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Chapter 1

Computer System

Class 11 - Informatics Practices Preeti Arora



Fill in the Blanks

Question 1

A program which acts as an interface between the user and hardware is called Operating System.

Question 2

A collection of 4 bits is called a Nibble.

Question 3

Binary number system has digits as 0 and 1.

Question 4

A collection of 8 bits is called a Byte.

Question 5

Mouse is a pointing device that controls movement of the pointer on the screen.

Question 6

ROM is a non-volatile memory that stores some pre-written instructions and booting procedure.

Question 7

The data entered as input to the computer system is temporarily stored in RAM.

Question 8

The ALU in CPU is capable of performing arithmetic and logical operations.

Question 9

Control Unit controls the flow of data from input devices to memory and from memory to output devices.

Question 10

A Hard Disk is a non-volatile high-capacity storage device ranging from 1 GB to several terabytes.

Question 11

Cache memory speeds up access to data and instructions stored in RAM.

Question 12

Compiler comes under Language Processor.

Question 13

MS Office is a/an Application software.

Question 14

Operating System is an integrated set of specialized programs that is used to manage the overall operations of a computer.

Question 15

Data processing is a means of transforming Raw data into information.

Question 16

Any data or instruction entered into the memory of a computer is considered as an Input.

Question 17

Fifth Generation computers are based on Artificial Intelligence.

State True or False

Question 1

Control unit sends control signals to ALU and memory for carrying out the required operations.

Answer

True

Reason — The Control unit controls flow of data from input devices to memory and from memory to output devices. It sends control signals to ALU and memory for carrying out the required operations.

Question 2

A light pen is a pointing device that can be used to select anything on the computer screen by simply pointing at it or for drawing figures directly on the screen.

Answer

True

Reason — A light pen is a pointing device, basically a stylus, that can be used to select anything on the computer screen by simply pointing at it or for drawing figures directly on the screen.

Question 3

RAM operates much faster than cache memory.

Answer

False

Reason — Cache memory is a small memory that operates much faster than the primary memory or RAM.

Question 4

1 GB = 1024 KB.

Answer

False

Reason — 1 GB = 1024 MB and 1 MB = 1024 KB. Therefore, 1 GB = 1024 * 1024 KB.

Question 5

An operating system acts as an interface between the user and computer hardware.

Answer

True

Reason — An operating system is a program that acts as an interface between the user and hardware of the computer

Question 6

A computer has the capacity to perform calculations and other logical functions, whereas a calculator only performs arithmetic and geometrical operations.

Answer

True

Reason — A computer can perform a wide range of tasks, including complex calculations, logical functions, data processing, and running various applications. In contrast, a calculator is primarily designed for arithmetic and simple geometrical operations.

Question 7

Dot matrix printer uses laser technology to produce printed documents.

Answer

False

Reason — Laser printers use laser technology, while dot matrix printers use dots and strike an ink-soaked ribbon against paper to print, producing sound, and are called impact printers.

Question 8

The primary memory unit stores data and instructions permanently.

Answer

False

Reason — Primary memory stores data and programs temporarily as long as they are being executed as primary memory has limited storage capacity.

Question 9

ROM is volatile in nature.

Answer

False

Reason — ROM is permanent and non-volatile in nature.

Question 10

External memory allows the permanent storage of large quantities of data.

Answer

True

Reason — External memory devices, such as hard drives, solid-state drives, and flash drives, provide a permanent storage solution for large quantities of data.

Question 11

Registers are high-speed temporary storage areas found in the CPU.

Answer

True

Reason — Registers are small, high-speed temporary storage locations within the CPU.

Question 12

Cache memory is also known as CPU memory.

Answer

True

Reason — Cache memory is also known as CPU memory. It is a high speed memory available inside the CPU in order to speed up access to data and instructions stored in RAM.

Question 13

Data on hard disk is stored on sectors.

