Operating Systems and Computer Architecture Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What typically differentiates a workstation-class computer from a standard desktop PC?

It only supports peripheral devices like printers and speakers.

It cannot run multiple applications simultaneously.

It contains higher specification components. (correct)

It has no optional components.

Which factor is mainly responsible for determining the number of applications that can run simultaneously on a computer?

The type of motherboard.

The quality of peripheral devices.

The speed of the CPU.

The amount of system memory. (correct)

What is a key advantage of desktop PCs compared to other computer types?

They require fewer peripheral devices.

They are always more powerful than laptops.

They can be modified with interchangeable components. (correct)

They are typically all-in-one units.

What impact do solid state drives (SSDs) have compared to legacy hard drives?

They work much more quickly. Signup and view all the answers

Why is ergonomics important when considering computer peripherals?

It contributes to the comfort of use. Signup and view all the answers

What interface does Windows use to make computers easier for non-technical users?

Graphical User Interface Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of drivers in an operating system?

To facilitate communication between the OS and hardware components Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about 32-bit and 64-bit systems?

64-bit mode allows for addressing more memory than 32-bit mode. Signup and view all the answers

What does a shell in an operating system allow the user to do?

Manage applications and access files Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about commercial operating systems?

They keep their programming code secret from users. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the fundamental components of an operating system's architecture?

Kernel of core functions Signup and view all the answers

What does open source software allow developers to do?

Modify the operating system and share their changes with others. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between embedded operating systems and general-purpose operating systems?

Embedded operating systems are designed for specific functions. Signup and view all the answers

Why are some software vendors reluctant to share their source code?

They are concerned about potential piracy and copyright infringement. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of an embedded system?

A home automation hub. Signup and view all the answers

What does a file icon generally represent?

The type of file and the application used to open it Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a shortcut icon on the desktop?

It links to a file but does not contain the file itself Signup and view all the answers

What does a folder icon signify on a desktop?

It shows that the folder contains specific file types, such as pictures or documents Signup and view all the answers

Which type of icon represents the program itself?

Application icon Signup and view all the answers

What type of icons can represent media storage devices like USB drives in Windows?

Device icons for removable drives and printers Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Module 1 / Unit 1: Common Computing Devices

On completion of this unit, students will be able to
- Describe the basic processes of a computer
- Describe the functions and capabilities of devices like PCs, servers, mobile phones, and home automation systems

Syllabus Objectives and Content Examples

This unit covers the following exam domain topics:
- Illustrate the basics of computing and processing (input, processing, output, storage)
- Compare and contrast common computing devices and their purposes (mobile phones, tablets, laptops, workstations, servers, gaming consoles, IoT devices, home automation, security systems, modern cars, IP cameras, streaming media devices, medical devices)

Module 1/Unit 1: Information Technology

An Information Technology (IT) system processes, stores, and transfers information in various forms (words, numbers, pictures, sound, video).
Data in IT systems is represented as binary digits (1s and 0s).
Information and Communications Technology (ICT) is frequently used instead of IT to highlight the importance of communications.
The Information Age is characterized by the effective use of information, similar to the importance of the industrial revolution.
Computers and software process data more quickly than humans.
Computer hardware includes the physical components within the computer case and connected devices (peripherals) that allow input and output.
Computer software provides instructions.
The operating system (OS) is a set of programs that manages the basic functions of a computer.
Software applications extend the computer's capabilities.
The user interacts with the system through an interface formed of input and output hardware devices.

Module 1/Unit 1: Basics of Computing and Processing

Data flows through the computer in several stages: input, processing, output, and storage.
Input devices allow users to enter data into the computer, whereas output devices display or transmit the processed data.
Processing handles the data, manipulating and changing it based on instructions.
Storage is where data is kept when the computer is not running.

Module 1/Unit 1: Personal Computers (PC)

Personal computers (PCs) evolved from mainframe computers.
They are largely based on the IBM PC architecture and platform (x86).
PCs are versatile and customizable, meaning different models can be configured for different tasks.
Personal computers have become more portable in the form of tablets and smartphones.
This change is tied to the growth of the internet.
Modern PCs and workstations have been built to accommodate networking, processing, and communication capabilities of the "internet of things."

Module 1/Unit 1: Desktop and Workstation Computers

Desktops, or PCs, are often found in their case on or under a desk.
They are used for independent or network-based operations.
Workstations are typically powerful versions of desktops.
Workstations are often used for executing complex tasks and generally more expensive.

Module 1/Unit 1: Laptops

Laptops integrate the necessary functions into a portable case.
Smaller laptops are often called notebooks; larger models are often called desktop replacements.
The primary design and engineering considerations for laptops are size, weight, and power source.

Module 1/Unit 1: PC and Laptop Vendors

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) design and assemble PCs, sourcing components (CPUs, RAM) from other manufacturers.
Dell, HP, Lenovo, Acer, Samsung are major players in PC manufacturing.

