Computer S~stem Overview

~ha pt e ~r--

In This Chapter
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Computer Components and Basic Computer Organization
1.3 Mobile System Organization
1.4 Types of Software

Introduction
• mputers are the machines that have revolutionised the world around us. The way we used to
·ve around 25-30 years ago is very different from how we live today. A modem age student
annot even imagine life, without email, Internet, print outs, playing music on computers or
martphones, photos just a click away in the form of smartphones and so on. In short, in every
aspect of life around us, we _see computers play a role directly or indirectly.
Computers deliver so much, diligently and efficiently, all thanks to the wonderful combination
of their hardware and software.
¢) Hardware. The physical electronic components of a computer are called hardware, e.g.,
keyboard, CPU, monitor, printer etc.
¢) Software. These are the recorded instructions and programs that govern the working of a
computer. Recall that a program is a set of instructions to carry out a specific task or achieve a
special work goal.
In this chapter, we shall discuss computer's functioning in broad sense by discussing computer
system organization and how various types of software aid in computer's overall performance.

1.2 Computer Components and Basic Computer Organization

A computer system comprises of five basic components (see Fig. 1.1):
(i) Input Unit. It is responsible for taking input for the computer. The input devices
attached to the computer system make the input unit.
(ii) Output Unit. It is responsible for producing information as output for the computer.
The output devices attached to the computer system make the output unit.
1
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON .. XI

(.. c
"''\ . cntral Processing Unit (CPU). It is responst'ble fOr processing the data and
mstructions. It comprises of two parts : . h •
, (a) Arit11rnctic and Logic Unit (ALU). It is responsible for carrydmg_ ~ut t '~ antthrnetic
/ • ·
instructions . ·a·) d aking logic eas1ons \iSrea er than
(add, subtract, multiply, d,v, e an m ,
1
less than, equal to).
•/' (b) Control_ Unit. It is respo~ible for secondary Storage
1 controlling and supervising the
processing.
• (iv) Primary Memory. It is the internal volatile Central processing Unit
memory where data and instructions are
st0red during processing. [ Conlld UnR ]

(v) Secondary Storage Unit. It refers • Input Output '

[ Ari1hmOlk,llogko UnR ] Device
to ~e external storage devices Device
which provide permanent
memory to the computer system.
The components of a computer system
make the physical structure of a
computer whereas the logical structure Figure 1.1 Components of a computer system.
of a computer system is defined as
Computer Organisation.

l .2.1 Computer Organisation

Computer organization refers to the logical structur~ of a computer describing how its
components are connected to one another ; how they affect one another's functioning, and
contribute ~o overall performance of the computer. ,
Computers, as you must be knowing, follow the 'IPO' principle i.e., Input Process Output
(a certain input is processed to generate specific output). So, the computer organization is
also like this - there are component(s) dedicate~ to obtain input in different forms,
component(s) dedicated to perform processing part and component(s} to produce output
in different forms.
I

Thus basic computer organization is as shown in Fig. 1.2. To see the interconnections and basic
working of computer (Computer Organization), scan this QR Code with SIPO app.
. '

To see CPU lir.ti 1? 1

A[or E
Computer Organization
in action I Registers I A computer runs on
electricity power.
Memory

Scan
QR Code BUS

Input Output Storage

unit unit unit

Figure 1.2 Basic computer organization.

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Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW

Let us talk about u,ese fu n . -'

cttonal C'Ompont'nts of a computer, one by one.
1.2.2 Input Unit
The input unit is formed b .
computer. Example f. Y th e tnput devices attached to the
mouse, magnetic ink so ch
input devices an d med'ta are: keyboard,
An Input unit takes the Input and
reader (OMR) opti l character reader (MICR), optical mark
converts It Into binary form so
input unit is ~s c~bl aracter_ rea~er (OCR), joystick etc. The that It can be understood by the
ponSi e for taking mput and converting it into
computer understandable f (th b' computer.
. orm e mary code).
All the inputs consisted f d
(the action to be takent ata (on which the action was to be performed) as well as tlte instruction

The input unit is com • d f .

d th prise o different input devices that take the input in different forms
an pass em in digital form to CPU for processing. Some common input devices are:
(r). Kexboard. Keyboard is a typewriter like device which is used to type in the letters, digits
and commands. For visually challenged people, Braille keyboards are also available these
ays.
(ii) M
ouse. Mouse is pointing device with either a roller on its base 'or some laser
mechanism. Mouse controls movement of pointer (also called mouse pointer) on screen.
(iii) Mic_ro~hone (Mic). We can send sound input to computer thr~ugh a special input
device called microphone or mic in short. A mic converts the sound received into
computer's format, which is called digitized sound or 'digital audio.
A mic can w~rk if your computer has a special hardware known as sound card.
1.2.3 Output Unit
The output unit is formed by the output devices attached to the
computer. The output coming from the CPU is in the form of Output Unit converts the
electronic binary signals which needs conversion in some form output in binary form to
which can be easily understood by human beings i.e., characters, . human readable form.
u - - ... ~- - ..,
graphical or audio visual form .. This function of conversion is
.... - .:.. ts- .c_ J #1,,

performed by output units. Some popular output devices are :

(i) Monitors. Monitor (or "screen") is the most common form of output from a computer.
It displays information in a similar way to that shown on a television screen. The
picture on a monitor is made up of thousands of tiny coloured dots called pixels.
For visually challenged people, Braille monitors are also available these days.
(ii) Printers. Printers are the devices that deliver information by means of printed
characters on paper. Printers come in variety of forms, e.g., inkjet, lasetjet, dotmatrix
printers etc. Unlike old style printers, which printed on a paper, these days 3D printers
are also available which can print/create 3D models.
(iii) Speakers. Speakers receive the sound in form of electric current from the sound card
and then convert it to sound format audible to user.

