Sir Rana Arsalan
CHAPTER: 01
BASIC CONCEPTS OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
===========Short Answer Questions=========
Q1. Define Computer. Why computers are used?
A computer is a device which takes data as input, process the data and gives us the output in the
form of information.
OR
In general computer is defined as a device which is used for calculation.
OR
Any data processing device is called computer.
Explanation
The first use of the word "computer" was recorded in 1613, referring to a person who carried out
calculations, or computations, and the word continued with the same meaning until the middle of
the 20th century. From the end of the 19th century onwards, the word began to take on its more
familiar meaning, describing a machine that carries out computations.
Example
Q2. What is computer science and information technology?
Computer Science
Computer science is a branch of electronics in which we study about the architecture,
functions, programming and administration of a computer system.
Explanation
In computer science we discuss about the hardware and software architecture.
Computer functions and procedure are also discussed in computer science.
A computer student may study to become hardware engineer or software programmer.
Computer science is the study of computer namely, their design (architecture) and their uses for
computations, data processing, and systems control. Computer science includes engineering
activities such as the design of computers means hardware and software that make up the computer
system.
Information Technology (IT)
The information technology is the mergence of two technologies that is computer science
and communication technology.
Explanation
When a computer is used for the communication it is called Information Technology (IT).
The Information Technology provides comprehensive solutions for any business or technical
organization. Information Technology provides various features like internet and other
communication networks.
Q3. What type of device a computer is? And how it is used?
Definition
The term computer is derived from the word “compute” which means to calculate.
So a computer is normally considered to be a calculating device that can perform
arithmetic operation at enormous speed.
Computer is a device that accepts input as data, process according to prescribed
steps of instructions and provides the output of the processed information or data called result.
Computer is a machine, which receives information, process it and present it in an arranged
manner.
Computer is a device which is capable of accepting data, applying described process to
data and supplying results of their processes.
Computer is known as an electronic computational device having internal storage,
having a stored program of instructions and capability for modification of the set
of instruction at any time.
Computer is a machine that accepts data, processes it and gives output.
Computer is an atomic electronic calculating device or machine that can perform logical
and arithmetical operations.
Computer is a fast and accurate electronic symbol manipulating system that is designed to
automatically accept and store input data, process it and produce result (output) under the
direction of a stored procedure.
Computer is an electronic device which converts data/information into meaning
full results or information.
Q4. What are the types of computer according to mechanism?
The computer systems have been divided into three main categories regarding their
internal mechanism. Now we explain all the types one by one.
Analog Computers
Analog computers are the calculating or measuring devices which have physical mechanism
for data processing.
Examples
Digital Computers
A digital computer is defined as an electronic device which is used for data processing.
The data is processed digitally.
Examples
A hybrid computer is defined as a computer which has both the characteristics of a digital and
analog computers. It contains physical mechanism but process digitally.
Examples
ECG Monitor
Q5. Define and explain computer system in short
Computer System
A system is a group of integrated parts that have the common purpose of achieving some objective(s).
So, the following three characteristics are key to a system.
1. A system has more than one element.
2. All the elements of a system are logically related.
3. All the elements of a system are controlled in such a way that the system goal is achieved.
Since a computer is made up of integrated components (input and output devices, storage,
CPU) that work together to perform the steps called for in the program being executed, it is a system.
The input or output units cannot function until they receive signals from the CPU.
The CPU alone is of no use. So the usefulness of each unit depends on other units and can
be realized only when all units are put together (Integrated) to form a system.
Q6. Draw a block diagram of a computer system.
Q7. What is Data Processing cycle? Show its steps with the help of diagram.
The data processing cycle is the set of operations used to transform data into useful
information, processing raw data to the usable form. The processing of data can be done by number of
data processing methods.
Stages of data processing:
Input – The raw data after collection needs to be fed in the cycle for processing.
This is considered the first step and called input.
Processing – Once the input is provided the raw data is processed by a suitable
or selected processing method. This is the most important step as it provides the
processed data in the form of output which will be used further.
Output – This is the outcome and the raw data provided in the first stage is now
“processed” and the data is useful and provides information and no longer called data.
