Sensors and Computer Hardware Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What does a moisture sensor primarily measure?

  • The temperature of the surrounding air
  • The brightness of light in a space
  • The amount of water vapor in the air
  • The water levels in soil (correct)

The function of a temperature sensor is to:

  • Measure the amount of water vapor in the air
  • Control the water level in soil
  • Detect light intensity in an area
  • Control or monitor temperature for various processes (correct)

How does a light sensor operate?

  • It detects humidity levels in the air
  • It uses photoelectric cells to produce an electric output based on light levels (correct)
  • It monitors moisture levels in soil
  • It measures temperature differences in the environment

What is the main difference between humidity and moisture sensors?

<p>Humidity sensors measure water vapor in the air, whereas moisture sensors measure water levels in soil (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which application would a temperature sensor NOT be appropriate?

<p>Monitoring moisture levels in food processing (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the memory register (MDR) in the CPU process?

<p>To temporarily hold data being transferred from RAM. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does increased clock speed affect computer performance?

<p>It increases the number of processing cycles per second. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one potential issue associated with overclocking a CPU?

<p>It might cause overheating of the CPU. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of using multiple cores in a CPU?

<p>It allows for simultaneous execution of multiple tasks. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a clock speed of 3.5GHz indicate?

<p>The CPU operates at 3.5 billion clock cycles per second. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of QR codes over traditional barcodes?

<p>QR codes can hold more information. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component of a digital camera is responsible for converting light into electrical signals?

<p>The light-sensitive cell (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do QR codes provide greater protection compared to traditional barcodes?

<p>By allowing for encryption. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the analogue to digital converter (ADC) in a digital camera?

<p>To process electric charges into a digital image. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the embedded system play in a camera?

<p>It controls functions like shutter speed and focus. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a disadvantage associated with QR codes?

<p>They can be used to transmit malicious codes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of device is primarily used to convert analogue sound signals into digital information?

<p>Microphone (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a digital camera, what are the tiny components that make up the image known as?

<p>Pixels (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of an analogue to digital converter (ADC)?

<p>To convert physical quantities to a digital format (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why are ADCs necessary for computer systems?

<p>Computers cannot process analogue signals directly (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an analogue data source for an ADC?

<p>Digital cameras (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of output data format does an ADC produce?

<p>Binary code (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does feedback influence the operation of a microprocessor connected to sensors?

<p>It enables the microprocessor to adjust outputs based on sensor readings (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the extra component, Digital to Analogue Converter (DAC)?

<p>To convert digital signals back to analogue form (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following attributes correctly describes analogue data?

<p>It is continuous and subject to variation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sensor application may require constant adjustment of outputs based on changing conditions?

<p>Feedback control systems in HVAC (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action does the microprocessor take when the sensor data is below the stored value?

<p>A signal is sent to switch on the street lamp. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the ADC in the anti-lock braking system?

<p>To convert analogue sensor data into digital data. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How often does the microprocessor take readings of the wheel speeds in the ABS system?

<p>Several times a second. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition will the central heating system take action to heat the space?

<p>When the temperature reading is lower than the pre-set value. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the required temperature for the chemical process to function correctly?

<p>Above 70°C. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of sensor data is used to control the chemical process?

<p>Both temperature and pH level data. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens if the pH level is above 3.5 in the chemical process control?

<p>The system will shut down automatically. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the central heating control process, what signals are sent via the DAC?

<p>To open the gas valve and turn on the water pump. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the ALU in a CPU?

<p>To perform arithmetic and logic operations (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component is responsible for storing the address of the next instruction to be executed?

<p>PC (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might doubling the number of CPU cores not double performance?

<p>Increased communication delays between cores. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does cache memory play in CPU performance?

<p>It improves CPU performance by providing faster access to frequently used data. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a multi-core CPU design, which element eliminates the need for parallel processing?

<p>CU (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Multi Core' refer to in computer architecture?

<p>A CPU with multiple processing cores within the same chip. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Circuit Instruction Register (CIR)?

<p>To hold the current instruction being executed. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When measuring computer performance, what factor might be underestimated?

<p>The overhead involved in inter-core communication. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term MAR stand for in CPU architecture?

<p>Memory Address Register (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a Dual Core processor?

<p>A single CPU with two cores processing simultaneously. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one limitation of using multiple CPU cores?

<p>Challenges in software optimization for multi-core systems. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following components is involved in data transfer within the CPU?

<p>MDR (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the CPU acts as the brain responsible for executing instructions?

<p>Control Unit (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What impact does cache memory have on a CPU with a high number of cores?

<p>It can enhance performance by reducing access times. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Clock Speed

The number of electrical pulses a CPU's clock produces per second, measured in Hertz (typically Gigahertz).

CPU Instruction Cycle

The process of fetching, decoding, and executing an instruction.

Overclocking

Running a CPU at a faster clock speed than its designed speed.