1.2.4 The CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The CPU or the Central Processing Unit is the main control centre and processing unit. It is
also called brain of the computer as it guides, directs, controls and governs the performance of
a computer. The CPU has some sub-components that help in carrying out the processing of a task.
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON ._ XI
11,ese a~ . (i\ .
.) A.
(1 nthrn r • ,, Anthmctic Logic Unit (ALU) (i,) Control Unit (CU) (ii,) Regi5lers
e ,c logic Unit (ALU)
11,e AtU
o~'eration~ perfonns all the four arithmetic (+, -, •, /) and some
logical (<, >, =, <=,>::::,I:::)
to ALU h. When lwo numbers are required to be added, these numb
ers are sent from memory
'thmere .add'ition
other a 'W ·
takes place and the result is put back in the memory. In the same
F way,
etic operations are performed (through ALU only).
.. 1
or ogica} ope ti
from me ra ons also, the numbers to be compared are sent
mory to ALU h
result is retu w ere the comparison takes place and ~e • . (ALU performs arithmetic
+, -, •, /) and logic
is either TR~ ed to the memory. The result of a logical operation
'. operations.
of decis. or FAlSE. These operations provide the capability ~= -'-'. :
• :. 10n-making to the computer. :.·:.,~..:.:~.:.::~..;..::..; _,.::.:..:.:J
11
•
. ~ ) Control Unit (CU)

The
inf CU .control8 and guide • s the interp
retation, flow and maru•puIation
AL~rmation.1:he CU sends control signals until the requi
• f a11 data d
red operations are done properly by
an°
and ~emory• Another important function of CU is the progr
out all the mstru ti am execution i.~., carrying
and executes th c ons stored in the program. The CU gets ·
program instructions fro~ mcuemothry
instruction. em one after the other. After getting the instru
ctions from memory m , e
is decoded and interpreted i.e., which operation is to be perfo
operation is carried out. After the work of this instruction rmed. Then the asked
signal tome is completed, control unit sends
mory to send the next instruction in sequence to CU.
The control unit even controls the flow of data from ;·CU acts as a ·sup;~or by
devices to mem input
I d fr
ory an om memory to output devices. controlling and guiding
(iii} Registers the operation taking place. ,
Registers.or processor regist
ers are small
units of data holding place
s. The CPU
uses registers to temporarily hold Modern days' smart machines (e.g., washing machin
some es,
important processing-information durin microwave oven etc.) also come with embedded CPUs.
g In
the time the processing is taking place. fact, these embedded CPUs are more than the CPU as these
also contain little ROM, RAM and other required circuitr
CPU may store some part data or some y
containing some embedded instructions. These embed
memory address or some instruction in its
I
ded
CPUs with accompanying memory and embed
ded
. processor registers. Instructions are called mlcrocontrollers.

1.2.5 The Memory [Main Memory/Primary Memory]

The main memory is the internal workspace of the comp
uter where data and instructions are
held during processing. Each memory location has a uniqu
e memory address. When the task is
performed, it clears its memory and memory space is then
available for the next task to be
performed.
1,

.... ····· ····· ····· ····· ····· ··r. r.r= Bit 1

..
... 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 ...
Cell 0
When the power is switched off,·
Cell 1
.....
·•.1.- ___.L -~-L ----'- -~--- -''---
L---- -:--;,
...
everything stored in the memory gets
•...... . . ... . ................. erased and cannot be recalled. The
memory of computer is often called
main memory or primary memory.

Figure 1.3 Memory. cells.

Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW
.
A bit is an elementary rmit of tire memory. Eight bits together form a bytt.
One byte is the smallest unit which can represent a data item or
a character. Other units of memory are KB, MB, GB, TB etc. B,YTE OR NIBB~E
i I
•A1roup of 8 bits Is called I byte
Every higher memory unit is equal to 2to of its lower unit. . and a 1roup of 4 bits Is called a
Following Table 1.1 lists various memory units used. nlbblt.

Table 1.1 Units of Computer Memory Measurements . - -

--
Unit Short Name Full Name Unit Short Name Full Name
1 Bit Bit Binary Digit, . 210 i.e., 1024 GB 1 TB Terra Byte
8 Bits 1 Byte Byte 210 i.e., 1024 TB 1 PB Peta Byte
210 i.e., 1024 Bytes 1 KB Kilo Byte 210 i.e., 1024 PB 1 EB Exa Byte
210 i.e., 1024 KB 1 MB Mega Byte 210 i.e., 1024 EB 1 ZB Zetta Byte
210 i.e., 1024 ZB 1 YB Yotta Bvte
J

210 i.e., 1024 MB 1 GB Giga Bvte

Since computer's main memory (primary memory) is temporary, secondary memory space is
needed to store data and information permanently for later use. Some most common secondary
•• storage media are the hard disk, pen drive etc. The secondary memory devices are also known
as storage devices.
1.2.5~· Parts of Main Memory/Primary Memory
• ' In the random-access memory (RAM), the memory cells can be accessed for information
transfer from any desired random location. That is, the process of locating a word in memory is
the same and requires an equal amount of memory, thus the name "random access". -, ...
' - -
The main drawback of RAM memory is that it is a volatile memory. That is, when the power
goes off, the contents of RAM ge_t_erased. The RAM chips in a computer can be of two basic types :
· (i) Dynamic RAM (DRAM). These are made up of transistors and capacitors. Today's
•DRAM chips have m~mory access times (time taken to produce data from memory)
ranging from below 20 to 70 nanoseconds. 'Ii -·- ----...--•- ---...

1
(ii) Static ~ - These are made up of flip-flops and offer 1MEMOR~°Acc:ESS TIM(
faster access times (about 10 nanoseconds) than DRAMs. 1The amount of time taken to
Static RAMs are thus used in specialized applications produce data required from
while dynamic RAMs are used in the primary storage memory, from the start of access
sections of most computers. l- until the availability of data, is I
•i_call~d Memory Access Time.
Read Only Memory (ROM)
A read-only memory (ROM) is a memory unit that performs the read operation only; it does not
have a write capability. This implies that the binary information stored in. a ROM is made
permanent during the hardware production of the unit and cannot be altered by writing
different words into it (hence non-volatile). ROM, however, is slower than RAM.
There are various types of ROM which are· given below :
(i) PROM (programmable ROM). Also called OTP (One Time Programmable). PROM is a
user-programmable memory in which information is burnt using special equipment
called a ROM burner.
1. Aflip-flop is a binary cell capable of storing one bit of infonnation.
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH P'fT
~C)~
'~
(i bl ROM) In ErRO~f, one dcan program th
·uv radiation) an erase It rnanye titll~'llo
•
I:
J, c~Ro~, (traHblt rrogr.amm• ' t I

d,,p (thn.mgh ,·arim1~ mrcham~ms r.g., 20 minutes for erasing EPROM contenrnes;
Ol\.'\Jl"'J. 11,c UV•tl'ROM can take up to l ROM). In EEPROM, the E ts.
(ii,) ElrRo~., (electrically erasable program~ahbEeEPROM, selective bytes can bP~a~:
era~ electrically which 1s . faster. Also wit e e is
' ra~
unlike UV-EPRO~~ which erases fully. f t comparatively (the era
(' ) F
rv la~h EEPROf\f. It is like EEPROM but I·sAlso,very as sure
it erases fully and not selective} of th~
entire contents takes less than a second). . hich the contents are y,
(v) Mask ROM. Mask ROM refers to a kind of ROM ::le ROM. prograll\tii~
by the IC manufacturer. It is not a user-program
1.2.6
Cache Memory r .. _,.. .,. , .--·· .
p
ronounced as caslt the cache memory is a speo•a1 high-speed .· ........ ~.
st0rage mechanism: It can • f 1 •>·,)
be either a reserved section of main ·The Cache Memory :---- ..
memory
or an indepen•dent high-speed storage device or even fi t
1
speed memory available
1
s a h· •
. 'gij
on CPU chip. Whenev
1,
· •
er some data 1S require ,d the CPU rs. 1t CPU I de_r to sp~ed 1nsid \
looks in the cache if •t • th
.• . or. up ace e
, 1 1s ere or not• If the data is found . tn l to data
RAM an~ instructions st ess
cache, CPU does not access memory and hence the process t __ ,__...~:~~~·••---.... oredin
-~ ]
becomes very fast.
When data is found in the cache it is called a cache hit, and the eff~~~:eness of_ a cache
is judged
by its hit rate. 95% of the time th~ processor is w~rking, it i~_ac~essmg informa~on from
cache.
,. '

