Principles of Computing - Chapter 1: Computers and Operating Systems

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What is the main function of a computer power supply?

To measure the force required to push electrons through a circuit
To convert AC power from a wall outlet into DC power for all components inside the computer (correct)
To deliver different amperages for each output voltage
To provide protection and support for internal components

Which component of a computer is known as the 'brain'?

Motherboard
Central Processing Unit (CPU) (correct)
RAM
Power supply

What is the purpose of resistance in a circuit?

To oppose the flow of current in a circuit (correct)
To measure the force required to push electrons through a circuit
To convert AC power from a wall outlet into DC power for all components inside the computer
To deliver different amperages for each output voltage

What does the operating system do in a computer?

Instructs the computer how to operate (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT part of a motherboard?

Power supply (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the motherboard in a computer system?

To provide a platform for connecting all the hardware components (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which component of a computer system is responsible for temporarily storing data and instructions during processing?

CPU and memory (A) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of operating systems, what is the function of a shell?

To provide a user interface for accessing the operating system's services (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of networking in a computer environment?

To allow data and resource sharing between computers (D) Signup and view all the answers

What are expansion cards used for in a computer system?

To add extra functionality such as improved graphics or sound capabilities (C) Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary hardware components of a computer?

Input Devices, Output Devices, Central Processing Unit (CPU) and memory, Motherboard (Circuit Board), Expansion Cards, Hard Drive Ports and Connections Signup and view all the answers

Define the term program.

A set of instructions that tells the computer how to perform specific tasks. Signup and view all the answers

Explain what is meant by data.

Raw facts and figures that can be processed to obtain information. Signup and view all the answers

Define the term network, and identify the benefits of networking.

A network is a collection of computers and other hardware devices that are connected together to share information and resources. The benefits of networking include resource sharing, cost savings, and increased communication efficiency. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the importance of computers in today’s world.

Computers play a vital role in various fields such as business, industry, education, government, medicine, science, and entertainment. They enable automation, data analysis, communication, and information sharing. Signup and view all the answers

What are the four basic units of electricity and their respective measurements?

Voltage (V) - volts, Current (I) - amperes, Power (P) - watts Signup and view all the answers

Explain the function and importance of resistance in a circuit.

Resistance is the opposition to the flow of current in a circuit, measured in ohms. Lower resistance allows more current to flow through a circuit. Signup and view all the answers

What are the key components found on a motherboard, and what are their functions?

The motherboard accommodates CPU, RAM, expansion slots, heat sink/fan assembly, BIOS chip, chip set, sockets, internal and external connectors, various ports, and the embedded wires that interconnect the components. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a computer case, and what are the key characteristics it should possess?

The computer case provides protection and support for internal components. It should be durable, easy to service, and have enough room for expansion. Signup and view all the answers