Short Answer Questions

1. Define the term computer Hardware with Examples:

• Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system that you can touch and manipulate. Examples include:
• CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer that performs calculations and tasks.
• RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for data and programs currently in use.
• Hard Drive: Permanent storage for data, programs, and the operating system.
• Motherboard: Circuit board that connects all components together.

2. What are motherboard and microprocessor as computer hardware?

• Motherboard: The main circuit board in a computer. It houses the CPU, RAM slots, and connectors for other hardware components.
• Microprocessor: Often synonymous with CPU, it's the actual processing unit that executes instructions and performs calculations.

3. What is bus? list the types of system bus?

• A communication system that transfers data between components inside a computer or between computers.
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  • Types of system buses:
    • Address Bus: Specifies the memory location to read from or write to.
    • Data Bus: Transfers actual data between the CPU, RAM, and other components.
    • Control Bus: Carries control signals to manage communication between different parts of the computer.

4. What is math processor? write its function.

• Math Processor: Also known as a coprocessor, it's a specialized processor designed to handle mathematical computations efficiently.
• Function: It accelerates mathematical operations like floating-point arithmetic, trigonometric calculations, and other complex mathematical functions.

5. What is primary memory? write the major types of computer memory?

• Primary Memory: Refers to the computer's main memory that is directly accessible by the CPU.
• Major types of computer memory:
  • RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for data and programs.
  • ROM (Read-Only Memory): Holds firmware and essential system instructions.
  • Cache Memory: Small, high-speed memory inside the CPU or close to it for faster data access.

6. Distinguish between Primary and Secondary Memory:

• Primary Memory: Fast and temporary storage directly accessible by the CPU (e.g., RAM).
• Secondary Memory: Slower, non-volatile storage used for long-term storage of data and programs (e.g., hard drives, SSDs).

7. what types of memories are RAM and ROM?

• RAM: Primary memory that is volatile and used for temporary storage.
• ROM: Primary memory that is non-volatile and holds firmware or permanent system instructions.

8. Write the Advantage of Magnetic Storage over Sequential Storage Device:

• Magnetic Storage (e.g., Hard Disk): Provides random access to data, allowing quick retrieval and modification of files compared to sequential storage devices like tape.

9. Why Hard Disk Is Popular as an Auxiliary Storage Device:

• Reasons: Hard disks offer large storage capacities, relatively fast access times, and affordable cost per gigabyte compared to other storage technologies like SSDs.

10. Why Flash Memory Is Popular These Days:

• Reasons: Flash memory (e.g., SSDs, USB drives) is popular due to its fast read/write speeds, durability (no moving parts), and compact size suitable for mobile devices and data storage.

11. Define optical storage with two example.

• Optical Storage: Uses laser technology to read and write data on optical discs.
• Examples: CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs.

12. Write Short Notes on Cache and Virtual Memory:

• Cache: Small, high-speed memory that stores frequently accessed data and instructions to reduce latency in CPU operations.
• Virtual Memory: Extends the available RAM by using space on the hard drive as an overflow area, swapping data between RAM and disk when needed.

13. Write the Advantages of Cloud Storage:

• Advantages: Provides scalable storage capacity, accessibility from anywhere with internet, automatic backups, and potential cost savings compared to maintaining local storage infrastructure.

14. Mention the Basic Types of Cloud Storage:

• Types: Public cloud storage (e.g., Amazon S3, Google Cloud Storage), private cloud storage (dedicated to a single organization), hybrid cloud storage (mix of public and private).

15. Define the term bit and bytes as memory measurement unit.

• Bit: Smallest unit of data in a computer, representing a binary digit (0 or 1).
• Byte: Typically consists of 8 bits and is the basic unit for storing data.

16. What are input devices? write few example.

• Input Devices: Hardware that allows users to enter data and instructions into a computer.
• Examples: Keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone, joystick.

17. What is the difference between text input and pointing input device.

• Text Input: Devices for entering alphanumeric characters (e.g., keyboard).
• Pointing Input: Devices for controlling a cursor or pointer on a screen (e.g., mouse, touchpad).

18. Write Short Notes on BCR and QR Scanner:

• BCR (Barcode Reader): Device that scans and interprets barcodes for inventory management and retail sales.
• QR Scanner (Quick Response Scanner): Specifically reads QR codes which can contain more information than traditional barcodes and are often used for marketing and payment purposes.

19. Define output devices with example

• Output Devices: Hardware that provides information in a human-readable form from a computer.
• Examples: Monitor, printer, speakers.

20. Differentiate between Soft Copy and Hard Copy Output Devices:

• Soft Copy: Output displayed on a screen (e.g., monitor), not tangible.
• Hard Copy: Output printed on paper or another physical medium (e.g., printer).

21. Why do departmental stores choose dot matrix printers rather than laser printer?

• Reasons: Dot matrix printers are cheaper to operate for printing invoices and receipts, can print carbon copies, and are durable in harsh environments compared to laser printers.

22. What is the Role of Modem in Data Transmission:

• Role: Modem (Modulator-Demodulator) converts digital signals from a computer into analog signals suitable for transmission over telephone lines (or vice versa), enabling communication between computers over a network.

23. what is port? differentiate between serial and parallel port?

• Port: Interface through which external devices are connected to a computer.
• Serial Port: Transmits data one bit at a time, suitable for connecting older peripherals like modems.
• Parallel Port: Transmits multiple bits simultaneously, historically used for printers and external storage devices but now largely replaced by USB ports for faster data transfer.