8. How do you define Input, Output and process?
Input
The procedure of providing data and entering commands to the computer system is called Input.
Output
The procedure of getting information from the computer system is called Output.
Process
The work done by the computer system on the data is called Process. In the processing
the data is converted into information.
Q9. Define input device and describe its types.
Input Devices
In order to process data computer must have the ability to receive this data.
The element of a computer system which enters the data into the computer is known as Input Device.
The input devices translate given information into a form which computer can understand.
The following are the kinds of input devices.
Keyboard Devices
Non keyboard Devices
Q10. What are non-keyboard or direct input devices? Mention names of all types.
Direct entry means that data is not entered into the computer through a keyboard. Some common
direct-entry devices are used to input data into computer are as follows.
1. Scanning Devices
Bar-code reader
Mark and character reader
Image scanner
Fax machine
2. Voice-input devices
Mic
3. "Pointing" Devices.
Mouse,
Trackball,
Joystick,
Touch screen,
Light pen,
Digitizer,
Pen-based computer
Q11. Explain voice input devices.
The device which enables computer system to get input for the sound is called voice input device.
Explanation
This input device is the latest innovation, which helps us, input data by actually talking to computer. This system requires a microphone, which
takes the analog signals from voice and sends them to an analog to digital converter. This converter changes analog signal into digital signals, which are in the form of zeros and ones and called voice patterns.
Example
Microphone, mic
Q12. Define output device. Write a short note on soft copy and hardcopy output.
Output devices convert machine-readable information into people-readable form. Output
takes two forms:
Softcopy output
Hardcopy output
Softcopy
Softcopy means the output is in a form that cannot be physically touched, Softcopy output is best for information that needs to be viewed only occasionally or a few moments. The principal softcopy output devices are monitors and voice output devices.
Hardcopy
Hardcopy means the output is in a form that can be physically touched. The principal hardcopy output devices are printers, plotters, and microfilm output devices.
Q13. What is computer output microfilm/microfiche (COM) system?
(COM) is computer output produced as very small images on rolls or sheets of film. When the output is on rolls (usually 35 mm), it is microfilm. When the output is on sheets (4x6 inches), it is microfiche.
The principal advantages of this technology are:
1. Speed: COM systems can easily handle output at a rate in excess of 30,000 lines per minute. This is about 50 percent faster than most large laser printers.
2. Size: The output is condensed in size (compared to hardcopy output) by a factor ranging from 20 to 100
3. Cost: The cost per page of printed material is less than that of regular hardcopy output methods.
Q14. Explain softcopy output hardware.
Softcopy output devices are of two principal types.
Monitor
Sound output devices
1. Monitor
This is the most commonly used form of output device when a permanent record is not required. A monitor is a television-like device used to display text and graphics from a computer. The monitor is
also referred as screen, video display terminal (VDT) console, and cathode-ray tube (CRT).
There are two main types of monitors:
Cathode-Ray Tube (CRT) monitor
Flat panel monitor
2. Sound Output Devices
Sound output devices produce music, special-effects, noises, or other sounds.
Q15. Define display unit and its major types shortly.
The display unit is the device which gives copy viewable output.
Explanation
Display unit is also referred as video display terminal (VDT) or monitor. It displays text and graphics and videos on the screen.
Types:
Cathode ray tube monitor
Monochrome Monitors
Color Monitors
Flat panel display
LCD (Liquid crystal display)
ELD (Electroluminescent display)
GPD (Gas plasma display)
Q16. Define impact and non-impact printers.
Impact Printers
These Noisy printers print images physically striking an inked ribbon against papers with a hammer-like mechanism. In this sense, impact printers resemble typewriter.
Impact printer can be grouped as
Non-Impact Printers
This Kind of printer does not generate the kind of hammering noise that an impact printer does. Non-impact printer produces high quality images which impact dot-matrix printer cannot.
Following are some common types of non-impact printer.
Thermal Printer, Ink-Jet Printer, Laser Printer
Q17. What is the difference between hardcopy and softcopy?
Q18. What are peripheral devices?
