Computer Basics Quiz

The brain of a computer, responsible for processing instructions and performing calculations.

A specialized circuit within the CPU that performs arithmetic and logical operations. It's responsible for calculations and making decisions.

A small, high-speed memory within the CPU that stores temporary data used during processing.

A register that stores the address of the next instruction to be executed by the CPU.

A register that holds the memory address of data that is being accessed (read or written).

A specialized circuit within the CPU responsible for fetching, decoding, and executing instructions. It controls the entire CPU operation.

Output devices convert binary data to human-readable form, presenting the processed information to the user.

The ALU acts as a gateway between primary memory (RAM) and secondary storage (hard drive), all data transfer passes through it.

Instructions are read from memory and placed into the instruction register. This step is controlled by the program counter (PC) which points to the next instruction location.

The CPU analyzes the fetched instruction, determining the necessary operation and how to access data.

The CPU performs the action specified by the decoded instruction (e.g., arithmetic calculation, data movement).

The result of the executed instruction is stored back in memory or in a register. This might be a new value or a modified copy of existing data.

A physical connection that acts as the conduit for data transfer between different components within a computer. Think of it as the 'highway' for data to travel through.

Carries memory addresses from the CPU to various components like RAM or I/O devices. Determines the maximum amount of memory a system can access.

Carries data between the CPU and other components. Bidirectional, meaning data can flow in both directions.

The main circuit board within a computer that connects all other components, essentially the backbone of the system. It allows various hardware components like the CPU, RAM, and storage devices to work together.

The pathway that enables data and instructions to flow between the CPU, memory, and peripheral devices.

A bus that carries signals that control the operations of the CPU and peripherals.

A bidirectional bus, meaning data can travel in both directions (from the CPU to other components and vice versa).

The size of the data bus is measured in bits. A larger data bus allows for faster data transfer.

The size of the data bus directly influences crucial aspects of the computer, such as the word size and data transfer rate.

A keyboard is a primary input device used to enter text, numbers, and symbols into a computer.

The QWERTY keyboard layout is the standard layout for most computer keyboards, named after the first six letters on the top row.

Most modern keyboards connect to computers via USB or Bluetooth. Older keyboards used PS/2, serial ports, or AT connections.

A handheld input device that controls a pointer on a screen, allowing users to interact with digital objects.

A flat surface where you place a computer mouse to provide smooth movement.

A device that allows users to move the pointer on a laptop screen using their finger.

A device that converts physical images into digital data that your computer can understand.

A device that reads information from a magnetic stripe on a card, often used for payment or identification.

An input device that converts hand-drawn images into digital form using a stylus on a touch-sensitive surface.

An input device that captures sound waves and converts them into electrical signals for digital storage or processing.

A technology allowing computers to understand and interpret spoken human language. It can recognize commands or transcribe speech.

A touch screen technology that uses a metallic, electrically conductive layer to detect pressure from a finger or object.

Resistive touch screens are more affordable than capacitive touch screens.

Sharp objects can damage a resistive touch screen.

A touch screen technology that uses ultrasonic waves to detect touch.

SAW technology is more advanced than resistive or capacitive touch screens.

SAW touchscreens are less accurate with hard materials and can be affected by external factors.

This technology is often more affordable than capacitive touch screens.

This technology is susceptible to damage from sharp objects.