ASSIGNMENT I

COMPUTER FUNDAMENTAL &

APPLI CATI ON

BCA 1 S T SEMESTER

DUE DATE: REPORT TO:

2025 Jan 12 Anil Thapaliya (Asst. Lecturer)

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STUDENT NAME ROLL NO. SECTION

Nawa Prabhat Silwal 34 A

 Assignment Questions and Answers
1.Define Computer. Write down brief history of the computer.
=>A Computer is an electronic device that processes data and performs tasks
according to a set of instructions or programs. It can store, recover, and
operate data.It is an essential for fields like education, business, entertainment,
and research.The Brief History of Computers are described as given format;
1. Pre-Mechanical Era (Before 1600s)
Early calculating devices like the Abacus were invented for basic arithmetic
operations.
2. Mechanical Era (1600s - 1800s)
1642: Blaise Pascal developed the Pascaline, a first mechanical calculator.
1822: Charles Babbage designed the Difference Engine, followed by the
Analytical Engine (considered as the first computer).
1843:Lady Augusta Ada Lovelace, working with Charles Babbage, became the
first computer programmer.
3. Electromechanical Era (1900 - 1940s)
1936: Alan Turing introduced the concept of the Turing Machine, a theoretical
framework for modern computing.
1941: Konrad Zuse created the Z3, the first programmable electromechanical
computer.

2. What are the generations of computer? Explain in brief.

=>Computers have evolved in many generations with its working mechanisms,
speed, accuracy and portability.
1. First Generation (1940 - 1956)
Technology: Vacuum Tube.
Features:
Processing Speed is MiliSecond.
Large in size and consumed a lot of power.
Used Machine level language (binary).
Slow processing and produced excessive heat.
Punch card for Input/Output.
Examples: ENIAC, UNIVAC.
Applications: Military and scientific calculations.

2. Second Generation (1956- 1963)

Technology: Transistors.
Features:
Processing Speed is MicroSecond.
Smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient than the first generation.
Used Assembly level language
Improved reliability.
Punch card for Input/Output.
Examples: IBM 1401, IBM 7090.
Applications: Business data processing and scientific research.

3. Third Generation (1960 - 1972)

Technology: Integrated Circuits (ICs).
Features:
Processing Speed is NanoSecond.
Smaller, faster, and more reliable.
Keyboards and Monitors for Input/Output.
Used 3GL language.
Supported multitasking and operating systems.
Examples: IBM-360, PDP-8.
Applications: General-purpose computing in businesses and industries.

4. Fourth Generation (1972 - 1980)

Technology: Microprocessors.
Features:
Processing Speed is PicoSecond.
Portable and affordable, with increased processing power.
Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) and advanced operating systems.
Used 4GL language.
Examples: IBM PC, Apple Macintosh.
Applications: Personal, business, and educational use.

5. Fifth Generation (Present Ongoing)

Technology: Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Features:
Processing Speed is more than FemtoSecond.
Focus on AI, natural language processing, and machine learning.
Used Voice Recognition,Gesture Control as I/O devices.
Advanced robotics and IoT (Internet of Things).
Examples: Google DeepMind, IBM Watson.
Applications: Expert systems, voice recognition, automation, and complex
problem-solving.

In Conclusion, Each generation makes sure that the computers are more
powerful, efficient, accessible and secure as per the needs & requirements of
the user.
3. You are working in an organization of size about 50
people.What type of computer would you suggest to use ? Give
enough reasons.
=>For an organization with 50 people,I think Desktop Computers may be the
best choice because of the given various reasons;
1. Affordable: It is cheaper than bulk and old computers with less speed and
accuracy.
2. Reliable: It is durable and suitable both at the same time.It can be used for
longer as well as future purposes.
3. Powerful: It can handles office work like emails, documents, and data
processing easily.
4. Upgradable:It’s Components like RAM and storage can be upgraded as per
the need of the user himself.
5. Secure: There is less chances to be stolen and works well with office
servers.
To Conclude,Desktops are cost-effective, reliable, and perfect for managing
daily office tasks efficiently.

4. What are the different organizational unit of the computer?

Describe input and output unit.
=>A computer system is typically divided into the following units;
1. Input Unit
2. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
o Control Unit (CU)
o Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
o Register
3. Output Unit
4. Memory Unit
Processor
Register
CU
ALU

Input Unit
Output Unit
Primary Memory
Secondary Memory
Index
Data Flow Command/Signal Flow

1. Input Unit:
 It is responsible for giving data and instructions from the user and
converting them into the computer understandable form.
 Function:
o It accepts data from input devices.
o It converts data into machine-understandable form.
o It sends the converted data to the memory unit for processing.
 Examples of Input Devices: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone,
Webcam.
2. Output Unit:
 It is responsible for showing the processed data from the computer to the
user screen in a human-understanding form.
 Function:
o It receives data from the Memory Unit.
o It converts the machine-code into a human-understandable form.
o It is responsible to show result to the user.
 Examples of Output Devices: Monitor, Printer, Speaker, Projector.
Both the Input and Output Units are responsible for smooth communication
and interaction between user and the computer system.