A peripheral device is an internal or external device that connects directly to a computer but does not contribute to the computer's primary function, such as computing. It helps end users access and use the functionalities of a computer.
A peripheral device provides input/output (I/O) functions for a computer and serves as an auxiliary computer device without computing-intensive functionality. Peripheral devices include the following:
Mouse
Keyboard
Printer
Webcam
Printer
Scanner
External drives
Graphics cards
CD-ROM
Q19. Define CRT, Pixel, Resolution.
Pixel:
A pixel is the smallest unit of a digital image or graphic that can be displayed and represented on a digital display device. Pixels are combined to form a complete image, video, text or any visible thing on a computer display. A pixel is also known as a picture element.
Resolution:
In computers, resolution is the number of pixels (individual points of color) contained on a display monitor, expressed in terms of the number of pixels on the horizontal axis and the number on the vertical axis. The sharpness of the image on a display depends on the resolution and the size of the monitor.
CRT:
A CRT monitor, or Cathode Ray Tube, is a glass vacuum tube screen containing a charged cathode, which projects three electron guns: one each for red, green, and blue phosphor dots. When electricity is applied to them, these electron guns shoot rays onto a fluorescent screen, creating images. These images can either be oscilloscope waveforms, pictures, like those on televisions or monitors, or radar targets. CRTs were the old ‘Tube’ television sets, which have all but disappeared since the early 2000’s.
Q20. Write the differences between Impact Printer and Non- Impact printer.
Q21. Define system unit. What are the components in a system unit?
The machine of the computer system which holds all the processing and some storage devices is called system unit. The system unit contains the major components of the computer system which describes its configuration and defines the category of the computer system whether it is 386, 486, PI, PII, PIII, any other. The following are the components present in a system unit.
Motherboard
C.P.U socket (Central processing Unit)
(Random Access Memory)
BIOS chip (Basic Input Output Unit)
PCI slots (Peripheral Components Interface)
IO ports (Input Output)
IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics)
Buses. Etc.
Power supply
CD ROM
HDD
Q22. Describe the purpose of motherboard?
Definition
A mother board consists of flat circuit board in which all the devices are connected.
Explanation
Mother board is also called system board or main board of computer system. Mother board is a complex circuit board. All the input and output devices, storage and processing devices, IO cards and memory units are directly or indirectly connected to the mother board.
Q23. Define expansion cards and slots.
Expansion Cards and Slots
Expansion slots are sockets on the motherboard into which expansion card may be plugged. The slot connects the expansion card with the power supply and the buses for moving data and instruction.
Q24. What's a Chip?
A chip is also called an integrated circuit. Generally, it is a small, thin piece of silicon onto which the transistors making up the microprocessor have been etched. A chip might be as large as an inch on a side and can contain tens of millions of transistors. Simpler processors might consist of a few thousand transistors etched onto a chip just a few millimeters square.
Q25. What is the purpose of the power supply unit?
The power supply unit is a device inside the system unit which converts Analog current into Digital current for the use of machine.
Explanation
All the devices inside the system unit need digital current to run. The current which is provided inside the homes and offices is analog current so it needs to be converted into digital current. Power supply provides current to various components of system unit according to requirements that may be 5-12 volts.
Q26. What is central processing Unit?
A central processing unit (CPU), also called a central processor, main processor or just processor, is the electronic circuitry that executes instructions comprising a computer program. The CPU performs basic arithmetic, logic, controlling, and input/output (I/O) operations specified by the instructions in the program.
Explanation
The computer's central processing unit (CPU) is the portion of a computer that retrieves and executes instructions. The CPU is essentially the brain of a Computer aided Design (CAD) system. It consists of an arithmetic and logic unit (ALU), a control unit, and various registers. The CPU is often simply referred to as the processor. The ALU performs arithmetic operations, logic operations, and related operations, according to the program instructions.
Q27. What is meant by MIPS?
MIPS stands for "millions of instructions per second" and is a rough measure of the performance of a CPU. Modern CPUs can do so many different things that MIPS ratings lose a lot of their meaning, but you can get a general sense of the relative power of the CPUs from this column.
