Questions and Answers
What is the main function of the cooling fan in a computer system?
Where is data stored temporarily while being actively used by programs?
Which component is responsible for connecting other parts of the computer and distributing power?
What is the primary metric used to measure the performance of a supercomputer?
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Which device would be classified as an input device in a computer system?
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Which operating system do all of the world's fastest 500 supercomputers run?
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What are mainframe computers commonly referred to as?
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What does a Video Graphics Array (VGA) port primarily connect to?
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What was the primary design purpose of minicomputers when they first emerged?
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Which of the following describes a key function of the CPU?
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Which of the following statements about microcomputers is true?
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What type of storage device is primarily used for long-term data retention?
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Which of the following could cause issues while using a Video Graphics Array (VGA) port?
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How do modern mainframe computers compare to their earlier counterparts from the 1960s?
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In which decade did minicomputers first appear in the market?
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What distinguishes microcomputers from earlier computer types like mainframes and minicomputers?
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What is the primary purpose of cooling fans in a computer system?
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Which of the following best describes a hard drive?
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What is a key function of a computer monitor?
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What characteristic differentiates a wired computer mouse from a wireless one?
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What are supercomputers primarily known for?
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What type of maintenance might a technician perform on a scanner?
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Why might a technician wear anti-static gloves when handling a computer monitor?
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Which statement about input devices is true?
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Study Notes
Computer Technician Tasks
- Use compressed air to clean the VGA port for dust removal.
- Power supply provides electricity to all computer components via a power cord.
- Troubleshoot power supply issues by checking connections and testing with new cords or outlets.
Cooling Fan
- Cooling fans reduce overheating; multiple fans are common in systems with heavy usage like gaming.
- Technicians may need to repair cooling fans if overheating is reported.
Hard Drive
- Hard drives are data storage devices that use magnetically coated discs to store files and programs.
Monitor
- Monitors display running programs; anti-static gloves can be worn by technicians during handling to prevent static electricity damage.
Scanner
- Scanners digitize images for storage and access on computers; technicians may check for damage if malfunctions occur.
Computer Mouse
- Mice can be wired or wireless, serving as input devices to control the cursor on the monitor.
Parts of a Computer System
- Central Processing Unit (CPU), Motherboard, Random Access Memory (RAM), Power Supply, Cooling Fan, Hard Drive, Computer Mouse, Monitor.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- The CPU controls processes and communicates with other components, making it one of the most complex parts of a computer.
Motherboard
- The motherboard connects all components, distributes power, and controls data transfer; it houses the CPU, memory, and storage devices.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
- RAM temporarily stores data for active programs. Technicians may identify, replace, and diagnose RAM issues.
Video Graphics Array (VGA) Port
- The VGA port serves as a video input primarily for PC monitors. Troubleshooting includes checking for loose connections and faulty cables.
Classifications of Computers
- Supercomputers: High-performance systems measured in FLOPS. All top 500 supercomputers run on Linux-based OS.
- Mainframe Computers: Known as "big iron," used for bulk data processing by large organizations; architectures improve over the years.
- Mini Computers: Introduced in the 1960s, cheaper than mainframes, designed for control and communication tasks.
- Microcomputers: Small and affordable, often with a microprocessor as CPU, built on a single circuit board unlike larger predecessors.
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Description
This quiz covers essential tasks for computer technicians, focusing on the use of compressed air in VGA ports, understanding power supplies, and troubleshooting techniques. Test your knowledge on how to keep computer systems running smoothly and efficiently.