5.What is Processing Unit of a Computer ?Explain different

components of Processing Unit.
=> The Processing Unit(CPU), is the brain of the computer. It performs all the
instructions, calculations, and logical operations required to execute tasks. It
brings data from memory,process it, and provides meaningful results.
Components of the Processing Unit
The CPU mainly consists of three key components:
1. Control Unit (CU)
2. Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)
3. Memory Unit (Registers)
1. Control Unit (CU)
 Function: The CU acts as the supervisor of the CPU. It directs and
controls the operations of the computer system.
 Key Responsibilities:
o It receive data from memory.
o It decodes informattion to understand what actions are needed.
 o It control the data between CPU, memory, and input/output
devices.
o It controls the overall operations.
Example: If user asks the CPU to add two numbers, the CU receive the
instruction, decodes it, and signals the ALU to perform the addition.
2. Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)
 Function:ALU is responsible for performing all arithmetic calculations
and logical operations.
 Key Responsibilities:
o Arithmetic Operations: Addition, subtraction, multiplication,
division.
o Logical Operations: Comparisons (e.g., greater than, less than,
equal to).
Example: If the task is to add two numbers (e.g., 5 + 3), the ALU performs the
calculation and returns the result (8).
3.Registers
 Function: Registers are small, high-speed storage locations directly
accessible by the CPU. It holds data, instructions, and addresses
temporarily during processing.
Example: During a calculation,results may be stored temporarily in the
accumulator.

6.What is RAM ? What are the types of RAM?

=> RAM (Random Access Memory) is a volatile memory.It temporarily
stores data and instructions used by the CPU. It allows quick access to data,
improving computer's performance.
 Features
 Volatile Memory: Data is lost when the computer is powered off.
 Role: It acts as a bridge between the CPU and storage devices (e.g.,
HDD/SSD).
 Speed: It is much faster than secondary storage.
 Capacity: It typically ranges from 4GB to 64GB or more in modern
computers.

Types of RAM
RAM can be categorized into two main types:
1. SRAM (Static RAM)
2. DRAM (Dynamic RAM)
1. SRAM (Static RAM)
 Full Form: Static Random Access Memory
 Speed: Faster than DRAM.
  Power Consumption: Low power consumption.
 Cost: Expensive.
 Volatility: Loses data when power is turned off.

Example: Cache Memory in processors.

2. DRAM (Dynamic RAM)

 Full Form: Dynamic Random Access Memory
 Speed: Slower than SRAM.
 Power Consumption: Higher power consumption.
 Cost: Cheaper than SRAM.
 Volatility: Loses data when power is turned off.
Example: RAM sticks in laptops and desktops.

Comparison Table: SRAM vs DRAM

Basis SRAM DRAM

Speed Faster Slower

Cost Expensive Affordable

Power Usage Low High

Storage Mechanism Flip-Flops Capacitors

Use Case Cache Memory System Memory

7. What is Rom ? What are its types?

=> ROM (Read-Only Memory) is a non-volatile memory used in computers
to stores permanent data and instructions that are essential for the computer
system.
Types of ROM:
1. PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory)
 Full Form: Programmable Read-Only Memory
 Description: It can be programmed once after manufacturing using a
special device called a PROM programmer.
 Volatility: Non-volatile.
  Use Case: It is used in devices where permanent data needs to be written
after manufacturing.
Example: Microcontrollers in embedded systems.
2. EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory)
 Full Form: Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory
 Description: It can be erased and reprogrammed using ultraviolet
(UV) light.
 Volatility:It is Non-volatile until erased with UV light.
 Use Case: It is used in systems that require firmware updates
occasionally.
Example: Older firmware chips in computers.

3. EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory)

 Full Form: Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory
 Description: It can be erased and reprogrammed electrically without
removing it from the device.
 Volatility: Non-volatile.
 Use Case: It is used in BIOS chips, memory cards, and smart cards.
Example: Flash memory in USB drives.
Comparison Table: Types of ROM
Method of
Type Programmable? Erasable? Use Case
Erasure

Permanent
PROM Yes (Once) No Not erasable
firmware

Firmware in older
EPROM Yes Yes UV Light
devices

Electrical BIOS,Memory
EEPROM Yes Yes
Signals Cards

Flash Electrical
Yes Yes USB drives,SSDs
Memory Signals
8.Differences Between Analog and Digital Computer.
=>The differences Between Analog and Digital Computers are given below;
Basis Analog Computer Digital Computer

It works with continuous

It works with discrete
Data Type data (like temperature,
data(0,1)
speed).

It is Very accurate due

Accuracy It is Less accurate
to binary calculations.

It is also Fast for

It is Fast for real-world
Speed calculations and general
simulations.
tasks.

It is Special Purpose It is General Purpose

Use
Computer. Computer.

It can perform many

Flexibility It is imited to specific tasks.
tasks.

Computers,
Examples Thermometer, speedometer.
smartphones.

Signal It Processes analog signals It Processes digital

Type (continuous). signals (binary).

In short, analog computers are great for handling real-world physical

measurements, where digital computers are better for accurate calculations,
and multitasking.
9. What are the types of Software? Differentiate between
Application and System Software.
=> Software can be broadly classified into the following types:
1. System Software:
o It helps to manage and controls hardware components.
o It provides a platform for other software to run.
o Example: Operating Systems (Windows, Linux), Device Drivers.
2. Application Software:
o It is designed to perform a specific tasks for users.
o Examples: Microsoft Word, Photoshop, VLC Media Player.
3. Utility Software:
o It mainly helps in managing, analyzing, and maintaining computer for
better performancce.
o Examples: Antivirus, Disk Cleanup .
4. Middleware:
o It acts as a bridge between application and system software.
o Example: Database Middleware, API Management Tools.
5. Programming Software:
o It provides tools for writing, debugging, and maintaining code.
o Examples: IDEs (Visual Studio, Eclipse), Compilers.
Difference Between Application Software and System Software

Basis Application Software System Software

It is designed to perform It manages and controls

Purpose
specific tasks. hardware and system operations.

It depends on system It uns independently to manage

Dependency
software to run. hardware.

User It directly interacts with It doesn’t directly interacts with

Interaction users. users.

MS Word, VLC Media

Examples Windows, Linux, macOS.
Player, Photoshop.
 Basis Application Software System Software

It can be installed by the It is Pre-installed or installed

Installation
user based on needs. during OS setup.

It solves user-specific It ensures efficient functionality

Functionality problems (e.g., editing of the computer(e.g., memory
documents, playing media). management, hardware control).

It is written in low-level
It is written in high-level
Language programming languages (e.g.,
programming languages.
Assembly, C).

In summary:

 System Software ensures that hardware and software is working

together efficiently.
 Application Software helps users perform specific tasks efficiently.

10. What is Utility Software? Explain it's significances.

=>Utility software is a type of system software that helps to manage, optimize,
maintain, and protect computer system. It focuses on enhancing the performance,
efficiency, and security of the system while ensuring smooth operations.
Examples;Virus Scanning, Disk Cleanup, File Management, and System
Backups.
Significance of Utility Software
1. System Maintenance:
o It helps to keep the system clean and free from unnecessary files.
o Examples: Disk Cleanup, Disk Defragmenter.
2. System Performance Optimization:
o It enhances speed and efficiency by managing resources
effectively.
o Examples: RAM Boosters, Performance Monitoring Tools.
3. Data Backup and Recovery:
o It ensures important data is backed up and helps recover lost files.
o Examples: Backup Software, File Recovery Tools.
4. Security and Protection:
o It protects system from viruses.
 o Examples: Antivirus Software, Firewalls.

5. File Management:
o It organizes, and encrypts files for better storage and security.
o Examples: WinRAR, File Explorer.
6. Storage Management:
o It helps to improves storage efficiency.
o Examples: Disk Defragmenter, Partition Manager.
7. Monitoring System Health:
o It monitors CPU, memory usage, and overall system health.
o Examples: Task Manager, Resource Monitor.
8. User Convenience:
o It simplifies complex tasks with user-friendly tools and interfaces.
o Examples: System Update Utilities, Driver Updaters.
Conclusion:
Utility software plays an important role in ensuring system reliability,
performance, and security. It is a supportive tool for both system software and
users, making computers more efficient, secure, and easier to maintain