~ i - · , ... 1.2.7 The Storage U.nit

Computers need to store ~d
l 1. (i) Storage of 1 KB means the Some most common
retrieve data for proces~mg.
following number of bytes : ' storage devices
Since primary memory has a , .
(a) 1000 (b) 964 {c) 1024 (d) 1064 i
(ii) One Megabyte is equivalent tot
limited storage capacity and is I Hard disks Magn~tic;
d ,,
J
(a) 210,bytes (b) 220 bytes not permanent, secon ary • i CD ROMs ] Media . 1
storage devices are used to .. Optical ,
.. (c) 230 bytes (d) none of the above ;
store large amount of data I: ••• DVDs Md'1
ea
J
' '

2. What are the functional components of;

a digital computer ?• P ermanen tly. There are various I • p d . · Flash
' • v m nft 1

types of secondary devices : _·-·- - _ _•. •__ m_~!71ory,,

3. What are the components of CPU ? : available these days. r~~'-'--'~_._.••• ..... ·--"-'-•-..... .. ..
What is its role ? What is the function 1

of control unit of CPU ? We can represent the storage capacity of storage devices in
4. What role does the input unit play in a terms of kilo bytes (KBs), mega bytes (MBs), giga bytes (GBs)
1

computer? and tera bytes (TBs) as we do for main memory.

5. What is the function of ALU ? ·• Let us now talk about some most common storage devices.
6. What role does the output unit play in , 1. Hard Disks. The hard disk memories store
a computer ? • '
. informa tion on one or more circular platters (or disks)
7. What is the function of main memory?. which
are continually spinning. These rotating disks are
What are the measuring units of memory ?
coated with a magnetic material and stacked with space
s. What are different types of ROM ? l between them. Information is recorded on
I

the surface of
r 9. •What is the role of cache memory ?
rl
rotating disks by magnetic heads as tiny magnetic spots.
\ 10. Which storage device is considered a The
hard disks of today have storage capacity measured in
portable ~e_vice ? giga bytes upto tera bytes.
Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW

CDs are
2. Compact Disks (CDs). 11,e compact disks or CDs are optical media. The
relatively cheap and have a storage capacity of upto 700 Mb.
but is able
3. DVDs. DVD is an optical storage device that looks the same as a compact disc
compu ter about 20
to hold about 15 times as much information and transfer it to the
times as
17 gigaby tes
fast as a CD-ROM. A DVD, also called a Super Density disk (SD), can hold upto
of data or four hours of movies on a side.
a 'solid state'
. 4. Flash Memory. A flash drive is a small, ultra-portable storage device with
s it m_ake use ~f
memory i.e., it has no moving parts unlike magnetic storage devices, ~~doe
way to RAM. The key d1fference is
lasers - unlike optical drives. Instead, it works in a similar
are now fairly
that data is retained in Flash memory everi when the power is switched off. They
inexpensive. Typical sizes. range from 256 Mbytes ~p to 128 GB and beyond.
5. Blu Ray Disk. Blu-ray Disc (also known as Blu-ray or BD) is an optical disc
storage media
disc has the same
· format. Its main uses are high-definition video and data storage. The
techno logies such as DVD,
dimensions as a stanciard DVD or CD. While current optical disc
the new format
DVD ± R, DVD ± RW, and DVD-RAM rely on a red laser to read and write data,
uses a blue-violet laser instead, hence the name Bl~-ray. The benefit of using a blue-violet laser
(405 nm) is that it has a shorter wavelength than a red laser (650 nm), which
makes it possible to .
more tightly and
focus the laser spot with even greater precision. ~s allows data to be packed
the same size as a
stored in less space, so it's possible to fit more data on the disc ·even though it's
CD/DVD. Blu Ray disks of today are capable of storing upto 128 GB of data.
.
' .
1.2.8 The System Bus
cables and that
The system bus (or the bus) is an electronic pathway composed of connecting
and instructions
connects the major components of acomputer sy$tem. Through system bus, data
.• • •
are passed among the computer system components.
. carrying part of system
¢) The data . bus .
bus is called data
¢) The control instruction carrying p~irt of system bus is called
control bus.
'

¢) The memory address carrying part of system bus is called Addre

ss bus.
¢) A separate type of bus called 1/0 Bus connects the Input,
Output and other external
devices to the system.

1.3 Mobile System Organization

less computirtg
Modem mobile system are tiny computers in y~ur hand. Although they have
tions such as
power compared to their bigger versions, they handle diverse type of applica
sensitive screen,
making calls through_ radio signals, offering camera utilities, handling touch·
etc.
display audio/video/graphical content but having little battery based power
Thus, the system organization of a ~obile system has - A}ot 4±¥¥ +· : ·
components to handle all these. The block diagram of a E
mobile system ~s as shown in Fig. 1.4 on next page.· . These days major components of a
mobile system are integrated on a
_Let us talk about these functional components of a mobile
single chip called System on a Chip
system one by one. (SoC). The Soc chips consume less
A mobile system's CPU handles diverse types of applica tions power compared
i to other
I
but ~as a little po~er compared to compu ters as mobile alternatives.

systems run on baf!ecy power. ,

 TER SCIENCE WITH PYTt-to
coMPU .. ~I

Camera Unit
i---, (Image Slgna1
Protesaor)

,.,,,_ ----
,. - - - -
- - - -- P n
A~ss1ng Unit)
Storage

I~ p Extema1
rir--t_ _r.;;) PR(>CESS()R GPU (Graphic Storage
' I sslng Unit)