Answer

True

Reason — Data on a hard disk is stored in sectors. A sector is a small, fixed-size physical storage unit on the disk where data can be written and read.

Question 14

We can increase free space of disk by sending files to the Recycle Bin.

Answer

False

Reason — Sending files to the Recycle Bin does not increase the free space on the disk immediately. The files are still taking up space on the disk; they are just marked as deleted and moved to the Recycle Bin directory. To actually increase free space on the disk, we need to empty the Recycle Bin, which permanently deletes the files from the disk.

Multiple Choice Questions

Question 1

What is the full form of IPO?

  1. Input Process Output
  2. Input Print Output
  3. Internet Print Output
  4. Internet Process Output

Answer

Input Process Output

Reason — The full form of IPO is Input Process Output.

Question 2

Which is the fastest memory device?

  1. RAM
  2. Register
  3. Blu-ray Disc
  4. Hard Disk

Answer

Register

Reason — Registers are the fastest memory device because they are small amounts of on-chip memory built directly into the CPU, providing immediate access to the data they store.

Question 3

What is the full form of RAM?

  1. Read Access Memory
  2. Random Access Memory
  3. Raw Access Memory
  4. Right Access Memory

Answer

Random Access Memory

Reason — The full form of RAM is Random Access Memory.

Question 4

ROM is a

  1. volatile memory
  2. non-volatile memory
  3. Both (i) and (ii)
  4. None of these

Answer

non-volatile memory

Reason — ROM is a permanent and non-volatile memory as it does not lose its contents when the power is switched off or interrupted.

Question 5

What is an information?

  1. Processed data
  2. Collection of programs
  3. Collection of instructions
  4. None of these

Answer

Processed data

Reason — Information is defined as processed data, organized in a particular manner to generate meaningful piece of data.

Question 6

Examples of utility software are:

  1. Text editor
  2. Backup
  3. Disk defragmenter
  4. All of these

Answer

All of these

Reason — Examples of utility software are text editor, disk defragmenter, backup software, compression software, antivirus software.

Question 7

Which of the following are sub-units that make the CPU?

  1. Control unit
  2. ALU
  3. Both (i) and (ii)
  4. None of these

Answer

Both (i) and (ii)

Reason — CPU consists of Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), Control Unit (CU) and registers.

Question 8

Which smaller unit of the CPU directs and coordinates all activities within it and determines the sequence in which instructions are executed, sending instructions sequence to other smaller units?

  1. CU
  2. ALU
  3. Processor
  4. All of these

Answer

CU

Reason — Control unit coordinates all activities within it and determines the sequence in which instructions are executed, sending instructions sequence to other smaller units.

Question 9

Which of the following memory types will store data or information permanently?

  1. RAM
  2. Cache
  3. Hard disk
  4. All of these

Answer

Hard disk

Reason — Hard disk is a external storage device and hence it will store the data or information permanently.

Question 10

Operating system is an example of

  1. General purpose application software
  2. Customized application software
  3. System software
  4. Language processor

Answer

System software

Reason — Operating System is an example of System software.

Question 11

Which of the following makes available its source code?

  1. Freeware
  2. Free Software
  3. OSS
  4. FLOSS

Answer

OSS

Reason — Open-Source Software (OSS) makes its source code available to users, allowing them to view, modify, and distribute the code as per their requirements.

Question 12

1 TB is equivalent to:

  1. 210 bytes
  2. 210 MB
  3. 210 GB
  4. 210 KB

Answer

210 GB

Reason — 1 TB is equivalent to 210 GB.

Question 13

Storage of 1 KB means the following number of bytes:

  1. 1000
  2. 964
  3. 1024
  4. 1064

Answer

1024

Reason — 1 KB = 1024 bytes.

Question 14

One Megabyte is equivalent to:

  1. 210 bytes
  2. 220 bytes
  3. 230 bytes
  4. None of these

Answer

None of the above

Reason — 1 MB = 1024 KB = 1024 * 1024 bytes = 10,48,576 bytes.

