Computer Organization Trivia Questions

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  • 1/60 Questions

    In contemporary multilevel machines, what is the third level?

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About This Quiz

This quiz is based on chapters 1 and 2 of Tannenbaum's Computer Organization and Architecture.

Computer Organization Trivia Questions - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    What are the three properties that you can get from a RAID?

    Explanation
    RAID, which stands for Redundant Array of Independent Disks, is a technology that combines multiple physical disk drives into a single logical unit. The three properties that can be obtained from RAID are increased capacity, increased speed, and increased reliability. By combining multiple disks, RAID can provide a larger storage capacity than a single disk. It can also improve the read and write speeds by distributing data across multiple drives. Additionally, RAID can offer redundancy and fault tolerance, ensuring data integrity and minimizing the risk of data loss in case of a disk failure.

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  • 3. 

    Modems or transmission lines that can only transmit in one direction at a time are called ___________?

    Explanation
    Modems or transmission lines that can only transmit in one direction at a time are referred to as "half-duplex" or "half duplex". This means that they can either send or receive data, but not both simultaneously.

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  • 4. 
    List in numerical order what each component is. Separate your answers with a comma and a space. - ProProfs

    List in numerical order what each component is. Separate your answers with a comma and a space.

    Explanation
    The given answer lists the components in the correct numerical order. The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the main component responsible for executing instructions. Memory refers to the RAM (Random Access Memory) which stores data and instructions temporarily. The video controller handles the display output. The keyboard controller manages input from the keyboard. The CD ROM controller handles data transfer to and from the CD ROM drive. The hard disk controller manages data transfer to and from the hard disk drive.

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  • 5. 

    What eliminates noise and only has two states?

    Explanation
    Binary is a system that eliminates noise and only has two states, typically represented as 0 and 1. In binary, information is encoded using only two symbols, which simplifies data transmission and storage. The two states represent the absence or presence of a signal, making it easier to distinguish between different levels of noise. By using binary, noise can be effectively eliminated as it is easier to filter out any interference that does not correspond to the two defined states.

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  • 6. 
    List in numerical order what each component is. Separate your answers with a comma and a space. - ProProfs

    List in numerical order what each component is. Separate your answers with a comma and a space.

    Explanation
    The components listed in numerical order are problem-oriented language level, translation compiler, assembly language level, translation assembler, operating system machine level, partial interpretation operating system, instruction set architecture level, interpretation (microprogram) or direct execution, micro architecture level, hardware, digital logic level.

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  • 7. 

    A system where numbering begins with the least significant bit is called?

    Explanation
    Little endian is a system where numbering begins with the least significant bit. In this system, the least significant bit is stored first, followed by the more significant bits. This is commonly used in computer architecture and data storage systems. The opposite of little endian is big endian, where numbering begins with the most significant bit. However, in this case, the correct answer is little endian.

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  • 8. 

    Which computer generation saw transistors (1955-1965)?

    Explanation
    The second generation of computers, which spanned from 1955 to 1965, was characterized by the use of transistors. Transistors replaced the bulky and unreliable vacuum tubes used in the first generation, resulting in smaller, faster, and more reliable computers. This technological advancement allowed for significant improvements in computer speed, size, and efficiency.

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  • 9. 

    What does RISC stand for?

    Explanation
    RISC stands for reduced instruction set computer. This term refers to a type of computer architecture that uses a small set of simple and basic instructions. The design philosophy behind RISC is to simplify the instruction set, allowing for faster execution of instructions and greater efficiency in terms of hardware utilization. By reducing the complexity of instructions, RISC processors can achieve higher performance and lower power consumption compared to complex instruction set computers (CISC).

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  • 10. 

    What translator compiles all of the source code before the execution occurs?

    Explanation
    A compiler is a type of translator that converts the entire source code of a program into machine code or executable code before the execution occurs. It scans through the entire code, checks for errors, and translates the code into a format that the computer can understand and execute. The compiler is responsible for optimizing the code and generating an executable file that can be run on the target platform.

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  • 11. 