Radio Signal Mwgemenl I

-
Power M1nlglfflllll
s
[a:: J-+-==-1
I I [!cc] s Memory

[ Charger j Audio Subsystem

speaker
Mic
• tion
Figure 1.4 Mobile system orgamza •

1. Mobile Processor (Mobile CPU) ands makes instant calculations

. CPU receives comm ' d • '
Tius is the brain of a smartphone. The . 15 throughout the evice.
plays audio/video, stores infonnation and sends signa 2 types . (i) Commun
icati
The CPU of a mobile system has majorly tw~ sub-processor • ons
Processing Unit (ii) Applications Processing Unit (APU) b t • 'bl
.• I/O Unit] This su sys em 1s respons1 e for
5 st
(z) C_ommunications Processing Unit. [Mo~ile Y em t has a diuital signal processor that helps it
making and receiving phone calls on a mobile handset. I o·
work with RF Transceiver and the Audio subsystem.
.. 'bl , ecting SIM (which provides a type of
¢) Radio Signal Management Unit 1s respons1 e ior conn
. thr h radi'o signals• (3GILTE/4G based cellular networks).
modem) to the base stations oug
(ii) Applications Processing Unit (APU). This subsystem is responsible for gove~g , controlling
all types of operations taking place on a mobile system by
~ . -~--'" . .. ,-r, running various types of mobile applications (apps).
2
•• 1. What ~e major functional co~p~nen~ 2• Display SubsyStem
of a mobile system ? This subsystem is responsible for providing display facilities,
2. What is the· role of communication
I
touch sensitive interface and touch sensitive keyboards.
processor of a mobile system ? •
3. How does a mobile system manage and 3. Camera Subsystem
draw power? • .•.. .. Thi b 't . d . d d Ii •
Wh . • s s~. um 1s es1gne to e ver a tightly bound image
A
... at is the role of display management
unit of a mobile system ? procesSmg package and enable an improved overall picture
s. How does memory of mobile function ? 1 and video experience. It has an integrated Image Signal Prer
6. How does the CPU of a mobile system cessor e~sures things like instant image capture, high- resolution
. work ? _ 1 support, image stabilization, and other image enhancements.
.
2. In fact, major subsystems are like processors in themselves e.g., Radio Si9~al M system can be termed as Radio
signal processor. anagement
 '
Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW

4. Mobile System Memory

A mobile system's
Like its other counterparts, a mobile system also needs memory to work.
memory is comprised of following two types of memories :
mobile system. The
(r) RAM (Random Access Memory). It is the work memory of your
executed. The more
installed mobile apps, when run, are first loaded in the RAM and then
the phone will generally
RAM you have on a smartphone, the better the performance and faster
be. RAM does not store information once the device is turned off.
(ir) ROM (Read Only memory). The ROM or Read Only
Memory is a part of mobile system's internal storage and it is RAM memory Is volatile, It loses Its
not accessible for users to write on and is thus referred to as contents when you switch off the
Read Only Memory. The ROM is basically Flash memory or device.
technically EEPROM (elecbically erasable and programmable
read only memory). .
5. Storage
It comes in the form
The ext~rnal storage of a mobile system is als~ called expandable storage.
easily by you and can
of SD cards, or micro SD cards etc. It is the storage which can be removed
ent, eve~ the cloud_ storage
• be used for storing pictures, music, videos and the likes. To an.ext
c~ also be categorized as external storage. I •
., .' .
6. Power Management Subsystem (Battery)
. The mobile systems
This subsystem is responsible for providing power to a mobile system
tem has a battery
work on limited power provided through an attached battery unit. This subsys
unit, and provides power
• ·- • ,m.anagement system that works with a battery charger and a battery
to the mob_ile system in required form.
.
1.4 Types of Software
ning.
A computer system consists of hardware and software for its pr9per functio
i.e., the components'
Hardware represents the physical and tangible components of the computer
disk, printer etc. are
that can be seen and touched. Input devices, output devices, CPU, hard
··- •·
examples of computer hardware.
•~· ._
- Application Softw~re--. ...,. ,

Software represents the set of programs that Word processors ' •

govern the operation of a compu ter system Spreadsheets ,,

- ..... , -~· 't:.

, Databases. •
System Software
are run. Softwa re can be _.,
\

and make the hardw .... \

classified broadly into two categories.
\.
; G i , Hardw are." •
t ~hie Operating , •. , . .. . F'r91811talion
. 1. System Software •
, design I System t. CPU, • : Utilities IOftwan,
disks. mouse, ,
J

software
\ printer, etc.
2. Application Software Device
' Language
Following sections discuss system software
, , processors drivers

and application software in details.

Figure 1.5 Working hierarchy in a computer.
1.4. l System Software
data from input devices
The software that' controls internal computer operations (viz. reading '
tr ••
ting processed inform ation to the output devices, checking system components converting
ansmtt ' re.
• to computer understandable form etc.) is known as system softwa
data/'mstructions
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON
... ~I

The ~~trm ~ftware ran furthrr be dassiflcJ into tu\J categories : ISYSTEM SOFTWARE
1. ~alin g 2. Language Processor. Thi software that tontr •
kt us discu~ each one of these individually. •Internal computer operations011
called Syst,m Softwoff, 11
1.4.1 A Operating System
The primary goal of an operating system is to make the computer system conve~ient to
use and
Sl'COndary goal is to use computer hardware in an efficient manner. An operating system is an
important component of a computer system which controls all
other components of the computer system. Major components of
a computer system are:
I
OPERATING SYSTEM
An Operating System is aprogram·
1. The Hardware 2. The Operating System (OS) which acts as an Interface
between auser and the hardware
3. The Application program routines (compiler, linkers,
(I.e., all computer resources) .
. database !)lanagement systems, utility programs) '
4. The Humanware (users)
where hardware provides the basic computing reso~rces, the application program routines
define the
ways in which these resources are used to solve the computing problems of the users
and the
Operating System controls and coordinates the tlse of the· hard~are among the
various
application programs for the various-users.
An operating system's major role is to execute a program and manage the resource
computers. s of

There are different types of operating systems available today to : ---- 7..J
cater to varied type of requirements. These are : Single user OS,
Multiuser OS, Time sharing-OS, Real time OS, Multiprocessing OS, As soon as a computer is booted
Distributed OS etc. up, OS is loaded on RAM so that it
can execute programs and
We are not discussing these operating systems types here as it is applications, and manage other
beyond the scope of the syllabus. resources of computer.
1.4.1 B Language Processors/Language Translotors
A language processor is a special type of a computer software that can translate the source
code
into an object code or machine,code. Here you should know the meaning of the terms source
code
or object code.
A so~ce .code refers to the program-code written by a programmer in a high level
¢)
programming lan~age (HLL) such as in C, Java, C++ etc.
¢) An object code refers to a code usually in machine language or binary
code, a language
that computer can understand easily and run on hardware.
So, you can safely say that language processors are software that convert source codes into
object
codes.· .,.
There are three types of language processors:·· assembler, compiler and interpret
er.
(z) Assembler. This language processor converts the program written in assembly languag
e
into machine language.
.
(ii) Interpreter. An interpreter is a type of system software that translates and executes
/

instructions written in ·a computer program line-by-line, unit by unit etc.

