Questions and Answers
What is the basic unit of memory?
How many bytes are equal to 1 kilobyte?
What is the term for an assembly of electronic components, fabricated as a single unit?
How many bytes are equal to 1 terabyte?
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What is the term for a binary byte of data?
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What is the purpose of an Integrated Circuit?
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How many kilobytes are equal to 1 megabyte?
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What is the term for a device the size of a thumb that can store 1 or 2 terabytes of data?
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What is the primary function of an operating system?
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What is the CPU of a computer?
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What kind of computers do not necessarily need an operating system?
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What is a common characteristic of operating systems used in aircraft systems?
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What is the role of an operating system in managing hardware resources?
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What is the brain of the computer?
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What is a common function of an operating system in an aircraft system?
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What is a characteristic of a simple computer that does not need an operating system?
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What is an advantage of NAND SSDs?
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Why are NAND SSDs not suitable for long-term data storage?
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What is a characteristic of magnetic tape storage?
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What is an advantage of magnetic disc storage devices?
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What is the width range of magnetic tape?
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What is the length range of magnetic tape?
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How are 1s and 0s recorded on magnetic tape?
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What is the package type used by large computers for magnetic tape?
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What is the primary purpose of Read-Only Memory (ROM) in a computer?
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What is the main disadvantage of Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM)?
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How is a program entered into a blank Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM)?
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What is the primary advantage of Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM) over traditional PROM?
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What happens to the memory in a Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM) after it has been programmed?
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What is the term used to describe the process of programming a Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM)?
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What is the purpose of erasing an EPROM with ultraviolet light?
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What is required to program a blank Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM)?
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Which of the following is an example of a software storage medium?
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What is the primary characteristic of secondary storage?
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What is the advantage of using Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM) over Read-Only Memory (ROM)?
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Which of the following is NOT a type of software storage medium?
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What happens to the fuses in the ROM cells during the programming process of a Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM)?
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What is unique about flash memory cards?
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What is the primary advantage of using EPROM over PROM?
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What is the purpose of secondary storage in a computer?
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Study Notes
Memory
- A binary byte of data is the basic unit of memory.
- Primary storage capacities are usually specified in number of bytes.
- Kilobyte (KB) = 1024 bytes, Megabyte (MB) = 1024 KB, Gigabyte (GB) = 1024 MB, Terabyte (TB) = 1024 GB.
- 1 terabyte = 1e12 bytes or 1 000 000 000 000 bytes.
Integrated Circuits (ICs)
- An IC, also known as a microchip, is an assembly of electronic components fabricated as a single unit.
- ICs allow for miniaturized active devices (e.g., transistors and diodes) and passive devices (e.g., capacitors and resistors) to be preconstructed.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- A modern computer CPU performs complex calculations using logic circuits configured to produce a desired outcome.
- The CPU is the brain of the computer.
Operating System
- An operating system is a collection of programs used by the computer to manage its own resources and operations.
- Operating systems control the execution of other programs, schedule, assign resources, monitor and control the work of the computer.
- Not all computers have operating systems (e.g., simple computers like microwave ovens).
Storage Devices
Magnetic Tape Storage
- Magnetic tape is a type of storage device used mainly for secondary storage.
- It is made of a Mylar base coated with a magnetic oxide that can be magnetized to store data.
- Data is stored as strings of 1s and 0s (serial access memory).
- Magnetic tape comes in various lengths (from 600 to 3000 ft) and is packaged in open reels, cartridges, or cassettes.
Magnetic Disc Storage
- Magnetic discs are direct-access storage devices.
- They are popular due to their direct-access capabilities.
Read-Only Memory (ROM)
- ROM is a type of memory that enables storing often-used instructions or programs permanently inside the computer.
- ROM retains data even when the computer is powered down.
Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM)
- PROM is an alternative to ROM that can be purchased already programmed or in a blank state.
- A PROM can be written into once, but it cannot be altered or changed afterward.
- A special device is needed to 'burn' the program into PROM.
Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM)
- EPROM is a type of memory that can be erased and reprogrammed using ultraviolet light.
- EPROMs can be purchased blank and programmed.
- Data and programs can be retrieved over and over again without destroying the contents of the EPROM.
Software Storage Mediums
- Software storage mediums include reel-to-reel; 8-in., 5 1/4-in., and 3 1/2-in. floppy discs; cassette tapes; CDs and DVDs; portable hard drives; and flash drives.
- Flash memory cards are tiny, have no moving parts, and are often used in digital cameras and mobile devices.
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Description
Test your understanding of basic computing concepts including memory units and integrated circuits. Learn about bytes, kilobytes, megabytes, and more!