Memory, Storage, CPU And Software Quiz

1. The system clock controls the timing of all computer operations on the CPU

True

False

The system clock is indeed crucial in controlling the timing of all computer operations within the CPU. This clock generates a set of electrical signals at a constant rate, which synchronizes the operations of the CPU. Each tick of the clock represents a single opportunity for the processor to carry out a task or part of a task. By dictating the pace at which the CPU processes instructions, the system clock ensures that all components of the computer system work together in harmony and efficiently. This synchronization is essential for the smooth and coordinated functioning of the entire computer system, impacting everything from simple computations to complex processing tasks.

Explanation

The system clock is indeed crucial in controlling the timing of all computer operations within the CPU. This clock generates a set of electrical signals at a constant rate, which synchronizes the operations of the CPU. Each tick of the clock represents a single opportunity for the processor to carry out a task or part of a task. By dictating the pace at which the CPU processes instructions, the system clock ensures that all components of the computer system work together in harmony and efficiently. This synchronization is essential for the smooth and coordinated functioning of the entire computer system, impacting everything from simple computations to complex processing tasks.

2. Data is distributed throughout the computer system in the following order:

Output, Processing, Input, Memory, Storage

Memory, Input, Processing, Storage

Input, Processing, Memory, Storage, Output

A and B

None of the above

When a computer handles data, it follows a specific sequence to ensure efficient processing and output. First, data enters the system through various input methods like typing or clicking. Next, this data is processed by the CPU, which determines what the data means and what actions to take. After processing, the data may be temporarily stored in the computer's memory if quick access is needed again soon. For long-term storage, the data is saved to storage devices such as hard drives or SSDs. Finally, the processed data is output, which could appear on a screen, be printed, or transferred in other ways. This organized flow allows the computer to handle tasks effectively from start to finish.

Explanation

When a computer handles data, it follows a specific sequence to ensure efficient processing and output. First, data enters the system through various input methods like typing or clicking. Next, this data is processed by the CPU, which determines what the data means and what actions to take. After processing, the data may be temporarily stored in the computer's memory if quick access is needed again soon. For long-term storage, the data is saved to storage devices such as hard drives or SSDs. Finally, the processed data is output, which could appear on a screen, be printed, or transferred in other ways. This organized flow allows the computer to handle tasks effectively from start to finish.

3. The Machine Cyle goes in the following order:

Fetch -> Decode -> Execute -> Store

Execute -> Decode -> Store -> Fetch

A and B

None of the Above

The machine cycle, also known as the instruction cycle, typically follows the sequence of Fetch, Decode, Execute, and Store, which orchestrates how the CPU processes data and instructions. Here’s how it works: First, the CPU fetches the instruction from memory, usually RAM, during the Fetch step. Next, the instruction is decoded by the control unit in the Decode step, where the CPU determines what the instruction means and what needs to be done. The Execute step follows, where the CPU carries out the instruction, which may involve calculations or other data processing tasks. Finally, in the Store step, the result of the executed instruction is stored back into memory, ensuring that the output of the computation is saved for future use. This structured sequence allows the CPU to efficiently handle tasks and execute programs accurately within the computer system.

Explanation

The machine cycle, also known as the instruction cycle, typically follows the sequence of Fetch, Decode, Execute, and Store, which orchestrates how the CPU processes data and instructions. Here’s how it works: First, the CPU fetches the instruction from memory, usually RAM, during the Fetch step. Next, the instruction is decoded by the control unit in the Decode step, where the CPU determines what the instruction means and what needs to be done. The Execute step follows, where the CPU carries out the instruction, which may involve calculations or other data processing tasks. Finally, in the Store step, the result of the executed instruction is stored back into memory, ensuring that the output of the computation is saved for future use. This structured sequence allows the CPU to efficiently handle tasks and execute programs accurately within the computer system.

4. What type of output device is a Sound Card?

MIDI Device

Audio Output Device

Multimedia

Display Device

A sound card is best classified as an audio output device. It is a crucial component inside a computer that facilitates the processing and output of sound signals to audio devices like speakers and headphones. Essentially, the sound card converts digital data to audio signals, allowing you to hear sounds through connected audio output devices. This makes it integral for multimedia applications, including music playback, video games, and any software that generates sound. While a sound card can be involved in multimedia setups and might interface with MIDI devices for music production, its primary function is as an audio output device, handling the output of sound.