Module 1/Unit 1: Mobile Devices

Smartphones function similarly to PCs and fit in one hand.
Smartphones and tablets rely on touchscreen displays.

Module 1/Unit 1: Internet of Things (IoT) Devices

IoT devices are consumer electronics connected to each other and the internet.
Smart devices can control many home functions.

Module 1/Unit 1: Home Automation

Smart home devices can be controlled via the internet.
Hubs are central to establishing and routing communications among those devices.
Home automation systems utilize a variety of communication standards (Wi-Fi, Z-Wave, ZigBee, Bluetooth LE).

Module 1/Unit 1: Modern Cars and Drones

Car systems incorporate many forms of embedded computer-based systems for vehicle control, navigation, or entertainment.
UAVs range in technology from fixed-wing aircraft to small/multi-rotor drone systems.

Module 1/Unit 1: Medical Devices

Remote monitoring of patients now commonly uses electronic devices.
Remote monitoring can eliminate the need for patients to visit clinicians.

Module 1/Unit 1: Gaming Consoles

Gaming consoles have processing power comparable to a workstation.
They use an advanced Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection to the internet.
They rely on a gaming pad or controller.

Module 1/Unit 2: Using a Workstation

Objectives: Setting up a computer system safely, navigating an OS, and efficiently using input devices.
Syllabus objectives and content examples not included in this module.

Module 1/Unit 2: Setting Up a PC System

Considerations relating to the working environment to consider, safety and health risks, and the suitability of the computer device itself.
Basic steps for setting up a personal computer (PC).

Module 1/Unit 2: Setting Up a Laptop

Follow similar principles for laptop setup.

Module 1/Unit 2: Ergonomic Concepts

Ergonomics is the study of factors affecting workplace performance.
Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is a condition caused by repetitive tasks, such as using a keyboard or mouse.
Posture and placement of equipment are important considerations relating to safety and health.

Module 1/Unit 2: Navigating an OS

An OS provides a stable environment for applications to operate.
The OS controls access to hardware such as file management; applications interact through the OS.

Module 1/Unit 2: Signing In to Windows

A sign-in process ensures that personal settings are saved securely.
It grants access to resources, particularly on computer networks.
Identifying a user account occurs via the input of a user name and password.

Module 1/Unit 2: Using the Desktop and Taskbar

Use the Start button on the taskbar or the START key to display applications, folders, and files.
The taskbar is the primary way to manage open windows and apps.
Use the mouse or touchpad to select, move, and open files and objects.
Using ALT (or similar hot keys) enables navigating menus or selecting multiple items.

Module 1/Unit 2: Using Input Devices

Input devices (mouse, keyboard, touchscreen) control the operation of a PC.
The mouse or touchpad functions to select, move objects in windows.
Using a keyboard for input (especially a touch keyboard), typing and commands.

Module 1/Unit 2: Using a Keyboard

A keyboard can be used for simple typing and executing commands.
Learning touch typing makes operating a computer more efficient and comfortable.

Module 1/Unit 2: Using a Touchscreen

Touchscreens are operated by gestures or an on-screen keyboard.

Module 1/Unit 2: Recognizing Desktop Icons

Icons represent files, folders, and other system objects.

Module 1/Unit 2: Working with Windows

Windows operates under a window system.
Users open multiple windows to operate multiple applications.
Using the close, minimize, maximize, or drag/resize options in the window controls.

Module 1/Unit 3: Using an OS

Objectives of determining differences between operating systems (workstations, servers, mobiles, embedded systems, and virtualization).
Identifying common types of operating systems (Windows, macOS, iOS, Linux, Chrome, and Android).

Module 1/Unit 3: Functions of an Operating System

An OS (operating system) interfaces between hardware, software, and users.
The OS manages hardware, configures, and executes software.
The OS controls how application software interacts with computer hardware, such as the hard drive, network, or printer.
A graphical user interface (GUI) makes working easier, and may be accompanied by a command line mode in some cases.

Module 1/Unit 3: Interface Between Applications and Hardware

The OS manages hardware components through drivers.
The OS manages how applications work. This involves the use of drivers and configuration settings.
Operating systems have evolved to handle newer hardware types and configurations.

Module 1/Unit 3: Types of Operating System

Workstation operating systems are for standalone personal computers.
Server operating systems are for central processing for multiple users.
Mobile device operating systems are for smartphones and tablets.

Module 1/Unit 3: Open Source versus Commercial

Open source OS software has complete source code freely available.
Commercial OSes have proprietary code and require a license to use.

Module 1/Unit 3: Firmware

Firmware is low-level code that controls how applications, software, and hardware communicate.

Module 1/Unit 3: Virtualization

A virtualized environment (such as Hypervisors) enables use of multiple OSes within one physical computer system.

Review Questions

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Description

Test your knowledge on operating systems, workstations, and computer peripherals. This quiz covers topics such as SSDs versus hard drives, the role of drivers, and the differences between various types of operating systems. Perfect for students studying computer science concepts!