrix printers and line printers.
  2. Non-Impact Printers: These printers create images without physical contact with the paper. Examples include inkjet printers and laser printers.
g. What is a bus? Explain three types of buses.

A bus is a communication system that transfers data between components inside a computer or between computers.

Three types of buses are:

  1. Data Bus: Carries data between the processor, memory, and input/output devices.
  2. Address Bus: Carries memory addresses from the processor to other components.
  3. Control Bus: Carries control signals and timing signals between components.
h. What are functions of primary storage area?

Functions of primary storage area include:

  • Storing data and instructions that are currently being processed
  • Providing fast access to data for the CPU
  • Temporarily holding intermediate results of calculations
  • Storing the operating system and currently running applications
i. Explain three types of ROM.

Three types of ROM are:

  1. PROM (Programmable ROM): Can be programmed by the user once using a special device called a PROM programmer.
  2. EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM): Can be erased by exposing it to ultraviolet light and then reprogrammed.
  3. EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM): Can be erased and reprogrammed electrically without removing it from the circuit.
j. What is a purpose of a language processor? Explain the three language processors.

The purpose of a language processor is to convert programs written in high-level or assembly language into machine language that the computer can understand.

Three types of language processors are:

  1. Compiler: Translates the entire program into machine code before execution.
  2. Interpreter: Translates and executes the program line by line.
  3. Assembler: Converts assembly language programs into machine code.
k. Differentiate between data and information.
Data Information
Raw, unorganized facts and figures Processed, organized data with context
Does not have meaning on its own Has meaning and relevance
Input for the computer Output from the computer
Example: 25, 30, 35 Example: The average temperature is 30°C
l. Write short note on fifth-generation computers.

Fifth-generation computers are based on artificial intelligence and parallel processing. They use Ultra Large Scale Integration (ULSI) technology and are designed to solve complex problems using reasoning and decision-making capabilities. These computers aim to understand natural language and learn from experience. Examples include computers used in robotics and expert systems.

m. What are basic differences between the four generations of computers?
Generation Technology Characteristics
First Vacuum Tubes Large size, high power consumption, unreliable
Second Transistors Smaller, more reliable, less heat
Third Integrated Circuits Smaller, faster, more reliable
Fourth Microprocessors Very small, very fast, personal computers
n. Write a short note on MARK I.

MARK I, also known as IBM Automatic Sequence Controlled Calculator (ASCC), was one of the earliest general-purpose electromechanical computers. It was developed by Howard Aiken and built by IBM in 1944. MARK I used electromechanical relays and could perform basic arithmetic operations. It was 51 feet long, weighed about 5 tons, and used punched cards for input and output.

o. Explain the two main types of secondary memory.

The two main types of secondary memory are:

  1. Magnetic Storage: Uses magnetic fields to store data. Examples include hard disks and magnetic tapes.
  2. Optical Storage: Uses laser technology to read and write data. Examples include CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.
p. Describe various types of magnetic media.

Various types of magnetic media include:

  • Hard Disk: Uses rigid magnetic disks to store data. Provides large storage capacity and fast access.
  • Magnetic Tape: Uses plastic tape coated with magnetic material. Used for backup and archival storage.
  • Floppy Disk: Uses flexible magnetic disks enclosed in a plastic case. Now largely obsolete.
q. Mention some areas where computers are used widely.

Computers are used widely in:

  • Education (e-learning, research)
  • Healthcare (medical records, diagnosis)
  • Business (accounting, inventory management)
  • Entertainment (gaming, movies)
  • Communication (email, social media)
  • Science and research (data analysis, simulations)
  • Banking and finance (transactions, ATMs)
r. What are the major operations performed by a computer?

The major operations performed by a computer are:

  1. Input: Accepting data and instructions
  2. Processing: Performing calculations and logical operations
  3. Output: Producing results
  4. Storage: Saving data and programs for future use
s. Differentiate between the following pairs:

I. Input unit and Output unit

Input Unit Output Unit
Accepts data and instructions from the user Presents processed data to the user
Converts human-readable data to machine-readable form Converts machine-readable data to human-readable form
Examples: Keyboard, mouse, scanner Examples: Monitor, printer, speakers

II. RAM and ROM

RAM ROM
Volatile memory (loses data when power is off) Non-volatile memory (retains data when power is off)
Read and write memory Read-only memory
Used for temporary storage of data and programs Used for permanent storage of firmware

III. Soft copy and hard copy

Soft Copy Hard Copy
Electronic form of output Physical form of output
Displayed on screen Printed on paper
Examples: PDF file, webpage Examples: Printed document, photograph

IV. Primary memory and secondary memory

Primary Memory Secondary Memory
Volatile (except ROM) Non-volatile
Faster access Slower access
Directly accessible by CPU Not directly accessible by CPU
Examples: RAM, ROM Examples: Hard disk, USB drive

V. Impact-printer and non-impact printer

Impact Printer Non-Impact Printer
Makes physical contact with paper No physical contact with paper
Noisy operation Quiet operation
Can make carbon copies Cannot make carbon copies
Examples: Dot matrix, line printer Examples: Inkjet, laser printer

VI. System software and application software

System Software Application Software
Manages computer hardware Performs specific tasks for users
Runs in the background Runs in the foreground
Examples: Operating system, compiler Examples: Word processor, spreadsheet

VII. Compiler and interpreter

Compiler Interpreter
Translates entire program at once Translates program line by line
Creates executable file Does not create executable file
Faster execution Slower execution
Examples: C, C++ compilers Examples: Python, JavaScript interpreters

6. Conversions

a. Convert the following binary numbers to decimal numbers:

i. (1010)2 = (10)10

ii. (10101)2 = (21)10

iii. (11101)2 = (29)10

b. Convert the following decimal numbers to binary numbers:

i. (25)10 = (11001)2

ii. (100)10 = (1100100)2

iii. (145)10 = (10010001)2

c. Convert the following octal numbers to decimal numbers:

i. (472)8 = (314)10

ii. (145)8 = (101)10

iii. (72)8 = (58)10

d. Convert the following decimal numbers to octal numbers:

i. (92)10 = (134)8

ii. (106)10 = (152)8

iii. (213)10 = (325)8

e. Convert the following hexadecimal numbers to decimal numbers:

i. (A2)16 = (162)10

ii. (1C3)16 = (451)10

iii. (15A)16 = (346)10

f. Convert the following decimal numbers to hexadecimal numbers:

i. (269)10 = (10D)16

ii. (98)10 = (62)16

iii. (378)10 = (17A)16

g. Convert the following binary numbers to octal numbers:

i. (101101)2 = (55)8

ii. (1010110)2 = (126)8

iii. (111001)2 = (71)8

h. Convert the following binary numbers to hexadecimal numbers:

i. (10101001)2 = (A9)16

ii. (1110001110)2 = (38E)16

iii. (101111)2 = (2F)16