and those who do not, leading to inequalities in information and opportunities.

3. Dependency and Addiction: Overreliance on ICT can lead to issues like internet
addiction, reduced physical activity, and social isolation.
4. Job Displacement: Automation and digitalization can lead to job losses in
certain sectors, requiring reskilling and adaptation.
5. Environmental Impact: ICT infrastructure and devices contribute to electronic
waste and energy consumption.

(c) Internet is a wellknown example of ICT. How it enables people to

communicate easily through different communication mediums?

1. Email: Allows users to send written messages and documents to one another
instantly, making communication efficient and asynchronous.
2. Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram enable users to
share updates, photos, videos, and messages, fostering realtime and
interactive communication.
3. Instant Messaging: Applications such as WhatsApp, Messenger, and Telegram
offer instant text, voice, and video messaging, enabling realtime
conversation.
4. Video Conferencing: Tools like Zoom, Skype, and Google Meet allow for
facetoface communication over the internet, supporting virtual meetings,
webinars, and online classes.
5. Forums and Blogs: Online forums and blogging platforms provide spaces for
people to discuss topics, share ideas, and build communities around
common interests.
6. Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP): Services like Skype and WhatsApp Calls use
the internet to facilitate voice calls, often at a lower cost compared to
traditional phone services.
7. File Sharing: Cloud services like Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive allow
users to share files and collaborate on documents in realtime, streamlining
project management and teamwork.

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Through these diverse communication mediums, the internet enables seamless
interaction, collaboration, and information exchange, breaking down
geographical barriers and enhancing connectivity across the globe.

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Question No 2 (20)
a) Explain the first four generations of computer with proper examples

b) List the hardware components of a computer. Explain at least five of

them in detail.

Answer:

a) Explain the first four generations of computer with proper examples.

The First Generation of Computers (the 1940s1950s)
 Vacuum tubes were the primary electronic component used in computers
between the years of 1940 and 1950.
 Magnetic tapes and magnetic drums served as the primary memory storage
devices.
 The programming language was the machine language.
 In the past, the sizes were enormous and could fill entire rooms, and the
speed was incredibly sluggish.
 Paper tape and punched cards served as the only input and output
mechanisms.
 The computers were built using over 100 different vacuum tubes.
 Examples include the UNIVAC1, ENIAC, IBM 701 and 650, among others.
Advantages of the FirstGeneration Computer
 When it came to calculation speed, these computers were quick. Millisecond
calculations might be used.
 These computers employed vacuum tubes, which were the electronic
components that were readily accessible at the time.
Disadvantages of the FirstGeneration Computer
 These computers weighed around 30 tonnes and were incredibly large,
taking up a lot of room.
 These expensive, vacuum tubebased computers were incredibly expensive.
 They were only able to hold a minimal quantity of information because of
the magnetic drums.

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  Vacuum tubes, which the earliest generation of computers used, require a
huge cooling system.
 They were less effective in their jobs and used a lot of energy.
 They had limited programming capability and used punch cards for input.
The Second Generation of Computers (the 1950s1960s)
 Transistors were the primary electronic component used in computers from
the 1950s through the 1960s.
 Magnetic tape or disc and magnetic core served as the primary memory
storage devices.
 The programming language utilised was assembly language.
 Compared to the first generation, the sizes were smaller, and they used to
use less electricity and produce less heat.
 The pace of things increased.
 Magnetic tape and punched cards served as the input and output
components.
 IBM 1401, IBM 7094 AND IBM 7090, UNIVAC 110 7, and other systems are
examples.
Advantages of the Second Generation of Computers
 Transistors, as opposed to vacuum tubes, were used to reduce the size of
the electron component. As a result, such computers were smaller in size
than those from the preceding generation.
 Due to the initial generation of computers, these computers used less
energy and did not generate as much heat.
 Punch cards and Assembly language were both employed as input methods
in these machines.
 It was more portable and affordable than the first generation.
 These computers were also speedier since they could compute data in
microseconds.
Disadvantages of the Second Generation of Computers
 It needed a cooling system and ongoing upkeep.
 Additionally, these computers were solely employed to do a certain task.