(iii) Compiler. A Compiler is another type of system software that translates
and executes
instructions written in a computer program in one go.
Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW

The translated macl,i11t rode runs fast (f11ter execution

lime) as now computer does not requlre
which requlres conversion lnto
any type of conversion to run It ; unlike Mllrc t codt
object/machine code before it can be executed.

1.4.2 Application Sottware

This type of software pertains to one specific applic
ation. For instance, a software that can
for a school.
perform railway reservation functions cannot prepare result
e ,~~~~--~--~""1
These are the programs written by programmers to enabl A_!PUCATION SOTTW~RE _,
computer to perfo rm a specif ic task such as proce ssing 111111111
control, hand ling calcu lations and Nt ApplfcorlOf, of
words, inven tory proatl ffll MCelt lfY to any OUl
• IPIClflld eppllcltloft. •
figures, medical accounting, financial accounting, result
operations fot 1

billing etc. • •
prepa ration, railw ay reserv ation,
categories :
Application software can further be subdivided into four
2. Utilities 3. Customised Software 4. Developer Tools
1. Packages

1.4.2A Packages
As applications may be numerous (from thousands to millio
ns of them), it is not feasible to design
are are designed that may be used by
software for each one of them. Rather some general softw
requirements. Such general-application
individual users in the manner it suits their needs and ••
. - software are known as packages. •
c~tion software (packages) are :
Some major and most common categories of general. appli
(i) Word Processing Software • (ii) Spreadsheets
(iii) Database Mana ge~e nt Systems (iv) Desktop Publishing Software
ns.
(v) Graphics, multimedia, and presentation applicatio
. ,

'
I

I
I '

]
1.4.2B Utilities
Utilitie~ ~e those helpful programs that ensure the smoo
th I
UTIL \T~.E ~_-_ __ - - ~
simply Utilities are those application;
, functioning of the computer. U_tility programs or
\ programs that assist the computer by 4
Utilities are meant to ass~st your computer. performing housekeeping functions
the probl ems· • '
Utilities bridge the gaps by helpi ng to solve like backing up disk or scanning /,
rtant
and maximize your computer's potential. Some impo cleaning viruses or arranging\
l information etc.·- _ __j
utilities are being discussed below.
ing,
,,,

1. Text Editor. This utility prog ram is used for creat

editing text files.
back ing-u p of disk. Back~up mean s
2. Backup Utility. This utility prog ram facilitates the
dama ge or data-loss, this back ed
duplicating the disk in~oimatiori so that in case of any
up data may be used~ '
utilit y prog ram facili tates comp ressi on of files. Larg e files can
3. Compression Utility. This
be comp resse d so that they take les·s stora ge area.
d at diffe rent stora ge locations) when
4. Disk Defragmentor. A. file is fragm ented (i.e., store
_in a singl e locat ion ori a disk.
it becomes too large for your comp uter to store
Frag ment ed files slow dow n a comp uter.
s by rearr angi ng the files andJ
Disk Defragmentor utilit y prog ram spee ds up disk acces
d in conti guou s units and free space
free spac e on your comp uter, so that files are store
is cons olida ted in one conti guou s block.
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON
.. . ..
... ~I
'· Atrtil'im Sojtntflrtt, This utility ram ensures virus--frce work environment
prog that disrupts normal fun . Acorn
,irus is amalicious computer pro gram ctio nin g of a cornJtet
An antirirus S(lftware scans you d . k for vir th
uses and removes em, 1 any er. 'f
fo d M r is . resent in memory all the viru
un • oreover, some antivt·rus software remain sP t' s is
that they can detect the viruses (as ) nd cou nte rattack them une ""
soon as they occur a Q,.

l. 4.2c Business Sof1wore •

This type of software is specifical . .
ly created accorqing to a business requirements. For
a company wants to computeriz instance,
e its' Accounts' department and
its needs. Such a software is bu gets a software_ that can serve
siness software. There are many
These can cater to a variety of readymade business software.
business needs. Examples of
Management System (for managing these software are Inventory
inventory details of a company),
payroll of a company's employe Payroll syStem (for ha ndling
es), Financial Accounting etc
bu~iness software available . Although the~e are stan~ard
in market, yet some compan
(~tlor-made) software as per the ies prefer getting cuStomize
ir specific requirements. Howe d
d~rectly installed at any other ver, such softwares cannot be
user's workplace as the requir
differ from ~e first and the ements of the second user ma
software may not fit in the req y
. uirements of the new user.
1.4 .3 .
Software libraries
I When programmers develop I
s~FTW~RE •L1 sRARl,E~
software and programs, •A
\ they have a prewritten set of software library is a predefined
code/functions, classes, and
scripts etc. available to do available to use, suite
a variety of tasks, which of data and
they can use directly in their programming code in the form
code. These predefined code / functions I scripts I clas
of prewritten
sets of codes are called softwa ses etc. that
re libr •can· be used in the dev
library is a predefined and availab aries. A software software programs and appelop ment of new
le to use, suite of lications.
data and programming code ,.
in the form of prewritten code/fu
can be used in the developm nctions/scripts/classes etc. tha
ent of new software programs t
The software libraries combin and applications.
e codes/ functions/ scripts/ clas
domain. In order to use the rew ses etc. on the basis of their com
ritten functionality, a programm mon
its code_. For instance, if your er needs to add that libraries to
software requires some heavy
not write the functions/code mathematical work then you nee
etc. for complex mathematical d
do is that to mclude/import fun ctions. Rather what you need
an available math based softwa to
(j, .~ --, . ,. . - ... ,.....,, re library in your program. Th
.:. •• -;._
• you can use all the availab en
le functions and features of this
0

1.3 ·-- -·- -·- ~- -· libr

• ·' • • ary in you r cod e wit hou
can use a software library tinhaving to rewrite them. You
1. H~_w can co~puter software be
c~ ed ? :i example, Python
a variety of projects. For
2. What are two ·catego comes equipped with many
ries of system • libraries. Som software
• software ? •• • e of these are :
•'
3. What is an operating syst
em ? What is • 1. NumPy (Numerical Python). It provides an abu
its role ? , of useful features and functio ndance
ns for ope rati ons on
4. What is application softwar
e ? What are , numeric arrays and matrices
the three categories of app in Python.
lication 2. SciPy (Scien
software ? 1 ti~ic Python). SciPy contains
. . ' , modules for
s. Differentiate .between '

a compiler and
linear algebra, optimization, inte
gration, and statistics.
interpreter. 3. Panda Library. Pandas is
6. • What is utility software ?
a Python package designed
• •• ' to do work with "labeled" and
7~ What are ·software librarie "relational" data. It is
s? How are·. designed for quick and eas
y
they useful to programmers ? .aggregation, and visualization data manipulation,
.

