Computer Engineering Overview
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Questions and Answers

What significant invention at Bell Labs in 1947 changed the course of computing?

  • Microprocessors
  • Transistor (correct)
  • Vacuum Tubes
  • Integrated Circuits

Which technology was primarily used for storage in second generation computers?

  • Flash Memory
  • Magnetic Core Memory (correct)
  • Optical Discs
  • Solid State Drives

What did the introduction of Integrated Circuits (ICs) during the 1960s enable?

  • Combining several computers into one
  • Replacement of all current storage methods
  • Integration of thousands of resistors on a chip
  • Integration of thousands of transistors on a single chip (correct)

What was one of the major advantages of computers in the third generation compared to previous generations?

<p>Improved size and cost efficiency (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the processing speed capability of processors during the third generation of computers?

<p>Megahertz speeds (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of programming in computer engineering?

<p>To automate processes and define system behavior (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which phase of software development focuses on structuring how the software will work?

<p>Design (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which computer is noted as one of the most popular of the second generation?

<p>IBM 1401 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which programming language is NOT mentioned as an example of programming languages used in computer engineering?

<p>JavaScript (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of computer hardware engineers?

<p>Researching and testing computer equipment (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable feature of microprocessors introduced in the 1970s?

<p>Combination of multiple instructions processing (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following devices are software engineers likely to create applications for?

<p>Smartphones and tablets (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of storage device became primary during the development of third generation computers?

<p>Magnetic Disks (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key function of operating systems in managing hardware?

<p>Memory allocation and storage management (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of ensuring the software functions as expected during the testing phase?

<p>To identify and fix bugs in the software (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which role typically involves working closely with development teams?

<p>Software engineer (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of embedded systems, what crucial role does programming play?

<p>Controlling operations in devices such as sensors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do computer engineers create and maintain, aside from hardware?

<p>Computer networks and interfaces (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for hardware engineers to ensure compatibility with software?

<p>To ensure hardware works properly with software technology (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does efficient code contribute to in system performance?

<p>Faster and more reliable systems (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of computer engineering involves the development of operating systems?

<p>Software engineering (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following phases is focused on understanding what the software must do?

<p>Requirement Analysis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a focus area of computer hardware engineers?

<p>Creating mobile applications (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what setting might a computer engineer maintain computer networks?

<p>In a corporate IT environment (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primary function do embedded systems serve in drone operations?

<p>Controlling flight, navigation, and camera operation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which design challenge is commonly faced by embedded systems compared to general-purpose computers?

<p>Real-time constraints and timing requirements (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one critical factor for embedded systems in mobile and IoT devices?

<p>Energy efficiency due to limited power sources (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what area are traffic lights utilizing embedded systems primarily focused?

<p>Managing real-time traffic flow and timing (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What trend is significantly influencing the growth of embedded systems?

<p>The expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial requirement for embedded systems functioning in real-time applications?

<p>Strict adherence to timing constraints (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do base stations play in wireless communication systems?

<p>Manage internet connectivity and signal transmission (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is power efficiency critical for embedded systems utilized in smart homes?

<p>Because they often rely on limited power sources like batteries (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of a Quality Assurance Engineer?

<p>Ensure software and systems meet reliability standards through testing (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which role is responsible for designing and testing computer hardware?

<p>Hardware Engineer (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key function of a DevOps Engineer?

<p>Focus on software development and IT operations automation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which is a primary duty of a System Analyst?

<p>Analyze and improve IT systems for businesses (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What contribution is Donald Knuth known for?

<p>Pioneering software applications and algorithms (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which role is likely to troubleshoot technology and software issues for clients?

<p>Technical Support Engineer (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a Machine Learning Engineer's role?

<p>Creating and implementing machine learning algorithms (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary task of a Game Developer?

<p>Develop and design video games for different platforms (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary advantage of wired networks?

<p>Higher reliability and faster speeds (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Network Function Virtualization (NFV) primarily achieve?

<p>Allows network functions to be virtualized (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following protocols is commonly associated with wired networks?

