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Questions and Answers
Which of the following are categories of operating systems?
Which of the following are among the top three operating systems for personal computers?
Linux is only used for personal computers.
False
What is the primary function of an operating system?
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What are the four main functions of a computer system?
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What does BIOS stand for?
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The ________ contains configurations used by the OS and applications.
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What is the definition of a bit?
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What is the main tool for finding, viewing, and managing computer contents in Windows?
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What is the difference between a bit and a byte?
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Which of the following are types of computers? (Select all that apply)
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What utility uses a file compression to make a large file more compact?
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What is an example of a common input device?
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Which utility programs are designed for users with special needs?
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Overclocking increases the CPU's potential speed.
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Which type of printer is known for its affordability and high-quality color output?
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What is the function of the CPU in a computer?
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What type of storage device is considered nonvolatile?
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Cloud storage requires physical hardware to save files.
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A _____ is a device that inputs image data into a computer.
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Which of the following is NOT a type of computer port?
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What is ergonomics?
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What is an assistive technology example for users with motor control issues?
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How did the Internet get its start?
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What is a client/server network?
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What does an Internet Protocol (IP) address do?
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Which of these is NOT a feature of web browsers?
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What are the main parts of a URL?
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What is the purpose of search engines?
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Which of these constitutes e-commerce business models?
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The End User License Agreement (EULA) specifies the number of installations allowed.
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What is application software?
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What type of software is designed for specific industries?
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Which of the following is an example of digital audio software?
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Study Notes
The Internet and How It Works
- The Internet started as a way for computers to communicate securely.
- The Internet is a network made up of smaller networks.
- The original name of the Internet was ARPANET.
- The Internet allows for communication between all computers in the network..
- Client/server networks work by the client asking the server for information, and the server sending the information back to the client.
- The Internet Backbone is the high-speed, high-capacity network that is the core of the Internet.
Business on the Internet
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Conducting Business Using the Internet
- Business-to-consumer (B2C)
- Business-to-business (B2B)
- Consumer-to-consumer (C2C)
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Precautions to Take When Doing Business Online
- Ensure websites are secure (look for HTTPS in the URL)
- Be aware of scams
- Protect your personal information
- Use strong passwords
- Understand the terms and conditions of online businesses
Web Browsers and URLs
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Web browsers such as Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, Chrome, and Opera are software applications that allow users to access and view websites.
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Common browser features include:
- Navigation tools
- Search engine integration
- Address bar
- Tabs
- Bookmarks
- Download manager
- Security features
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A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the unique address for websites on the Internet.
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The main parts of a URL are:
- Protocol (for example, http, https)
- Domain name (for example, google.com)
- File path or resource path
- File name (optional)
Searching the Web
- Search engines are used to find information on the Internet.
- Popular examples:
- Bing
- Yahoo
- DuckDuckGo
Evaluating Websites
- Look for reputable sources with professional design and accurate information.
- Check for author credibility and unbiased information using sources such as Wikipedia.
- Consider the date the information was published and look for citations.
- Use sites such as Snopes.com to verify questionable information.
Internet Protocol
- IP addresses are used for computers to identify each other.
- Each website has a unique IP address.
- Text versions of IP addresses exist.
Web 2.0
- Web 2.0 involves social media such as Facebook and LinkedIn.
- Privacy precautions are important when using social networking sites.
Collaborating with Web Technologies
- Wikis are collaborative web-based documents.
- Project management tools help organize and manage projects.
- A blog (weblog) can be used to express ideas and engage with other individuals.
- A video log (vlog) is a type of blog that uses video content.
- Microblogs are short messages shared on a platform.
- Podcasts are audio or video files delivered via RSS (Really Simple Syndication).
- Aggregators are used to gather and display content from multiple RSS feeds.
- Webcasts deliver audio or video content over the internet.
- Media sharing platforms such as YouTube, Flickr, Instagram, and Sound Cloud allow users to share content with others.
Communicating over the Web
- E-mail is a primary means of written communication.
- E-mail is asynchronous and convenient, but not private.
- E-mail etiquette is important for professional communication.
- Web-based e-mail and desktop clients provide different access methods.
- Texting and instant messaging allow for real-time communication.
- Voice over IP (VoIP) facilitates voice communication over the internet.
Conducting Business Online
- Business-to-consumer (B2C) models involve selling goods and services to consumers.
- Business-to-business (B2B) models involve transactions between businesses.
- Consumer-to-consumer (C2C) models facilitate exchanges between consumers.
- Social commerce involves using social media for buying and selling products.
- Mobile commerce (m-commerce) refers to conducting business transactions via mobile devices.
