What Is A Computer? And Basic Computer Maintenance

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| By Rosemary Storaska
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Quizzes Created: 2 | Total Attempts: 4,328
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  • 1/35 Questions

    A computer is an electronic device that allows you to manipulate data.

    • True
    • False
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About This Quiz

This test covers basic computer maintenance principles for IT Fundamentals, 9th grade course.

What Is A Computer? And Basic Computer Maintenance - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    Software represents any part of the computer that has a physical component.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    The given statement is false. Software does not have a physical component. It refers to the programs, data, and instructions that tell the computer what to do. Software is intangible and is stored electronically, not physically.

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  • 3. 

    Gaming consoles can be considered a computer.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Gaming consoles can be considered a computer because they share similar functionalities and components. Both gaming consoles and computers have processors, memory, storage, and the ability to run software applications. Gaming consoles also have the capability to connect to the internet, browse the web, and perform tasks beyond gaming. Therefore, it is accurate to say that gaming consoles can be considered a type of computer.

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  • 4. 

    Which of the following household items can be considered to be a computer?

    • A programmable washing machine

    • Smart TV's

    • Smart Phone

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    All of the given household items can be considered as computers. A programmable washing machine can be considered a computer as it has the ability to execute programmed instructions. Smart TVs are also considered computers as they have a built-in operating system and can connect to the internet. Similarly, smartphones are small handheld computers that can perform various tasks like browsing the internet, running applications, and processing data. Therefore, all three options mentioned in the question can be considered as computers.

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  • 5. 

    What makes a laptop different from a desktop PC?

    • :Laptops are portable

    • Laptops have a built-in monitor

    • Laptops have a built-in keyboard and touchpad

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    A laptop is different from a desktop PC because it is portable, meaning it can be easily carried from one place to another. Additionally, laptops have a built-in monitor, eliminating the need for an external display. They also have a built-in keyboard and touchpad, making it more convenient to use without the need for external peripherals. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above" because all the given options are characteristics that differentiate a laptop from a desktop PC.

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  • 6. 

    A mobile device is simply a hand-held computer.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    A mobile device refers to any portable electronic device that can perform various functions similar to a computer. It includes smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. These devices have advanced technology and capabilities that allow users to access the internet, send and receive emails, download and use applications, and perform other computing tasks. Therefore, it is accurate to say that a mobile device is essentially a hand-held computer.

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  • 7. 

    Tablet computers can do everything a desktop PC can do?

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Tablet computers cannot do everything a desktop PC can do. While tablets are portable and convenient for tasks like browsing the internet, checking emails, and watching videos, they have limitations compared to desktop PCs. Tablets usually have less processing power, limited storage capacity, and may not support certain software or hardware. Additionally, tablets may not have the same level of multitasking capabilities as desktop PCs. Therefore, it is not accurate to say that tablet computers can do everything a desktop PC can do.

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  • 8. 

    Smart phone networks today are generally available in 2G vs. 3G, 4G and LTE.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Smart phone networks today are generally available in 2G, 3G, 4G, and LTE. This statement contradicts the correct answer, which is "False."

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  • 9. 

    What is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your computer?

    • Dust inside your CPU every week

    • Maintain a large browser history

    • Clean your monitor with water frequently

    • Consistently back up data found on your hard drive

    Correct Answer
    A. Consistently back up data found on your hard drive
    Explanation
    Consistently backing up data found on your hard drive is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your computer. This ensures that your important files and documents are safe and protected in case of any hardware failure, accidental deletion, or malware attack. Regularly backing up your data helps to prevent data loss and allows for easy recovery in case of any unforeseen circumstances. It is a crucial practice to ensure the security and integrity of your computer's data.

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  • 10. 

    You should defrag your computer monthly in order to keep it running smoothly.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Regularly defragmenting your computer helps optimize its performance by rearranging fragmented data on the hard drive. Over time, as files are created, deleted, and modified, they can become fragmented, meaning that parts of a file are scattered across different locations on the hard drive. This can slow down the computer's performance as it takes longer to access fragmented files. By defragmenting the computer monthly, you can consolidate the fragmented files, allowing for faster and more efficient access to data, ultimately keeping the computer running smoothly.

