Introduction to Computers

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a general operation of a computer?

Charging (correct)

Storing

Processing

Input

What is the primary function of the Central Processing Unit (CPU)?

To store data permanently

To perform calculations (correct)

To serve as input devices

To manage the operating system

Which type of memory is characterized as temporary and loses its data when the PC is turned off?

ROM

Flash Memory

RAM (correct)

Hard Drive

What does the term 'mass storage' refer to in computing?

The capacity to store large amounts of data Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an input device?

Printer Signup and view all the answers

Which type of software allows the user to interface with the computer hardware?

Operating System Software Signup and view all the answers

Which storage device is characterized as having a larger capacity and greater speed compared to a floppy disk?

Hard Disk Signup and view all the answers

What is one byte equal to?

Eight bits Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of operating system software?

To manage hardware resources and provide a user interface Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following examples best represents a Local Area Network (LAN)?

Linking computers within a school or office building Signup and view all the answers

What condition is characterized by pain and discomfort in the hands, wrists, and arms due to repetitive movements?

Repetitive Strain Injury Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common health issue associated with prolonged computer use?

Cyberbullying Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes 'Access rights' in information security?

Restricting access to certain types of information based on user permissions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following methods is essential for protecting data from loss?

Having at least 2 or more copies of important data Signup and view all the answers

How does a Wide Area Network (WAN) primarily connect devices?

Using telephone lines, fiber-optic links, and satellites Signup and view all the answers

What does copyright law protect in relation to computer software?

The unauthorized copying of software Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Computer Definition

A computer is electronic device.
It takes data, processes it, and delivers information.

General Operations

Input
Process
Output
Storage

Computer Characteristics

High speed
Accuracy
Reliability
Mass storage of information
Communication with other computers via networks like the internet.

Computer Components

Input devices
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Memory
Output devices
Storage devices

Input Devices

Mouse
Keyboard
Touch pad
Pointing stick
Scanner

CPU

Central Processing Unit (CPU) performs all calculations within the computer.
CPU speed is measured in MHz (megahertz).

Memory - RAM

Random Access Memory (RAM)
Temporary memory
Information stored in RAM vanishes when the computer is turned off
Measured in Mbytes (megabytes)

Memory - ROM

Read Only Memory (ROM)
Permanent memory

Unit of Information - Bytes

One byte is equal to eight bits
A bit means binary digit
One character takes up approximately one byte

Output Devices

Computer screen
Printer
Speaker

Storage Devices

Floppy Disks
Compact Disks (CD)
Hard Disk
Digital Versatile Disk (DVD)
Flash Disk

Hardware & Software

Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer.
Software refers to the programs and applications installed on a computer.

Types of Software

Operating System Software
Application Software

Operating System (OS) Software

Enables users to interface with the computer's components.
It allocates programs to execute operations.
Example: Windows XP, Windows Vista

Application Software

Used to produce output (information).
Examples: Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Gmail

LAN (Local Area Network)

Networks that connect computers and devices within a single location or local area.
Cables are used to connect the devices.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

Networks that connect computers and devices located in different locations, often across large distances.
Telephone lines, fiber-optic links, and satellites are used to connect the devices.

Health, Safety and Environment

Ergonomics: Study of physical relationships between humans and computers.
Good Working Environments:
- Well-ventilated workspace to reduce overheating of equipment.
- Securely plugged and organized cables to prevent overloading.

Health Concerns

Eyestrain
Headache
Backache
Neck pain
Repetitive Strain Injury
Obesity

Information Security

Access Rights: Restricting access to specific information based on user permissions.
Back Up Your Data: To prevent data loss, it's recommended to have at least two copies of important files.
Copyright: Software is protected by copyright laws.
It is illegal to copy copyrighted software without permission.

IT and Society

Information Society: Characterized by instant worldwide communication and an abundance of information.
Digital Conversion: Information is constantly converted into binary digits for transmission across global networks.

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Description

Explore the fundamental concepts of computers, including their definitions, characteristics, and components. This quiz covers essential topics such as input and output devices, memory types, and the role of the CPU in processing data. Test your knowledge of the basic operations and functionalities of computers.