Explanation

A sound card is best classified as an audio output device. It is a crucial component inside a computer that facilitates the processing and output of sound signals to audio devices like speakers and headphones. Essentially, the sound card converts digital data to audio signals, allowing you to hear sounds through connected audio output devices. This makes it integral for multimedia applications, including music playback, video games, and any software that generates sound. While a sound card can be involved in multimedia setups and might interface with MIDI devices for music production, its primary function is as an audio output device, handling the output of sound.

5. A computer virus is a __________ element that __________ itself to programs and can __________ your programs and files. I) hidden II) fierce III) attaches IV) locks V) destroy VI) denote

I, III and V

II, I and V

II, III and IV

None of the above

A computer virus is a hidden element that attaches itself to programs and can destroy your programs and files. A virus operates covertly, typically not alerting the user to its presence (hence "hidden"), and it integrates itself into other legitimate programs or files to propagate (thus it "attaches"). Once active, a virus can cause harm such as deleting files, corrupting data, or even taking control of certain computer functions, leading to the "destruction" of programs and files. This definition clearly matches with options I (hidden), III (attaches), and V (destroy), making them the correct descriptors for a computer virus. The other options do not accurately describe the nature and behavior of computer viruses.

Explanation

A computer virus is a hidden element that attaches itself to programs and can destroy your programs and files. A virus operates covertly, typically not alerting the user to its presence (hence "hidden"), and it integrates itself into other legitimate programs or files to propagate (thus it "attaches"). Once active, a virus can cause harm such as deleting files, corrupting data, or even taking control of certain computer functions, leading to the "destruction" of programs and files. This definition clearly matches with options I (hidden), III (attaches), and V (destroy), making them the correct descriptors for a computer virus. The other options do not accurately describe the nature and behavior of computer viruses.

6. A USB Port is really a Hardware Interface that connects only Output Devices.

Yes

No

A USB port is a versatile hardware interface that not only connects output devices but also serves various other functions. It can connect a wide range of devices to a computer, including input devices like keyboards and mice, storage devices such as USB flash drives, and even other peripherals like printers and external hard drives. USB ports provide a universal way to connect and power devices, making them essential for daily computer operations. This flexibility is what makes USB ports a fundamental component in modern computing, enabling both input and output functionalities.

Explanation

A USB port is a versatile hardware interface that not only connects output devices but also serves various other functions. It can connect a wide range of devices to a computer, including input devices like keyboards and mice, storage devices such as USB flash drives, and even other peripherals like printers and external hard drives. USB ports provide a universal way to connect and power devices, making them essential for daily computer operations. This flexibility is what makes USB ports a fundamental component in modern computing, enabling both input and output functionalities.

7. The process of preparing a floppy disk to store data from a computer is called:

Deleting

Easing

Formatting

Archiving

The process of preparing a floppy disk to store data from a computer is called formatting. Formatting a disk involves setting up a file system in which the data will be stored, and it also typically includes creating an internal address system that tells the computer where on the disk data is stored or can be stored. This process is necessary before you can use a new floppy disk for the first time or when you want to wipe clean an old disk to reuse it. It prepares the disk to receive and organize files in a manner that allows the computer system to efficiently read from and write to it. This is distinct from deleting, which is the removal of files; easing, which is not a recognized term in this context; and archiving, which refers to storing data long-term.

Explanation

The process of preparing a floppy disk to store data from a computer is called formatting. Formatting a disk involves setting up a file system in which the data will be stored, and it also typically includes creating an internal address system that tells the computer where on the disk data is stored or can be stored. This process is necessary before you can use a new floppy disk for the first time or when you want to wipe clean an old disk to reuse it. It prepares the disk to receive and organize files in a manner that allows the computer system to efficiently read from and write to it. This is distinct from deleting, which is the removal of files; easing, which is not a recognized term in this context; and archiving, which refers to storing data long-term.

8. These are the main components of the CPU:

ALU, CU, BU

Cache, ALU

ALU, CU,

ALU, CU, Registers

The main components of the CPU (Central Processing Unit) include the ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit), CU (Control Unit), and Registers. The ALU is responsible for carrying out arithmetic and logical operations, such as addition and subtraction, as well as making decisions based on certain conditions. The CU directs and manages the operations of the CPU, instructing other parts of the system on what to do and when to do it. Registers, on the other hand, are small, high-speed storage locations within the CPU that temporarily hold data and instructions while processing. Together, these components work in harmony to execute instructions that operate the computer, allowing it to perform tasks and run software applications efficiently.