    What does CISC stand for?

    Explanation
    CISC stands for complex instruction set computer. This term refers to a type of computer architecture that emphasizes complex and multi-step instructions. In CISC, instructions can perform multiple operations in a single command, allowing for more efficient programming and potentially reducing the number of instructions needed to complete a task. This is in contrast to RISC (reduced instruction set computer), which focuses on simpler and more streamlined instructions. CISC architectures were commonly used in older computer systems, while RISC architectures are more prevalent in modern processors.

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  • 12. 

    What does DMA stand for?

    Explanation
    DMA stands for Direct Memory Access. It is a feature of computer systems that allows certain hardware devices to access the system's memory directly, without involving the CPU. This enables faster data transfer between devices and memory, as it eliminates the need for the CPU to be actively involved in every data transfer. DMA is commonly used in devices such as sound cards, network cards, and storage devices to improve overall system performance.

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  • 13. 

    Which computer generation saw integrated circuits (1965-1980)?

    Explanation
    The computer generation that saw integrated circuits is the third generation. This generation, which spanned from 1965 to 1980, marked a significant advancement in computer technology with the introduction of integrated circuits. These small electronic circuits, made up of transistors and other components, allowed for greater miniaturization and improved performance of computers. The use of integrated circuits revolutionized the computer industry, leading to smaller, faster, and more reliable computers during this time period.

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  • 14. 

    What was the biggest enemy of computers in the first generation?

    Explanation
    In the first generation of computers, heat was the biggest enemy. This is because early computers used vacuum tubes and other components that generated a significant amount of heat. The lack of advanced cooling systems made it difficult to dissipate this heat, leading to frequent overheating issues. Excessive heat could cause malfunctions, damage components, and even lead to complete system failure. Therefore, heat management was crucial in ensuring the proper functioning and longevity of computers during this era.

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  • 15. 

    What states that the number of transistors that can be put in a chip will increase by 60% annually.

    Explanation
    Moore's Law states that the number of transistors that can be put in a chip will increase by 60% annually. This law, named after Gordon Moore, co-founder of Intel, has been a guiding principle in the semiconductor industry for decades. It has accurately predicted the exponential growth in computing power and the shrinking size of electronic devices.

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  • 16. 

    What forces the CPU to immediately suspend running its current program and begin running a special procedure?

    Explanation
    An interrupt is a signal that forces the CPU to immediately suspend running its current program and begin running a special procedure. Interrupts can occur for various reasons, such as hardware events (like a key press or a timer reaching zero) or software events (like a system call or an error condition). When an interrupt occurs, the CPU saves the current state of the program, switches to the interrupt handler routine, performs the necessary actions, and then resumes the interrupted program. Interrupts allow the CPU to efficiently handle time-sensitive tasks and respond to external events in a timely manner.

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  • 17. 

    What is also known as a storage area?

    Explanation
    Memory is also known as a storage area. It refers to the component of a computer system that is responsible for storing and retrieving data or instructions. It is where the computer temporarily stores data that is being actively used by the CPU. Memory can be classified into different types such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read-Only Memory), each serving different purposes in the storage and retrieval of data.

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  • 18. 

    Which computer generation saw vacuum tubes (1945-1955)?

    Explanation
    The first generation of computers, which spanned from 1945 to 1955, utilized vacuum tubes. These vacuum tubes were large electronic components that controlled the flow of electricity within the computer. They were the main technology used for electronic computing during this time period before being replaced by transistors in later generations.

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  • 19. 

    What is a collection of parallel wires used for transmitting addresses, data and control signals.

    Explanation
    A bus is a collection of parallel wires used for transmitting addresses, data, and control signals. It serves as a communication pathway between different components of a computer system, allowing them to exchange information. The parallel arrangement of wires enables multiple signals to be transmitted simultaneously, increasing the efficiency of data transfer. The bus is responsible for carrying the necessary signals to ensure proper communication between various devices, such as the CPU, memory, and input/output devices.

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  • 20. 

    What is a bit that is added to ensure that the number of bits with the value one in a set of bits is even or odd?