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The Third Generation of Computers (the 1960s1970s)
 Integrated circuits (ICs) were the primary electronic components used in
computers from the 1960s through the 1970s.
 The magnetic disc or take and a large magnetic core served as the memory
storage components.
 The programming language was a highlevel language like BASIC, COBOL, or
Pascal.
 Minicomputers were the name given to the more compact and effective
computers.
 Compared to the second generation of computers, there was an advance in
speed and dependability.
 Keyboards, a magnetic tape monitor, a printer, etc. were the input and
output equipment.
 IBM 370, IBM 360, UNIVAC 1108, and more examples come to mind.
Advantages of the Third Generation of Computers
 These computers were less expensive than those of the second generation.
 The integrated circuits utilised by the computers of this generation reduced
their size. Additionally, they were dependable and swifter.
 The adoption of an integrated circuit not only helped to make computers
smaller, but it also improved their performance when compared to
secondgeneration computers.
 Large storage capacities were introduced with the third generation of
computers.
 Instead of punch cards, keyboard and mouse were utilised in these
computers to input data.
 The calculating times on computers of this generation were substantially
faster, going from microseconds to nanoseconds.
 These computers also utilised operating systems, various programming
languages, and the timesharing idea for improved performance.
Disadvantages of the Third Generation of Computers
 These computers required air conditioning.

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  IC chips are difficult to maintain and require highly advanced technology to
manufacture.
The Fourth Generation of Computers (1970spresent)
 The fourth generation of computers’ primary electronic components are
microprocessors and extremely large scale integration (VLSI).
 VLSI is the term used to describe a single microchip that has thousands of
transistors attached to it.
 The introduction of semiconductor memory storage devices like RAM and
ROM.
 The contents of RAM (randomaccess memory), which is used to temporarily
store applications and data, are erased when the computer is turned off.
 The contents of ROM (readonly memory), which permanently saves the data
and applications, remain kept even after the computer has been turned
down.
 Programming languages include highlevel ones like C#, Java, Python, and
JavaScript.
 Both the sizes and the pace have decreased.
 The input/output devices include a keyboard, mouse, printer, and monitor.
Advantages of the Fourth Generation of Computers
 The first benefit of the current generation of computers is that they are
smaller and do computations more quickly than their predecessors.
 It requires little upkeep and produces very little heat.
 These computers allow for the usage of any highlevel language.
Disadvantages of the Fourth Generation of Computers
 The microprocessor is complex in both its construction and design.
 Air cooling is frequently required since integrated circuits are so common.
 Modern technology is necessary to create integrated circuits.
Lets discuss Latest generation of computers.
The Fifth Generation of Computers (present and the future)
 Artificial intelligence, which employs the parallel processing approach and
ultralarge scale integration, is the primary electrical component utilised in
the current generation of computers (ULSI).

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  The fifth generation of computers is capable of understanding spoken
language.
 Both the speeds and the sizes are really quick.
 The fifth generation of computers are mobile and provide a tonne of
storage.
 Keyboards, displays, touchscreen pens, printers, light scanners, and other
devices are examples of input/output devices.
 Tablets, cellphones, laptops, and desktop computers are among examples.
Advantages of the Fifth Generation of Computers
 It comes in different sizes and has distinctive characteristics.
 It is more dependable and capable of working considerably more quickly.
 It provides computers with multimedia functions and a friendlier user
interface (UI).
Disadvantages of the Fifth Generation of Computers
 Lowlevel languages are needed in these machines.
 They could damage human brains by rendering them boring and hopeless.
Answer:
b) List the hardware components of a computer. Explain at least five of
them in detail.