<p>Ethernet (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a disadvantage of wireless networks?

<p>Higher installation costs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primarily enables communication between devices in a network?

<p>Protocols for data transmission (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one key feature of wireless networks?

<p>Transmission of data via radio waves (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a notable disadvantage of using wired networks?

<p>Higher installation costs compared to wireless (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which benefit does network virtualization provide?

<p>It reduces operational costs by eliminating hardware. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Computer Networks

Systems connecting computers for communication and resource sharing.

Computer Engineering

Designing, developing, and maintaining computer systems and software.

Computer Interfaces

Points of contact between computer and user (e.g., screen, keyboard).

Software Engineering

Focuses on designing, developing, and maintaining software.

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Hardware Engineering

Focuses on the physical components and their operation.

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Computer Hardware

Physical components of a computer (e.g., motherboard, CPU, RAM).

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Software Engineer vs. Hardware Engineer

Software engineers work on programs, while hardware engineers work on the physical components (e.g., chip design).

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Computer Applications

Programs or software designed for specific tasks on computers.

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Embedded System

A computer system with specific functions built into a larger device.

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Embedded System Design Challenges

Unique problems in designing embedded systems, different from general-purpose computers, especially focusing on power and timing constraints.

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Power Efficiency in Embedded Systems

Using minimal energy to run embedded systems, especially important for battery-powered devices.

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Real-Time Constraints

Meeting strict deadlines for tasks in embedded systems. Missed deadlines can cause errors.

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IoT (Internet of Things)

Networked embedded systems collecting, transmitting, and processing data.

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Edge Computing

Processing data near or at its source, reducing delay and improving responsiveness.

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Drone Flight Control

Embedded systems control drone movements like navigation and camera operations.

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Internet Connectivity Management

Embedded systems managing internet traffic for homes and businesses, like routers and modems.

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Transistor Computers

Computers using transistors instead of vacuum tubes, making them smaller, faster, and more reliable.

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Integrated Circuits (ICs)

Microchips that integrate thousands of transistors onto a single silicon chip, leading to smaller, cheaper, and faster computers.

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Magnetic Core Memory

A type of computer memory used in the 1950s and 1960s, allowing faster access and higher capacity compared to previous methods.

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Magnetic Disks

Storage devices used in computers to store data, becoming a primary means for storage in the 1960s.

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Microprocessors

The fundamental processing unit of a computer, introduced in the 1960s, enabling computing capabilities in various devices.

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Second Generation Computers

Computers with transistors, representing an improvement in speed, size, and reliability over the vacuum tube era.

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Third Generation Computers

Computers incorporating Integrated Circuits (ICs), leading to drastic improvements in size, cost, and performance.

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IBM 1401

A widely used computer in the 1950s and 1960s, marking a notable achievement in early computing history.

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Software Development

The process of creating software systems, applications, and embedded systems.

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Requirement Analysis

Understanding the needed functionality of a software system.

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Embedded Systems

Small computer systems built into devices like sensors or actuators.

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Operating System

System software that manages computer hardware and software resources.

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Process Management

The operating system's role in controlling processes.

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System Performance

How efficiently a computer system performs its tasks.

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Programming Role

Programming is essential for defining the system's behavior and automating complex tasks using a programming language

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Implementation (Coding)

Writing the code that gives life to the software design.

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Wired Networks

Networks that use physical cables (like Ethernet) to connect devices.

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Wireless Networks

Networks using radio waves to transmit data, enabling mobility.

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Network Protocol

A set of rules for data transmission (e.g., TCP/IP).

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Network Function Virtualization (NFV)

Virtualizing network functions (like firewalls, routers) reducing hardware need.

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Data Transmission Path

The way data travels through a network (e.g., cables, air).

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Network Reliability

How dependable or stable the network connection is.

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Networking in Modern Computing

Enabling communication between devices, enabling sharing resources.

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Centralized Network Control

Managing the network from a central point, improving flexibility.