    Explanation
    A parity bit is a bit that is added to a set of bits to ensure that the number of bits with the value one is either even or odd. It is used for error detection in data transmission and storage systems. By adding a parity bit, the system can detect if there has been an error in the transmission or storage of the data. If the number of ones is supposed to be even and it is not, or vice versa, then an error has occurred. The parity bit helps to maintain data integrity and ensure accurate communication.

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  • 21. 

    Which computer generation saw very large scale integration (1980 - current)?

    Explanation
    The fourth generation of computers, which began in the 1980s and continues to the present, saw the advent of very large scale integration (VLSI). This refers to the ability to fit thousands or even millions of transistors onto a single microchip, allowing for much greater processing power and efficiency. This technological advancement led to the development of smaller, faster, and more reliable computers, paving the way for the modern computing era.

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  • 22. 

    What does RAID stand for?

    Explanation
    RAID stands for Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks. It is a technology that combines multiple physical disk drives into a single logical unit to improve performance, reliability, or both. The term "redundant array of inexpensive disks" is also a valid interpretation of the acronym RAID, as it refers to the use of multiple inexpensive disks to achieve redundancy and fault tolerance.

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  • 23. 

    What checks the interrupt for errors, takes any special actions needed, and informs the operating system that the I/O finished?

    Explanation
    The interrupt handler is responsible for checking the interrupt for errors, performing any necessary special actions, and notifying the operating system that the input/output (I/O) operation has been completed. It is a software routine that is triggered when an interrupt occurs, allowing the system to respond to external events or requests. The interrupt handler ensures that the I/O operation is successfully executed and communicates the status to the operating system for further processing.

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  • 24. 

    What is it called when no I/O is in progress and the CPU has all the bus to itself and a running I/O requests and is granted the bus when it needs it?

    Explanation
    Cycle stealing refers to a technique in computer architecture where the CPU takes control of the bus when it is not being used for input/output operations. In this scenario, the CPU is able to run I/O requests and is granted access to the bus whenever it requires it. This allows the CPU to efficiently utilize the bus without wasting any time or resources.

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  • 25. 

    When you are transmitting data, there are three basic parameters that you can change about a signal through modulation techniques. What are they?

    Explanation
    When transmitting data, modulation techniques allow for the manipulation of three key parameters of a signal: amplitude, frequency, and phase. Amplitude refers to the strength or intensity of the signal, frequency represents the number of cycles per second, and phase determines the position of the signal in relation to a reference point. By altering these parameters, the signal can be modified to carry and transmit data effectively.

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  • 26. 

    What is a set of tracks at a given radial position called?

    Explanation
    A set of tracks at a given radial position is called a cylinder. In computer storage systems, data is organized on the storage media in concentric circles called tracks. Each track is further divided into sectors, which are the smallest units of storage. A cylinder refers to a group of tracks that are at the same radial position on multiple platters in a disk drive. This organization allows for efficient retrieval of data as the read/write heads can move across multiple platters simultaneously, reducing seek time.

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  • 27. 

    How fast a signal goes up and down is it's ___________?

    Explanation
    The speed at which a signal oscillates or fluctuates is referred to as its frequency. This term is commonly used to describe how quickly a signal moves between high and low points. In other words, it measures the number of complete cycles or vibrations that occur in a given time period.

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  • 28. 

    The ability of two different entities to talk to each other at the same time in two different directions using different frequencies.

    Explanation
    Full-duplex refers to the ability of two different entities to communicate simultaneously in both directions using different frequencies. This means that both entities can send and receive information at the same time, allowing for more efficient and seamless communication. Unlike half-duplex, where communication can only occur in one direction at a time, full-duplex enables real-time and uninterrupted communication between the entities.

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  • 29. 

    In contemporary multilevel machines, what is the fourth level?

    Explanation
    The fourth level in contemporary multilevel machines is the assembly language level. Assembly language is a low-level programming language that is specific to a particular computer architecture. It is a symbolic representation of machine code, making it easier for programmers to write and understand code. The assembly language level is where programmers directly interact with the hardware and write instructions that are translated into machine code by an assembler.