E-Commerce Safeguards
- Secure website with SSL protocol is crucial for safe online shopping.
- Reputable websites reduce the risk of fraud.
- Paying by credit card offers more protection than debit cards.
- Checking return policies ensures satisfaction and flexibility.
- Avoiding public computers for sensitive transactions protects against security breaches.
Web Browsers
- Web browsers allow users to access and view web pages.
- Graphical browsers provide a visual interface.
- Various features like bookmarks, history, and extensions enhance web browsing experience.
URLs, Protocols, and Domain Names
- Websites have unique addresses called URLs (Uniform Resource Locators).
- URLs include protocols like HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) and FTP (File Transfer Protocol) to specify the type of connection.
- Domain names provide a user-friendly representation of a website's address.
- Top-level domains (TLDs) such as .com, .org, and .net indicate the website's purpose or geographic location.
Navigating the Web
- Hyperlinks connect different web pages and allow users to move between them.
- Breadcrumb trails provide a navigation path, showing the user's location within a website.
- Bookmarks or Favorites allow users to save frequently visited websites for easy access.
- History keeps track of recently visited websites.
- Tagging or social bookmarking allows users to categorize and share websites with others.
Using Search Engines
- Search engines use keywords to find relevant information online.
- Spiders crawl the web, collecting information for indexing.
- Indexers organize and store collected data.
- Search engine software processes queries and returns relevant results.
- Specialized search engines focus on specific topics or industries.
- Metasearch engines combine results from multiple search engines.
Obtaining Better Search Results
- Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) help refine searches.
- Searching for a phrase using quotation marks ensures specific word combinations.
- Searching within a website limits results to a specific domain.
- Using wild cards (asterisk *) allows for partial matches.
Evaluating Websites
- Authority refers to the credibility and expertise of the source.
- Bias refers to the presence of subjective opinions or viewpoints.
- Relevance refers to the connection between the website content and the user's query.
- Audience refers to the target group for whom the website is intended.
- Links to reputable sources enhance credibility and provide further information.
Digital Activism
- Digital activism uses online platforms to raise awareness and support causes.
- Examples include #IceBucketChallenge and #MeToo.
- The effectiveness of digital activism is subject to ongoing debate.
Geolocation
- Smartphones use GPS chips to determine location information.
- Geolocation targets consumers based on their location for advertising purposes.
- Geolocation can raise privacy concerns, as personal information is tracked and utilized.
- Legal frameworks for addressing geolocation privacy are still evolving.
Software Basics
- Software is a set of instructions that tells a computer what to do.
- Application software is designed for specific tasks, such as word processing or web browsing.
- System software manages the computer's hardware and provides a platform for application software to run.
Distributing Software
- Proprietary (commercial) software is created and distributed by companies that hold exclusive rights.
- Open source software is freely available and can be modified by anyone.
- Local installation involves installing software directly onto a computer.
- Software as a Service (SaaS) is software accessed over the internet via subscription.
- Subscription models provide access to software for a recurring fee.
Managing Your Software
- Purchasing Software can be done through physical stores, online downloads, or subscriptions.
- Freeware is software that is free to use.
- Beta versions are pre-release versions of software that are made available for testing.
- System requirements define the minimum hardware and software specifications for installing and running a program.
- Restore points allow for reverting the system to a previous state.
- Full installation installs all components of a program.
- Custom Installation allows users to select specific components to install.
- Uninstalling software removes it from the system.
- Recovery drive provides a backup of system files for troubleshooting.
- Software upgrades improve software performance and stability.
- Software updates or patches fix security vulnerabilities and resolve minor issues.
Software Licenses
- End User License Agreement (EULA) outlines terms of use for software.
- Copyleft allows software to be freely copied and distributed.
Productivity and Business Software
- Productivity software enhances productivity and performance across various tasks.
- Word processing software creates and edits documents such as research papers, class notes, and resumes.
- Spreadsheet software performs calculations, analyzes data, and generates reports.
- Presentation software creates visual presentations for presentations and presentations.
- Database software stores and organizes data in a structured format, using fields, records and tables.
- Note-taking software allows for capturing and organizing notes, thoughts, and ideas.
- Personal information management (PIM) software manages tasks, contacts, calendars, and e-mail.
- Personal financial software helps budget, track expenses, and manage finances.
- Accounting software tracks accounts receivable and payable, manages inventory, and processes payroll.
- Desktop publishing (DTP) software designs books, publications, and other print materials
- Web authoring software creates and designs web pages.
- Vertical Market Software is specifically designed for a particular industry.
