Unit I: Computer System (6 Hours)

● Introduction to computer technology

● Types of Computer Systems
● Computer System Concepts
● Memory: Primary Storage, Secondary Storage, Cache
● CPU (Central Processing Unit)
● Hardware: Input Devices, Output Devices
● Software and its Classification

Exam Preparation: Unit I - Computer System

1. Introduction to Computer Technology

● Definition: A computer is an electronic device that accepts input, processes data, stores
information, and produces output.
● Components:
○ Hardware: Physical components (CPU, memory, input/output devices).
○ Software: Programs and instructions that run on hardware.
● Functions:
○ Input: Accepting data from the user (via devices like a keyboard).
○ Processing: Manipulating the input using the CPU.
○ Storage: Saving data for immediate or future use.
○ Output: Producing meaningful results (via devices like monitors or printers).
● Applications:
○ Personal Use: Gaming, browsing, communication.
○ Industrial: Automation, monitoring systems.
○ Education: Online learning platforms.
○ Healthcare: Diagnostic tools and data management.

2. Types of Computer Systems

● Supercomputers:
○ Used for scientific research and complex simulations (e.g., weather forecasting, nuclear
research).
● Mainframe Computers:
○ Handle vast amounts of data, often used by banks and airlines.
● Minicomputers:
○ Medium-sized systems for specific departmental tasks (e.g., manufacturing processes).
● Microcomputers:
○ Includes desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones, used for personal or business
tasks.
● Embedded Systems:
○ Specialized computers within other devices (e.g., smartwatches, home appliances).

3. Computer System Concepts

● System: An integrated set of hardware, software, and processes.

● Architecture: Defines the structure and interaction between components.
 ○ Key components include the CPU, memory, and input/output devices.
● Functionality: Executing instructions, solving problems, and automating tasks.

4. Memory

● Primary Storage (Volatile):

○ RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for active data and instructions.
○ ROM (Read-Only Memory): Stores permanent instructions (e.g., boot processes).
● Secondary Storage (Non-volatile):
○ Includes HDDs, SSDs, USB drives for long-term storage.
● Cache Memory:
○ High-speed memory near the CPU for frequently accessed data. Improves processing
efficiency.

5. CPU (Central Processing Unit)

● Components:
○ Control Unit (CU): Manages and directs data flow.
○ Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs mathematical and logical operations.
○ Registers: Temporary storage locations for immediate use during processing.
● Functions:
○ Fetch: Retrieve instructions from memory.
○ Decode: Interpret instructions.
○ Execute: Perform the operation.
○ Store: Save results back to memory.

6. Hardware

● Input Devices:
○ Keyboard, mouse, microphone, scanner, joystick.
● Output Devices:
○ Monitor, printer, speakers, projector.
● Internal Components:
○ Motherboard, hard disk, GPU, power supply.

7. Software and its Classification

● System Software:
○ Includes operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS) and utility programs.
○ Responsible for hardware management and basic system functions.
● Application Software:
○ Specific tools for tasks (e.g., MS Office, Photoshop).
● Utility Software:
○ Maintenance tools like antivirus, disk defragmenters.
● Middleware:
○ Acts as a bridge between operating systems and applications.
Sample Exam Questions

Long-Answer Questions

1. Define a Computer System and Explain Its Key Components

● Definition:
A computer system is an integrated set of hardware and software components that processes
data to generate meaningful information. It consists of input devices, processing units, storage
units, and output devices working together.
● Key Components:
1. Hardware: Physical parts of the system.
■ Input Devices (e.g., Keyboard, Mouse).
■ Output Devices (e.g., Monitor, Printer).
■ Processing Unit (e.g., CPU).
■ Storage (Primary and Secondary).
2. Software: Intangible programs and operating systems that instruct hardware.
3. Memory:
■ Primary Memory: Temporary data storage (RAM).
■ Secondary Memory: Permanent data storage (HDD, SSD).
4. Data: Raw facts processed into information.
5. Users: People interacting with the system.

2. Differentiate Between Primary Storage and Secondary Storage

Aspec Primary Storage Secondary Storage

t

Volatil Volatile (data lost on power-off). Non-volatile (retains data on

ity power-off).

Speed Faster access speeds. Slower compared to primary

storage.

Purpo Stores data temporarily for Stores data permanently for future
se processing. use.

Exam RAM, Cache Memory. Hard Drives, SSDs, USB Drives.

pl
es
 Cost More expensive per GB. Cheaper per GB.

3. List and Explain the Types of Computer Systems

● Supercomputers:
○ High-performance systems used for scientific research (e.g., weather forecasting).
● Mainframe Computers:
○ Large systems for massive data processing (e.g., banking transactions).
● Minicomputers:
○ Medium-sized systems for departmental tasks (e.g., factory automation).
● Microcomputers:
○ Commonly known as PCs; used for personal and business tasks.
● Embedded Systems:
○ Built into devices like washing machines, cars, or smartphones for specific tasks.

4. What Are the Roles of Cache Memory in a Computer System?

● Definition: Cache memory is a small, high-speed storage close to the CPU.

● Roles:
1. Speed Enhancement: Stores frequently used data for quick access.
2. Efficiency: Reduces the time required for data retrieval from RAM.
3. Improved Performance: Minimizes CPU idle time by pre-fetching data.
4. Data Availability: Ensures critical instructions are always accessible.

5. Write the Key Functions of the CPU

● Definition: The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of the computer.
● Key Functions:
1. Fetch: Retrieves instructions from memory.
2. Decode: Interprets the instructions.
3. Execute: Performs calculations and operations.
4. Control: Manages data flow between system components.

6. Explain the Classification of Software with Examples

● System Software:
○ Manages hardware and system operations.
○ Examples: Operating Systems (Windows, Linux), Device Drivers.
● Application Software:
○ Designed for specific user tasks.
○ Examples: MS Office, Photoshop.
● Utility Software:
○ Maintenance tools like antivirus, disk cleanup.
○ Examples: Norton Antivirus, CCleaner.
● Middleware:
○ Connects different applications and systems.
 ○ Examples: Database Middleware, API Management Tools.

7. Discuss the Evolution and Applications of Computer Technology in Business

● Evolution:
1. First Generation: Vacuum tubes.
2. Second Generation: Transistors.
3. Third Generation: Integrated circuits.
4. Fourth Generation: Microprocessors.
5. Fifth Generation: Artificial Intelligence and quantum computing.
● Applications in Business:
1. Automation: Industrial robotics and process control.
2. Data Management: Enterprise databases for customer and transaction data.
3. Communication: Email, video conferencing.
4. E-commerce: Online shopping and payment systems.

8. Describe the Architecture and Functionality of a Computer System

● Architecture:
○ Von Neumann Architecture: Uses a single memory space for data and instructions.
○ Key Components: Input, Output, CPU, Memory.
● Functionality:
○ Executes programs and processes data using cycles: Fetch, Decode, Execute, and Store.

9. Differentiate Between Input and Output Devices with Examples

Aspect Input Devices Output Devices

Purpose Used to send data to the Used to display or present

computer. data.

Examples Keyboard, Mouse, Monitor, Printer, Speakers.

Scanner.

10. Discuss the Types of Telecommunications Networks Used in Modern Enterprises

● Local Area Network (LAN):

○ Connects devices in a small area (e.g., office).
● Wide Area Network (WAN):
○ Connects devices over large distances (e.g., the Internet).
● Metropolitan Area Network (MAN):
○ Covers a city or campus area.
● Virtual Private Network (VPN):
○ Provides secure remote access to internal networks.
● Wireless Networks:
○ Includes Wi-Fi and cellular networks for mobile connectivity.