Information Technology Module 2 GEN018

Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of hardware in a computer system?

To serve as physical components of the system (correct)

To execute commands and processes

To provide visual display of information

To store and manage data

Which of the following is NOT considered a type of output device?

Speaker

Mouse (correct)

Monitor

Printer

What is the major role of RAM in a computer system?

To provide fast retrieval of data and machine codes (correct)

To store data for long-term access

To display images on the monitor

To connect peripherals to the computer

How does software interact with hardware in a computer system?

It processes data through hardware components Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes hardware from software in a computer system?

Hardware consists of physical parts while software is a set of commands Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the motherboard in a computer?

To act as a communication and transfer hub for data and power. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of software is essential for a computer to function when it is powered on?

Operating System (OS) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a common device for storing and transferring data?

Processor Signup and view all the answers

What role does the CPU (Central Processing Unit) play in a computer?

It performs computations and processes data. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best distinguishes application software from an operating system?

Application software is used for single or multiple tasks, while OS is a basic program. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Lesson Objectives

Identify and explain computer system parts.
Differentiate between hardware and software.
Define computer hardware components and their functions.
Understand computer software types and their roles.

Information Technology (IT)

IT encompasses tools and systems that gather, process, store, protect, and transfer information.
The term Information and Communications Technology (ICT) emphasizes the importance of network connections in computing.

Computer Components

Hardware: Tangible physical parts of a computer.
Software: Intangible sets of commands that instruct the hardware.

Data Processing

Input devices provide data to the computer.
The computer processes this data and outputs results through output devices, which include screens and storage devices.

Key Hardware Parts of a Computer

Monitor: Displays images and text.
Mouse: A pointing device for navigation and command selection.
Printer: Outputs documents on paper.
Speaker: Produces sound for audio output.
Power Supply: Regulates electrical power to computer components.
GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Accelerates image creation for output.
Hard Disk: Stores files for future access.
RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporarily holds data and commands for quick access.
Motherboard: Central hub connecting all hardware components; facilitates data and power transfer.
Processor (CPU): Executes calculations and processes commands.
Computer Case: Houses and safeguards internal components.
Keyboard: Input device for typing commands.

Common Storage and Transfer Devices

Hard disks, USB flash drives, diskettes, CD/DVD discs, memory cards, network drives, and online/cloud storage.

Software Overview

Software is a program that performs tasks using built-in hardware.
Operating System (OS): Core program loaded at startup (e.g., Windows, Mac OS, Linux).
Application Software: Programs designed for specific tasks (e.g., word processors, games, browsers).

Computer Classifications

Mainframe: Centralized powerful computers handling vast data transactions.
Supercomputer: High-speed computers designed for complex calculations; used in research and forecasting.
Wearable Computers: Technology integrated into clothing and accessories for functionality tracking.

Networking Concepts

POLAN: Point to multipoint LAN architecture using optical splitters for distributing signals.
Enterprise Private Network (EPN): Secure network for businesses across multiple locations.
Virtual Private Network (VPN): Extends private networks over the internet, providing secure remote access.

Network Types

Client/Server Networks: Centralized servers accessed by clients.
Peer-to-Peer Networks: Devices share equal responsibilities, commonly used in homes.

Network Topologies

Star Topology: Each device connects independently to a central node; failure in one does not disrupt others.
Bus Topology: All devices share a single cable; failure can bring down the network.
Ring Topology: Devices are connected in a circle; signal travels in one direction, retries to reach its destination.

Key Networking Terms

Open System: Connected to a network for communication.
Closed System: Not network-connected, limiting communication capabilities.
IP Address: Unique logical address for each device in a network.
MAC Address: Unique physical address linked to the network device hardware.
Port: Channel for data transmission.
Nodes: Any devices that send/receive data on a network.
Network Packets: Units of data sent between nodes.
Routers: Devices managing data packets and directing traffic within networks.
Network Address Translation (NAT): Technique allowing multiple devices to share a single public IP address.

Description

This quiz covers key concepts from Module 2 of GEN018, focusing on computer systems and their components. You'll explore the differences between hardware and software, as well as identify types of computer hardware and software essential for information technology.