List of Hardware Components

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
2. Motherboard
3. Random Access Memory (RAM)
4. Hard Disk Drive (HDD) / Solid State Drive (SSD)
5. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
6. Power Supply Unit (PSU)
7. Input Devices (e.g., Keyboard, Mouse)
8. Output Devices (e.g., Monitor, Printer)
9. Network Interface Card (NIC)
10. Cooling System (e.g., Fans, Heat Sinks)

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5 most important components of your computer
Regular servicing and timely upgrades are necessary to maintain your PC in its
prime condition, so you can keep enjoying it without interruption. Electrical items
break down eventually after constant use, and this is also true for computer
hardware.
PCs can slow down for many different reasons, and most of the time, you
can solve it without touching delicate computer components. That said, for more
critical issues, an upgrade often is the best solution. These are the 5 major
components of a computer that you need to know about:
1. Motherboard
A complete computer components list always starts with the motherboard, the
primary circuit board that holds all the hardware in place. Every PC has one, from
dedicated workstations to personal notebooks. A robust motherboard offers many
slots for installing multiple computer components (e.g. RAM, graphics card, etc.).
Motherboards offer different form factors (general specs encompassing circuitry
arrangement, overall size, number of ports, etc.), and only specific motherboard
models can fit into certain computer cases/chassis, especially for customisable
desktops.
For laptops, specialised motherboards are used instead, with much of their builtin
hardware already soldered onto their respective circuits permanently. This is done
due to the laptop’s smaller frame and lighter build, with only certain parts like the
RAM and storage that can be upgraded.
When a motherboard is damaged, PCs cease to function fully. Noting the
complexity of the circuitry and wiring in place, a faulty motherboard can instantly
stop your computer from working and potentially harm other parts. While
motherboards are easily replaced for desktops, the same can’t be said for laptops,
forcing you to buy a brand new one.
2. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The central processing unit (CPU) commonly referred to as the processor is
the ‘brain’ of your computer. The CPU solves all the sophisticated algorithms and
programming your computer does while running programs or applications.

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Nowadays, almost all processors possess multiple CPUs to achieve quicker
processing speeds, ensuring faster response times when using software or
browsing the web. These special processors are called multicore processors,
with each CPU designated as 1 processing core.
For example, the highend Intel® Core™ i712850HX processor has 16 independent
cores that work together to handle computing tasks, allowing you to do
programintensive work without stressing your computer too much.
You can squeeze more power from your CPUs to get slight performance boosts
by overclocking them. However, this comes with risks that might damage your
processor, so keep that in mind. Remember, a PC cannot work properly with an
impaired processor, even if other components function normally.
3. Graphical Processing Unit (GPU)
When handling graphical operations and advanced imagery, the graphical
processing unit (GPU) is the computer hardware responsible for it. A GPU is
required for your computer to read and reproduce graphical representations and
effects, which are almost present in every form of media today.
Certain topspec CPUs can also have basic GPUs embedded in them, especially
premium laptops that focus on lightweight mobility and use. However, the finest
GPUs are primarily used for video gaming, capable of handling immense
3Dgraphics loads to maintain smooth frame rates and lagfree experiences.
When gaming, the CPU and GPU work in tandem. The GPU manages the heavy
lifting in terms of the onscreen graphics and fidelity, while the CPU runs the
programming that works behind the scenes, such as data and ingame statistics.

A brokendown GPU can lead to many problems, including the feared black screen
of death. The current crisis of GPU chips shortages causes another headache,
making losing your GPU a nightmare.
4. Random Access Memory (RAM)
Computers have different forms of memory that store information and data, and
the more prominently discussed is randomaccess memory (RAM). A RAM
device keeps important currentlyused data and codes on standby, loading them
instantly when respective programs or apps are opened.