Question 15

Which input device is used to provide audio data to a computer?

  1. Speaker
  2. Webcam
  3. Microphone
  4. All of these

Answer

Microphone

Reason — A microphone is an input device used to provide audio data to a computer.

Question 16

When power is switched off and data which is not saved is lost forever, such type of memory is classified as:

  1. Volatile
  2. Non-volatile
  3. Impact
  4. Non-impact

Answer

Volatile

Reason — Volatile memory is a type of computer memory that loses its contents when the power is turned off.

Question 17

Which output device is used for producing highly accurate, very large drawings and posters?

  1. Laser Printer
  2. Dot Matrix Printer
  3. Inkjet Printer
  4. Plotter

Answer

Plotter

Reason — Plotters are output devices that are used for producing high quality images, engineering drawings, architectural blueprints etc. They support printing of large-sized papers and large-scale graphics.

Question 18

Which optical media uses blue laser technology to read and write data on the media surface?

  1. DVD
  2. CD
  3. DVD-ROM
  4. Blu-ray Disc

Answer

Blu-ray Disc

Reason — A Blu-ray Disc (BD) is a high-capacity optical disc medium developed for recording, rewriting and playing back high-definition video. It uses blue laser technology, which allows for storing large amounts of data at greater density.

Question 19

............... is capable of recognizing a pre-specified type of mark made with dark pencil or ink.

  1. OCR
  2. OMR
  3. MICR
  4. Barcode Reader

Answer

OMR

Reason — Optical Mark Reader (OMR) is capable of recognizing a pre-specified type of mark made with dark pencil or ink.

Question 20

............... reads a sequence of lines of different heights and widths that are printed on various types of products.

  1. OCR
  2. OMR
  3. MICR
  4. Barcode Reader

Answer

Barcode Reader

Reason — A barcode is a collection or a sequence of lines of different heights and widths that are printed on various types of products.

Question 21

............... uniquely identifies a person on the basis of physical or behavioural traits such as fingerprints, DNA, etc.

  1. Touch screen
  2. Biometric sensor
  3. Optical character reader
  4. QR code

Answer

Biometric sensor

Reason — Biometric sensor uniquely identifies a person on the basis of physical or behavioral traits such as eyes, fingerprints, DNA, etc.

Question 22

An antivirus software is an example of:

  1. Application software
  2. System software
  3. Utility software
  4. None of these

Answer

Utility software

Reason — An antivirus software is an example of utility software.

Question 23

Integrated Circuits (ICs) were introduced in which generation of computers?

  1. First generation
  2. Second generation
  3. Third generation
  4. Fourth generation

Answer

Third generation

Reason — Integrated Circuits (ICs) were introduced in third generation of computers.

Question 24

Data capturing refers to:

  1. Collecting data from different sources in printed form
  2. Commenting on social media
  3. Sharing and collaborating data online
  4. Collecting data from different sources in digital form

Answer

Collecting data from different sources in digital form

Reason — Data capturing refers to the process of collecting and gathering data from various sources in a digital format.

Question 25

ALU + CU = ............... .

  1. MU
  2. IPO
  3. CPU
  4. Operating System (OS)

Answer

CPU

Reason — ALU + CU = CPU. ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) and CU (Control Unit) are two essential components of a computer's Central Processing Unit (CPU).

Question 26

..............., also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional physical objects from a computer model or digital file.

  1. 3D printing
  2. Laser printing
  3. Scanning
  4. Plotting

Answer

3D printing

Reason — 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional physical objects from a computer model or digital file.

Assertions and Reasons

Question 1

Assertion (A): A computer is an electronic device which is versatile in nature and can store, process and retrieve data.

Reasoning (R): Usually, computers can perform a variety of tasks which make life more comfortable.

  1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
  2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  3. A is true but R is false.
  4. A is false but R is true.