- CAD (Computer-aided Design) software creates designs, technical drawings, and 3D models.
Multimedia and Educational Software
- Digital multimedia software includes image, video, and audio editing tools.
- Image editing software edits and enhances digital photos.
- Video editing software refines videos and creates visual content.
- Drawing software creates two-dimensional drawings.
- Digital Audio Software includes digital audio files and software for audio editing and manipulation.
- App creation software allows users to create apps for mobile devices.
- Educational and reference software provides learning resources, simulations, and tools for a variety of subjects.
Operating System Fundamentals
- The operating system is a system software that manages hardware and provides a platform for application software.
- Utility programs perform specific maintenance and system tasks.
- The user interface allows users to interact with the computer.
- The operating system can be single- or multi-user, allowing access to one or multiple users respectively.
- The operating system can be single- or multi-task, enabling it to execute one or multiple tasks at a time.
Understanding System Software
- The most popular operating systems for personal computers are Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Mobile OS are designed for smartphones and tablets, including Android, iOS, and Windows.
- Web-based operating systems run on internet browsers, like Google Chrome OS.
- Linux is an open source operating system used for personal computers, web servers, and various other applications.
- Distributions (distros) are specific versions of Linux with different packages and features.
- Platform refers to the combination of OS, processor, and hardware.
Operating Systems for Machinery, Networks, and Business
- Real-time OS (RTOS) is designed for machines that perform tasks with precise timing requirements.
- Multiuser Operating System is a network OS that allows multiple users to access the computer simultaneously.
- Unix is a well-known multiuser operating system commonly used for servers.
What the Operating System Does
- The operating system acts as a bridge between the user and the hardware.
- The user interface facilitates interaction with the computer.
- Command-driven interfaces require users to type commands to interact with the system.
- Menu-driven interfaces provide a list of options for users to choose from.
- Graphical User Interface (GUI) uses icons, menus, and windows for a visually intuitive interaction.
Hardware Coordination
- The operating system manages and coordinates hardware resources.
- Events are actions that occur on the computer, which are processed by the operating system.
- Interrupt handlers manage interruptions and switch between tasks.
- Preemptive multitasking allows the operating system to switch between tasks to create the illusion of simultaneous processing.
- Spoolers manage the flow of jobs to printers and other peripherals.
Memory Management
- RAM is the primary memory of the computer and has limited capacity.
- Virtual Memory uses hard drive space to extend available RAM by borrowing space from the hard drive.
- Swap files help manage virtual memory, storing inactive data on the hard drive.
- Paging moves data between RAM and the hard drive to accommodate memory limitations.
- Thrashing occurs when the computer spends excessive time swapping data between RAM and the hard drive, leading to performance issues.
Hardware and Peripheral Device Management
- Device drivers provide instructions for the operating system to interact with specific hardware.
- Plug and Play (PNP) allows the operating system to automatically recognize and configure new hardware.
- Roll Back allows for restoring a system to a previous state if a hardware change causes problems.
Software Coordination
- The operating system interacts with application software through an Application Programming Interface (API).
- APIs provide sets of instructions for applications to perform common tasks.
Starting Your Computer
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The boot process is an initial set of instructions that the computer executes to start.
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The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) performs the initial tests and loads the operating system.
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Boot loader loads the operating system kernel into RAM.### The Boot Process
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The BIOS activates and loads the operating system into RAM.
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The Power-On Self-Test ensures that essential input/output devices are connected and working.
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System and kernel files are loaded into RAM during the boot process.
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The Registry contains configurations used by the operating system and applications.
The Windows Interface
- The desktop is the primary workspace in Windows.
- The Taskbar displays open and favorite applications for easy access.
- The Start menu provides access to all applications and apps installed on the device.
- Pinning allows users to choose which applications are tiles on the Start menu.
- Virtual desktops allow users to organize groups of windows into different displays.
macOS and Windows
- macOS and Windows interfaces are not compatible with each other.
- They offer generally similar functionality despite differences in design.
Linux
- Most Linux interfaces are based on visual paradigms familiar from Windows and macOS.
File Management
- A directory is a hierarchical structure of a computer's contents, including drives, libraries, folders, subfolders, and files.
- The root directory (C:) is the top of the filing structure.
- A file is a collection of program instructions or data treated as a single unit that is stored on a permanent storage device.
- A folder contains a collection of files.
- A file path is a sequence of directories that lead to a specific file.
- Windows uses backslashes () for file paths, while Linux uses forward slashes (/), and macOS uses colons (:).
- File Explorer is the main tool for finding, viewing, and managing a computer's contents.