In general, there is a relationship between clock speed and MIPS. The maximum clock speed is a function of the manufacturing process and delays within the chip. There is also a relationship between the number of transistors and MIPS. For example, the 8088 clocked at 5 MHz but only executed at 0.33 MIPS (about one instruction per 15 clock cycles). Modern processors can often execute at a rate of two instructions per clock cycle. That improvement is directly related to the number of transistors on the chip and will make more sense in the next section.
Q28. What is the basic unit of storage/ what are the other higher units of storage?
The Electronic computer is a digital device which is based on the binary digits 0 and 1. 0 and 1 are represented by low and high voltages of current. All the calculations are performed using binary digits. The storage is also in the form of 0 and 1.
Basic unit of storage: (bit)
A bit is the basic unit of storage which is represented by 0 or 1. 0 and 1 means low and high voltages of current.
Higher units of storage
fdsadfTo measure the large amount of data the higher units of a bit are used. The higher units are used according to requirement for memory and storage media the following are the higher units of storage.
4 bits = 1 Nibble
8 bits =1 Byte
1024 Bytes=1 Kilo Byte
1024 Kilo bytes=1 Mega Byte
1024 Mega bytes=1 Giga Byte
1024 Giga bytes=1 Tera Byte
Unit conversion
Data can be represented in higher and lower units according to requirement to convert a lower unit value into higher unit value process of division is applied. To convert the higher unit into lower unit process of multiplication is applied.
For Example;
256 MB =? Bytes
256*1024*1024= 26843546 Bytes
16 Bytes=? Giga Byte
16/1024*1024*1024 = 1.49*10
Q29. What do you understand by Read Only Memory?
Read only Memory is a chip which contains permanently stored data. The contents inside the ROM cannot be changed by the users.
Explanation
The Read Only Memory is also called firmware means written program inside a chip. ROM is normally built in the mother board. A ROM chip with the name of BIOS (Basic Input Output System) is available on the mother board.
Function of BIOS
On Every Start-up of computer system, the BIOS detects all the input, output, processing, storage and other devices connected to computer. If there is any problem the BIOS informs about it using display or beeps.
Major types of ROM
The following are the main principle type of ROM.
PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory).
EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory).
EEPROM (Electronically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory)
Q30. What do you mean by Random Access Memory? Describe.
Random Access Memory is the primary storage. It holds data temporarily. It means that it is a volatile memory. The data can reside in this memory until the current is provided to it.
Explanation
RAM consists of silicon chips in the form of the small circuit board attached on the mother board. The circuit board is called SIMM, DIMM or DDR plugged into the RAM socket. The data and instruction currently being processed are carried by RAM.
Types of RAM Chips
The following are the main RAM chip types:
1. DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory)
2. SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory)
3. SRAM (Static Random Access Memory)
4. DDR-SDRAM (Double Data Rate- Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory)
The above types are different from each other regarding their size, type and bus speed.
Q31. Define backup. Name the various backup storages devices?
Backup
Backup refers to making a copy of data or software to be used in case of failure.
Explanation
In all business and technical organizations, the data is life blood, data is the most expensive thing for the organization. Data is normally stored on the hard drives for different users, but there is a need of making a copy of data, so that it can be used in case of any technical or natural disaster. The process is called backing up data.
Backup devices:
A device which is used to make backup for the current data is called backup storage device. The following are the backup devices used today:
Magnetic storage device
Hard disks
Optical storage devices
CD-ROM
Blu-ray disks
DVD-ROM
Flash storage devices
Solid State drive
Memory card
USB flash drive
Cloud Storage
OneDrive
Google Drive
iCloud
Q32. Explain the construction and functions of floppy disks.
A floppy disk, also called a disk or diskette, is a removable storage disk used for storing data. The data on a floppy disk is recorded as magnetic spots. Magnetic spots are known as TRACKS. These tracks are formed as concentric circle on the surface of disk. Tracks are further divided into
some sectors for better accessing of data. The disk is made of a special plastic (Mylar) coated with ferrous oxide.
Types of Floppy Disk and their Parts
The following Table shows the number of tracks and sectors on floppy disks of standard sizes and capacities used today.