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RAM is a volatile type of memory, meaning all stored memory is refreshed after
turning off the PC. This allows the device to quickly absorb new data immediately
during the next session, prompting quicker loading processes.
Almost all mainstream computers can be upgraded with more RAM by buying a
better RAM device or RAM stick that offers bigger storage capacity, including
mini laptops. Nevertheless, depending on your computing activities, you might
not use all RAM, so you need to understand how much RAM is ideal for your
PC according to its primary use (work, gaming, etc.).
Although a damaged RAM stick might not necessarily disrupt your computer from
working properly, it will hinder its performance over time, resulting in program
crashes, unexpected decrease in RAM, and failure to boot, among others.
5. Storage device
A storage device provides the memory for installing programs and saving files.
Unlike RAM, a storage device’s content is secured in nonvolatile memory,
meaning that data is saved permanently inside its memory bank, preserving them
even after you turn off the PC (unless manually deleted or uninstalled).
PCs use 2 common types of internal storage devices: hard disk drives
(HDDs) and solidstate drives (SDDs). HDDs are the cheaper option but suffer
from slower transfer speeds, while SDDs are their superior counterparts but are
more expensive. These devices are attached to your computer using
dedicated SATA cables, replaced by SAS cables for big servers and workstations.
Other secondary storage devices exist, such as USB flash drives and portable
HDDs. However, these peripherals are not installed inside computers. Instead,
they are connected to the PC via alternative channels like USB ports or external
disk drives, depending on the specs.
Even though storage devices do not impact your computer’s bootup process,
startup programs like Google Chrome or Microsoft Word are loaded directly from
your HDD or SDD. So a damaged storage device can interrupt the whole process,
potentially corrupting your files. If so, you will need to replace your hard
drive immediately, sometimes requiring a complete system reformat or Windows
reinstall, which is a hassle.

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Question .3
a) Discuss the purpose of speech recognition device?
b) Clarify the difference between OCR and OMR.

Answer:
a) Discuss the purpose of speech recognition device?
A speech recognition device, also known as automatic speech recognition (ASR) or
voice recognition, is designed to convert spoken language into text or
commands. Its purposes are manifold and span across various applications:

1. Accessibility:
Purpose: To assist individuals with disabilities, such as those with visual
impairments or mobility issues, by enabling handsfree control of devices
and applications.
Impact: Enhances independence and ease of use for those with physical
limitations, allowing them to interact with technology more effectively.

2. Convenience:
Purpose: To provide a faster and more convenient method of input compared to
typing, especially on mobile devices.
Impact: Streamlines tasks such as dictating messages, making phone calls, and
performing searches, thereby improving user experience and productivity.

3. Productivity:
Purpose: To increase efficiency in professional settings by enabling tasks like
transcription, notetaking, and document creation through voice commands.
Impact: Saves time for professionals such as doctors, lawyers, and journalists
who need to transcribe spoken words quickly and accurately.

4. Control and Automation:

Purpose: To enable voice control of smart devices and home automation
systems.

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 Impact: Allows users to control various aspects of their environment, such as
lighting, temperature, and entertainment systems, using voice commands,
thereby enhancing convenience and creating a more integrated smart home
experience.

5. Customer Service and Interaction:

Purpose: To facilitate customer service interactions through automated
systems, such as virtual assistants and interactive voice response (IVR)
systems.
Impact: Improves customer service efficiency and availability, providing
immediate assistance and handling routine inquiries without human
intervention.

6. Language Learning:
Purpose: To aid in language learning by providing feedback on pronunciation
and fluency.
Impact: Helps language learners improve their speaking skills through
interactive and responsive practice.

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Answer:
b) Clarify the difference between OCR and OMR.
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Optical Mark Recognition (OMR)
are both technologies used to automate the process of reading and
interpreting information, but they serve different purposes and operate
differently.

Optical Character Recognition (OCR)

Purpose: OCR is used to convert different types of documents, such as scanned

paper documents, PDF files, or images captured by a digital camera, into
editable and searchable data.
Functionality:
OCR technology analyzes the shapes and patterns of printed or handwritten
characters within a scanned document or image.
It recognizes individual letters, numbers, and punctuation marks, and converts
them into machinereadable text.
Applications:
Digitizing printed documents for electronic archiving.
Converting printed text into editable formats for text processing.
Automating data entry tasks by extracting text from forms and invoices.
Impact:
Enhances document management and retrieval.
Reduces manual data entry errors and increases efficiency.