11. What is firmware? Why it is important?

=>Firmware is a special type of software permanently installed on a
hardware device. It acts like the brain of the hardware, telling it how to work
and communicate with other systems. Firmware is stored in non-volatile
memory (like ROM or flash memory) so it doesn’t get erased when the device
is turned off.
Examples:
 BIOS in computers (starts the computer when you power it on).
 Firmware in smartphones, printers, and routers.
 Embedded software in washing machines and TV remotes.
Firmware is important because of the given reasons;
1. Controls Hardware: It gives instructions to hardware on how to
operate.
2. Starts Devices: Helps hardware start and run properly (e.g., BIOS in a
computer).
3. Improves Performance: Regular firmware updates can fix bugs and
enhance performance.
4. Adds Features: Updates can introduce new features without changing
hardware.
5. Ensures Security: Protects devices from unauthorized access.
Firmware is like the pre-installed guidebook for hardware. It makes sure your
devices (like your phone, computer, or washing machine) know what to do and
how to do it efficiently. Without firmware, hardware would just be a bunch of
lifeless parts!

12.What is Software? Describe logical system architecture.

=> Software is a set of instructions, data, or programs used to operate computers

and execute specific tasks. It is the non-tangible component of a computer system
and is categorized into three main types:

1. System Software: Manages hardware and system resources (e.g., operating

systems like Windows, Linux).
2. Application Software: Designed for end-users to perform specific tasks
(e.g., word processors, games).

The logical system architecture, which is defined by the relations that exist
between the interactions and services provided by the various components of a
system, independently of the hardware that performs these functions. For
instance, one can construct a module combining various services and interfaces
without the need to detail the hardware requirements.Let us go through the
main characteristics of logical system architecture in detail:
1. User Interface (UI):
- The top visual level of the system where the audience needs to interact with
it.
- For instance: websites, mobile device applications and computers typical
GUIs.
2. Application Layer:
- This layer contains the business rules and business logic that make up the
application core.
- The layer which receives the user actions for example requests, intercepts
them and forwards to the UI and data layers.
3. Data Access Layer:
- The layer that connects the application with a certain database.
- Enforces protocols for secure and efficient exchange of data across practices.
4. Database Layer:
- This houses the components required for storage and its recovery.
- Includes integrated databases and data warehouses or any other methods of
data storage.
The logical architecture play a great importance in the systems design process
as well as in planning of the system that enables the elements to work in with.

Hardware
(Physical devices)

System Software

Application Layer

Users

13. What is impact printer?Explain its types and working

mechanisms.What are the differences between Printer and
Plotter.
=> An impact printer is a type of printer that produces text and images on
paper by physically striking an inked ribbon against the paper. This
mechanical process is similar to the functioning of a typewriter. Impact
printers are typically used in environments where durability and reliability are
essential, such as printing invoices, receipts, or multi-part forms.
Types of Impact Printers
1. Dot Matrix Printer
o Working Mechanism:
 It mainly consists of a print head with a series of tiny pins.
  The pins strike an ink ribbon to create dots on the paper.
 It can form characters or images by arranging the dots.
o Advantages: It can print carbon copies, durable in harsh
environments.
o Disadvantages: Noisy, low resolution.
2. Daisy Wheel Printer
o Working Mechanism:
 It uses a wheel with pre-formed characters (like a daisy
flower).
 The wheel rotates to the desired character and strikes the
ribbon against the paper.
o Advantages: Produces sharp, letter-quality text.
o Disadvantages: Slow, limited to text only.
3. Line Printer
o Working Mechanism:
 It prints an entire line at a time rather than one character at a
time.
 It uses mechanisms like a drum or a chain to quickly strike
the ribbon.
o Advantages: Very fast, suitable for bulk printing.
o Disadvantages: Limited formatting options, noisy.
4. Drum Printer
o Working Mechanism:
 It has a rotating drum with pre-formed characters.
 Hammers strike the drum as it rotates, transferring ink to the
paper.
o Advantages: High-speed printing.
o Disadvantages: Fixed font style, less flexible.

Difference Between Printer and Plotter

Aspect Printer Plotter

It prints text and images on It produces vector graphics like

Purpose
paper. blueprints or architectural designs.

Output Pixel-based (Raster

Line-based (Vector graphics).
Type graphics).
 It uses ink to print on It uses pens, cutters, or lasers to
Technology
paper. draw on paper or materials.

It is less precise for large- It is high precise for technical

Precision
scale drawings. drawings and large-scale images.

It is slower due to detailed

Speed It is generally faster.
drawing processes.

Inkjet Printer, Laser Printer, Flatbed Plotter, Drum Plotter,

Examples
Dot Matrix Printer. Cutting Plotter.

Office work, photo printing, Engineering, architecture, and

Use Cases
general-purpose printing. design industries.

Sources:
Book
Presentation
ChatGpt
Google