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  • 11. 

    Uninstalling programs on your computer that you no longer use has little influence on its speed.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Uninstalling programs on your computer that you no longer use can actually have a significant influence on its speed. When you uninstall unnecessary programs, you free up valuable storage space and reduce the burden on your computer's resources. This can result in improved performance and faster operation. Therefore, the statement that uninstalling programs has little influence on computer speed is false.

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  • 12. 

    Disk Management is used to manage the drives installed in a computer - like hard disk drives.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Disk Management is a utility in the Windows operating system that allows users to manage and organize their disk drives. It provides features like creating, deleting, and formatting partitions, changing drive letters, and extending or shrinking volumes. Since it specifically deals with managing drives, including hard disk drives, the statement is true.

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  • 13. 

    Computer monitors get dusty quickly because:

    • The fan inside the CPU attracts the dust from outside

    • they create a huge static field around them that "attracts" the dust to it

    • Most computer monitors are black and it shows the dust quicker

    • Air-conditioning and window fans create more dust

    Correct Answer
    A. they create a huge static field around them that "attracts" the dust to it
    Explanation
    Computer monitors get dusty quickly because they create a huge static field around them that "attracts" the dust to it.

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  • 14. 

    Dust inside your computer can slow down your computer and cause some computer components to fail.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Dust inside a computer can indeed slow down its performance and even lead to component failure. When dust accumulates on the internal components of a computer, it can clog the fans and vents, preventing proper airflow and causing the system to overheat. This can result in reduced performance, system crashes, and potentially permanent damage to the hardware. Regular cleaning and maintenance of a computer is essential to prevent dust buildup and ensure optimal performance and longevity of the system.

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  • 15. 

    Which of the below represent the appropriate steps to take in cleaning the inside of your computer or CPU?

    • Create a workspace, open up the computer, spray the entire inside area with compressed air, clean up the work area and then close the computer case.

    • Unplug the computer, open up the case, use a vacuum to clean things out quickly and then close the case before new dust can enter.

    • Open up the computer, use a small vacuum cleaner to get all the dust out, clean up your work area and close the computer case.

    • Unplug the computer, disconnect the LAN cable and all peripherals, open your computer, begin dusting with compressed air, clean the heatsink fan, check all inside areas, clean up the workspace and close the computer.

    Correct Answer
    A. Unplug the computer, disconnect the LAN cable and all peripherals, open your computer, begin dusting with compressed air, clean the heatsink fan, check all inside areas, clean up the workspace and close the computer.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is to unplug the computer, disconnect the LAN cable and all peripherals, open the computer, begin dusting with compressed air, clean the heatsink fan, check all inside areas, clean up the workspace, and then close the computer. This is the appropriate sequence of steps to ensure that the computer is cleaned effectively and all components are properly maintained.

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  • 16. 

    You should pour fluid directly onto the computer mouse when cleaning it?

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Pouring fluid directly onto the computer mouse is not recommended when cleaning it. The electronic components inside the mouse can be damaged by the fluid, leading to malfunction or complete failure of the device. Instead, it is advisable to use a soft cloth or a cotton swab slightly dampened with a cleaning solution to gently wipe the surface of the mouse.

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  • 17. 

    What part of the computer should you turn upside down and shake in order to release any lose particles?

    Correct Answer
    Keyboard
    Explanation
    The keyboard is the part of the computer that should be turned upside down and shaken to release any loose particles. This is because over time, dust, crumbs, and other debris can accumulate between the keys, causing them to become sticky or unresponsive. By turning the keyboard upside down and shaking it gently, these particles can be dislodged and removed, improving the overall functioning of the keyboard.

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  • 18. 

    What helps the hard drive to run at optimum speed?

    • Defragmenting your computer

    • Upgrade RAM

    • Delete temporary files

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    Defragmenting your computer, upgrading RAM, and deleting temporary files all contribute to helping the hard drive run at optimum speed. Defragmenting rearranges fragmented files, allowing the hard drive to access data more efficiently. Upgrading RAM increases the computer's memory capacity, enabling it to handle more tasks simultaneously. Deleting temporary files frees up storage space, preventing the hard drive from becoming cluttered and slowing down. Therefore, all of these actions combined help optimize the performance of the hard drive.