Optical Mark Recognition (OMR)

Purpose: OMR is used to detect and record the presence or absence of marks on
a paper, usually in predetermined positions.
Functionality:
OMR technology scans a document to identify and interpret the presence of
marks (typically filled bubbles or checkboxes) in specific locations.

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 It determines the position and whether the mark meets a threshold of darkness
or completion to be considered valid.
Applications:
Scoring multiplechoice tests and surveys.
Processing ballots in elections.
Collecting data from forms where respondents mark their answers.
Impact:
Speeds up the processing of large volumes of forms.
Reduces human error in data collection.
Facilitates quick and accurate tallying of responses.

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Question .4
a) Differentiate between Dot Matrix Printer and Inkjet Printer. Explain it
with the help of suitable examples.
b) Explain the function of ATM machine.

Answer:
(a) Differentiate between Dot Matrix Printer and Inkjet Printer. Explain
it with the help of suitable examples.

Dot Matrix Printer:

1. Technology: Dot matrix printers use a print head that moves back and forth or
in an up and down motion on the page and prints by impact, striking an
inksoaked ribbon against the paper, much like a typewriter.
2. Print Quality: Generally lower print quality compared to modern printers. They
produce text and graphics using a series of dots.
3. Speed: Slower compared to most inkjet printers. The speed is measured in
characters per second (cps).
4. Cost: Typically lower cost of operation and maintenance. The ribbon cartridges
are cheaper than inkjet cartridges.
5. Durability: Very durable and can work in harsh environments. They are often
used in industrial and retail settings.
6. Noise: Noisier due to the impact printing mechanism.
7. Example: Epson LX350 Dot Matrix Printer, which is often used for printing
multipart forms, invoices, and shipping labels in industrial settings.

Inkjet Printer:
1. Technology: Inkjet printers spray tiny droplets of liquid ink onto paper.
The print head moves back and forth across the paper to create the desired
image or text.
2. Print Quality: Generally higher print quality with the ability to produce
detailed and vibrant color images and sharp text.
3. Speed: Typically faster than dot matrix printers. The speed is measured

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 in pages per minute (ppm).
4. Cost: Higher cost of operation due to the price of ink cartridges, but
initial purchase cost can be low.
5. Durability: Less durable in harsh environments compared to dot matrix
printers. Best suited for office and home environments.
6. Noise: Quieter operation compared to dot matrix printers.
7. Example: HP Envy 6055 Inkjet Printer, which is commonly used in homes
and offices for printing documents, photos, and graphics.

(b) Explain the function of ATM machine.

An Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is an electronic banking outlet that

allows customers to complete basic financial transactions without the need
for a branch representative or teller. Here’s how it functions:

1. Card Authentication:
The user inserts their ATM or debit card into the machine. The ATM reads
the magnetic stripe or chip on the card to authenticate the user.

2. PIN Entry:
The user is prompted to enter their Personal Identification Number (PIN).
This security measure ensures that only the authorized cardholder can
access the account.

3. Account Selection:
After entering the PIN, the user can select the type of account they wish to
access (e.g., checking or savings).

4. Transaction Selection:
The user is then presented with a menu of possible transactions, which typically
include:
Cash Withdrawal: Users can withdraw cash up to a certain limit set by their

17
 bank.
Account Balance Inquiry: Users can check the balance of their account.
Deposits: Some ATMs allow users to deposit cash or checks into their account.
Fund Transfers: Users can transfer funds between their accounts.
Bill Payments: Some ATMs offer bill payment services.

5. Processing the Transaction:

Once the user selects a transaction, the ATM communicates with the bank’s
central system to process the request. This involves verifying the user’s
account information and ensuring there are sufficient funds for the
transaction.

6. Dispensing Cash:
For cash withdrawals, the ATM counts and dispenses the requested amount of
cash. It then debits the user’s account by the same amount.

7. Receipt Printing:
After completing the transaction, the ATM offers to print a receipt. The receipt
provides details of the transaction, such as the amount withdrawn, the
account balance, and the time and date of the transaction.

