Chapter: 5 (Computer Hardware and Software)

 

Write very short answers to the following questions:

a.     Is register an input device?

Ans: No register is not input device.

b.     Which memory is volatile RAM or ROM?

Ans: RAM is a volatile memory.

c.      Which is a portable storage device these days?

Ans: Pendrive is a portable storage device these days.

d.     Do you think that the computer is useless without an operating system?

Ans: Yes computer is useless without an operating system because without an operating system we cannot operate our computer.

e.     Write one example of an assembler.

Ans: Pseudo Assembly is an example of an assembler.

f.       Which type of software is designed to meet the specific requirements of an individual or organization?

Ans: Application software is designed to meet the specific requirements of an individual or organization.

g.     Where is open source software available for users?

Ans: An open-source software is available on the internet and can be easily downloaded it.

Write short answers to the following questions:

a.     Define computer hardware with some examples.

Ans: The physical or tangible parts which make the computer system is known as computer hardware. example: Keyboard, mouse, monitor, system unit, RAM, etc.

b.     Differentiate between soft copy output and hard copy output.

Softcopy output	Hardcopy output
·        The output produced on the display screen and audio sound is known as softcopy output.	·        The output printed on the paper is called hardcopy output.
·        This kind of output is not touchable.	·        This kind of output is touchable.
·        This kind of output is temporary.	·        This kind of output is permanent.

c.      What is CPU? Write its major parts.

Ans: CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the main processing device in the computer which performs all operations of data according to the program's instructions and gives results. It is also known as the electronic brain of the computer. Its major parts are: Control unit, Arithmetic Logic Unit, and Registers.

d.     What is primary memory? Lists its major types.

Ans: Primary memory, or main memory, is the computer's memory directly accessible by the CPU for storing data and instructions needed during tasks. It is fast and volatile, meaning it loses its data when power is off.

 

Major Types of Primary Memory:

Ø RAM (Random Access Memory):

·        DRAM (Dynamic RAM): Needs frequent refreshing, used as main memory.

·        SRAM (Static RAM): Faster, more expensive, used for cache memory.

Ø ROM (Read-Only Memory):

·         PROM (Programmable ROM): Programmable once.

·         EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM): Erasable with UV light and reprogrammable.

·         EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM): Erasable and reprogrammable electrically.

e.     Write the importance of software in computer?

Ans: Software enables hardware functionality, allowing users to perform specific tasks and interact with the computer. It includes system software that manages resources and application software that enhances productivity and entertainment.

f.       What is language processor? Write its type.

Ans: The types of system software which is used to translate the programming language codes into machine code. The types of  language processor are:

·        Assembler: Translates assembly language code into machine code.

·        Interpreter: Executes instructions line-by-line, translating them into machine code at runtime.

·        Compiler: Converts entire source code into machine code before execution.

g.      Difference between Interpreter and Compiler.

Interpreter	Compiler
·        Translates and executes code line-by-line at runtime.	·        Translates entire source code into machine code before execution.
·        Slower execution since translation happens during execution.	·        Faster execution since code is pre-translated.
·        Easier to debug, as errors are caught at runtime.	·        Requires the whole program to be error-free before execution.

h.      Write features of open source of software.

Ans: The features of open source of software are:

·        The software can be freely distributed to anyone.

·        The source code is accessible, allowing users to modify and improve the software.

·        Users can modify the software and distribute their modified versions.

·        Open source projects often involve collaboration from a global community, leading to continuous improvement and innovation.

Long Question

a)      Explain the different types of hardware devices that make computer system.

Ans: The different types of hardware devices that make computer system are:

Input Hardware:

·        Input hardware devices are used to enter data and commands into the computer.

·        Examples include keyboards, mice, touchpads, scanners, microphones, and webcams.

·        These devices convert physical input (such as keystrokes or mouse movements) into digital data that the computer can process.

Processing Hardware:

 

·        Processing hardware refers to components that perform calculations, process data, and execute instructions.

·        The central processing unit (CPU) is the primary processing hardware in a computer, responsible for executing program instructions.

·        Other processing hardware includes graphics processing units (GPUs), arithmetic logic units (ALUs), and control units.

Output Hardware:

·        Output hardware devices are used to display or present information processed by the computer.

·        Examples include monitors, printers, speakers, projectors, and headphones.

·        These devices convert digital data into human-readable or perceivable formats (such as text, images, or sound) for users to interact with.

Memory Hardware:

·        Memory hardware, also known as storage devices, is used to store data and program instructions temporarily or permanently.

·        Random access memory (RAM) is a type of volatile memory that stores data temporarily while the computer is running.

·        Storage devices like hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), USB drives, and optical discs are used for long-term data storage.

These hardware components work together to enable the functioning of a computer system by processing input, storing data, executing programs, and producing output for users.

b)     What is software? Discuss the type of software with example.

Ans: A collection of data, programs, and instructions that tell a computer how to perform specific tasks. It is an essential part of a computer system, as it enables the hardware to operate and perform useful work.

There are two main types of software: System Software and Application Software.

Ø  System Software

The software which manages and controls the hardware components and allows interaction between hardware and user applications called system software. Examples include:

·       Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux

·       Device Drivers: Software for printers, graphics cards

·       Utility Programs: Antivirus software, disk cleanup tools

·       Language Processors: Compilers, Interpreters and Assemblers

Ø  Application software

Application software consists of programs designed to perform specific tasks for users. These programs run on top of system software and provide functionality directly to end-users. Examples include:

·       Customized Software: An ERP system designed specifically for a manufacturing company to manage its production processes, inventory, and supply chain.

·       Packaged Software:  Microsoft Office Suite, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, which are widely used across various industries without customization for specific organizations.