Answer

Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

Explanation
A computer is an electronic device which is versatile in nature, capable of storing, processing, and retrieving data. Computers can perform a variety of tasks, making life more comfortable by enhancing efficiency, productivity, and convenience in various aspects of daily activities.

Question 2

Assertion (A): Random Access Memory (RAM) is volatile and stores data/programs currently in use.

Reasoning (R): RAM is a memory that retains its contents even after the system is switched off.

  1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
  2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  3. A is true but R is false.
  4. A is false but R is true.

Answer

A is true but R is false.

Explanation
Random Access Memory (RAM) is used for primary storage in computers to hold active information of data and instructions. RAM is a volatile memory as it does not store data and instructions permanently and loses its contents when the power is switched off or interrupted.

Question 3

Assertion (A): Data is stored inside RAM for future retrieval.

Reasoning (R): Secondary memory holds data inside the computer system permanently.

  1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
  2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  3. A is true but R is false.
  4. A is false but R is true.

Answer

A is false but R is true.

Explanation
Data is not stored inside RAM for future retrieval because RAM (Random Access Memory) is a volatile memory as it does not store data and instructions permanently and loses its contents when the power is switched off or interrupted. Secondary memory, on the other hand, holds data permanently within the computer system, as it includes non-volatile storage.

Question 4

Assertion (A): Compilers, Interpreters and Assemblers are categorized as Language translators.

Reasoning (R): A Language translator is a special system software that is used to translate the program written in high-level language (or Assembly language) into machine code.

  1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
  2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  3. A is true but R is false.
  4. A is false but R is true.

Answer

Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

Explanation
A language translator is special system software used to translate programs written in high-level languages into machine code. Language processors or translators can be any of the following three types: compilers, interpreters, and assemblers.

Question 5

Assertion (A): An Operating System (OS) acts as an interface between a user and a computer system.

Reasoning (R): An Operating System provides a user-friendly interface that allows users to interact with the computer system and access various hardware devices, enabling them to communicate with each other.

  1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
  2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  3. A is true but R is false.
  4. A is false but R is true.

Answer

Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

Explanation
An Operating System (OS) is a program that acts as an interface between a user and the hardware of a computer system. It provides a user-friendly interface, allowing users to interact with the computer system and access various hardware devices, enabling communication between them.

Question 6

Assertion (A): Utility software performs tasks to allow smooth functioning of a computer system.

Reasoning (R): Without utility software, it is not possible for a computer system to work.

  1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
  2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  3. A is true but R is false.
  4. A is false but R is true.

Answer

A is true but R is false.

Explanation
Utility software performs tasks that contribute to the smooth functioning of a computer system, such as disk cleanup, antivirus protection, and file management. While a computer system can still work without utility software, this software helps manage, maintain, and control computer resources.

Question 7

Assertion (A): Cache memory is an extremely fast memory that is placed between the CPU and RAM.

Reasoning (R): Cache memory temporarily stores frequently used instructions and data for quicker processing by the Central Processing Unit (CPU) of a computer.

  1. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
  2. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
  3. A is true but R is false.
  4. A is false but R is true.

Answer

Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

Explanation
Cache memory is a small, high-speed memory located between the CPU and RAM. It operates much faster than primary memory (RAM) and temporarily stores frequently used instructions and data for quicker processing by the Central Processing Unit (CPU) of a computer.

Solutions to Unsolved Questions

Question 1

Define a computer.

Answer

A computer is an electronic device that accepts a set of instructions in the form of a program, executes it and displays the output to the user.

Question 2

How does an ALU work?

Answer

The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) makes all calculations and comparisons. The ALU performs the arithmetic (+, -, *, /) and logical (AND, OR, NOT, XOR) operations sent from the memory and returns the result to the memory. The result of the logical operations is either true or false and helps the computer in decision-making.

Question 3

Briefly explain the working of a control unit.

Answer

The control unit controls the flow of data from input devices to memory and from memory to output devices. It controls and guides the interpretation, flow and manipulation of all data and information. It does not actually process the data, instead, it sends control signals to ALU and memory for carrying out the required operations.

