Hadi Computer Chap 1 Test Answers

1. What is the Von Neumann Architecture, and what are its main
components?
o Von Neumann Architecture is a computer design that uses a stored-
program concept where instructions and data are stored in the same
memory.
o Its main components include the CPU (Control Unit, ALU, Registers),
Memory Unit, and Input/Output devices.
o It uses buses (Address, Data, Control) to transmit information
between components.
o This architecture is the foundation of most modern computers.
2. Explain the difference between volatile and non-volatile memory with
examples.
o Volatile memory loses stored data when power is turned off (e.g.,
RAM, Cache).
o Non-volatile memory retains data even without power (e.g., ROM,
Hard Disk, Flash Memory).
o Volatile memory is faster and used for temporary storage during
processing.
o Non-volatile memory is slower but essential for long-term storage.
3. Describe the functions of the ALU and Control Unit in the CPU.
o The ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) performs calculations (addition,
subtraction) and logical operations (AND, OR).
o The Control Unit manages instruction execution, data flow, and
coordination between CPU components.
o Both are part of the CPU and work together to process instructions.
 o The Control Unit fetches, decodes, and executes instructions while
the ALU handles computations.
4. What are the key characteristics of fifth-generation computers?
o They focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning.
o They support natural language processing (NLP) and expert systems.
o Advanced parallel processing allows multitasking and complex
computations.
o Examples include robots and AI-driven systems like voice assistants.
5. How does cache memory improve computer performance?
o Cache is a small, ultra-fast memory located inside or near the CPU.
o It stores frequently used data to reduce access time compared to
RAM.
o Levels (L1, L2, L3) prioritize speed, with L1 being the fastest.
o This hierarchy minimizes delays in fetching data for the CPU.
6. Compare magnetic and optical storage devices.
o Magnetic storage uses magnetized spots (e.g., Hard Disks) and is
cheaper but slower.
o Optical storage uses lasers to read/write pits on disks (e.g., CDs,
DVDs).
o Optical disks have larger capacity but are less durable than magnetic
disks.
o Both are non-volatile and used for long-term data storage.
7. What is the role of the motherboard in a computer system?
o The motherboard is the main circuit board connecting all
components (CPU, RAM, ports).
 o It houses buses for data transfer between hardware.
o Input/output devices connect via ports on the motherboard.
o It ensures communication between the CPU, memory, and
peripherals.
8. Explain the fetch-decode-execute cycle.
o The CPU fetches an instruction from memory.
o It decodes the instruction to understand the operation.
o The ALU executes the operation (e.g., addition).
o Results are stored back in memory or registers.
9. Differentiate between impact and non-impact printers.
o Impact printers (e.g., Dot Matrix) strike paper with pins, creating
noise but are cheap.
o Non-impact printers (e.g., Laser, Inkjet) use ink/toner without
physical contact.
o Non-impact printers are faster, quieter, and produce higher-quality
output.
o Impact printers are used for multipart forms (e.g., invoices).
10.What are the functions of registers in the CPU?
o Registers are high-speed storage units for temporary data during
processing.
o Examples: MAR (Memory Address Register), MDR (Memory Data
Register), PC (Program Counter).
o They hold operands, instructions, and addresses for quick access.
o Their speed reduces CPU delays in fetching data from RAM.
11.Describe the memory hierarchy in a computer system.
 o Fastest: Registers and Cache (L1, L2, L3) inside/close to the CPU.
o Middle: RAM (volatile, temporary storage for active programs).
o Slowest: Secondary storage (HDD, SSD, Optical Disks) for long-term
data.
o Hierarchy balances speed, cost, and capacity for efficient
performance.
12.How do input/output devices interact with the CPU?
o Input devices (e.g., keyboard, mouse) send data to the CPU via
ports/buses.
o Output devices (e.g., monitor, printer) receive processed data from
the CPU.
o I/O controllers manage data flow between peripherals and
memory/CPU.
o Interrupts signal the CPU to prioritize urgent I/O tasks.