Core (CPU)

A complete processing unit within a CPU, containing an ALU, control unit, and registers.

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Data Bus

The pathway for data transfer between components within a computer.

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Temperature Sensor

A device that measures the temperature of its surroundings and outputs a signal for control or monitoring.

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Moisture Sensor

Measures the amount of water present in a substance, like soil or air.

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Humidity Sensor

Measures the amount of water vapor in the air.

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Light Sensor

Converts light intensity into an electrical signal.

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What does a sensor do?

Sensors convert physical phenomena like temperature, moisture, humidity, or light into measurable electrical signals.

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QR Code

A type of barcode that can store much more information than traditional barcodes and is easily readable by smartphones.

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Barcode

A visual representation of data that can be read by a scanner, typically used for identification and tracking.

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What makes QR codes better than barcodes?

QR codes can store more information, are easier to read, and can be encrypted for better security. They are also less susceptible to damage.

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What does a digital camera do?

A digital camera captures images by converting light into electrical signals that are then processed into a digital image.

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What are pixels?

Tiny light-sensitive sensors within a digital camera that capture individual points of light, creating a digital image.

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What does a webcam do?

A webcam captures video by taking images at a high frame rate, allowing for real-time video conferencing and other applications.

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What does a microphone do?

A microphone converts sound waves into electrical signals that can be processed by a computer for recording, communication, and other applications.

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What is an embedded system?

A dedicated computer system designed for a specific task, often found in cameras, appliances, and other devices.

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Analogue to Digital Converter (ADC)

A device that converts physical quantities, like temperature or light levels, into a digital format that computers can understand.

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Why do we need an ADC?

Computers can only process information in the form of binary code (zeros and ones). Physical quantities are constantly changing and need to be interpreted. An ADC bridges this gap.

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Analogue Data

Data that is continuous and changes smoothly, like the temperature changing over time.

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Digital Data

Data represented as discrete values, like the numbers 0 and 1 in binary code.

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Sensor Readings

Information collected by a sensor about a physical quantity, such as temperature or pressure.

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Feedback

A process where the output of a system influences the input. Sensors provide feedback, helping the system maintain a desired state.

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Microprocessor

The 'brain' of a computer system, responsible for processing information and making decisions.

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Application of Sensors

Sensors are used in various applications, from controlling temperature in a room to monitoring the speed of a car.

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CPU Core

A single processing unit within a Central Processing Unit (CPU).

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Single-Core CPU

A CPU with only one processing unit (core).

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Dual-Core CPU

A CPU with two processing units (cores).

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Multi-Core CPU

A CPU with multiple processing units (cores).

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Core Performance

The speed and efficiency of each individual processing unit (core).

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CPU Communication

The process of inter-core communication in a multi-core CPU

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MAR

Memory Address Register. A register that holds the memory address of a data.

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CU

Control Unit. Part of the CPU.

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PC

Program Counter. Holds the memory address of the next instruction to be executed.

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MDR

Memory Data Register. Holds data being fetched or stored by the CPU.

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CIR

Current Instruction Register. Holds the currently executing instruction.

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ALU

Arithmetic Logic Unit. Performs arithmetic and logical operations.

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ACC

Accumulator. A register that stores the result of operations.

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Cache Memory

Fast memory used to store frequently accessed data.

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Performance Improvement

Increasing the speed and efficiency of the CPU.

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Street Lamp Control System

A system using a sensor to detect light levels and control a street lamp, switching it on when it gets dark and off when it gets light again.

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Sensor Data Threshold

The specific value stored in the microprocessor's memory that the sensor reading is compared to, determining whether the street lamp should be switched on or off.

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Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

A system that uses sensors to detect wheel rotation speed and prevent wheels from locking up during braking, ensuring car control.

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Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC)

A circuit that converts analog sensor data (continuous signals) into digital data (discrete values) that the microprocessor can understand.

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Central Heating System Control

A system using a temperature sensor to monitor indoor temperature and automatically adjust the heating system to maintain a desired temperature.

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Pre-set Value

The desired temperature set by the user on the central heating system, stored in the microprocessor's memory.

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Actuator

A device that responds to a signal from the microprocessor, controlling the gas valve and water pump to adjust the central heating system.

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Chemical Process Control

A system that uses sensors to monitor temperature and pH levels in a chemical process, ensuring they remain within desired ranges for optimal operation.

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Study Notes

Computer Science Study Notes

  • This document contains study notes about computer science topics.
  • It covers several aspects of computer systems, including the central processing unit (CPU), architecture, and various components.

The Central Processing Unit (CPU)

  • The CPU is the central component of all modern computer systems.
  • It's often installed as an integrated circuit on a single microchip.
  • The CPU is responsible for executing instructions and processing data within a computer application.