Q33. Write a note on CD-ROM disc and drive.
CD-ROM Disc and CD-ROM Drive
CD-ROM, which stands for compact disk-read-only memory, is an optical-disk format that is used to hold prerecorded text, graphics, sound and videos. Data on disk is imprinted by the disk manufacturer and cannot be altered or erased by the user. Read-only means that data can be retrieved but not altered or erased by the user. This type of optical disk is used to store huge volume of data that rarely change.
Q34. What do you know about virtual memory?
Virtual memory, or virtual storage, is a condition in which part of a program is stored on disk and is brought into memory only as needed. This feature, which requires special software, uses the disk as an extension of RAM. The virtual-memory program puts as many pieces of the program into RAM as possible. It runs them while putting the remaining pieces on disk, which are retrieved as appropriate.
For example, a microcomputer that has only 2 MB of RAM can run a 4 MB program (or even up to 1 GB) by using virtual memory.
Q35. Why is ROM called non-volatile memory?
Read Only Memory (ROM) is a type of storage medium that permanently stores data on personal computers and other electronic devices. It contains the programming needed to start a PC, which is essential for boot up; it performs major input/output tasks and holds programs or software instruction. It is Read only; it can’t be changed. It is permanent and non-volatile; it holds its memory even when power is removed.
Q36. What will happen if RAM is not available in a computer system?
The computer system cannot boot completely without the RAM. When you turn the computer on, the first program which will run is BIOS which is stored in EPROM memory. When BIOS runs, it will check for the hardware including the system RAM and try to load the Operating system from the hard disks to the RAM, so it will find no RAM to load the OS, it will stop the process. The sound of continuous beep will ring to show there is no RAM in the system or it is not connected in the slot properly.
Q37. Why is Cache Memory used in Computer System?
The purpose of cache memory is to store program instructions and data that are used repeatedly in the operation of programs or information that the CPU is likely to need next. The computer processor can access this information quickly from the cache rather than having to get it from computer's main memory (RAM). Fast access to these instructions increases the overall speed of the program.
Q38. How is cache memory different from RAM (primary memory)?
Both RAM and cache are volatile memory which are used to store data. The cache memory is used to store program instructions and data that are used repeatedly in the operation of programs or information that the CPU is likely to need next. The computer processor can access this information quickly from the cache rather than having to get it from computer's main memory (RAM). RAM is a form of computer memory used to temporarily store all the information your computer is actively using for faster access.
Q39. Define software. What are the two main categories of software?
Software
Set of information stored as interconnected programs to perform a specific task is called Software. OR The instruction set that tell the computer what to do is called software. OR Set of instruction that perform particular task is called software. The following are the two major types.
System Software
System Software is a set of programs which is designed by the manufacture of computer. These programs are developed for efficient management of hardware. They improve the functional capabilities of the computer and assist the user to solve their problems easily. Operating systems, antivirus, disk managers etc. are the examples of system software.
Application Software
Application Software is a collection of programs which are written by the users themselves to solve their problem. These programs are written in computer language such as FORTRAN, Basic, C Language and Pascal. MS-Word, MS-Power Point are the examples of application software.
Q40. Define operating system. What are the famous Operating Systems used now a day?
An Operating system is a master control program of a computer system which manages the overall performance of the computer system. A number of operating systems have been introduced by world famous software companies.
Example
The following are the operating systems which are being used worldwide.
Q41. Define operating Systems. What are the key functions of an operating system?
Operating System
An operating system consists of master programs that manage the basic computer operations and resources.
Explanation
An operating system is system software. It contains a number of programs to manage system resources. A user cannot communicate to the microprocessor of computer system until an operating system is not installed. Windows XP, DOS, Linux, Unix are the examples of famous operating systems used today.
Operating System Functions
An Operating system performs a number of functions. The major functions of an operating system are as follows:
Booting the Computer System
Managing Storage Media
Providing User Interface
Managing Files
Managing Computer Resources
Q42. Write a short note on Microsoft Disk Operating System.
DOS (Disk Operating System) is a command line operating system of the famous software company Microsoft.
