Types of Computer Systems

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Questions and Answers

Explain how computers contribute to global communication, specifically addressing the elimination of time and distance constraints.

Computers allow for instant communication across the globe, removing geographical boundaries. They enable real-time interaction regardless of physical location, making collaboration and information sharing instantaneous.

Differentiate between a client and a server in a networked computer environment, giving an example of a client device.

A server provides resources and services to computers in a network, while a client uses those resources. An example of a client device is a computer used to access the internet at school.

How does portability affect the design and power requirements of a computer, such as a laptop?

Portability requires devices to be lightweight and use batteries instead of needing a constant electricity supply. This often leads to compromises in power compared to non-portable computers.

Explain why a 'Power User' would likely need a discrete graphics card, referencing the types of tasks they perform.

Power users, who engage in tasks like hardcore gaming, video editing, and running complex simulations, require the dedicated processing power of a discrete graphics card for optimal performance. Signup and view all the answers

Describe convergence in the context of modern technology, providing an example.

Convergence is the trend of combining separate technologies and functions into a single device. A smartphone, which integrates a camera, GPS, music player, and more, exemplifies this. Signup and view all the answers

Identify two disadvantages of convergent devices, such as smartphones, compared to having separate single-purpose devices.

If a convergent device fails, multiple functionalities are lost. Convergent devices may also suffer from shorter battery life compared to single-purpose devices. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the importance of ergonomics in a working environment, referencing a specific aspect of workstation setup.

Ergonomics aims to eliminate discomfort and reduce the risk of injury. For example, positioning a monitor so the top of the screen is level with your eyes helps prevent neck strain. Signup and view all the answers

Explain why shortcut keys are useful, and in which interface are they not designed to be used?

Shortcut keys speed up tasks. They are not designed to be used in a GUI (Graphical User Interface). Signup and view all the answers

Describe an ergonomic consideration for keyboard use and why it's important.

Positioning the keyboard so your hands are in a natural position is an ergonomic consideration. This reduces the likelihood of developing RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury). Signup and view all the answers

Explain why a wireless mouse might stop working, even if the computer is functioning correctly.

A wireless mouse might stop working becausethe batteries are flat or the USB dongle that connects it to the computer needs to be reconnected or replaced. Signup and view all the answers

Explain why touchscreens are useful interfaces for systems with limited options, providing a specific example.

Touchscreens are useful for systems with limited options because of their ease-of-use. A self-service kiosk for printing photos is an example as the options are limited. Signup and view all the answers

Identify a limitation of using a touchpad compared to a traditional mouse, particularly in tasks requiring precision.

Touchpads are generally less accurate than a mouse, especially for tasks like drawing or detailed graphical work. Signup and view all the answers

Explain how Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software enhances the functionality of a scanner, referencing a specific application.

OCR software allows a scanner to convert scanned images of text into editable text documents, making it easier to digitize and repurpose printed materials and documents. Signup and view all the answers

Describe what 'geo-tagging' is in the context of digital cameras or smartphones, and explain how it works.

Geo-tagging is the process of embedding location data (GPS coordinates) within a digital photograph's metadata, accomplished by devices with built-in GPS functionality to denote where a photo was taken. Signup and view all the answers

Explain why the ISO rating is an important factor to consider when purchasing a digital camera, especially for low-light photography.

Because it determines light sensitivity, the higher the ISO rating the better the digital camera is at capturing images in low-light conditions. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a limitation of webcams, referencing image quality or connectivity.

Most webcams have a low resolution don't create good images and need to be connected to an ICT device to work. Signup and view all the answers

Explain why built in microphones might not provide high quality sound?

Built in microphones don't often have high quality sound and are difficult to use in noisy environments. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the significance of 'resolution' when evaluating monitors or displays, specifying what it represents.

Resolution refers to the max number of pixels the display supports. It is given by the product of the number of horizontal and vertical pixels (e.g., 1920x1080). Signup and view all the answers

Explain what the term 'pixel density' refers to when discussing monitors, and why a higher pixel density is generally preferred.

Pixel density (DPI) refers to how many pixels the display fits into one inch of space. A higher pixel density means that you can fit more pixels in the same amount of space. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the primary function of a laser printer and discuss one of its main advantages.

Laser printers are primarily used for printing black and white documents. One of their main advantages is the high quality text output and high speed. Signup and view all the answers

How have Flash Drives contributed to reducing the importance of DVD drives?

Flash drives and external hard drives are more popular for backing up data. Software is downloaded from the internet. These factors reduceds the importance of DVD Drives Signup and view all the answers

Explain how cellular modems provide internet access and identify a limitation associated with them.

Cellular modems connect to the internet using cellular data networks, providing mobile access. A limitation to this can be that they are easy to be stolen. Signup and view all the answers

Differentiate between Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), providing a brief example of each.

AR enhances the real-world environment with digital elements (e.g., Pokemon Go), while VR creates an immersive, entirely digital environment. This provides training such as pilots and surgeons can practice with real world consequences. Signup and view all the answers

Referring to CPU Cores, how does having access to multiple cores help improve the speed of the computer?

Modern CPUs have multiple cores—which is like having more than one processor on the chip. The speed of computer processes can be drastically accelerated by the addition of extra cores. Signup and view all the answers

Describe one way that ICT improves accessibility for people with disabilities, providing a specific example of assistive technology.

ICT improves accessibility by providing specialized hardware and software. For example, a blind person can use a Braille keyboard or printer. Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Why use computers?

Efficient, accurate, quick communicators, eliminate distance, save costs.

Desktop PC

Not designed for mobility, placed on a desk, requires PSU.