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  • 19. 

    Why is the CD rom drive less sensitive to damage from dust?

    • It uses light to read the compact disk

    • The CD-ROM drive has its read/write head exposed to the outside air.

    • CD_ROM drives are build better than hard drives

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. It uses light to read the compact disk
    Explanation
    The CD-ROM drive is less sensitive to damage from dust because it uses light to read the compact disk. Unlike a hard drive, which has its read/write head exposed to the outside air, the CD-ROM drive relies on a laser beam to read the data on the disk. This means that there are no physical components that come into direct contact with the disk, reducing the risk of damage from dust particles. Additionally, CD-ROM drives are generally built to be more durable than hard drives, further minimizing the impact of dust on their functionality.

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  • 20. 

    What type of things can be upgraded in an older computer model to make it more efficient?

    • Install a new hard drive

    • Install a CD or DVD burner

    • Add RAM

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    To make an older computer model more efficient, several things can be upgraded. Installing a new hard drive can increase storage capacity and improve overall performance. Adding a CD or DVD burner allows for the creation of backups and the ability to burn discs. Additionally, adding RAM can enhance the computer's speed and multitasking capabilities. Therefore, all of the mentioned options can contribute to making an older computer model more efficient.

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  • 21. 

     A static discharge from your body when cleaning the inside of your computer canot damage or ruin your computer.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    A static discharge from your body can actually damage or ruin your computer. Static electricity can build up on your body and when you touch sensitive electronic components inside the computer, it can cause damage due to electrostatic discharge (ESD). ESD can harm the delicate circuitry and components, leading to malfunctions or even permanent damage. To prevent this, it is important to use anti-static precautions such as wearing an anti-static wrist strap or grounding yourself before working on the computer.

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  • 22. 

    Prior to doing any work inside your computer, you should get a grounding strap and wear it before attempting to clean your PC.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    It is important to use a grounding strap when working inside a computer because it helps to prevent static electricity from damaging sensitive components. Static electricity can build up on our bodies and can discharge onto computer parts, causing damage. Wearing a grounding strap helps to dissipate any static charge and ensures that we are grounded while working on the computer, reducing the risk of damaging it. Therefore, the correct answer is true.

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  • 23. 

    110 volts can cause injury or death if you do not unplug your computer prior to cleaning it!

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The statement is true because 110 volts is a high enough voltage to cause electric shock, which can lead to injury or even death. When cleaning a computer, it is important to unplug it to ensure safety and avoid any potential electrical hazards.

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  • 24. 

    Restarting your computer is the best way to unfreeze your cursor when it is frozen.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Restarting your computer is the best way to unfreeze your cursor when it is frozen because it allows the operating system to reset and clear any temporary glitches or errors that may be causing the cursor to freeze. By restarting the computer, all running processes and programs are terminated and the system starts fresh, which can often resolve issues with frozen cursors. Additionally, restarting the computer also allows for any necessary updates or patches to be applied, which may further help in resolving the cursor freeze.

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  • 25. 

    What other ways are appropriate to clean a keyboard instead of turning it upside down and shaking it?

    • Use a can of compressed air to blow out any foreign matter.

    • Clean the sides of the keys with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.

    • Remove all the keys for through cleaning

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "all of the above" because each of the suggested methods is appropriate for cleaning a keyboard. Using a can of compressed air helps to blow out any dirt or debris that may be stuck between the keys. Cleaning the sides of the keys with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol helps to remove any grime or residue. Additionally, removing all the keys allows for a thorough cleaning of the keyboard surface and individual keys. Therefore, all three methods mentioned are suitable options for cleaning a keyboard.

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  • 26. 

    If you spill liquid or a drink on your keyboard it is OK to use it immediately after turning it upside down and letting gravity get rid of all the liquid.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Spilling liquid or a drink on a keyboard can cause damage to the electronic components. Simply turning it upside down and relying on gravity to remove the liquid is not sufficient to ensure that all the liquid is removed. It is important to properly clean and dry the keyboard before using it again to prevent any potential damage. Therefore, the statement is false.