8. Card Ejection:
Once the transaction is complete, the ATM ejects the user’s card, and the user
is prompted to take it back.

ATMs are convenient as they are available 24/7, allowing users to perform
essential banking tasks outside of normal banking hours. They are
strategically located in various places like bank branches, shopping centers,
and convenience stores, making access to banking services more
widespread.

Question .5 (20)

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 Write short notes on the following topic:
 Secondary Storage Devices
 Multimedia Projector
 Electronic Card Reader
 Speech Synthesizer

Secondary Storage Devices

Definition:
Secondary storage devices are nonvolatile hardware used to store data
permanently or semipermanently. Unlike primary storage (RAM), secondary
storage retains data even when the computer is turned off.

Types and Examples:

Hard Disk Drives (HDDs): Traditional magnetic storage devices that use spinning
disks to read/write data.
SolidState Drives (SSDs): Faster storage devices that use flash memory without
moving parts.
Optical Discs: Includes CDs, DVDs, and Bluray discs that store data using laser
technology.
USB Flash Drives: Portable storage devices that use flash memory.
External Hard Drives: HDDs or SSDs connected via USB or other ports, providing
additional storage capacity.

Characteristics:
Capacity: Typically higher than primary storage, ranging from gigabytes to
terabytes.
Durability: Generally robust but can be susceptible to physical damage (HDDs) or
wear over time (SSDs).
Speed: SSDs are faster than HDDs due to the lack of moving parts.

Multimedia Projector

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Definition:
A multimedia projector is an electronic device used to project images, videos, or
computer data onto a screen or flat surface, making it visible to a large audience.

Types:
LCD Projectors: Use liquid crystal display technology to project images.
DLP Projectors: Use digital light processing technology for projecting.
LED Projectors: Use lightemitting diodes as the light source.

Uses:
Education: Enhancing teaching by displaying educational content.
Business: Presenting slideshows, reports, and data during meetings.
Entertainment: Home theater systems for movies and video games.

Characteristics:
Brightness: Measured in lumens, higher lumens mean brighter projections
suitable for larger rooms.
Resolution: Clarity and detail of the image, ranging from standard definition to
high definition.
Portability: Varies from compact, portable models to larger, fixed installations.

Electronic Card Reader

Definition:
An electronic card reader is a device used to read data from electronic cards such
as credit/debit cards, ID cards, and smart cards.

Types:
Magnetic Stripe Readers: Read data from the magnetic stripe on the back of
cards.
Chip Card Readers: Read data from integrated circuit chips embedded in cards
(EMV cards).
Contactless Card Readers: Use radiofrequency identification (RFID) to read data

17
from cards without physical contact.

Uses:
Financial Transactions: Processing payments at pointofsale terminals.
Access Control: Granting entry to secured areas or systems.
Identification: Verifying identity in various settings like workplaces and
healthcare.

Characteristics:
Security: Features like encryption and PIN entry for secure transactions.
Compatibility: Ability to read multiple card types and standards.
Ease of Use: Userfriendly interfaces and quick reading times.

Speech Synthesizer
Definition:
A speech synthesizer is an electronic device or software application that converts
text into spoken voice output.

Types:
Formant Synthesis: Uses mathematical models to simulate the human vocal
tract.
Concatenative Synthesis: Combines prerecorded speech segments to generate
speech.
Text to Speech (TTS) Systems: Software applications that convert written text
into speech.

Uses:
Accessibility: Assisting visually impaired individuals by reading out text.
Communication Devices: For individuals with speech impairments.
Virtual Assistants: Providing voice responses in applications like Siri, Alexa, and
Google Assistant.

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Characteristics:
Naturalness: The quality and human likeness of the generated speech.
Intelligibility: How clearly and understandably the speech is produced.
Customization: Ability to adjust voice parameters such as pitch, speed, and
volume.

These notes provide a concise overview of each topic, highlighting their

definitions, types, uses, and key characteristics.

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