1. What is Computer? Explain its characteristics.

Ans: A Computer is an electronic device or machine that can perform arithmetic operations like
addition, subtraction etc. as well as logical operations like comparisons at very high speed. A
computer is also called a data processor because it can store, process and retrieve data whenever
desired. Modern computers have the ability to follow generalized sets of operations, called
programs. These programs enable computers to perform an extremely wide range of tasks.

CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTERS

 Automatic: Computers are automatic, once started they carry out their jobs automatically
without human intervention.
 Speed: Computers processing speed is very fast. Most of the modern computers can process
billions of instructions in one second. Multi core processor architecture has further enhanced
the processing speed of the computers.
 Accuracy: Computer performs every calculation with the same accuracy. Computer can give
wrong outputs only when the inputs supplied to it are wrong.
 Diligence: Computer is free from monotony, tiredness and lack of concentration. It can keep
continuously working for years.
 Versatility: Computer can perform variety of tasks such as word processing, web browsing,
gaming, database management etc.
 Memory: Computer can store huge amount of data in its memory and can recall any piece of
information whenever required.

2. What do you mean by Computer Language? Explain Compiler and Interpreter.

Ans: A computer language is essentially a set of rules and instructions that humans use to
communicate with computers. It's like learning a new language for communicating with machines.

Compiler: The compiler is a translator that takes input i.e., High-Level Language, and produces an
output of low-level language i.e. machine or assembly language. The work of a Compiler is to
transform the codes written in the programming language into machine code (format of 0s and 1s)
so that computers can understand.

Interpreter: An interpreter is a program that translates a programming language into a

comprehensible language. The interpreter converts high-level language to an intermediate language.
It contains pre-compiled code, source code, etc. It translates only one statement of the program at a
time. It works line by line on a code. It also converts high-level language to machine language.

3. Explain the block diagram of Computer in detail. Also explain types of Computers.
Ans: Input: All the data received by the computer goes through the input unit. The input unit
comprises different devices like a mouse, keyboard, scanner, etc. In other words, each of these
devices acts as a mediator between the users and the computer. The data that is to be processed is
put through the input unit. The computer accepts the raw data in binary form, processes it and
produces the desired output.

CPU – Central Processing Unit: CPU is the brain of the computer. It controls all the tasks. It conducts
all the arithmetical and logical operations in the computer. Now the CPU comprises of two units,
namely – ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) and CU (Control Unit). Both of these units work in sync. The
CPU processes the data as a whole.

ALU – Arithmetic Logic Unit: Data is inserted through the input unit into the primary memory.
Performs the basic arithmetical operations like addition, subtraction and performs all sorts of
calculations required on the data. Then, it sends back data to the storage. The unit is also responsible
for performing logical operations like AND, OR, Equal to, less than, etc. In addition to this, it conducts
merging, sorting, and selection of the given data.

CU – Control Unit: The control unit is the controller of all the activities, tasks and operations inside
the computer. The memory unit sends a set of instructions to the control unit. Then the control unit
in turn converts those instructions. After that these instructions are converted to control signals.
These control signals help in prioritizing and scheduling activities. Thus, the control unit coordinates
the tasks inside the computer in sync with the input and output units.

Memory Unit: All the data that has to be processed or has been processed is stored in the memory
unit. The memory unit acts as a hub of all the data. It transmits it to the required part of the
computer whenever necessary. The memory unit works in sync with the CPU. This helps in faster
accessing and processing of the data. Thus, making tasks easier and quicker.

Output: All the information sent to the computer once processed is received by the user through the
output unit. Devices like printers, monitors, projectors, etc. all come under the output unit. The
output unit displays the data either in the form of a soft copy (Monitor) or a hard copy (Printer). The
output unit accepts the data in binary form from the computer. It then converts it into a readable
form for the user.

