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Computer Fundamentals Assignment SectionB

The document outlines the evolution of computers through five generations, detailing the technological advancements from vacuum tubes to artificial intelligence. It also explains different number systems used in computing, the hierarchy of programming languages from machine language to high-level languages, and the applications of MS Excel in budget management and data analysis. Additionally, it describes the types of computer networks (LAN, MAN, WAN) and the four main units of a digital computer.

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3 views3 pages

Computer Fundamentals Assignment SectionB

The document outlines the evolution of computers through five generations, detailing the technological advancements from vacuum tubes to artificial intelligence. It also explains different number systems used in computing, the hierarchy of programming languages from machine language to high-level languages, and the applications of MS Excel in budget management and data analysis. Additionally, it describes the types of computer networks (LAN, MAN, WAN) and the four main units of a digital computer.

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© © All Rights Reserved
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COMPUTER FUNDAMENTALS

ASSIGNMENT
Section-B (Answer any 5 questions in 150–200 words)

Q11.
The evolution of computers can be traced through five generations.
- First Generation (1940–1956): These used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums
for memory. They were huge, consumed a lot of power, and generated heat. Example:
ENIAC.
- Second Generation (1956–1963): Transistors replaced vacuum tubes. These machines
were smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient. Example: IBM 1401.
- Third Generation (1964–1971): Integrated Circuits (ICs) replaced transistors, enhancing
performance and reducing size. Example: IBM System/360.
- Fourth Generation (1971–Present): Introduction of microprocessors. Entire CPU was
placed on a single chip. Personal computers (PCs) emerged during this era. Example: Intel
4004.
- Fifth Generation (Present and Beyond): Focuses on Artificial Intelligence, machine
learning, and quantum computing. These computers aim to simulate human thinking.

Each generation marked a leap in technology, speed, size reduction, and user interaction,
transforming how people work, learn, and communicate.

Q12.
Computers use different number systems to perform operations and represent data. The
four main types are:
1. Binary (Base 2): Uses digits 0 and 1. It is the fundamental language of computers.
Example: 1010₂ = 10 in decimal.
2. Decimal (Base 10): Uses digits 0 to 9. It is the standard system for human arithmetic.
Example: 56.
3. Octal (Base 8): Uses digits 0 to 7. Often used in computing as a shorthand for binary.
Example: 17₈ = 15 in decimal.
4. Hexadecimal (Base 16): Uses digits 0–9 and A–F. It simplifies binary coding. Example:
1F₁₆ = 31 in decimal.

Understanding these number systems is essential for programming, networking, and


hardware design, as they form the basis of digital computing.
Q13.
Machine Language is the lowest-level language understood directly by computers. It
consists of binary code (0s and 1s), is hardware-dependent, and extremely difficult for
humans to write or understand.
Assembly Language is one step above machine language. It uses short mnemonic codes like
MOV, ADD, SUB, making it slightly more readable. However, it still requires a deep
understanding of the hardware and is translated using an assembler.
High-Level Languages such as Python, Java, and C++ are human-friendly. They use English-
like syntax and are easier to learn and debug. They are hardware-independent and require
compilers or interpreters for execution.

Comparison:
- Machine: 101010 (Hard to understand, fast execution)
- Assembly: MOV A,B (Moderate difficulty)
- High-Level: print() (Easy to understand, requires compilation)

High-level languages are widely used due to their simplicity and portability.

Q14.
1. Budget Management:
MS Excel is widely used for maintaining personal or household budgets. It allows users to
create detailed financial plans by listing income, expenses, and savings. Using formulas,
users can automatically calculate totals, remaining balances, and generate monthly or
yearly summaries.

2. Data Analysis:
In offices, Excel helps analyze large data sets using features like PivotTables, filters, and
conditional formatting. For example, a sales manager can track monthly sales across regions
and identify trends through charts and graphs.

Excel simplifies complex calculations, organizes large volumes of data, and helps visualize it
efficiently. Its flexibility makes it valuable for both individuals and professionals.

Q15.
Computer networks connect multiple computing devices for data sharing. The main types
are:
1. LAN (Local Area Network): Covers a limited area like a home, school, or office. It’s fast,
secure, and low-cost. Example: Computer lab in a college.
2. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Spans across a city or town. It is larger than LAN and
often used by companies or universities with multiple buildings.
3. WAN (Wide Area Network): Covers a large geographical area, such as a country or the
entire globe. The internet is the largest WAN. It uses routers and public networks to connect
systems worldwide.
These networks allow users to share data, hardware (like printers), and software, making
communication and collaboration more efficient.

Q16.
A digital computer is made up of four main units:
1. Input Unit: Devices like keyboard and mouse that allow users to enter data into the
system.
2. Memory Unit: Stores data and instructions temporarily (RAM) or permanently (ROM).
3. Central Processing Unit (CPU): Brain of the computer. Divided into:
- Control Unit (CU): Directs operations.
- Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs calculations and logical comparisons.
4. Output Unit: Devices like monitor and printer that display or produce the result.

These components work in coordination to receive, process, store, and deliver data and
outputs.

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