Question 4

What is software?

Answer

Software is the collection of computer programs, procedures and documentation that performs different tasks in a computer system.

Question 5

List some of the hardware in computer equipment.

Answer

Some hardware components found in computer equipment are:

  1. CPU (Central Processing Unit)
  2. Motherboard
  3. RAM (Random Access Memory)
  4. Keyboard
  5. Mouse
  6. Printer
  7. Monitor

Question 6

Name the input or output device used to do the following:

(a) To output audio

(b) To enter textual data

(c) To make hard copy of a text file

(d) To display the data or information

(e) To enter audio-based command

(f) To build 3D models

(g) To assist a visually impaired individual in entering data

Answer

(a) To output audio — Speakers (output device)

(b) To enter textual data — Keyboard (input device)

(c) To make hard copy of a text file — Printer (output device)

(d) To display the data or information — Monitor (output device)

(e) To enter audio-based command — Microphone (input device)

(f) To build 3D models — 3D Mouse or Graphics Tablet (input device)

(g) To assist a visually impaired individual in entering data — Braille Keyboard (input device)

Question 7

"Hardware is of no use without software and software cannot be used without hardware." Explain.

Answer

Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system, such as the CPU, memory, and storage devices, which provide the infrastructure for computing operations. However, without software — the programs and applications that instruct hardware how to function — these components cannot perform meaningful tasks. Conversely, software requires hardware to execute its instructions. Software encompasses operating systems, applications, and utilities that enable users to interact with computers and perform specific tasks. These programs rely on hardware to provide processing power, storage, and input/output capabilities necessary for running software effectively. Together, hardware and software make the computer system function.

Question 8

How can software be classified? Name at least one software in each of the categories.

Answer

Depending on the mode of interaction with hardware and functions to be performed, software can be broadly classified into three categories:

  1. System Software — System software refers to the programs that control internal computer operations and make best use of the hardware. For example, operating system, language translators etc.
  2. Application Software — Application Software is the set of programs necessary to carry out operations for a specified application. For example, word processing software, spreadsheet software etc.
  3. Utility Software — Utility software helps to manage, maintain and control computer resources. For example, text editor, antivirus software etc.

Question 9

What is an operating system? Write names of any two popular operating systems.

Answer

An operating system is an integrated set of programs that manages various resources and the overall operations of a computer system. It is designed to support the various activities of the computer system in a systematic way.

For example, Microsoft Windows, Linux, etc.

Question 10

Specify the measuring units of memory.

Answer

The measuring units of memory are bit (elementary unit), byte, Kilobyte, Megabyte, Gigabyte, Terabyte, Petabyte, Exabyte, Zettabyte, Yottabyte, Brontobyte, Geopbyte.

Question 11

What are output devices? Give some examples.

Answer

Output devices are the devices that produce the output generated by the CPU in human understandable form, such as audio, video, text or hard copy, viz. printed documents.

For example: Visual Display Unit (VDU)/Monitor, LCD Screen, LED Screen, OLED, Printer, Speakers, Plotters etc.

Question 12

List different types of impact printers.

Answer

The different types of impact printers are as follows:

  1. Dot Matrix Printers
  2. Daisy Wheel Printers
  3. Line Printers
  4. Band Printers
  5. Drum Printers

Question 13

Briefly explain the working of a laser printer.

Answer

Laser printers use laser technology to produce printed documents. They use a dry form of ink called toner which is made up of tiny particles. They are very fast and are used for high-quality prints.

Question 14

Explain in brief the working of a touch screen.

Answer

Touch screen is a type of display screen which allows interaction with computer through a touch-sensitive transparent panel covering the entire screen without any intermediate device. The touch screen uses a technology that enables the users to touch the screen with fingers to select objects.

Question 15

What are plotters? List the different types of plotters.