Explanation

The main components of the CPU (Central Processing Unit) include the ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit), CU (Control Unit), and Registers. The ALU is responsible for carrying out arithmetic and logical operations, such as addition and subtraction, as well as making decisions based on certain conditions. The CU directs and manages the operations of the CPU, instructing other parts of the system on what to do and when to do it. Registers, on the other hand, are small, high-speed storage locations within the CPU that temporarily hold data and instructions while processing. Together, these components work in harmony to execute instructions that operate the computer, allowing it to perform tasks and run software applications efficiently.

9. The storage capacity of a floppy disk is

1.44 MB

1.44 GB

1440 KB

14440 MB

The storage capacity of a standard 3.5-inch floppy disk, which was widely used in personal computing before the advent of more advanced storage media, is 1.44 megabytes (MB). This format became the industry standard in the late 1980s and is often referred to simply as a "1.44 MB floppy." These disks facilitated the storage and transfer of small data files, such as text documents and simple software applications, between computers. The capacity reflects the limited data volume that these disks could handle, suitable for the technology and file sizes prevalent at the time. The other options—1.44 gigabytes (GB), 1440 kilobytes (KB), and 14440 megabytes (MB)—are incorrect and misrepresent the actual storage capabilities of floppy disks.

Explanation

The storage capacity of a standard 3.5-inch floppy disk, which was widely used in personal computing before the advent of more advanced storage media, is 1.44 megabytes (MB). This format became the industry standard in the late 1980s and is often referred to simply as a "1.44 MB floppy." These disks facilitated the storage and transfer of small data files, such as text documents and simple software applications, between computers. The capacity reflects the limited data volume that these disks could handle, suitable for the technology and file sizes prevalent at the time. The other options—1.44 gigabytes (GB), 1440 kilobytes (KB), and 14440 megabytes (MB)—are incorrect and misrepresent the actual storage capabilities of floppy disks.

10. Which of the following is not a part of a diskette?

Track

Sector

Cylinder

Cluster

A cylinder is not a part of a diskette (floppy disk). In the context of disk storage, a cylinder refers to a set of tracks located in the same position on multiple platters (disk surfaces) within a hard drive. It represents a three-dimensional structure extending vertically through the platters. Diskettes, being simpler storage devices with a single magnetic disk surface, do not have multiple platters and therefore do not utilize cylinders in their data organization. Instead, diskettes are organized into tracks, which are concentric circles on the disk surface, and sectors, which are segments within each track. Clusters, although typically associated with file systems on hard drives, can also apply to how data is grouped on diskettes, depending on the file system used. Thus, the cylinder is the correct answer as it does not apply to the structure of a diskette.

Explanation

A cylinder is not a part of a diskette (floppy disk). In the context of disk storage, a cylinder refers to a set of tracks located in the same position on multiple platters (disk surfaces) within a hard drive. It represents a three-dimensional structure extending vertically through the platters. Diskettes, being simpler storage devices with a single magnetic disk surface, do not have multiple platters and therefore do not utilize cylinders in their data organization. Instead, diskettes are organized into tracks, which are concentric circles on the disk surface, and sectors, which are segments within each track. Clusters, although typically associated with file systems on hard drives, can also apply to how data is grouped on diskettes, depending on the file system used. Thus, the cylinder is the correct answer as it does not apply to the structure of a diskette.

11. The Other name for Secondary Storage is

Secondary storage, also commonly referred to as auxiliary storage, is the type of storage used to keep data permanently or for long-term retention in a computer system. Unlike primary storage, which typically includes RAM and is used for quick access and temporary data storage, secondary storage involves devices like hard drives, SSDs, and USB flash drives that hold data even when the computer is turned off. This storage is essential for saving files, programs, and backups, ensuring that your important information is preserved and accessible whenever needed.

Explanation

Secondary storage, also commonly referred to as auxiliary storage, is the type of storage used to keep data permanently or for long-term retention in a computer system. Unlike primary storage, which typically includes RAM and is used for quick access and temporary data storage, secondary storage involves devices like hard drives, SSDs, and USB flash drives that hold data even when the computer is turned off. This storage is essential for saving files, programs, and backups, ensuring that your important information is preserved and accessible whenever needed.

Submit

12. The device that is designed to scan a printed document, convert the image to an electronic representation, and transmit this representation of the image via phone line is called a

Modem

Digital copier

Fiber-optic line

Fax machine

Document scanner

A fax machine is a device specifically designed to scan a printed document, convert the image into an electronic format, and then transmit this electronic representation over a phone line to another fax machine or receiver. This process allows the exact copy of the document to be printed at the receiving end. Fax machines were especially popular in business and office settings before the widespread use of digital communication but are still used today for sending documents quickly where digital signatures or email are not feasible. This device combines the functions of scanning, electronic data conversion, and transmission, distinguishing it from other devices like scanners or digital copiers that do not transmit data over phone lines.

