Question Bank With Answers

Download as pdf or txt
Download as pdf or txt
You are on page 1of 2

Question Bank with Answers

1. Define a computer system. What are its main components?

A computer system is an electronic device that can be programmed to accept data (input), process

it, and generate results (output). Its main components include the CPU, memory, input/output

devices, and storage devices.

2. What is the role of the CPU, and how does it interact with memory?

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the 'brain' of the computer. It performs arithmetic and logic

operations as per the given instructions. It interacts with memory by fetching program instructions

and data, processing them, and storing results back in memory.

3. List and briefly explain any three input devices and three output devices.

Input Devices: 1) Keyboard - used for text input, 2) Mouse - a pointing device, 3) Scanner - digitizes

images.

Output Devices: 1) Monitor - displays output visually, 2) Printer - produces physical output, 3)

Speakers - produce sound output.

4. Describe the evolution of computing devices, mentioning at least three major milestones.

Computing devices evolved from the abacus (around 3000 years ago), to mechanical devices like

Pascal's calculator, and later, electronic computers with ENIAC and EDVAC in the 20th century. The

development of the microprocessor marked another milestone in the 1970s.

5. Differentiate between primary and secondary memory with examples.

Primary memory, like RAM, is fast and volatile, storing data temporarily. Secondary memory, like

hard drives and SSDs, is non-volatile, providing permanent storage for data and programs.

6. Explain the concept of cache memory and its role in computer performance.

Cache memory is a high-speed memory placed between the CPU and main memory. It stores
frequently accessed data, reducing the time required to access data from the main memory, thus

improving performance.

7. What are buses in a computer system? Name the types and their functions.

Buses are communication channels that transfer data between components. Types include:

1) Data Bus - transfers data,

2) Address Bus - carries memory addresses, and

3) Control Bus - sends control signals.

8. Describe the Von Neumann architecture.

The Von Neumann architecture includes a CPU, memory to store data and programs, and

input/output devices. Data and instructions are stored in the same memory, allowing stored-program

computers.

9. What is Moore's Law, and how has it influenced computer technology?

Moore's Law predicts that the number of transistors on a microchip doubles approximately every two

years, leading to exponential growth in computing power and miniaturization of devices.

10. Identify the generations of microprocessors and their main characteristics.

1) First Gen: 1971-73, 4/8-bit, Intel 8080

2) Second Gen: 1974-78, 8-bit, Motorola 6800

3) Third Gen: 1979-80, 16-bit, Intel 8086

4) Fourth Gen: 1981-95, 32-bit, Intel 80386

5) Fifth Gen: 1995-present, 64-bit, Pentium series and beyond.

You might also like