Von Neumann Architecture

  • Early computers fed data while running, making human intervention necessary.
  • John von Neumann developed the stored-program computer concept in the mid-1940s.
  • This architecture is the foundation for modern computers.
  • The Von Neumann architecture introduced the concept of a central processing unit (CPU).
  • The CPU directly accesses the memory.
  • Computer memories store both programs and data sequentially.

CPU Components

  • CU (Control Unit): The coordinator that reads instructions, decodes them, and sends commands to other components to execute them.
  • ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit): Performs mathematical and logical operations on data.
  • MAR (Memory Address Register): Stores the memory address of the data to be read or written.
  • MDR (Memory Data Register): Stores data that has just been read from memory or data waiting to be written to memory.
  • PC (Program Counter): Stores the address of the next instruction to be fetched.
  • ACC (Accumulator): A register used for calculations; it temporarily stores data during calculations.
  • MAR, PC, MDR, CIR, and ACC are all special-purpose registers.

System Buses

  • Address Bus: Carries the address between the memory unit and CPU.
  • Data Bus: Carries data between the memory unit and CPU, and to/from input/output devices.
  • Control Bus: Carries signals from the control unit (CU) to all other computer components.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

  • RAM is a volatile memory unit that stores instructions and data regularly used by the computer.
  • The CPU rapidly accesses data held in RAM.
  • Data and programs are temporarily copied into RAM from hard drives.

Registers

  • Registers are special-purpose registers within the CPU.
  • CIR (Current Instruction Register): Stores the currently executing instruction.
  • ACC (Accumulator): Stores data temporarily for ALU calculations.
  • MAR (Memory Address Register): Stores the address of the memory location currently being accessed.
  • MDR (Memory Data Register): Stores data that has been read from or is being written to memory.
  • PC (Program Counter): Stores the memory address of the next instruction to be executed.

Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle

  • Modern computers use the fetch-decode-execute cycle to process data.
  • This cycle happens very quickly, facilitating logical processing of data for the user.

Clock Speed, Cache Memory, and Cores

  • Other factors, like cache memory and the number of cores, can significantly affect a computer's operating speed.
  • Clock speed measures the frequency of electrical pulses in a CPU.
  • Overclocking means running the CPU above its designed clock speed.

Cache Memory

  • Cache memory, located within the CPU, provides faster data access than RAM.

Cores

  • CPUs have different core numbers, like dual-cores or quad-cores.
  • More cores alleviate the need to continuously increase clock speeds.

Input Devices

  • Input devices provide instructions to a computer.
  • Keyboards input characters, enabling data entry.
  • Keyboards are connected to the computer via USB or Bluetooth.

Output Devices

  • Output devices display or send processed computer data.
  • Monitors, printers, speakers, and projectors are examples of output devices.
  • Different display technologies (LCD, LED, OLED) differ in how they produce images.
  • Projectors connect to a computer for displaying data on a wider surface.
  • Printers produce hard copy output through various techniques (laser, inkjet, 3D).
  • Speakers translate digital audio signals into audible sound.
  • Devices like actuators are mechanical motors that carry out actions triggered by the computer.

CPU Registers

  • Some crucial registers are involved in operations.

Memory

  • Primary memory (RAM and ROM) is fast, directly accessed by the CPU.
  • Secondary storage (HDD, SSD, optical disks) is slower, used for files and applications.

Virtual Memory

  • When there's insufficient primary memory, virtual memory uses secondary storage temporarily.
  • It creates an illusion of more RAM.

Cloud Storage

  • Data stored on remote servers, accessible from anywhere with internet access.
  • Remote backup, disaster recovery possible, but can be expensive depending on needed storage capacity.

Optical Storage

  • Data stored using pits and lands on a disc surface.
  • Laser light is used in read/write operations. (e.g., CDs, DVDs, Blu-ray)

3D Scanners

  • Reflecting laser light is used to create 3D models from scanned objects.
  • The models are used in design and manufacturing applications

Barcodes

  • Barcodes, using infrared light, contain product information readable by a computer

Quick Response (QR) codes

  • QR codes are digital, two-dimensional (2D) codes that store and convey information.

Digital Camera (Webcam)

  • Digital cameras (webcams) capture digital images that can be viewed on a screen as video.

Microphones

  • Microphones convert analog sound waves into digital data, important in videoconferencing.

Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC)

  • Analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) change continuous data into digital format for computer use.

Sensors

  • Sensors provide data like temperature levels, pressure, and light intensity for an application.

Feedback

  • Feedback in computer systems is when the output of a component affects subsequent input.

Questions to Attempt (Workbook)

  • This section includes practical questions on the topics covered, focusing on real-world applications and analysis.

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Description

Test your knowledge on sensors and their applications, temperature regulation, and CPU performance. This quiz covers moisture sensors, temperature sensors, light sensors, and digital imaging technology like QR codes. Explore the functions of various digital components and their advantages and disadvantages.

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