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Machine Learning Engineer

Develops and implements machine learning models and algorithms.

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Quality Assurance Engineer

Ensures software/systems meet quality standards and are reliable.

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Hardware Engineer

Designs and tests computer hardware components (like circuit boards).

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Technical Support Engineer

Helps customers and organizations with technology problems.

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DevOps Engineer

Works on software development and IT operations, focusing on automation and efficiency.

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System Analyst

Analyzes and improves IT systems to solve business problems.

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Algorithm

A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem or task.

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Donald Knuth

Known as the 'Father of Algorithms' for his work on algorithms, software applications, and operating systems.

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Study Notes

Computer Engineering as a Discipline

  • Computer Engineering encompasses a wide range of topics, including operating systems, computer architecture, computer networks, robotics, artificial intelligence, and computer-aided design.
  • Programs are designed to meet rapidly expanding demand for engineers with strong design skills.
  • Four-year degree program studying computer systems.
  • Curriculum covers both software and hardware, plus developing analytical skills for computer systems design, construction of electronic equipment, and peripherals.

Computer Engineering Salaries

  • Average salary for a Computer Engineer in the USA in 2019 was $69,188.
  • Average salary for a Computer Scientist in the USA in 2019 was $67,539.
  • Average salary for a Computer Engineer in the Philippines in 2019 was Php 22,665 per month (estimated from multiple sources).

Computer Engineer Job Roles and Specialties

  • Two major specialties are Computer Software Engineer and Computer Hardware Engineer.
  • Software Engineers: develop, design, and test software, maintain computer networks and programs, create computer interfaces, operating systems, and new programs.
  • Hardware Engineers: research, develop, and test hardware components such as chipsets, mainboards, ensuring compatibility with latest software technology.

Greatest Computer Engineers of All Time

  • Tim Berners-Lee: Created the World Wide Web (internet).
  • Dennis Ritchie: Inventor of C programming language and Unix operating system.
  • Linus Torvalds: Developed the Linux kernel.
  • Donald Knuth: Known for algorithms.
  • James Gosling: Creator of Java programming language.

Computer Hardware Fundamentals

  • Von Neumann architecture: Computer architecture concept from John Von Neumann.
  • Harvard architecture: Computer architecture with separate storage and signal pathways.
  • Early mechanical computers (pre-1940s): Used mechanical devices for simple arithmetic and data storage (e.g., abacus).
  • First Generation (1940s-1950s): Vacuum tubes as components. ENIAC and UNIVAC I are examples.
  • Second Generation (1950s-1960s): Transistors replaced vacuum tubes, leading to smaller, more reliable computers (e.g., IBM 1401).
  • Third Generation (1960s-1970s): Integrated Circuits (ICs) significantly reduced size and costs. IBM System/360 and Intel 4004 are examples.
  • Fourth Generation (1970s-1980s): Rise of microprocessors, single-chip CPUs, like Intel 8080 and Apple II.
  • Fifth Generation (1990s-Present): Multi-core processors, increasing speed and efficiency, along with developments like Intel Pentium series.

Embedded Systems

  • Embedded systems are specialized computing systems designed for specific functions within larger systems.
  • Unlike general-purpose computers, they're optimized for specific tasks with real-time constraints.
  • Embedded systems are in many devices, from consumer electronics to industrial machinery.
  • Embedded systems' characteristics include task-specificity, real-time operation, resource constraints, low power consumption, and reliability.
  • Embedded-system components include microcontrollers/microprocessors, memory (ROM, RAM), and Input/Output (I/O) ports.
  • The following components are integral to embedded systems: Real-time operating systems (RTOS), device drivers, firmware, and various types of memory.
  • Embedded systems can be classified based on various factors such as performance, complexity, and application.

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Computer Engineering as a Discipline Compilation (Shit Edition) PDF

Description

Explore the dynamic field of Computer Engineering, covering essential topics such as operating systems, computer architecture, and artificial intelligence. This quiz will provide insights into educational pathways, job roles, and salary expectations for engineers in this discipline.

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