29 Questions
What is a characteristic of a minicomputer compared to a personal computer (PC)?
Less computing power
Which of the following is a common use of minicomputers?
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) control
What is a disadvantage of a minicomputer compared to a mainframe computer?
Smaller size
Why are mainframe computers also known as enterprise servers?
As they serve distributed users in a computing network
What distinguishes mainframe computers from other types in terms of cost?
They cost millions of dollars
Which type of computer is known for being large and bulky?
Microcomputer
What is the primary purpose of CAD programs in product design?
To create exact specifications and detailed drawings
In which industry is automation becoming increasingly common?
Manufacturing
What is the main benefit of using computer systems for accounts?
Guaranteed accuracy
What is another term for a counting frame that was used in China, Europe, and Russia?
Abacus
Which type of computer is characterized by its high processing speed and complex calculations?
Supercomputer
What is a common characteristic of mainframe computers?
They support a few hundred users simultaneously.
What distinguishes supercomputers from other types of computers?
They generate a large amount of heat during operation.
In which fields are supercomputers commonly used?
Molecular chemistry and nuclear research
What is a disadvantage of mainframe computers?
They have a high operating cost due to generating heat.
Which unit of a computer system processes data by performing comparisons and calculations?
Processor unit
What type of organizations commonly use mainframe computers?
Big universities with thousands of enrollment
What type of computer output device displays information such as text, numbers, and pictures?
Monitor
What is the main circuit board of a microcomputer called?
Motherboard
Which type of disk can store 650MB to 800MB of information and data?
CDROM
What type of disk can store 4.8GB to 8.0GB of information and data?
DVD-ROM
Which optical disc technology uses laser to read and write data on silver platters?
CD-ROM
What type of computer hardware consists of electronic devices that are visible and touchable?
Hardware
What is the primary function of the Arithmetic/logic unit in a CPU?
Perform arithmetic computations and logical operations
Where are data stored in a computer's processor unit?
Main memory
What is the function of the Control Unit in a CPU?
Control all activities of the CPU
Which component of a computer is referred to as the 'brains'?
Microprocessor
What is the primary reason why computer programs (software) are crucial for the CPU's operation?
To provide instructions for the CPU to follow
In computing, what does ALU stand for?
Arithmetic/Logic Unit
Study Notes
Computer Applications
- Computer systems are ideal for repetitive tasks, guaranteeing accuracy.
- Automated production systems are used in car factories, where computer-controlled robots assemble cars.
- CAD (Computer Aided Design) programs are used to produce exact specifications and detailed drawings of new products.
Types of Computers
- Microcomputer: classified into desktop PCs, smaller than minicomputers, and sits on desks.
- Minicomputer: bigger than PCs, expensive, multi-user, difficult to use, more computing power than PCs, used by medium-sized business organizations.
- Mainframe: known as enterprise servers, occupies entire rooms or floors, serves distributed users and small servers in a computing network, used in big business organizations and government departments.
- Supercomputer: fastest and most expensive, used for space launching, molecular chemistry, nuclear research, weather reports, and advanced physics.
Computer System Components
- Input units: accept data, examples include keyboard, mouse, joystick, light pen, scanner, camera, and other devices.
- Processor unit: processes data by performing comparisons and calculations, has two main parts: CPU (Central Processing Unit) and main memory.
- Output units: present results, examples include monitor, speakers, and printer.
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
- Housed on a tiny silicon chip, contains millions of switches and pathways.
- CPU knows which switches to turn on and which to turn off based on instructions from computer programs (software).
- Two primary sections: Arithmetic/logic unit (ALU) and Control unit.
- ALU performs arithmetic computations and logical operations.
- Control unit coordinates all CPU activities.
Output Devices
- Monitor: displays information such as text, numbers, and pictures.
- Speakers: allow users to hear voice, music, and other sounds.
- Printer: gives a hardcopy of computer information.
Parts of a Computer System
- Hardware: electronic devices that make up a computer system.
- Software: programs and operating systems that run on a computer.
- Firmware: permanently stored in a computer's read-only memory (ROM).
- User: the person interacting with the computer system.
Storage Devices
- Optical Discs: use laser technology to read and write data on silver platters.
- Compact Disk (CD): can store 650MB to 800MB of information and data.
- CD-ROM (Read Only Memory): can only read data from a CD-ROM.
- DVD (Digital Versatile Disk): can store 4.8GB to 8.0GB of information and data.
Explore the key characteristics and common uses of mainframe computers such as IBM3091 and ICL39. Learn about their size, cost, user support, computing power, and specialized room requirements. Discover the typical sectors like airline reservation, banking, and education where mainframes are commonly utilized.
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