16 Questions
What does the term 'computer system' refer to?
A nominally complete computer that includes hardware, operating system, software, and peripheral equipment needed for full operation.
What is a computer?
A machine that can be programmed to carry out arithmetic or logical operations automatically.
What are some examples of products that use computers as control systems?
Microwave ovens, remote controls, industrial robots, computer-aided design, personal computers, and smartphones.
What was the original purpose of early computers?
To be used only for calculations.
What types of tasks did some mechanical devices automate during the Industrial Revolution?
Long, tedious tasks, such as guiding patterns for looms.
What enables computers to perform a wide range of tasks?
Programs.
What were the first digital electronic calculating machines developed during?
World War II
What technological developments in the late 1940s followed the first semiconductor transistors?
The silicon-based MOSFET (MOS transistor) and monolithic integrated circuit chip technologies
What did the development of silicon-based MOSFET and monolithic integrated circuit chip technologies lead to in the late 1950s?
The microprocessor and the microcomputer revolution
What did Moore's law note about transistor counts?
Counts doubled every two years
What does a modern computer conventionally consist of?
At least one processing element (typically a central processing unit) and some type of computer memory
What did the term 'computer' refer to in the 1613 book The Yong Mans Gleanings?
A human computer, a person who carried out calculations or computations
When did the word 'computer' continue with the same meaning until?
Until the middle of the 20th century
During what period were women often hired as human computers?
The latter part of the 20th century
According to the Online Etymology Dictionary, what does the term 'computer' mean in the 1640s?
'One who calculates'
When did the 'modern use' of the term 'computer' to mean 'programmable digital electronic computer' date from?
1945
Test your knowledge about computer systems, operations, and programming with this quiz. Learn about the hardware, software, operating systems, and tasks performed by modern digital electronic computers.
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