- File names should describe the contents of the file.
- Extensions determine the file type.
- Common file operations include opening, copying, cutting, renaming, deleting, and moving files.
- The Recycle Bin holds deleted files until permanently erased.
- A file compression utility makes large files more compact, making them easier and faster to send.
Utility Programs
- Utility programs are included in the operating system and can be standalone.
- Common operating system utilities include firewalls and file compression tools.
- Some popular stand-alone utility programs include antivirus, security programs, and freeware.
- System performance utilities include Disk Cleanup, Task Manager, and Disk Defragmenter.
- File and system backup utilities include File History and System Restore.
- Accessibility utilities are designed for users with special needs.
Moore's Law
- Moore's Law states that computing power roughly doubles every two years.
- Moore's Law has significant influence on the rapid progression of technology.
Selecting a Computing Device
- A range of computing devices are available, including smartphones, tablets, ultrabooks, 2-in-1s, laptops, and desktops.
- Each device offers its own unique features and benefits to meet various computing needs.
How The CPU Works
- The central processing unit (CPU) is located on the motherboard.
- It processes instructions, performs calculations, and manages information flow.
- The CPU consists of a control unit and an arithmetic logic unit (ALU).
- The CPU's processing power is affected by clock speed, overclocking, cores, parallel processing, and cache memory.
- Each CPU cycle consists of four stages: fetch, decode, execute, and store.
- Intel and AMD processors are the major manufacturers of CPUs.
Measuring CPU Performance
- Various tools are available to measure and evaluate CPU performance.
- These tools allow users to assess the speed and efficiency of a CPU.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
- Random Access Memory (RAM) is short-term storage that is volatile; it loses its data when the computer is turned off.
- Read-only memory (ROM) holds critical start-up instructions and is nonvolatile.
- RAM is used for temporary storage of data and programs that are actively being used by the computer.
- Common RAM types include DDR3, DDR4, and DDR5.
- Memory modules, such as DIMMs (Dual Inline Memory Modules), store RAM chips.
- SuperFetch preloads frequently used programs into system memory to improve performance.
- The resource monitor displays how the computer's resources are being used.
Adding RAM
- Adding RAM is a relatively easy process, but it’s limited by the motherboard’s capacity.
- Increasing RAM can improve computer performance.
Types of Storage Drives
- Mechanical hard drives use coated platters to store data as magnetized spots representing 1s and 0s.
- They have slower access times, generate heat, and make noise but are more affordable than SSDs.
- Solid state drives (SSDs) use flash memory to store data and provide fast speeds, low heat generation, silent operation, and low power consumption.
- SSDs are more expensive than mechanical hard drives.
- Solid state hybrid drives (SSHDs) combine both mechanical and solid-state technologies for optimal performance.
Storage Needs
- Storage needs vary depending on the type of content stored and the size of the computer.
- RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) provides extra storage and reliability.
- RAID 0 combines several drives into one large drive, improving performance but not providing any fault tolerance.
- RAID 1 mirrors data across multiple drives, ensuring redundancy but less storage capacity.
Video Cards
- Video cards and monitors work together to deliver video output.
- Common video ports include HDMI, DVI, and DisplayPort.
- Video cards use video memory to store images and graphics before display.
- Screen resolution is a measure of the number of pixels displayed on the screen.
- Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) specialize in handling graphics computations and accelerate video processing.
Sound Cards
- Sound cards work with speakers to produce audio output.
- 3D sound technology creates a more immersive sound experience.
- Surround sound uses multiple speakers to deliver directional audio.
- Dolby Digital 7.1 is a popular format for surround sound systems.
- MIDI interfaces connect instruments and other electronic devices to computers.
Maintaining System Reliability
- Installing antivirus, spyware, and adware protection is crucial for maintaining system reliability.
- Regularly clearing unnecessary files, running Disk Defragmenter, and automating key utilities can improve performance and prevent crashes.
- System crashes can be addressed by using System Restore, checking RAM, investigating error codes, searching for solutions online, and considering a Windows reset.
Getting Rid of Old Computers
- Donating or selling an old computer can benefit others while reducing waste.
- Before donating, ensure all data is thoroughly removed from the device.
- Environmental considerations, such as the presence of mercury and cadmium, are important factors to consider.
- Recycling options are available for responsible disposal of electronic devices.
- Maintaining two computing systems allows for continuity and a backup system.
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Description
Test your knowledge on operating systems, their functions, and basic computer components. This quiz covers a range of topics from the role of the CPU to various computer utilities and categories. Ideal for students wanting to reinforce their understanding of computer science fundamentals.
