Computer Hardware and Software Basics

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of system software in a computer?

To enable hardware devices and application software to work together (correct)

To provide an interface for user interaction

To store and retrieve information

To perform tasks like writing and gaming

Which of the following is NOT considered a type of portable computer?

Tablet

Laptop

Desktop PC (correct)

Cell phone

What differentiates a smartphone from a regular cell phone?

Smartphones come with built-in cameras

Smartphones have larger screens

Smartphones are typically less expensive

Smartphones support advanced internet features and applications (correct)

Which operating systems are commonly associated with personal computers?

Microsoft Windows and Apple's macOS Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about hardware is correct?

Hardware includes only components you can touch. Signup and view all the answers

What is one feature that separates feature phones from smartphones?

Modest processors Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of both smartphones and tablets?

Cellular phone call capability Signup and view all the answers

What is a distinguishing factor between a smartphone and a feature phone?

Smartphones can connect to Bluetooth. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following devices typically has a screen size between 7 and 10 inches?

Tablet Signup and view all the answers

Why is it difficult to distinguish between smartphones and feature phones?

More features are integrated into all cell phone models. Signup and view all the answers

What common operating system might be found on both smartphones and tablets?

iOS Signup and view all the answers

Which feature do smartphones and tablets share regarding power?

Both can last at least 10 hours on a single charge. Signup and view all the answers

What is a function of digital convergence illustrated by smartphones?

Incorporating multiple features into one device Signup and view all the answers

What is one major difference in functionality between tablets and smartphones?

Most tablets cannot make cellular phone calls. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about Bluetooth in smartphones and tablets is true?

Bluetooth permits data transfer between any device. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Hardware and Software

Hardware is a physical part of a computer that can be touched, while software is a set of programs that instruct the hardware to complete tasks.
Application software helps users complete tasks such as writing a research paper.
System software enables communication between hardware and application software.
The operating system (OS) is the most common type of system software and controls how the computer functions.

Computer Types

Two main types of computers are portable and stationary.
Portable computer categories include cell phones, tablets, and laptops.

Cell Phones

Cell phones are computers with a processor, memory, and input/output devices.
Cell phones operate with their own operating system (OS) and application software.
Smartphones, a type of cell phone, have more powerful CPUs and interfaces than "feature phones".
Smartphones offer features like:
- Internet access
- Personal Information Management (PIM)
- Voice recording
- Music playback
- GPS services
- Image/Video capture
- Word processing and video editing software
- Control of smart home devices
Smartphones require a data plan for internet features.

Tablets

Tablets are portable computers with a multitouch-sensitive screen and an on-screen keyboard.
Tablets use similar operating systems to smartphones (e.g., iOS, Android, Windows).
Tablets and Smartphones share:
- Similar processors
- Touchscreen interfaces
- Long battery life
- Similar software applications.
- Cellular and wireless internet connectivity
- Bluetooth capability

Distinctions Between Smartphones and Tablets:

Tablets cannot make calls (except for some newer models which blur the line between tablets and smartphones)
Tablet screens tend to be larger than smartphone screens (between 7 and 10 inches, compared to less than 5 for most smartphones).
Smartphones are generally lighter and smaller than tablets.

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Description

This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of computer hardware and software, highlighting their differences and functions. It explores types of computers, including portable devices like smartphones. Test your knowledge on how these technologies interact and their applications in everyday tasks.