A+ Hardware Chapter 1 Quiz!

Microsoft Word is considered to be software because it is a computer program that provides word processing capabilities. It allows users to create, edit, and format documents. Unlike hardware components like monitors, memory chips, and mice, Microsoft Word is not a physical device but rather a program that runs on a computer system. It is designed to perform specific tasks and is an example of application software, which is a type of software that is used to perform specific functions on a computer.

The statement is true because from the Windows desktop, there are multiple ways to launch programs. These include using the Start menu, which provides a list of installed programs, using shortcut icons on the desktop that directly launch specific programs, using the Run dialog box to type in the name of a program, and using Windows Explorer or My Computer to navigate to the program's executable file and run it.

This statement is true because a power supply in a computer does not generate electricity from scratch. Instead, it takes the incoming electrical power from an outlet and converts it to the appropriate voltage levels that the computer components can handle. This conversion and reduction of voltage is necessary to ensure that the computer operates safely and efficiently.

The correct answer is "system board" because the motherboard is the main circuit board in a computer system that connects all the components together. It is also known as the system board because it houses the central processing unit (CPU), memory, and other essential components that make up the computer system.

Data and instructions in a computer are stored in binary form, which consists of two states - on and off, represented by 1 and 0. These individual units of data are called bits. A bit is the smallest unit of information in a computer and is used to represent the most basic form of data. Therefore, the correct answer is bits.

When a computer is turned off, the power supply to the RAM (Random Access Memory) is cut off, causing the stored information to be lost. RAM is a volatile memory, meaning it requires continuous power supply to retain data. Unlike permanent storage devices like hard drives or SSDs, RAM is designed to provide fast and temporary storage for running programs and data. Therefore, any data stored in RAM is not preserved when the computer is shut down.

DIMM stands for Dual In-Line Memory Module, and it is the most common type of RAM seen in today's computers. DIMM modules are used to provide temporary storage for data that the computer is actively using. They are widely used because they offer higher capacity and faster data transfer rates compared to other types of RAM. DIMM modules are also easy to install and upgrade, making them a popular choice for computer users.

Firmware is the correct answer because it refers to software that is permanently stored in a hardware device. It is often referred to as "embedded software" because it is tightly integrated with the hardware and cannot be easily modified or updated. This term "firmware" emphasizes the hybrid nature of the software, as it is both software and hardware combined.

Mac OS X provides superior Plug and Play capabilities and better support for multitasking. This means that when you connect a new device to a Mac computer, it is automatically recognized and configured without requiring any additional software or drivers. Additionally, Mac OS X allows users to run multiple applications simultaneously, switching between them seamlessly and efficiently. Therefore, the statement is true.

The arrow in the picture is pointing to the power connector on the motherboard. This is the port where the power supply unit (PSU) connects to provide power to the motherboard and its components. It is an essential connection for the computer to receive power and function properly.

The correct answer is chipset. The chipset is a group of microchips on the motherboard that control the flow of data and instructions to and from the processor. It also provides careful timing of activities. The chipset plays a crucial role in coordinating the various components of a computer system and ensuring efficient communication between them.

The Control Panel in Windows and System Preferences on a Mac serve similar functions as they both provide a centralized location for users to customize and manage various settings on their respective operating systems. System Preferences on a Mac allows users to modify system preferences, such as network settings, display preferences, user accounts, and more. Similarly, the Control Panel in Windows provides access to various settings and configurations, including network settings, display settings, user accounts, and more. Therefore, System Preferences on a Mac is the most similar option to the Control Panel in Windows.

A peripheral device is a device that is not directly installed on the motherboard but is connected to it in order to expand the functionality of the computer. Examples of peripheral devices include printers, scanners, keyboards, and mice. These devices are connected to the computer through various ports such as USB or Bluetooth, allowing the computer to interact with them and perform specific tasks. Unlike primary devices such as the CPU or RAM, peripheral devices are not essential for the basic functioning of the computer but enhance its capabilities.

The correct answer is BIOS. The basic instructions stored on the motherboard, which are necessary to start the computer and search for an operating system, are stored in special ROM chips called BIOS (Basic Input/Output System).

The correct answer is "bus". In computer networking, a bus refers to a system of pathways that allow different devices to communicate with each other. It is a shared communication channel that connects various components of a computer system. The bus carries data, control signals, and power between different parts of the system. It is also responsible for transmitting data using specific protocols and methods.

ROM stands for Read-Only Memory. It is a type of memory that retains its data even when the power is turned off. This makes it nonvolatile memory. Unlike RAM (Random Access Memory) which is volatile and loses its data when power is lost, ROM is used to store permanent instructions that are required to boot up a computer or electronic device. It is also used to store firmware and other essential data that should not be modified or erased. Therefore, ROM is the correct answer for the type of memory known as nonvolatile memory.

Plug and play is a feature that is present in both the BIOS and the OS. It is a standard that allows for the easy installation of new hardware devices. This means that when a new device is connected to the computer, the system automatically detects and configures it without the need for manual intervention. This feature simplifies the process of adding new hardware, making it more convenient for users to expand and upgrade their systems.

Primary storage refers to the main memory of a computer system, which is directly accessible by the CPU. It is used to store data and instructions that are actively being processed by the CPU. Primary storage is considered temporary because its contents are lost when the computer is powered off or restarted. This is in contrast to secondary storage devices like hard drives or solid-state drives, which retain data even when the power is turned off.

The term "frequency" is more accurate when referring to the speed of the CPU and the motherboard bus because it implies a digital or binary flow, where the signal switches on and off. The term "speed" implies a continuous flow, which is not applicable in this context. Therefore, using the term "frequency" better describes the on and off nature of the flow in these devices.

A hard drive is considered a secondary storage device because it is used to store data for long-term use, even when the computer is turned off. Primary storage, on the other hand, refers to the computer's main memory (RAM) which is volatile and loses its data when power is lost. Tertiary storage typically refers to offline storage options such as tape drives, which are less commonly used in modern computing. "Hard" is not a recognized storage type.

The two objects that are circled and enlarged on the motherboard are called chipsets. Chipsets are a collection of integrated circuits that are responsible for controlling various functions of the motherboard, such as communication between the CPU, memory, and peripheral devices. They play a crucial role in the overall performance and functionality of the motherboard.

Traces are the correct answer because they are used in circuit boards to facilitate the movement of data, instructions, and power between components. Traces are conductive pathways that are etched onto the surface of the board, allowing for the flow of electrical signals. They are essential for the proper functioning of electronic devices as they ensure the proper transmission of information and power throughout the circuit board.

Device Manager is not a type of software. It is a component of the Windows operating system that allows users to view and manage hardware devices connected to their computer. It is used to install, uninstall, and update device drivers, but it is not considered a standalone software program like BIOS firmware, device drivers, or operating systems.

The statement is false because the Windows System Tray does not contain quick launch icons. The System Tray, also known as the Notification Area, is located in the taskbar and displays system icons and notifications for various applications. Quick launch icons, on the other hand, are typically found on the taskbar itself and provide quick access to frequently used programs.

The main bus on the motherboard that communicates with the CPU, memory, and the chipset is commonly known as the system bus, front side bus, or host bus. However, the term "internal bus" is not commonly used to refer to this bus.