Answer

Plotters are output devices that are used for producing high quality images, engineering drawings, architectural blueprints etc.

The different types of plotters are as follows:

  1. Pen Plotters
  2. Flatbed Plotters
  3. Drum Plotters

Question 16

What are secondary storage devices? Give examples.

Answer

Secondary storage devices are used to store a large amount of data permanently which is not possible by using the primary or main memory.

For examples, Hard disk, Blu-ray disc, Compact disc, Magnetic tapes, DVD, USB pen drive, memory cards etc.

Question 17

What is the major difference between optical and magnetic discs?

Answer

Optical Discs use laser technology to read and write data. The data is encoded on the disc surface as tiny pits and lands, which are read by a laser beam.

Magnetic Discs use magnetic fields to store data. The data is recorded on a magnetic surface, such as that found in hard disk drives, in the form of magnetic patterns.

Question 18

List the differences between a CD and a DVD.

Answer

CDDVD
CD stands for Compact Disc.DVD stands for Digital Versatile Disc.
The storage capacity varies from 650 MB to 900 MB.A DVD can hold 4.7 GB to 17 GB of data.
CDs are made of a polycarbonate disc with a reflective aluminum layer on one side.DVDs are made of a polycarbonate disc with a reflective aluminum layer on both sides.
CDs are more likely to be scratched or damaged, which can cause data loss.DVDs are more durable than CDs as they have a protective layer on both sides of the disc.

Question 19

Explain the statement, "Functioning of a computer is similar to the way the human brain functions."

Answer

The statement "Functioning of a computer is similar to the way the human brain functions" compares how both systems process information. Computers use input devices like keyboards and mice to receive data, and output devices like monitors and printers to present results. Similarly, the human brain receives input through sensory organs such as the eyes, ears, and skin, and produces responses through actions and speech. Both systems use internal processes—computers use the CPU and memory for data handling, while the brain processes sensory information and stores memories.

Question 20

Explain in brief the basic architecture of a computer.

Answer

A computer system comprises of five basic components:

  1. Input Unit — An input unit takes the input and converts it into binary form so that it can be understood by the computer. For example, keyboard, mouse etc.
  2. Output Unit — It converts the output in binary form to human readable form. For example, monitor, speakers etc.
  3. Central Processing Unit (CPU) — It is responsible for processing the data and instructions. It consists of two parts:
    1. Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU) — It performs all the four arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) and some logical operations (less than, greater than, less than equal to, greater than equal to, equal to, not equal to).
    2. Control Unit (CU) — It acts as a supervisor by controlling and guiding the operation taking place.
  4. Primary Memory — It is the internal volatile­ memory where data and instructions are stored during processing. It is of two types: Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read Only Memory (ROM).
  5. Secondary Storage Unit — It refers to the external storage devices which provide permanent memory to the computer system. For example, hard disk, compact disk, flash drive etc.

Question 21

What is an input unit? Give its significance.

Answer

An input unit takes the input and converts it into binary form which is directly understood by the computer.

Computers only understand binary language that uses just two symbols: 1 for ON and 0 for OFF. The input unit translates raw data from external sources into binary language that the computer understands. Without this conversion, the computer would not be able to understand or process the data provided.

Question 22

List and briefly explain all the components of a CPU.

Answer

There are mainly three components of a CPU:

  1. Arithmetic and Logical Unit (ALU) — All calculations and comparisons are made in this unit. The ALU performs the arithmetic (+, -, *, /) and logical (AND, OR, NOT, XOR) operations sent from the memory, performs specific operations (addition, subtraction etc) and the result is returned to the memory. The result of the logical operations is either true or false and helps the computer in decision-making.

  2. Control Unit (CU) — The CU controls the flow of data from input devices to memory and from memory to output devices. It controls and guides the interpretation, flow and manipulation of all data and information. It does not actually process the data, instead, it sends control signals to ALU and memory for carrying out the required operations.