z;
Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVE~~IEW

VISE J
so(twan.
Computers can deliver performance because of an efficient combination of hardwan and
r,pr~n l I~ rtcordftl
,. ~ile ~rdwo n refers to physical electronic components of a computer. so(twatt
,nstructlons/so(tware that govern its operation.
nections and worlc
Computer organization refers to logical structure of a computer describing their Intercon
dependency.
Unit, Output Unit
The functional components of a computer include : input unit, CPU, Mtmo,y , Storagt
form.
The Input unit is responsible for obtaining input from user and converting ii to digital
and produces output.
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) processes the received input as per a set of instructions
The CPU has these sub-components: ALU, Control Unit and Registers.
ns and logic operations
The ALU (Arithmetic of Logic Unit) is responsible for carrying out arithmetic operatio
(e.g., comparing two values).
The Control Unit controls or supervises the processing taking place.
address during the
Registers are small data holding areas within CPU that hold data, instructions and memory
processing.
The main memory or memory holds the data and programs for the processing.
Main memory can either be ROM or RAM.
ROM is read only memory that stores some prewritten instructions.
data during processing.
RAM is Random access memory that can be read and written and is used for manipulating
goes off.
The primary memory (RAM) is volatile in nature as all contents are erased as soon as power
The cache memory is a special high speed memory storing the most recently accessed data.
The storage unit stores the contents permanently.
Major storage devices are hard disks, CD, DVD, flash drive and Blue-Ray discs.
ng.
A mobile system handles complex types of operations including input, output and processi
m, Display subsystem,
Major functional components of a mobile system are Radio Signal Management subsyste
power management subsystem, CPU, Memory and storage subsystems.
and make the hardware
Software represents the set of programs that govern the operation of a computer system
run.
The software that controls internal computer operations is called system software.
e.
An operating system is a program which acts as an interface between the user and the hardwar
ring OS, real-time OS,
There are different types of OSs available-single pr.ogram OS, multiprogram OS, time-sha
multiprocessing OS etc.
.
A language processor converts a program written in high level language to machine language
code, (ii) compiler
There are three language processors: (i) assembler which converts assembly language code to machine
and (iii) interpreter which convert high level language code to machine code.
application.
Application software is a set of programs necessary to carry out operations for a specified
ed software.
There are three categories of application sofnvare : (i) packages (ii) utilities and (iii) customis
: text editors, backup
Utility programs assist the computer in maintaining its performance. Some of the utilities are
utilities, compression utilities, disk defragmentors, and antivirus software .
Customised software is tailor made software according to user's requirements.
mers for use in the
Software libraries are sets of prewritten code/functions/classes etc. available to program
development of new code.
 0

COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON .. ~I 1

OBJ[CTIV[ TYPE QULSl IONS

,·
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION-!
. . of computer ?
1• \\1uch of the following components is the mam memory d drive (d) RAM
(n) CD (b) DVD (c) Intemal hthar other hardware 7 •
1 component of a computer connects e Processor to e
2• \Vh'ch th (d) Input Unit
(a) System Bus (b) CPU (c) Memory '
3• Which of the following is referred t~ the brain of computer 7
(d) Hard drive
(a) Processor (b) RAM (c) ROM
4• What is the name of programs that control the computer syStem 7
(d) Mouse
(a) Hardware (b) Keyboard (c) Software
S. The Phfsical components of a computer are called · U
(a) Software (b) Hardware (c) ALU (d) CP ?
6• Which of the following is the common measurement o umf ·t of computer memory.
(a) IQ (b) Byte (c) Terabyte (d) Gigabyte
7• What is the name of the component that used to both read and writes data?
(a) ROM (b) RAM (c) Hard Drive (d) Cache Memory
B. The CPU is also known as
(a) The Brain (b) The Processor
(c) The Central Processing Unit (d) All of these
9· Which smaller unit of the CPU directs and coordinates all activities within it and determines the
sequence in which instructions are executed, sending instructions sequence to other smaller unit?
(a) CU (b) ALU (c) PROCESSOR _(d) All of these
10. Which smaller unit of the CPU performs all arithmetic and logic functions in a computer?
(a) CU (b) ALU (c) PROCESSOR (d) All of these
11. Component of CPU which is responsible for comparing the ·contents of two pieces of data is
(a) ALU (b). CU • (c) Memory (d) Register
12. In a computer, CU stands for
(a) Control unit (b) Cache unit (c) Calculating unit (d) Communication unit
13. Arithmetic and logic unit alongwith control unit of a computer, combined into a single unit, is
known as
(a) Central processing unit (b) Memory unit (c) 1/0 unit (d) Operating unit
14. Word Processor and Desktop Publishing program are the examples of
(a) Hardware (b) Software (c) CPU (d) None of these
15. Operating System is an example of
(a) Application Software · (b) System software
(c) Utility program (d) None of these
16. A disk fragmentor is an example of
(a) Application Software (b) System software
(c) Utility program (d) None of these
17. Flash memory and Blu Ray disk are the examples of
(a) Hardware (b) Software (c) CPU (d) None of these

'\ \

\\
Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW

18. Flash memory is a type of _ _ memory.

(n) primary (b) RAM (c) secondary (J) all of the!;e
19. Which of the following memory types will store the data or information perman~ntly?
(a) RAM (b) Cache (c) Flash Memory (J) Hard disk
20. Which of the following memory types cannot store the data or information permanently ?
(a) RAM (b) Cache (c) Flash Memory (J) Hard disk

FILL IN THE BLANKS

1. _ _ refers to the logical structure of a computer describing their interconnections and dependency.
2. RAM and ROM are the types of _ _ memo~.
3. The _ _ is responsible for carrying out arithmetic and logic operations.
4. The _ _ of the CPU controls or supervises the processing taking places.
, 5. The small memory providing units inside the CPU·are called the _ _
6. The _ _ memory is a special high speed memory storing the most recently accessed data.
7. The power unit of a mobile system is called _ _
8. The·set of programs necessary to carry out operations/tasks pertaining to a specific application, are
called _ _ _ _ , •
9. Software that controls and manages internal computer operations is called_·_ __
10. Utility programs are a type of _ _ __
11. Antivirus software is a type of _ _ __
12. Windows OS is a type of _ _ __

TRUE/FALSE QUESTIONS

1. A computer system consists of both hardware and software. ) '

2. Hardware is a set of instructions called programs that the computer uses to carry out tasks while
Software are all the parts of the computer you can see and touch, also known as peripherals.
3. The two smaller units of the Processor are CU and ALU.
4. Main Memory holds data and instructions being processed by the computer and is directly
accessible by the CPU.
5. A mobile system also contains a CP:U. 6. A mobile system W?rks with electricity.
7. A mobile system has its own little power unit. 8. A cache memory is a type of RAM.
9. Language processors are a type of application software.
10. Customised software is a type of system software.

