Technology in Action Chapter 2 Quiz

Questions and Answers

What are the four main functions of a computer system?

Input, Process, Output, Storage

What is a bit?

A binary digit, either 0 or 1

How is a byte defined?

A unique combination of 8 bits

Which of the following are types of computers? (Select all that apply)

Laptops Signup and view all the answers

What are common input devices? (Select all that apply)

Touch screen Signup and view all the answers

What type of output device is used for audio?

Speaker Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the CPU?

Processes all commands and instructions Signup and view all the answers

What is a motherboard?

The main circuit board that contains the CPU, RAM, and other components Signup and view all the answers

Which type of printer is known for quick and high-quality prints?

Laser printer Signup and view all the answers

Cloud storage files are stored on the local device.

False Signup and view all the answers

Define ergonomics.

The study of people's efficiency in their working environment. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of sleep mode in power management?

To save energy while preserving session data Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Functions of a Computer System

Computers perform four primary functions: input, process, output, and storage.
Input: Gathers and enters data.
Process: Manipulates and organizes data.
Output: Displays processed data and information.
Storage: Saves data for future use.

Binary Data Representation

Bit: A binary digit, either 0 or 1.
Byte: Consists of 8 bits, forming unique combinations.
Storage measurements range from kilobytes (KB) to petabytes (PB).

Common Types of Computers

Types include cell phones, tablets, laptops, and stationary computers.
Each type is tailored for specific applications and features.

Input Devices

Keyboards, touch screens, styluses, and virtual keyboards allow user input.
Pointing devices include mice, touchpads, and game controllers.
Image inputs are gathered using devices like digital cameras, webcams, and scanners.
Sound input typically involves microphones with voice recognition.

Output Devices

Computers output data as text, images, sound, and video through devices like monitors, speakers, and printers.
Display technologies: LCD (liquid crystal display), LED (light-emitting diode), OLED (organic light-emitting diode) use pixels for visuals.

Printers

Inkjet: Affordable, high-quality color printing.
Laser: Faster, higher-quality printouts but more expensive.
Other types include cloud-ready printers and all-in-one devices capable of printing, scanning, and copying.

Motherboard and Memory

Motherboard: Houses the CPU, ROM, RAM, and expansion slots for additional hardware.
RAM provides temporary data storage; ROM contains permanent instructions.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The CPU is the computer's brain, controlling all functions and executing commands.
Performance is measured in gigahertz (GHz), indicating billions of cycles per second.
Cores vary (single, dual, quad) influencing multitasking capabilities.

Data Storage Options

Local storage: Hard disk drives (HDD) for nonvolatile storage; solid-state drives (SSD) offer faster, reliable access.
Portable storage: Flash drives and memory cards for data transfer.
Cloud storage: Online data storage options often include free limited space and additional paid options.

Connectivity Ports

Thunderbolt ports support transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps.
USB ports facilitate data transfer at 10 Gbps.
HDMI and Ethernet ports provide video output and network connectivity, respectively.

Power Management

Key functions include sleep mode, hibernation, and proper power supply management to reduce battery drain.
Warm and cold boot methods determine how devices start.

Ergonomics

Ergonomic guidelines ensure proper computer use, reducing strain and enhancing comfort.
Essential factors include monitor positioning, chair adjustments, typing posture, lighting, and regular breaks.
Adaptive technologies assist users with disabilities, enhancing accessibility through voice recognition and specialized input devices.

Description

Test your understanding of the basic components and functions of computer systems as outlined in Chapter 2 of Technology in Action. This quiz will cover the four main functions of a computer, as well as concepts of bits and bytes. Challenge yourself to see how well you grasp the technical fundamentals presented in this chapter.