Explanation
DOS has been a prominent and dominating operating system during 1980s and early 1990s. It is a single user, single tasking operating system used for microcomputers. IBM’s disk operating system is called PC-DOS.
MS-DOS Commands
DOS has a number of commands which are executed by typing at command prompt. The following are some basic commands.
MS-DOS was introduced by Microsoft and PC-DOS was introduced by IBM. MS-DOS is still being used for the administration of Local Area Networks.
Q43. Write a short note on Microsoft Windows Operating System.
MS-Windows is a GUI based multi-tasking operating system launched by Microsoft.
Explanation
Windows operating system was developed by Microsoft Corporation in 1985. It has a graphical user interface. In 1990 Microsoft introduced windows 3.0 as an improved version of previous windows. In 1995 Microsoft introduced Windows 95 with more features and enhanced capabilities.
Advanced Versions of Windows
Microsoft has evolved windows with more advancement with the passage of time.
Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10
Windows NT (Client and Server)
Windows 2000 (Client and Server)
Windows 2003 (Client and Server)
Windows 2008 Advanced Server
Q44. Write a short note on UNIX Operating System.
UNIX operating system was first developed by Bell laboratories, USA in 1969.
Explanation
UNIX was developed for the mini and microcomputers. UNIX has a number of impressive features. It is a complete multi-tasking, multi-user, time sharing operating system written in mostly in C-language. It is also considered a better operating system for main frame computers.
Q45. Define user interface. How many types of operating systems are there regarding user interface?
An operating system user interface provides environment for the user to communicate with the computer system.
Types of User Interfaces
There are two major types of user interfaces provided by different operating systems.
Command Line Interface
A command line interface is a text based user interface. User has to type the commands on command prompt. In this interface user has to memorize commands. DOS is an example of command line operating system.
Graphical User Interface
Graphical user interface provides a window like and menu like environment as user interface. Unlike the command line interface there is no need to type command. Commands can be given by selecting different options from the GUI environment. Commands can be given not only using keyboard but also using pointing devices. Windows is an example of GUI environment.
Q46. What do you know about boot up process?
Definition
The term booting refers to loading of operating system from secondary storage to main memory. Boating is done through a program called bootstrap loader. Boot-up process is performed on every startup of computer system.
Explanation
In computing, booting (also known as booting up) is a bootstrapping process that starts operating systems when the user turns on a computer system. A boot sequence is the initial set of operations that the computer performs when power is switched on. The boot loader typically loads the main operating system for the computer.
A successful boot is dependent on 3 conditions - the hardware, BIOS and operating system files to function without errors. When an error occurs, you will be notified by error messages, beeping sounds or in the worst scenario, a blank screen. The boot up process is a list of detailed procedures that the system undergoes to perform all system checks and load all necessary files to bring the computer to an operable state. The Windows XP boot up process comprises of the following procedures.
Q47. Define computer language. Why computer languages are used? Give example.
A computer language is a programming tool to develop programs. A computer language provides instructions for coding program modules. Integrated programs develop an application or system software.
Explanation
In order to facilitate the user, the computer programmer needs to develop software. For this purpose, it necessary to have some programming tool. So the computer language is used to develop software.
Example
C, C++, Java, C#, VB are some examples of famous computer languages.
Q48. Name the different generations of programming languages.
Programming languages have been classified into several programming language generations. Historically, this classification was used to indicate increasing power of programming styles. Later writers have somewhat redefined the meanings as distinctions previously seen as important became less significant to current practice.
Q49. Define Language Translators. How many types of language translators are there?
Language Translators
A program which translates the source code into machine language is called language translator.
Example
C-Language Compiler
Visual Basic Interpreter
Types of Language Translators
There are mainly three types of language translators. These are as follows:
Assembler
An assembler is a language translator which translates assembly language into machine language.
Compiler
A compiler is a language translator which translates all the program instructions at once and gives output.
Example
C-Language Compiler
CPP Compiler
Interpreter
An interpreter is a language translator which translates the programs instructions line by line.
Example
Visual Basic Interpreter
Java Interpreter
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