ASSERTIONS AND REASONS

D1.RECTIONS
In tlie following questions, a statement of Assertion (A) is followed by a statement of Reason (R).
Mark the correct choice as :
(a) Both A and Rare true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and Rare true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false (or partly true). l
(d) A is false (or partly true) but R is true. (e) Both A and Rare false or not fully true. 1
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON -

only through an efftdent combination of hardwi..

1. h11111ton. Ac.,,mpattr can dtllwr ~• ••·--~-·-- • --.~
and . . . . .
RN9on. While hardwa11 ttftn to the physical electronics equipment, so er recor~e<f
f t w a r e a r e t h

progtllftl that So"'"' the hardware lo perform tasks In a computer.

2. kwrtim. The CMJ of I a,mpuler U9'9 registers 89 memory. .
Raom Regl!llffl are tlffllll data holding areas within CPlJ that hold data, Instructions dllring e t c .

the prot'ffling. • '

3 .M!lt'l'tion. The primary memory is memory Its contents soon the
w l a t i l e
a s a l l
g e t e r a s e d a s a s

power goes off.

ReaS<m The ,cache memory is also a primary memory•
4. As~rtion. A part of main memory is non-volatile too. .
Reason. ROM is a read only memory with some pre-written instruction~, which are retained even
after power is off. •
S. Assertion. Not all types of software are system so~are. • . ' • •
Reason. Application software are designed to carry out operations for a spe~c application.
6. Assertion. An operating system is a system software. •. , •• •
Reason. The software that controls internal computer operations, is called ~ystem softwa~e.
7. Assertion. Customised software is a tailor made software according to user's requirements.
Reason. Software libraries are customised software.
8. Assertion. Utility software programs are application software.
Reason. Application software are the progr~s necessary to carry out 0perations for specific •
applications. .. ,
..
r- ---• • ---• •• -.. ._ • • - •• .J .. _ -- ., •"'"" "\" - .,...r •- •- ,-1",. _ . - . ; ; - _..........., . < ( " - ! " • - - ' _ . _ , _ . ...- • ~ - - -

NOTE ; Answers ~or OTQs are given. at _the end 0U~~Jtq9.Jc.

, - - - • • - - -

S'oh,,~ Pro~I,"'~
r . a •n tffr el
1. State the basic units of the computer. Name the subunits_ that make up the CPU, and give the function of each
of the units.
Solution. The basic units of a computer are :
. . .
L Input unit 2. Central Processing Unit (CPU) 3. Output Unit 4. Memory.
Jhe 9)'U has two subunits :, the control unit (CU) and the arithmetic logic unit (ALU).
The control unit controls the entire operation being carried out.
The ALU performs the arithmetic an4 logical operations.
2. What is the function of memory ? What are its measuring units ?
Solution. The memory temporarily holds the data and information during processing.
The smallest unit of memory is a byte (8 bits). A byte can store one character in binary form. Other
measuring units are kilobyte (KB) equal to 1024 (2 10 ) bytes, Megabyte (MB) equal to 1024 KB,
Gigabyte (GB) equal to 1024 MB and Terabyte (TB) equal to 1024 GB.
3. Give examples for each of system software and application software. Explain the function of each type.
Solution. Examples of system software are: .
(1) Operating system· (it) Language Processor (iii) Application Software
Examples of Operation System are : Single user OS, multiuser OS, batch processing OS, multiprocessing
O S etc.
Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW

As the names suggest, single r,ser OS supports single user whereas rrmlliuser OS can support multiple
users. The batdr processing OS processes the batches (groups) of jobs (processes given to it) and
multiprocessing OS is capable of hanaling multiple CPUs at the same time.
The exam11les of language processors are : (1) Interpreter (iz) Compiler (iii) Assembler
An interpreter converts and executes an HLL program into object program line by line whereas a
compiler converts an HLL program into object program in one go and once the program is error free,
it can be executed later. An assembler converts an assembly language program into object program.
'
Examples of application software are: (1) Customised Software (ii) General software.
The customised software pertains to the requirements of a specific user for whom the software has
been developed. General software is developed keeping in mind general specifications of a problem.
' .
4.. Why is primary memory termed as 'destructive write' memory but 'non-destructive read' memory ?
,
"\

Solution. When a memory location is read from in the primary memory, the contents of the memory
\ ., ' f

word remain the same ; they are not altered. Therefore, a primary memory is termed as 'non-
destructive read' memory since the read operation does not destruct the contents of a memory word.
When a write operation takes place, the previous contents of the memory word are overwritten.
Thus, the primary memory is termed as 'destructive write' memory as the write operation destructs
the contents of a memory word.
5. What is the difference between RAM and ROM ? ,. •
Solution. RAM refers to random access memory where both read and write operations can take
place. But the RAM is a volatile memory ; its contents are lost when power is turned off.
ROM refers to read only memory where only read operation can take place. The ROM is a
non-volatile memory.
Both RAM and ROM are parts of the primary .memory.
6 What is Cache memory? Why is it considered crucial for a microprocessor's performance?
Solution. Cache memory is a special high-speed memory that stores most recently used data in
order to speed up the process of instruction execution. A cache can speed up data retrieval because
recently used data is likely to be used again by the computer.
7. What is the role of CPU of a mobile system ?
Solution. A mobile system has to cater to a variety of operations and applications and its CPU has. to
manage all these. Thus the CPU of a mobile system has many sub-processors tha:t help it control anq
manage diverse applications. The CPU of a mobile manages all these types of applications and operations :
• ,Manages communications while connec- • Manages audio through ADC (analog to digital
ting to radio transceivers and SIM. converter) and DAC (digital to analog converter). . 1
• Manages display and touch sensitive • Works in tandem with memory and storage.
sensors and interface.
8. What are various categories of software ?
Solution. There are broadly two categories of software :
1. System Software. This type of software controls internal computer operations. The system
software can further be classified in two categories : '
(1) Operating System. An ope!ating system is a program ~hich acts as an interface between a user
and the hardware.
(ii) Language Processor. This program is responsible for converting an HLL code (High Level
Language code) into machine understandable code.
2. Application Software. An application software is the set of programs necessary to carry out
operations for a specified application.
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON .. ~I

Q
·,
\ . •
\11111 •~ tlrr dif)i·rr,icr l'lftuvcn arr mterprrt ,d a a,11111iler ?
t.'T a, chin language line by line
.
Scilutim. An intcrprm-r C'l-,m•rrts an HLL Program .mto ma e
te reter must always be present in an(!th
~imuJtan~1u~ly cxl"C\Jtrs the ronverted line. AISO, an in rp occurs in a line, the line
memory along with the program for its . --•tion If an error
ex.."".. •.
is display
'-\(
0
!
.. d
and intcrprt'tcr docs not proceed unless the error is rectif1e • . If there are errors in h
A · chine languag e m one go.
compiler converts an HLL program in ma_ On the errors are removed, error-frete
program, it givrs the error list along with the hne numbers. ce d d in the memory
. e
obj~ct code is made available and after this compiler is no more nee e

10. \Vl,at is application software ?Why is it required ?