4. State the difference between

a. LCD and Plasma

 LCD: LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display. It is a display which is non-emissive device and it
uses light source for the display; the light source is blacklight and convert it to graphical
image. LCD for the display uses two major components which are Polarized light and Liquid
Crystal Material.
 They are in less weight as compared to the plasma display.
 They are costly.
 It consumes less power.
 Screen surface is more reflective.
  Plasma: Plasma panel is a type of display which consists of two parallel glass plates which are
separated by a thin gap. The gap between the glass plates is filled with gases which include
neon. It is also known as gas discharge display, because of the gases which are filled in
between the parallel plates of the plasma panel.
 They are heavy in weight.
 They are cheaper.
 It consumes more power.
 Screen surface is less reflective.

b. Scanner and Plotter

 Scanner: A scanner is a device that converts physical documents, images, or objects into a
digital format that can be stored, edited, and viewed on a computer. Scanners work by using
a scanning head to capture an image as light or electrical charges. The most common type of
scanner is a flatbed scanner.

 Plotter: A plotter is a device that prints high-quality, large-scale graphics and drawings on
paper or other media. Plotters work by using a pen or other drawing tool to create lines,
curves, and shapes on paper. Plotters can be freestanding devices with their own CPU or
they can be added as a peripheral to another computer system.

5. State difference between Primary and Secondary Memory.

 Ans: Primary Memory: It is also known as the main memory of the computer system. It is
used to store data and programs or instructions during computer operations. It uses
semiconductor technology and hence is commonly called semiconductor memory.
 It is temporary.
 It is faster than secondary memory because it is directly accessible to the CPU.
 It is directly accessible by Processor/CPU.
 It is volatile, which means it is wiped out when the computer is turned off.
 Example: RAM and ROM.

 Secondary Memory: It is also known as auxiliary memory and backup memory. It is a non-
volatile memory and used to store a large amount of data or information.
 It is permanent.
 It is non-volatile, which means it retains data even when the power is off.
 It is not directly accessible by the CPU.
 It is non-volatile, data can be retained in case of a power failure.
 Example: CD-ROM, Pen drive, Hard disk, etc.
6. State difference between Input and Output Devices.

Ans:

Input Device Output Device

It accepts data from user. It reflects processed data to user.

It is directly commanded by user. It is commanded by processor.

It converts user friendly instruction into machine It converts machine’s instructions to user
friendly. intelligible.

It takes the data from the user and sends it to the It takes the processed data from the
processor for execution. processor and sends it back to the user.

It helps the computer is accepting the data. It helps the computer is displaying the data.

The design of output devices is less

The design of input devices is more complex.
complex.

Ex: Keyboard, Image Scanner, Microphone, Ex: Monitor, Printers, Plotters, Projector,
Pointing device, Graphics tablet, Joystick. Speakers.

7. Define Operating System and also discuss the services provided by the Operating System.

Ans: An operating system is a software that acts as an intermediary between the user and computer
hardware. It is a program with the help of which we are able to run various applications. It is the one
program that is running all the time. Every computer must have an operating system to smoothly
execute other programs. It is a set of special programs that run on a computer system that allows it
to work properly. It controls input-output devices, execution of programs, managing files, etc.

SERVICES PROVIDED BY OS

 Program Execution: The OS manages how a program is going to be executed. It loads the
program into the memory after which it is executed. The order in which they are executed
depends on the CPU Scheduling Algorithms. When the program is in execution, the OS also
handles deadlock i.e. no two processes come for execution at the same time.
 Input Output Operation: OS manages the input-output operations and establishes
communication between the user and device drivers. Device drivers are software that is
associated with hardware that is being managed by the OS so that the sync between the
 devices works properly. It also provides access to input-output devices to a program when
needed.
 Communication between processes: The OS manages the communication between
processes which includes data transfer among them. If the processes are not on the same
computer but connected through a computer network, then also their communication is
managed by the OS itself.
 User Interface: User interface is essential and all operating systems provide it. Users either
interacts with the operating system through the command-line interface or graphical user
interface (GUI). The command interpreter executes the next user-specified command. A GUI
offers the user a mouse-based window and menu system as an interface.
 Networking: This service enables communication between devices on a network, such as
connecting to the internet, sending and receiving data packets, and managing network
connections.

