Ergonomics & File Extensions

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Questions and Answers

Why is it important for a CPU to have a dedicated cooling solution like a heat sink or liquid cooler?

CPUs generate a significant amount of heat when processing information. Without proper cooling, the CPU could overheat, leading to performance degradation, system instability, or permanent damage.

Explain the difference between RAM and a Hard drive, and why both are necessary in a computer system.

RAM provides fast, temporary storage for active processes and data, enabling quick access for the CPU. Hard drives offer persistent, long-term storage for files and programs. RAM is essential for performance, while hard drives are needed for data retention.

How might adding a component using an expansion slot improve a computer's functionality?

Expansion slots allow you to add or upgrade components, such as a dedicated graphics card for enhanced gaming or video editing, a wireless card for network connectivity, or a sound card for better audio processing.

Describe the role of the Chipset in a computer and how it facilitates communication between different components.

The Chipset acts as a central communication hub, managing data flow between the CPU, RAM, storage devices, and peripherals. It ensures that these components can effectively interact and coordinate their operations. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how transistors contribute to the functionality of a CPU and why their size is a critical factor.

Transistors act as tiny electronic switches that control the flow of electricity within the CPU, enabling it to perform computations and execute instructions. Smaller transistors allow for more transistors to be packed into the CPU, leading to increased processing power and energy efficiency. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a scenario where temporary storage (RAM) is more beneficial than permanent storage (SSD).

When actively working on a project or running applications because RAM allows for faster data access. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the relationship between the CPU and the Operating System.

The operating system manages the hardware and executes the software's instructions by the CPU. Signup and view all the answers

How do the functions of an Operating System and a Software Application differ?

The Operating System manages hardware and software resources; a Software Application designed performs specific tasks. Signup and view all the answers

A digital artist needs a new computer. Would you recommend a desktop or a laptop, and why?

Desktop, because they're more powerful and allow for upgrades. Laptops have everything in one place. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the role of the motherboard in a computer system.

It connects various components of the computer and allows them to communicate. Signup and view all the answers

Give an example of a device that combines input, processing, storage, and output functionalities into a single unit.

Smartphones combine all functionalities. Signup and view all the answers

How Can you use both “Hardware and Software” example from the 5 senses?

Eyes are the Hardware but translates information to the brain. Brain Interprets the infomation (Software). Signup and view all the answers

Distinguish between hardware and software, emphasizing their interdependence.

Hardware is the physical components of computer system. Software is a set of instructions execute the computer to perform specific tasks. Are interdependent, software tells hardware to do, and the hardware executes the instructions. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a situation where using a server computer would be more appropriate than using a desktop or laptop.

A server computer would be appropriate in a context of hosting a website or managing large database where multiple users must access them. Desktop and laptops are for personal use. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how wearable technology combines hardware and software to provide specific functionalities.

They use hardware components like sensors to collect data and software algorithms in order analyze information and provides outputs to the user. Smartwatches, Fitness trackers Signup and view all the answers

Explain how maintaining a 90-degree angle at the elbows while working at a computer can prevent ergonomic issues.?

Maintaining a 90-degree angle at the elbows keeps the wrists in a neutral position, reducing strain on the tendons and nerves, thus preventing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a scenario where using headphones could be considered an ergonomic solution, and why this is the case?

In a busy office, headphones minimize the need to strain the neck to hear or communicate, reducing muscle tension and potential neck pain. Signup and view all the answers

If you receive a file with an unfamiliar extension, what actions should you take before opening it, and why?

Scan the file with antivirus software and verify the sender's identity to avoid potential malware infections. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the key difference between a `.DOCX` and a `.PDF` file in terms of their intended use and editability.

<code>.DOCX</code> files are primarily for creating and editing documents, while <code>.PDF</code> files are for sharing documents in a fixed-layout format that preserves formatting across different devices and are not easily edited. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a situation where a `.WAV` file would be preferred over an `.MP3` file, detailing the trade-offs between the two formats.

A <code>.WAV</code> file is preferred in professional audio recording where the highest sound quality is required, despite the larger file size, whereas an <code>.MP3</code> is suitable for general listening where file size is a concern. Signup and view all the answers

Explain why `.JPG` files are commonly used for photographs on the web, considering their characteristics and limitations.

<code>.JPG</code> files offer significant compression, reducing file sizes and enabling faster loading times for web pages, but can lose image quality with excessive compression. Signup and view all the answers

Outline the difference between `.PNG` and `.JPG` image formats, and provide a scenario for when each would be more appropriate?

<code>.PNG</code> supports lossless compression and is better for images with text or graphics, whereas <code>.JPG</code> uses lossy compression and is better for photographs where slight quality loss is acceptable for smaller file sizes. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a situation where a `.BMP` file might be chosen over a `.JPG`, and explain the key advantage of using `.BMP` in this scenario?

<code>.BMP</code> files are chosen when image quality is paramount and file size is not a major concern; the key advantage is that <code>.BMP</code> files retain all image data without compression artifacts. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

CPU

Processes information and executes commands; the 'brain' of the computer.

RAM

Temporarily stores data for quick access while the computer is running.