  3. Registers — These are high-speed temporary storage areas found in CPU. Registers work as per the instructions given by the control unit (CU), storing instructions and data immediately required for performing an operation. The CPU places the highest priority jobs/data inside registers for faster execution/processing. Registers can be of different sizes (16 bits, 32 bits, 64 bits and so on) and each register inside the CPU has a specific function like storing data, storing an instruction, storing address of a location in memory etc.

Question 23

Why is a control unit referred to as the central controller of a computer?

Answer

A control unit is referred to as the central controller of a computer because it controls the flow of data from input devices to memory and from memory to output devices. It controls and guides the interpretation, flow, and manipulation of all data and information, sending control signals to the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) and memory to execute the required operations effectively.

Question 24

Does an ALU work independently or in coordination with some other unit? Give reasons.

Answer

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) does not work independently; it operates in coordination with the control unit and memory. The control unit fetches instructions from memory and decodes them, directing the ALU to perform specific operations such as addition, subtraction, or logical comparisons. The results produced by the ALU are then stored back in memory or used by other components of the computer system.

Question 25

Compare data and information.

Answer

DataInformation
Data refers to raw facts, figures, or values that are collected and stored without any specific context or interpretation. It is unprocessed and lacks meaning on its own.Information is processed, organized, and meaningful data that has been analyzed, interpreted, and structured to provide context, relevance, and value. It is derived from data through analysis and is used to make decisions or gain insights.
Data is unstructured, discrete.Information is structured, organized.

Question 26

Give the difference between an impact printer and a non-impact printer.

Answer

Impact PrintersNon-Impact Printers
It forms characters by striking a print hammer against an inked ribbon.It forms characters without making direct contact with the paper.
It uses either ribbon or carbon paper.It uses ink cartridges.
It makes noise while printing.It prints smoothly on the paper.

Question 27

Discuss the following devices:

(a) Light Pen

(b) CD-ROM

(c) DVD

Answer

(a) Light Pen — A light pen is a pointing device, basically a stylus, that can be used to select anything on the computer screen by simply pointing at it or for drawing figures directly on the screen. It consists of a photocell mounted on a pen-shaped tube and is capable of sensing a position on the screen when its tip touches the screen. Clicking is performed by pressing the pen on the screen. A light pen is mostly used by engineers, architects or designers.

(b) CD-ROM — Compact Disc is a thin optical disc which is commonly used to store audio and video data. The capacity of a standard 120 mm CD is 700 MB. Originally, CD-ROM drives had transfer rates of only 150 KB/sec which was considered very slow. The newest CD-ROM drives can transfer up to 72x, i.e., 10800 KB/sec.

(c) DVD — Digital Versatile Disc or Digital Video Disc is an optical disc storage device. It can be recorded on single side or on both sides. Its capacity may range from 4.7 GB to 17.08 GB.

Question 28

Describe the terms hardware and software along with their components.

Answer

Hardware are physical tangible (which can be touched) components of a computer like motherboard, memory devices, monitor, keyboard, etc. while software are a set of programs or instructions, intangible components of a computer like operating system, application software, utility software, etc.

Question 29

Write a short note on Freeware software.

Answer

The term freeware is generally used for software, which is available free of cost and which allows copying and further distribution, but not modification and whose source code is not available. The right to use the software is limited to certain types of users for instance, for private and non-commercial purposes.

For example, TeamViewer, VLC Media Player etc.

Question 30

Discuss the various categories of a printer.