Explanation

A fax machine is a device specifically designed to scan a printed document, convert the image into an electronic format, and then transmit this electronic representation over a phone line to another fax machine or receiver. This process allows the exact copy of the document to be printed at the receiving end. Fax machines were especially popular in business and office settings before the widespread use of digital communication but are still used today for sending documents quickly where digital signatures or email are not feasible. This device combines the functions of scanning, electronic data conversion, and transmission, distinguishing it from other devices like scanners or digital copiers that do not transmit data over phone lines.

13. The process that uses multiple processing is called

Dual core

Extreme processing

Hyper threading

Parallel processing

The process that utilizes multiple processors or cores to perform multiple operations simultaneously is known as parallel processing. This method divides complex computing tasks into smaller ones, which are then processed concurrently across multiple CPUs or CPU cores. Parallel processing significantly enhances computational speed and efficiency, especially in systems handling large data sets or tasks requiring extensive computation, such as scientific simulations, complex data analysis, and high-resolution graphics rendering. Unlike dual core, extreme processing, or hyper-threading, which refer to specific types of processors or technologies within a CPU, parallel processing describes the broader technique of distributing tasks across multiple processing units to achieve faster performance.

Explanation

The process that utilizes multiple processors or cores to perform multiple operations simultaneously is known as parallel processing. This method divides complex computing tasks into smaller ones, which are then processed concurrently across multiple CPUs or CPU cores. Parallel processing significantly enhances computational speed and efficiency, especially in systems handling large data sets or tasks requiring extensive computation, such as scientific simulations, complex data analysis, and high-resolution graphics rendering. Unlike dual core, extreme processing, or hyper-threading, which refer to specific types of processors or technologies within a CPU, parallel processing describes the broader technique of distributing tasks across multiple processing units to achieve faster performance.

14. Which of the following is a multi-user, multi-tasking operating system

Unix

Mac OS

Windows 7

None of the above

Unix is a multi-user, multi-tasking operating system designed to be used by multiple people at the same time and capable of running multiple tasks or processes simultaneously. Originally developed in the 1970s, Unix allows different users to operate various applications at the same time, accessing the system's resources independently. This capability makes Unix especially powerful in environments like servers, workstations, and academic settings where multiple users need to perform tasks concurrently. Unlike Mac OS or Windows 7, which are primarily designed for single-user environments, Unix's architecture and permissions management are ideally suited for handling multiple users with robust process control, making it a true multi-user, multi-tasking system.

Explanation

Unix is a multi-user, multi-tasking operating system designed to be used by multiple people at the same time and capable of running multiple tasks or processes simultaneously. Originally developed in the 1970s, Unix allows different users to operate various applications at the same time, accessing the system's resources independently. This capability makes Unix especially powerful in environments like servers, workstations, and academic settings where multiple users need to perform tasks concurrently. Unlike Mac OS or Windows 7, which are primarily designed for single-user environments, Unix's architecture and permissions management are ideally suited for handling multiple users with robust process control, making it a true multi-user, multi-tasking system.

15. A diskette is divided into a number of concentric circles called

Sectors

Cylinders

Tracks

Clusters

A diskette, also known as a floppy disk, is divided into a number of concentric circles called tracks. Tracks are the circular paths on the surface of the disk where data is magnetically recorded and read. Each track is capable of holding a portion of the data stored on the disk. The data within each track is further divided into smaller sections called sectors. Cylinders and clusters, on the other hand, refer to different aspects of data storage. Cylinders consist of the corresponding tracks on multiple disks or surfaces that are accessed at the same disk arm position, while clusters are the smallest allocatable units of disk space used to store files within a file system. In the context of a simple floppy disk, however, it is the tracks that define the primary divisions for data storage.

Explanation

A diskette, also known as a floppy disk, is divided into a number of concentric circles called tracks. Tracks are the circular paths on the surface of the disk where data is magnetically recorded and read. Each track is capable of holding a portion of the data stored on the disk. The data within each track is further divided into smaller sections called sectors. Cylinders and clusters, on the other hand, refer to different aspects of data storage. Cylinders consist of the corresponding tracks on multiple disks or surfaces that are accessed at the same disk arm position, while clusters are the smallest allocatable units of disk space used to store files within a file system. In the context of a simple floppy disk, however, it is the tracks that define the primary divisions for data storage.