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  • 30. 

    How high and low a signal goes is it's ___________?

    Explanation
    The amplitude of a signal refers to how high and low it goes. It measures the maximum displacement or intensity of the signal from its average or equilibrium value. In other words, it represents the magnitude or strength of the signal. The larger the amplitude, the louder or more intense the signal is perceived. Therefore, in this context, the correct answer is "amplitude."

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  • 31. 

    What has a temporal and spacial aspect to it?

    Explanation
    Locality refers to a specific area or region, which implies both a temporal and spatial aspect. Temporally, locality can refer to a particular period or time frame in which events or activities occur within a specific area. Spatially, locality refers to the physical proximity or location of something within a specific area. Therefore, locality encompasses both the temporal and spatial dimensions, making it the correct answer to the question.

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  • 32. 

    In contemporary multilevel machines, what is level zero?

    Explanation
    Level zero in contemporary multilevel machines refers to the digital logic level. This level represents the lowest level of abstraction in the machine, where the basic digital logic gates and circuits are implemented. At this level, the machine operates using binary logic, manipulating and processing individual bits of data. It is the foundation upon which higher levels of abstraction, such as microarchitecture and instruction set architecture, are built.

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  • 33. 

    A system where numbering begins at the "high order" end is called?

    Explanation
    A system where numbering begins at the "high order" end is called big endian. In big endian, the most significant byte of a multi-byte data type is stored at the lowest memory address, while the least significant byte is stored at the highest memory address. This is in contrast to little endian systems, where the least significant byte is stored at the lowest memory address.

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  • 34. 

    In contemporary multilevel machines, what is the fifth level?

    Explanation
    The fifth level in contemporary multilevel machines is the problem-oriented language level. This level refers to the use of problem-oriented languages, which are programming languages designed to solve specific problems or address specific domains. These languages provide higher-level abstractions and tools that make it easier for programmers to express solutions to complex problems. By using problem-oriented languages at this level, developers can focus on the problem at hand rather than low-level implementation details.

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  • 35. 

    When you change the sin waves ending and beginning of a signal, it is called the __________?

    Explanation
    When you change the sin waves ending and beginning of a signal, it is called the phase. The phase refers to the position of a waveform relative to a reference point at a given point in time. By altering the beginning and ending of a signal, the phase of the waveform is modified. This can result in a shift in the timing or alignment of the waveform, which can have significant effects on the overall signal.

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  • 36. 

    Lines that can only transmit in one direction are called ___________?

    Explanation
    Lines that can only transmit in one direction are called simplex. This means that data can only flow in one direction, either from the sender to the receiver or from the receiver to the sender, but not both simultaneously. Simplex communication is commonly used in situations where one device or party needs to transmit information without receiving any feedback or response.

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  • 37. 

    Which translator requires source code to execute?

    Explanation
    An interpreter is a type of translator that requires source code to execute. It reads and executes the source code line by line, translating and executing each line immediately. This is different from a compiler, which translates the entire source code into machine code before executing it. The interpreter is able to execute the source code directly because it translates and executes each line in real-time. Therefore, both "interpreter" and "the interpreter" are correct answers to the question.

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  • 38. 

    What acts as an interface between the I/O controllers and memory by receiving orders from the CPU and moving data from point A to point B?

    Explanation
    Direct Memory Access (DMA) acts as an interface between the I/O controllers and memory. It receives orders from the CPU and moves data from point A to point B without the need for the CPU to be involved in every data transfer. DMA allows for faster and more efficient data transfers by bypassing the CPU and directly accessing the memory.

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  • 39. 

    The circular sequence of bits written as the disk makes a complete rotation is called a ___________?

    Explanation
    A track refers to the circular sequence of bits on a disk that is completed when the disk makes a full rotation. It is a concentric ring on the disk's surface where data is stored. Each track is divided into smaller units called sectors, and multiple tracks stacked vertically form a cylinder. The term "track" is commonly used in computer storage systems to describe the path followed by the disk's read/write heads as they access data.

