Computer Basics: Hardware System Overview

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What is the main function of a computer processor?

Storing data on the hard disk

Displaying results as text, numbers, graphics, or sound

Performing mathematical or logical operations on data (correct)

Managing the input/output communication

Where does a computer save the results of its processing?

On rotating circular platters

In the primary memory

On magnetic tapes

On flash disks (correct)

Which type of memory stores all the data before it is processed by the processor?

Cache memory

Secondary memory (correct)

Primary memory

Hard disk

What is the unit of measurement usually used to quantify hard drive capacity?

Terabytes (TB) Signup and view all the answers

Which feature of computers expands their functions by enabling data exchange?

Input & Output Processing Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the information processing cycle in computers?

To transform data into information through processing Signup and view all the answers

What are the four parts that make up a computer system?

Hardware, Software, Data, User Signup and view all the answers

Which type of data does a digital device use?

Discrete data Signup and view all the answers

What is an input device in a computer?

Hardware used to enter data and instructions Signup and view all the answers

What does an output device do in a computer system?

Conveys information to the user Signup and view all the answers

In a digital device, how many possible states do the circuits have?

Two possible states Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of a computer in terms of information processing?

Manipulates information and data Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of the Control Unit (CU) in a processor?

Manage all processor operations Signup and view all the answers

Which memory type is characterized by being non-volatile and only allowing reading, not writing?

ROM Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of Cache Memory in a computer system?

Speed up the CPU by acting as a buffer Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the contents of RAM when a computer is turned off?

The contents are lost Signup and view all the answers

How does increasing the amount of RAM impact computer performance?

Improves speed and ability to perform tasks Signup and view all the answers

What is the unit of measurement for describing computer memory?

Byte Signup and view all the answers

What type of waves does Infrared communication use?

Invisible light Signup and view all the answers

Why does Infrared communication require a line of sight visibility?

To prevent disruptions in the light beam Signup and view all the answers

Which wireless communication form was likely the earliest?

Broadcast radio Signup and view all the answers

How do radio waves differ from signals used in Infrared communication?

Radio waves are relatively narrow compared to signals Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of Wi-Fi internet?

Low powered electronic network Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of maritime radio channels?

Allow ships to communicate with each other and the shore Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between a Kilobyte (KB) and a Megabyte (MB)?

KB is smaller than MB Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a type of Optical Drive as mentioned in the text?

Print Drive Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes Flash Memory from other types of memory mentioned in the text?

It is erased and rewritten electrically Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Satellite Communication as described in the text?

To enable people to communicate with each other Signup and view all the answers

Why are satellites used for wireless communication according to the text?

To overcome the curvature of the earth and send signals across long distances Signup and view all the answers

Why is significant testing of technology involved before launching a satellite into space?

To prevent failures since sending satellites into space is expensive Signup and view all the answers