Answers to Computer Questions
Question One
a. Using a well-labelled diagram, draw the process of computing.
+---------+ +-----------+ +-------------+ +-----------+
| Input | ---> | Processing| ---> | Storage | ---> | Output |
| Devices | | Unit (CPU)| | (Optional) | | Devices |
+---------+ +-----------+ +-------------+ +-----------+
E.g., Keyboard -> CPU -> RAM/Hard disk -> Monitor/Printer
b. Give one example of the following types of computers:
Super Computers – Example: IBM Summit
Mini Computers – Example: PDP-11
Micro Computers – Example: Dell Inspiron PC
Special Purpose Computers – Example: ATM (Automated Teller Machine)
Mainframe Computers – Example: IBM Z Series
c. Explain the difference between the following two types of Computer Memory:
- DRAM (Dynamic RAM): Needs to be refreshed thousands of times per second; slower and
cheaper.
- SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM): Synchronized with the system clock, making it faster than
regular DRAM.
d. Explain two types of Chip Sets:
1. Northbridge: Connects the CPU to high-speed devices like RAM and graphics cards.
2. Southbridge: Connects the CPU to lower-speed devices like hard drives, USB ports, and
audio.
Question Two
a. Discuss five functions that an operating system does:
1. Process Management – Manages the execution of multiple processes.
2. Memory Management – Allocates memory to programs and reclaims it when not in use.
3. File System Management – Organizes, stores, and accesses data on storage devices.
4. Device Management – Controls hardware devices using drivers.
5. User Interface – Provides interaction between the user and the system (CLI or GUI).
b. Discuss the importance of using the following tools:
System Properties – Displays system specifications and allows performance settings and
environment variable changes.
Device Manager – Helps monitor and manage hardware devices; useful for
troubleshooting drivers and detecting hardware issues.
Control Panel – Central interface for system settings, allowing users to configure
networks, software, user accounts, and more.