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  • 27. 

    If you spill a drink on your keyboard you should turn off the power prior to attempting to dry it off.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    When a drink is spilled on a keyboard, it can cause a short circuit and damage the internal components. By turning off the power, you are reducing the risk of further damage and potential electrical shock. This allows you to safely dry off the keyboard without causing any harm to yourself or the device. Therefore, it is important to turn off the power before attempting to dry off a keyboard that has been spilled with a drink.

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  • 28. 

    Use paper towels or dish cloths to clean your LCD monitor screens.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Using paper towels or dish cloths to clean LCD monitor screens is not recommended because they can cause scratches or leave lint behind, potentially damaging the screen. Instead, it is recommended to use a microfiber cloth specifically designed for cleaning electronic screens. These cloths are gentle and do not scratch the surface of the LCD monitor.

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  • 29. 

    Your computer hard drive is designed to run 24/7 so it is OK to let it run constantly.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    The statement is false because while computer hard drives are designed to handle continuous operation, it is not necessary or beneficial for them to run constantly. Constant running can lead to increased wear and tear on the hard drive, potentially shortening its lifespan. Additionally, allowing the hard drive to run constantly can consume unnecessary energy and contribute to higher electricity bills. It is generally recommended to power off or put the computer into sleep mode when it is not in use to conserve energy and extend the lifespan of the hard drive.

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  • 30. 

    Modern hard drives are now strong enough to be turned off and on many times and are designed to be turned off when not in use.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Modern hard drives are designed to handle multiple power cycles without any issues. They have advanced technology and components that can withstand the stress of being turned off and on many times. Additionally, hard drives are designed to conserve energy and improve their lifespan by automatically entering a low-power mode or shutting down completely when not in use. Therefore, it is true that modern hard drives are strong enough to be turned off and on multiple times and are designed to be turned off when not in use.

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  • 31. 

    If you are ever using programs or want to start where you left off, but aren't going to be by the computer for a while, it's best to use hibernate

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Hibernate is a feature in computer systems that allows the user to save the current state of their programs and files before shutting down the computer. When the computer is turned on again, it can quickly restore the system to the exact state it was in before hibernation. Therefore, if you are not going to be by the computer for a while and want to start where you left off, using hibernate is the best option.

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  • 32. 

    Computer speed is unaffected by having several programs running on your computer at the same time.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Having several programs running on a computer at the same time can affect the computer speed. When multiple programs are running simultaneously, they compete for the computer's resources such as CPU, memory, and disk space. This can lead to slower performance, decreased responsiveness, and potential crashes or freezes. Therefore, the statement that computer speed is unaffected by having several programs running at the same time is false.

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  • 33. 

    Organizing your computer files is just as important as it is to de-frag your files.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Organizing computer files is crucial for maintaining a well-structured and easily accessible system. It helps in locating files quickly, reducing clutter, and improving overall efficiency. Similarly, defragmenting files is important as it rearranges fragmented data on the hard drive, optimizing file access speed and improving system performance. Both organizing files and defragmenting them contribute to a smoother and more efficient computer experience. Therefore, the statement "Organizing your computer files is just as important as it is to de-frag your files" is true.

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  • 34. 

    Disabling startup programs should definitely be part of your computer maintenance checklist because each time you install a new program, different startup processes will be added.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Disabling startup programs should be part of computer maintenance because when a new program is installed, it adds startup processes, which can slow down the computer's boot time and overall performance. By disabling unnecessary startup programs, the computer can start up faster and have more resources available for other tasks.

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  • 35. 

    Computer functionality is often unaffected if you forget to run Windows updates on a regular basis.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Forgetting to run Windows updates on a regular basis can have a negative impact on computer functionality. Windows updates are important as they provide security patches, bug fixes, and performance improvements. Without these updates, the computer may be vulnerable to security threats, experience software glitches, and run slower over time. Therefore, the statement that computer functionality is often unaffected if you forget to run Windows updates is false.

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Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Mar 24, 2023 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Mar 24, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Feb 22, 2015
    Quiz Created by
    Rosemary Storaska

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