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  • 40. 

    What do you call the fixed length portions that a track is divided into?

    Explanation
    The fixed length portions that a track is divided into are called sectors. Sectors are used in various storage devices, such as hard drives and optical discs, to organize and store data. Each sector typically contains a specific amount of data, and the division into sectors allows for efficient data retrieval and management.

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  • 41. 

    What is the assembly line style for  processing instructions faster.

    Explanation
    Pipelining is an assembly line style for processing instructions faster. In pipelining, the processing of instructions is divided into a series of stages, and each stage performs a specific task. This allows multiple instructions to be processed simultaneously, increasing the overall throughput and efficiency of the system. By overlapping the execution of instructions, pipelining reduces the time taken to complete a single instruction and improves the overall performance of the processor.

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  • 42. 

    In contemporary multilevel machines, what is the second level?

    Explanation
    The second level in contemporary multilevel machines is the instruction set architecture level. This level defines the set of instructions that a computer can execute, including the format and behavior of each instruction. It serves as an interface between the hardware and software, allowing software programs to be written and executed on the machine. The instruction set architecture, on the other hand, refers to the actual set of instructions that a specific computer or processor can understand and execute. Both of these levels are crucial in determining the capabilities and functionality of a computer system.

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  • 43. 

    In contemporary multilevel machines, what do you use to get from one level to another?

    Explanation
    In contemporary multilevel machines, a translator or translators are used to move from one level to another. A translator is a software or hardware component that converts instructions or code from one programming language or machine language to another. It helps facilitate communication and compatibility between different levels or layers of a system. By using a translator or translators, the machine can effectively navigate and interact between various levels, ensuring smooth operation and functionality.

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  • 44. 

    What translator executes the program as it translates?

    Explanation
    An interpreter is a type of translator that executes a program as it translates. It reads the source code line by line and translates and executes each line immediately. This is different from a compiler which translates the entire program before execution. Therefore, both "interpreter" and "the interpreter" are correct answers to the question.

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  • 45. 

    What is the gateway between the external device and the internal environment of the computer?

    Explanation
    A controller acts as the gateway between the external device and the internal environment of the computer. It is responsible for managing and coordinating the flow of data between the external device and the computer's internal components. The controller interprets the commands received from the external device and translates them into a format that the computer can understand. It also sends data from the computer to the external device, allowing them to communicate and exchange information effectively.

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  • 46. 

    Instead of pulling a particular address from memory, you pull a __________ ____________ which speeds up accessing from the cache.

    Explanation
    When accessing data from memory, instead of retrieving a single address, a cache line is pulled. A cache line is a block of data that is stored in the cache memory. This speeds up the process of accessing data from the cache because it allows for the retrieval of multiple addresses at once. By pulling a cache line, the processor can access a larger chunk of data in a single operation, reducing the number of memory accesses required and improving overall performance.

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  • 47. 

    What is the refractive surface of optical media that scatters light called?

    Explanation
    The refractive surface of optical media that scatters light is called a "pit."

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  • 48. 

    Which computer generation saw mechanical computers (1642-1945)?

    Explanation
    The correct answer is zeroth generation. Mechanical computers were used from 1642 to 1945, which predates the first generation of electronic computers. During this time, various mechanical devices were developed to perform calculations and automate tasks. These machines relied on gears, levers, and other mechanical components to process information. While they were not as advanced as modern computers, they laid the foundation for the development of electronic computing technology.

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  • 49. 

    What architecture is in almost every one of today's computing machines?

    Explanation
    The correct answer is von neumann architecture, Von Neumann architecture, von neumann, Von Neumann. Von Neumann architecture is a design concept for a computer architecture that is still widely used today. It is based on the principle of having a central processing unit (CPU) that can store and execute instructions and data in a single memory unit. This architecture allows for the sequential execution of instructions, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

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  • Current Version
  • Mar 21, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Feb 06, 2010
    Quiz Created by
    Cgardner5
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