1. Which was the first mechanical calculator invented by Blaise Pascal?
a) Abacus
b) Pascaline
c) Leibniz Wheel
d) Analytical Engine
Answer: b) Pascaline
2. What replaced vacuum tubes in second-generation computers?
a) Transistors
b) Integrated Circuits
c) Microprocessors
d) Vacuum Tubes
Answer: a) Transistors
3. Which generation introduced microprocessors?
a) First
b) Second
c) Third
d) Fourth
Answer: d) Fourth
4. What is the function of the ALU?
a) Store data permanently
b) Perform arithmetic/logic operations
c) Control power supply
d) Display output
Answer: b) Perform arithmetic/logic operations
5. Which memory type is volatile?
a) ROM
b) RAM
c) Hard Disk
d) DVD
Answer: b) RAM
6. What does BIOS stand for?
a) Basic Input/Output System
b) Binary Input/Output Signal
c) Boot Initialization System
d) Byte Instruction Operating System
Answer: a) Basic Input/Output System
7. Which bus carries memory addresses?
a) Data Bus
b) Address Bus
c) Control Bus
d) System Bus
Answer: b) Address Bus
8. What is the smallest unit of memory?
a) Byte
b) Bit
c) Nibble
d) Word
Answer: b) Bit
9. Which printer type uses ink cartridges?
a) Dot Matrix
b) Laser
c) Inkjet
d) Plotter
Answer: c) Inkjet
10.What is the purpose of cache memory?
a) Long-term storage
b) Improve CPU speed
c) Replace RAM
d) Power backup
Answer: b) Improve CPU speed
11.Which device reads barcodes?
a) Scanner
b) Barcode Reader
c) Touch Screen
d) Microphone
Answer: b) Barcode Reader
12.What is the storage capacity of a standard CD?
a) 4 GB
b) 700 MB
c) 1 TB
d) 128 GB
Answer: b) 700 MB
13.Which component holds the next instruction to be executed?
a) MAR
b) MDR
c) PC
d) CIR
Answer: c) PC (Program Counter)
14.What is the main circuit board in a computer?
a) CPU
b) Motherboard
c) Hard Disk
d) Power Supply
Answer: b) Motherboard
15.Which memory type is used in SSDs?
a) Magnetic
b) Optical
c) Chip
d) Volatile
Answer: c) Chip (Flash Memory)
16.Who invented the Analytical Engine?
a) Charles Babbage
b) Alan Turing
c) John Von Neumann
d) Herman Hollerith
Answer: a) Charles Babbage
17.What is the primary focus of fifth-generation computers?
a) Vacuum Tubes
b) AI and NLP
c) Transistors
d) Integrated Circuits
Answer: b) AI and NLP
18.Which port is used for high-definition video output?
a) USB
b) HDMI
c) VGA
d) LAN
Answer: b) HDMI
19.What does USB stand for?
a) Universal Serial Bus
b) Unified System Bus
c) User Storage Buffer
d) Ultra Speed Buffer
Answer: a) Universal Serial Bus
20.Which memory is fastest?
a) RAM
b) L1 Cache
c) Hard Disk
d) DVD
Answer: b) L1 Cache
21.What is the function of the Control Unit?
a) Perform calculations
b) Manage instruction execution
c) Store data permanently
d) Display graphics
Answer: b) Manage instruction execution
22.Which generation used vacuum tubes?
a) First
b) Second
c) Third
d) Fourth
Answer: a) First
23.What type of memory is ROM?
a) Volatile
b) Non-Volatile
c) Temporary
d) Magnetic
Answer: b) Non-Volatile
24.Which device produces hardcopy output?
a) Monitor
b) Speaker
c) Printer
d) Plotter
Answer: c) Printer
25.What is the purpose of an expansion slot?
a) Increase CPU speed
b) Add new hardware (e.g., GPU)
c) Store BIOS
d) Replace RAM
Answer: b) Add new hardware (e.g., GPU)
26.Which language was used in first-generation computers?
a) Python
b) Machine Language
c) COBOL
d) Java
Answer: b) Machine Language
27.What does GUI stand for?
a) General User Interface
b) Graphical User Interface
c) Global Utility Index
d) Guided User Input
Answer: b) Graphical User Interface
28.Which component stores intermediate ALU results?
a) MAR
b) AC (Accumulator)
c) MDR
d) CIR
Answer: b) AC (Accumulator)
29.What is the main feature of optical storage?
a) Uses magnets
b) Uses lasers
c) Volatile
d) Expensive
Answer: b) Uses lasers
30.Which device is NOT an input device?
a) Keyboard
b) Mouse
c) Printer
d) Microphone
Answer: c) Printer