Answer

The various categories of printer are as follows:

  1. Impact Printers — In impact printers there is a mechanical contact between printer head and paper.
    1. Dot Matrix Printer — A dot matrix printer also known as Serial printer, prints one character at a time. It uses dots to create an image. This printer prints characters by striking an ink-soaked ribbon against the paper which produces sound and is termed as impact printer. It has low operating cost and can be used to generate carbon copies also. This printer prints one line of text at a time and can only print low-resolution graphics.
  2. Non-impact Printers — In non-impact printers there is no mechanical contact between printer head and paper.
    1. Inkjet/Deskjet/Bubble Jet Printers — An inkjet printer is the most common type of low-cost printer. It uses the technique of spreading quick-dry ink on paper. The ink is stored in the form of cartridges of different colors (red, green, black etc). These printers generate high-quality prints and are ideal for small offices and homes.
    2. Laser Printers — These printers use laser technology to produce printed documents. They use dry form of ink called toner which is made up of tiny particles. They are very fast and are used for high-quality prints.
  3. 3D Printers — They are used to build 3D models. 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a method of creating a three-dimensional object layer by layer using a computer-aided design.

Question 31

What is the need of RAM? How does it differ from ROM?

Answer

RAM (Random Access Memory) is used for primary storage in computes to hold active information of data and instructions.

Difference Between RAM and ROM:

RAMROM
It stands for Random Access Memory.It stands for Read Only Memory.
It is a volatile or temporary memory.It is a non-volatile or permanent memory.
Data gets erased when the power is switched off.Data is stored permanently.
It is faster than ROM.It is slower than RAM.
It is used in the normal operations of a computer after starting up and loading the operating system.A ROM chip is used primarily in the start-up process of a computer.

Question 32

Differentiate between proprietary software and freeware software. Name two software of each type.

Answer

Proprietary softwareFreeware software
Proprietary software is owned and controlled by a single entity (company or individual), and its source code is not publicly available.Freeware Software is free to use, but ownership remains with the developer, and its source code may not be publicly available.
Its use is regulated and further distribution and modification is either forbidden or requires special permission by the supplier or vendor.This allows copying and further distribution, but not modification.
Examples: Microsoft Windows, Tally etc.Examples: TeamViewer, VLC Media Player etc.

Question 33

What are memory cards? Discuss their types.

Answer

Memory cards are small, portable storage devices used to store data, such as photos, videos, music, and other files, in electronic devices like cameras, smartphones, tablets, and laptops and are also called flash cards.

The types of memory cards are as follows:

  1. Secure Digital (SD) cards — SD cards are widely used in cameras, smartphones, and other devices. They come in various capacities, from a few hundred megabytes to several gigabytes.

  2. MicroSD cards — A smaller version of SD cards, microSD cards are used in devices like smartphones, tablets, and action cameras.

  3. CompactFlash (CF) cards — CF cards are larger and faster than SD cards, making them suitable for professional photographers and high-end cameras.

Question 34

Convert the following into bytes:

(a) 2 MB

(b) 3.7 GB

(c) 1.2 TB

Answer

(a) 2 MB — 2 MB * 1024 KB/MB * 1024 bytes/KB = 2 * 1024 * 1024 = 2,097,152 bytes

(b) 3.7 GB — 3.7 GB * 1024 MB/GB * 1024 KB/MB * 1024 bytes/KB = 3.7 * 1024 * 1024 * 1024 = 3,973,078,528 bytes

(c) 1.2 TB — 1.2 TB * 1024 GB/TB * 1024 MB/GB * 1024 KB/MB * 1024 bytes/KB = 1.2 * 1024 * 1024 * 1024 * 1024 = 1,319,843,208,192 bytes

Question 35

What are the security threats involved when we throw away electronic gadgets that are non-functional?

Answer

Discarding non-functional electronic gadgets without properly deleting the stored data permanently by proper tools can lead to significant security risks, including potential data breaches where personal and sensitive information can be recovered and exploited, resulting in identity theft and data leaks.

Question 36

Write down the type of memory needed to do the following:

  1. To store data permanently,
  2. To execute a program,
  3. To store instructions which cannot be overwritten.

Answer

  1. To store data permanently — Secondary memory (e.g., Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Solid State Drive (SSD), Flash Memory)
  2. To execute a program — Random Access Memory (RAM)
  3. To store instructions which cannot be overwritten — Read-Only Memory (ROM)
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