8. Explain various types of Operating System.

 Ans: Batch Operating System: This type of OS does not interact with the computer directly.
There is an operator which takes similar jobs having the same requirements and groups them
into batches. It is the responsibility of the operator to sort jobs with similar needs. Batch
Operating System is designed to manage and execute a large number of jobs efficiently by
processing them in groups.
 Multi-Programming System: Multi-programming Operating Systems can be simply illustrated
as more than one program is present in the main memory and any one of them can be kept
in execution. This is basically used for better utilization of resources.
 Multi-Processing System: It is a type of Operating System in which more than one CPU is
used for the execution of resources. It betters the throughput of the System.
 Multi-Tasking Operating System: This is simply a multiprogramming Operating System with
having facility of a Round-Robin Scheduling Algorithm. It can run multiple programs
simultaneously. There are two types of Multi-Tasking Systems which are listed below.
Pre-emptive Multi-Tasking and Cooperative Multi-Tasking.
 Time Sharing OS: Each task is given some time to execute so that all the tasks work
smoothly. Each user gets the time of the CPU as they use a single system. These systems are
also known as Multitasking Systems. The task can be from a single user or different users
also. The time that each task gets to execute is called quantum. After this time interval is
over OS switches over to the next task.
 Distributed OS: Various autonomous interconnected computers communicate with each
other using a shared communication network. Independent systems possess their own
memory unit and CPU. These are referred to as loosely coupled systems or distributed
systems. These systems’ processors differ in size and function. The major benefit is that it is
always possible that one user can access the files or software which are not actually present
on his system but some other system connected within this network i.e., remote access is
enabled within the devices connected in that network.
 Network OS: These systems run on a server and provide the capability to manage data,
users, groups, security, applications, and other networking functions. These types of
operating systems allow shared access to files, printers, security, applications, and other
networking functions over a small private network. These computers are popularly known
as tightly coupled systems.
  Real-Time OS: These types of OSs serve real-time systems. The time interval required to
process and respond to inputs is very small. This time interval is called response time. Real
time systems are used when there are time requirements that are very strict like missile
systems, air traffic control systems, robots, etc.

9. Write features and usage of MS-EXCEL? Explain various types of Charts in MS_EXCEL

Ans: Microsoft Excel is a software application designed for creating tables to input and organize data.
It provides a user-friendly way to analyse and work with data. It enables users to format, organize
and calculate data in a spreadsheet. By organizing data, data analysts and other users can make
information easier to view as data is added or changed.

FEATURES OF-MS EXCEL

 Data storage: There is no limit to the amount of data that can be saved in a spreadsheet.
 Data analysis: Excel has tools for sorting, filtering, and analyzing data.
 Formulas and functions: Excel has built-in formulas for calculating sums, differences,
averages, and more.
 Charts and graphs: Excel can create charts and graphs to visualize data.
 Collaboration and data protection: Excel has options for collaboration and data protection.
 Compatibility: Excel is compatible with various platforms.
 Password security: You can password secure Excel spreadsheets.
TYPES OF CHARTS IN MS-EXCEL
 Line Chart: Line charts are most helpful in representing the trends. This can be very useful to
analyse the ups and downs in a range of data over a particular time span. The data points in
the chart are connected with the lines.
 Bar Chart: Bar charts are used to represent the categorical data using the rectangular
horizontal bars with their height and length proportional to the data values it is used to
represent.
 Column Chart: Column charts are used to represent the data in a vertical chart using the
vertical bars. These graphs are mostly used for comparing the data points in the data.
 Area Chart: Area charts are used to display graphically quantitative data. It is similar to the
line chart and based on it. The area between the lines is filled with colour, and they are easy
to analyse as they are similar to the line chart showing ups and downs in the data.
 Pie Chart: Pie charts are circular statistical graphs that are divided into slices of pie in the
proportion to data values to represent the data. They are commonly used to analyse the
percentage allocation of data points incomplete dataset.
 Surface Chart: Surface charts are 3-dimensional charts that are used to represent the data in
a 3-dimensional landscape. They are mainly used to represent the large dataset. They
display a variety of data at the same time.

10. Explain the three types of addressing modes available in MS-Excel.

 Ans: Relative Cell Addressing Mode: Relative reference is the default cell reference in Excel.
It is simply the combination of column name and row number without any dollar ($) sign.
When you copy the formula from one cell to another the relative cell address changes
depending on the relative position of column and row. Examples-C1, D2, E4, etc.
  Absolute Cell Addressing Mode: An absolute reference is the cell reference in which the row
and column are made constant by adding the dollar ($) sign before the column name and
row number. The absolute reference does not change as you copy the formula from one cell
to another. You can also press the F4 key to make any cell reference constant. Examples-
$A$1, $B$3, etc.
 Mixed Cell Addressing Mode: Mixed Reference is a type of Absolute reference in which
either the column is made constant or the row is made constant. When we make any column
or row constant then the column name or row number does not change as we copy the
formula to other cell(s). The mixed reference is designated by a dollar sign ($) in front of the
row or column. For example:
$F1- column F is constant.
F$1- row 1 is constant.

