Chapter 1 25 Questions

Instruction manuals should not be kept away from computers because they provide important information about the proper use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the computer. They contain valuable instructions and guidelines that can help users understand and operate the computer effectively. Keeping the instruction manuals nearby can be helpful in case any issues or questions arise while using the computer.

Before removing a paper jam from your printer, it is important to turn off the printer. This is necessary to ensure your safety and prevent any potential damage to the printer. Turning off the printer will also prevent any further paper jams or accidents while you are trying to remove the jammed paper.

The keyboard is the most commonly used hardware device to input information into a computer. It allows users to enter text, numbers, and commands by pressing keys. Keyboards are essential for typing documents, sending emails, browsing the internet, and interacting with various software applications. While other devices like disk drives, printers, and scanners have their own functions, they are not primarily used for inputting information into the computer.

The CPU, or central processing unit, is often referred to as the "brain" of the computer because it is responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations. It is the primary component that carries out the actual processing of data and controls the overall operation of the computer system. The CPU interacts with other hardware components and manages the flow of data, making it a crucial part of the computer's functionality.

The information processing cycle consists of four main units: input, processing, output, and storage. Input refers to the data or instructions that are entered into the system. Processing involves manipulating and transforming the input data to produce meaningful results. Output refers to the information or results that are generated by the system. Finally, storage involves saving and retaining data for future use. The given answer, "Input, processing, output, and storage," accurately identifies the units that make up the information processing cycle.

Windows XP is not an example of hardware because it is an operating system software, not a physical component or device. Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer system, such as cables, disk drives, and monitors.

Short-term memory is a type of memory where data, information, and program instructions are stored temporarily. Random access memory (RAM) is a type of computer memory that allows data to be read or written in almost the same amount of time regardless of the physical location of data inside the memory. It is a volatile memory, meaning that the data stored in RAM is lost when the power is turned off. Therefore, RAM is the correct answer as it accurately describes the type of memory used for temporary storage of data, information, and program instructions.

A browser is a software program that allows users to access and retrieve documents from the World Wide Web. It is designed to display web pages in a readable format, making it easier for users to navigate and interact with online content. Browsers such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge are commonly used to browse the internet and retrieve information from websites.

A monitor is not a storage device because it is used for displaying visual output, rather than storing data. CD-RW, disks, and tape drives are all examples of storage devices as they can be used to store and retrieve data.

A word processor is the correct answer because it is a type of application software specifically designed for creating, editing, and formatting text-based documents such as reports. It provides various tools and features like spell check, formatting options, and the ability to insert images and tables, making it ideal for creating professional-looking documents. Clip art is a collection of pre-made images, database software is used for managing and organizing data, and a spreadsheet is used for numerical calculations and data analysis.

Multimedia software combines various forms of media such as text, graphics, animation, video, and audio to create presentations. It allows users to create interactive and engaging content by integrating different elements seamlessly. This type of software is commonly used in fields such as education, marketing, entertainment, and design, where visual and auditory elements are essential for effective communication and engagement with the audience.

Data communications refers to the technology that enables computers to transmit various types of data, including text, numeric, voice, or video, from one machine to another. It involves the use of protocols and networks to establish a connection and transfer data between devices. This technology is essential for communication and sharing information between computers and is fundamental to the functioning of the internet and other computer networks.

A database is the correct answer because it is specifically designed to organize and store large amounts of data efficiently. It allows users to create electronic filing systems by creating tables to store different types of data, such as names and phone numbers, and establishing relationships between them. With a database, users can easily search, sort, and retrieve specific information, making it an ideal application software for organizing and managing data.

The information shown on the monitor is called a soft copy because it is displayed electronically and can be easily modified or deleted. Unlike a hard copy, which is a physical printout of the information, a soft copy exists only in digital form and can be viewed or manipulated on a computer screen.

A hard copy refers to a physical printout or document that contains data. It is the tangible output of information that can be held and viewed. Unlike a soft copy, which is a digital or electronic version of data, a hard copy can be physically stored, distributed, and accessed without the need for electronic devices. Therefore, a hard copy is the printed copy of data.

Read only memory (ROM) is a type of memory where specific instructions that are needed for the computer to operate are stored. Unlike random access memory (RAM), which is volatile and loses its data when the computer is turned off, ROM retains its data even when the power is turned off. ROM is typically used to store firmware or permanent instructions that are necessary for the computer's basic functions, such as the BIOS. Therefore, ROM is the correct answer for this question.

The information processing cycle consists of four main components: input, processing, output, and storage. Input refers to the data or information that is entered into a system, processing involves manipulating and analyzing the input data, output is the result or information that is produced by the system, and storage is where the data is stored for future use. However, a database is not a part of the information processing cycle. A database is a structured collection of data that is used to organize, store, and retrieve information, but it is not directly involved in the processing of data within the information processing cycle.

The physical parts of a computer are referred to as hardware. This includes components such as the motherboard, processor, memory, hard drive, and peripherals like keyboard, mouse, and monitor. Hardware is tangible and can be physically touched and manipulated. Input, software, and storage are not physical parts of a computer but are rather functions or elements related to the operation and functionality of the hardware.

Basic controllers on the motherboard are responsible for controlling the transfer of data from the computer to peripheral devices. These controllers act as intermediaries between the computer's central processing unit (CPU) and the peripheral devices, ensuring that data is properly transmitted and received. They provide the necessary interfaces and protocols for seamless communication between the computer and the peripherals. Therefore, basic controllers are the devices on the motherboard that control data transfer to peripheral devices.

A spreadsheet is a type of software that is frequently used by people who work with numbers, formulas, and data to perform calculations. It allows users to organize data in a tabular format, perform mathematical and statistical calculations, create charts and graphs, and analyze data efficiently. Spreadsheets are commonly used in various fields such as finance, accounting, engineering, and research, where numerical data manipulation is essential.

The most common computer storage method is a disk. Disks are widely used for storing data in computers, including hard disk drives (HDD) and solid-state drives (SSD). They offer large storage capacities, fast data access speeds, and are commonly used for both personal and professional purposes. Cassette tapes, CD-ROMs, and VHS tapes are not commonly used for computer storage compared to disks.

Software refers to the set of instructions or programs that tell the computer what tasks to perform. It includes all the applications, operating systems, and other programs that enable the computer to execute specific functions. Unlike hardware, which encompasses the physical components of a computer system, software is intangible and can be installed, updated, or removed as needed. It plays a crucial role in enabling the computer to process data, perform calculations, and interact with users or other devices.

Ergonomics is the science of designing equipment and systems that fit the capabilities and limitations of individuals, ensuring a comfortable and safe working environment. It focuses on optimizing human performance and well-being by considering factors such as posture, movement, and physical and cognitive abilities. By applying ergonomic principles, workplaces can minimize the risk of injuries, improve productivity, and enhance overall comfort and satisfaction for workers.

A LAN (Local Area Network) is a type of network that connects computers and devices within a limited geographical area such as a home, office, or building. It allows for the sharing of resources, such as files and printers, and enables communication between devices on the network. Unlike ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit), CPU (Central Processing Unit), and ROM (Read-Only Memory), which are components of a computer, LAN refers to a network infrastructure.

The information that shows up on the monitor is referred to as a soft copy. A soft copy is a digital version of a document or file that can be viewed on a computer screen. It is the electronic representation of the information and is displayed visually on the monitor. Unlike a hard copy, which is a physical printout of the document, a soft copy can be easily edited, shared, and stored digitally.