Basic Computer Structure Quiz

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Questions and Answers

How many possible values can be represented with 5 bits?

128 (correct)

What is the term used to describe 4 bits of data?

Kilobyte

Byte

Megabyte

Nibble (correct)

What is the decimal equivalent of the binary number 1111?

511

15 (correct)

255

Which of the following is a unit of memory often used to represent the storage capacity of computers?

All of the above (D) Signup and view all the answers

How many bytes are in 1024 kilobytes (KB)?

1048576 (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between a byte and a single character on a keyboard?

A single character is represented internally as a byte, which is a sequence of 8 bits. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason why computers typically store and manipulate data in groups of 8 bits (bytes)?

All of the above (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following storage capacities is the largest?

16 TB (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of software in a computer?

To provide instructions for the hardware components. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) in the aircraft industry?

To identify and isolate faults in avionics components. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT typically housed within a computer case?

Monitor (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the operating system in a computer?

To manage the execution of software and the allocation of resources. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason for periodic software updates in aircraft systems?

To improve performance, address issues, and incorporate updated data. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between RAM and ROM?

ROM is permanent storage, while RAM is temporary storage. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a graphics card in a computer?

To process and display visual information. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a motherboard?

To provide connectivity for all the computer's components. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of cooling systems in modern computers?

To prevent the computer from overheating and malfunctioning. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a microcomputer?

Smartphone (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the I/O circuitry in a computer?

To enable communication between the computer and its peripherals. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the CPU (Central Processing Unit) in a computer?

Performing calculations and controlling operations. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a primary component of a modern microcomputer?

Flight Control Computer (FCC) (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between a Flight Control Computer (FCC) and a personal computer?

FCCs are designed for specific, highly demanding tasks. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a characteristic of a Flight Control Computer (FCC)?

Simplified architecture for ease of use. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between the CPU of a simple calculator and that of a modern computer?

Modern CPUs can handle more complex calculations. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a computer peripheral?

Keyboard (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between a computer's CPU and Main Memory (RAM)?

The CPU accesses and processes data stored temporarily in RAM. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of a computer processor?

To interpret instructions and execute tasks. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between a floppy disk and a hard disk in terms of their physical composition?

A floppy disk uses a flexible plastic material, while a hard disk uses a rigid metal material. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What happens to data stored on a magnetic disc when new data is written to the same area?

The new data replaces the existing data. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the relationship between data density and track size on a magnetic disc?

Data density is highest on tracks closest to the center of the disc. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes semiconductor memory from magnetic disc storage?

Semiconductor memory is significantly faster than magnetic disc storage. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary disadvantage of using semiconductor memory for data storage?

Semiconductor memory is volatile, meaning data is lost when power is removed. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following components is NOT typically found on a computer's motherboard?

Hard Disk Drive (HDD) (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of transistors in a computer?

Acting as switches to represent binary data (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between bits, bytes, and a computer's memory?

A byte is made up of 8 bits, and memory capacity is measured in bytes. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a type of computer-related software?

Network Interface Card (NIC) (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes how a computer processes data?

Computers convert digital input to digital output. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the binary numbering system in computer science?

It allows for efficient data storage by using only two digits. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Basic Computer Structure (5.6.1)

Learning Objectives include describing computer terminology (bits, bytes, software, hardware, CPU, IC, RAM, ROM, PROM) and applications in aircraft systems.

Computer Terminology

Computers manipulate binary data (1s and 0s).
Input devices translate data into output.
Complex hardware/software is a combination of components.
The motherboard is a core component, with CPU and RAM slots, alongside other integrated circuits for peripherals.
Computer outputs are diverse and depend on running software.

Binary Digits

Transistors switch between ON and OFF states with voltage applied to the base.
Computers use binary numbering (0 and 1).
HIGH (ON/1) is typically 5V DC and LOW (OFF/0) is typically 0V DC.

Bits

A bit is a binary digit (1 or 0) used in computer circuits, representing information.
Bits combine to form logic circuits within the computer.

AND Gate

The light circuit works as an AND gate. This means the light only turns on when both input "A" and "B" are high (1).
The circuit's logic demonstrates how computers process information.

Bits, Nibbles, and Bytes

A bit is the smallest unit of computer information, with only two possible values (0 and 1).
Increasing the number of bits increases the number of states they can represent exponentially.
A nibble is 4 bits.
A byte is 8 bits.
A byte is often used to represent a single character in a computer system internally.

8 Bits = 1 Byte of Data

Computer storage is often measured in kilobytes (KB), megabytes (MB), gigabytes (GB), and terabytes (TB).
1 KB = 1024 bytes, 1 MB = 1024 KB, 1 GB = 1024 MB, 1 TB = 1024 GB.

Integrated Circuits (ICs)

ICs (microchips) are assemblies of electronic components on a single unit.
Integrated circuits allow for more complex logic actions and miniaturization of components in computers.
ICs reduce the size and weight of computers, improve reliability, lower costs, and increase performance.
Disadvantages of ICs include problems with repair (replacement often the solution).

Computer Hardware

Computer hardware includes the physical components: case, motherboard, CPU, memory (RAM, ROM), graphics card, sound card, input devices (mouse, keyboard), output devices (monitor, speakers), and related circuit components like resistors, transistors, capacitors.

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Description

Test your knowledge of fundamental concepts in computer science, including memory units, data representation, and the role of software in computing. This quiz covers essential topics such as binary numbers, bytes, and the functions of components within a computer system.