11. What is Assembly Language? Explain its advantages and disadvantages over Machine Level
Language.

Ans: Assembly language is a low-level programming language that represents machine code in a
human-readable format. It uses mnemonics and symbols to make it easier for humans to read and
write. It is more than low level and less than high-level language so it is intermediary language.
Assembly languages use numbers, symbols, and abbreviations instead of 0s and 1s. Example- For
addition, subtraction it uses symbols likes Add, Sub.

ADVANTAGES

 Understands hardware: Assembly language helps programmers understand the hardware

they're working with and how it operates.
 Critical jobs: Assembly language is used for critical jobs.
 No memory tracking: It's not necessary to keep track of memory locations.
DISADVANTAGES

 Machine-dependent: Assembly language is machine-dependent.

 Time-consuming: It takes a lot of time and effort to write assembly language code.

 Memory: Long programs require more memory to run in assembly language.

 Portability: Assembly language is not portable

12. Discuss the Data and Information with an example.

Ans: Data is a collection of raw, unorganised facts and details like text, observations, figures, symbols
and descriptions of things etc. In other words, data does not carry any specific purpose and has no
significance by itself. Moreover, data is measured in terms of bits and bytes – which are basic units of
information in the context of computer storage and processing.

Information is processed, organised and structured data. It provides context for data and enables
decision making. It can be used instrumentally, like when a decision-maker uses financial data to
inform a budget decision. It can also be affective, like when a person uses information gathered
during a conversation with a friend to feel more motivated.
Example- A Single customer’s sale at a restaurant is data – this becomes information when the
business is able to identify the most popular or least popular dish.

13. Explain Generation of Computers in details.

 Ans: First Generation (1940s-1950s): The first computers used vacuum tubes for
processing and magnetic drums for storage. They were large, expensive, and
unreliable. Example- ENIAC, UNIVAC, IBM-701, EDVAC, etc.

 Second Generation (1950s-1960s): The second generation of computers replaced

vacuum tubes with transistors, making them smaller, faster, and more reliable.
Magnetic core memory was also introduced, which was faster and more reliable
than magnetic drums. Example- Honeywell 400, IBM 7094, CDC 1604, etc.

 Third Generation (1960s-1970s): The third generation of computers used integrated

circuits, which allowed for even smaller and faster computers. They also introduced
magnetic disk storage and operating systems. Example- PDP-8, PDP-11, IBM-360, etc.

 Fourth Generation (1970s-1980s): The fourth generation of computers saw the

introduction of microprocessors, which made personal computers possible. They
also introduced graphical user interfaces and networking. Example: DEC-10, PUP-11,
STAR-1000, etc.

 Fifth Generation (1980s-Present): The fifth generation of computers is still ongoing,

and is focused on artificial intelligence and parallel processing. This generation also
saw the development of mobile computing and the internet. Example: Desktop,
Notebook, Laptop, etc.

14. Explain Mail Merge Process in Ms-Word.

Ans: Mail merge is a tool that allows you to create personalized documents for multiple recipients by
combining a data source with a template. The data source can be a spreadsheet, list, or database,
and the template can be a letter, document, or email.

STEPS TO USE MAIL MERGE

1. Click on Mailings Tab.

2. Click on Start Mail Merge.

3. Click on Step-by-step Mail Merge Wizard.

4. For Document style, select the style you are making like letter, envelope, etc. Click Next.

5. For Selecting Document, click on use current document. Click Next.

6. For selecting Recipient, click on Type a new List. Click on Create. A dialogue box will appear.
7. Fill the details accordingly for a single person and for new person, click on new entry.

8. When all details of every person are filled, click OK.

9. Save the address list, Click OK.

10. click on address block to edit something, click on greeting line to add a greeting.

After completing and reviewing everything, Click OK.

11. Preview the mail merge by clicking on the arrow keys. After Completing, Click NEXT.

12. You can print all the letters separately in one time or edit individual letter and print it.