Solution. Application software is a software that pertams • tO one application.
•• .
·
Application software is required because system softw~re cannot carry out the routine job
s
performed by the user which application software can easily do. . .
. .
ion so tware comes in vanous
To perform various kinds of activities, the apphcat f categones :
••
(1) Packages (ii) Utilities (iii) Business Software (iv) Develop~r Tools.
• ·
11. F1ve statements about interpreters and compilers are given below. StudYeach statement and determine which
· ·
of them liold true for a compiler or for an interpreter.
- (1) takes one statement at a time and executes it.
(i1) generates an error report at the end of translation of tlte whole program. ,
(iii) stops the translation process as soon as the first error is encountered. '
(iv) slows speed of execution of program loops. r '

•
• (v) translates the entire program in one go.
Solution. Interpreter : (1), (ii,), (iv) ; Compiler: (ii), (v)

qui d e Ii nes to ~CERT Questions [NCERT Chapter 1]

1. Name the software required to make a computer functional. Write down its two primary
services.
Ans. Operating System. Two of its primary services are : managing CPU and managin
g primary
memory.
2. How does the computer understand a program written in high level language ?
Ans. The program written in high level language is first converted/translated into machine
language
by a language processor, which is then handed over to a computer. Thus, the comput
er is able to
understand the programs written in high level language.
3. Why is the execution time of the machine code less than that of source code
?
Ans. The translated machine coqe runs fast (faster execution time) as now the comput
er does not
require any type of conversion to run it ; unlike source code which requires
conversion into
object/machine code before it can be executed.
4. What is the need of RAM ? How does it differ from ROM ?
Ans. The RAM is needed for the smooth running of a computer's operations as it provide
s memory
for reading as well writing ; its contents can be modified as and when required. ROM,
on the other
hand, stores some instructions which are permanent. ROM cannot be written onto.
One can only
read instructions from ROM. • •
Thus RAM along with ROM, is required for the smooth functioning of a c9mputer
system.
Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW

5. What is the need for secondary memory ?

Ans. The primary memory holds the data and instructions only during processing and a(ter that, it
gets erased. One cannot store data and instructions permanently on RAM.
To permanently store data and instructions, the secondary memory is required.
6. How do different components of the computer communicate witli each other ?
Ans. Different components of a computer communicate through the bus which connects the
functional components of a computer system.
13. Name the input or output device used to do the following:
(a) To output audio (b) To enter textual data
(c) To make hard copy of a text file (d) To display the data or information
(e) To enter audio-based command (f) To build 3D models
(g) To assist a visually-impaired individual in entering data
Ans. (a) speaker (b) keyboard (c) printer (d) monitor (e) MIC
(f) 3D printer (g) Braille Keyboard
14. Identify the category (system, application, programming tool) of the following software:
(a) Compiler (b) Assembler (c) Ubuntu (d) Text editor
Ans. (a) system software (b) system software
(c) system software (d) programming tool

GLOSSARY

Bit A binary digit.

Byte A group of eight bits.
ALU Arithmetic Logic Unit that carries out arithmetic and logical operations.
Application Software rertaining to the operations of a specified application.
Software
Complier Program that converts HLL program into machine language in one go and reports all the errors along
with their line numbers.
Operating System Program which ads as an interface between a user and the hardware.
CPU Central Processing Unit that carries out the given process and supervises the entire operation.
Memory An organized colleciion of cells used to store data and progr-oms in a computer.
EPROM Erasable programmable read-only memory, a device that is ultraviolet-erasable and elecirically
reprogrammable.

PROM Programmable read-only memory. With a PROM programmer, you can bum in your own programs and data.
RAM Random-access memory. It is also called a read-write memory because you can read the contents of
a memory location or write new contents into it.
ROM Read-only memory. (ROM Rymes with Mom) This device provides non-volatile storage of programs
• and data. You can access any memory location by supplying its address.
Software Set of programs that govern the operation of a computer system.
Language ProcessorSoftware that converts a high level language code into machine understandable form.
System Software Software that controls internal computer operations.
Utility Software A software that assists the computer by performing housekeeping fundions.
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON ... XI

ZSf1ti*
1

l. Brirfly ~Xplain the basic architecture of a computer. t · t •

2. \Vh Wh t does compu er mpu consist 0f
at do you understand by input unit 7What is its significance 7 a . ?
• the function of CPU in a computer system 7 What are its subunits 7
3. \Vhat 15
4. \Vhat functions are performed by the control unit 7 Can we call it the control centre of computer
system ? Why ?
5. What functions are performed by the ALU ? Is it an independent unit 7 If not, which unit does AltJ
work in coordination with ?
6• Distinguish between CPU and ALU. ,
7• What is• the function of output unit in a computer system 7 G'ive examples of some. output devices.
8• What role does memory play in the functioning of computer sySlem 7
9• Define each of the following: •
(a) byte (b) kilobyte (c) megabyte (d) gigabyte (e) terabyte. .
l0. What is the meaning of the term volatile primary memory ? What can be done to overcome the
problems of volatility ? ' •• ).,, ' •
l l. Distinguish between internal and external memory. • •,. ••
12• What is the role of memory in a computer functioning ? What types of memory does .th~ computer work
with?.
13. What are RAM and ROM ? How are they alike ? How are they different ? What are ~~OM, PROM and
EPROM? I ,.

14. What is cache memory ? How is it useful ?

15. What are major functional components of a mobile system ?
16. Draw a block diagram depicting organization of a mobile system.
17. What is the role of power management unit in a mobile system ?
18. What does the communication processor do ?
19. What is the role of application processing unit in a mobile system ?
20. How does display subsystem of a mobile system work ?
21. What are different categories of software ? Give examples.
22. What is system software ? What role does it play in the functioning of the computer ?
23. Discuss the role of utility software in the context of computer performance.
24. What is the importance of an OS ?
25. How are software libraries useful? Name some software libraries of Python.
26. How is system software different from application software ?
27. What is the utility of these software ? •
(z) disk fragmentor (ii) ~ackup software.
I

28. To run your computer system, what types of software are necessary? What role does each type play in
computer's functioning ?