Unit-1 Fundamentals of Computer and Information Technology Important Questions with Answers [GU BCom 1st Sem Information Technology in Business]

On this page, you will find a collection of important questions and answers for Unit-1: Fundamentals of Computer and Information Technology, specifically designed for Gauhati University BCom 1st Semester Information Technology in Business. These questions and answers are carefully prepared to help you score well in your exams. Use this guide as a valuable reference for your exam preparation.

Gauhati University BCom 1st Semester Information Technology in Business
UNIT-1
FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPUTER AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

MCQ Questions

1. UNIVAC is

A) Universal Automatic Compute

B) Universal Array Computer

C) Unique Automatic Computer

D) Unvalued Automatic Computer

Ans:- A) Universal Automatic Compute

2. The basic operations performed by a computerare

A) Arithmetic operation

B) Logical operation

C) Storage and relative

D) All the above

Ans:- D) All the above

3. The two major types of computerchips are

A) External memory chip

B) Primary memory chip

C) Micro processorchip

D) Both b and c

Ans:-  D) Both b and c

4. Micro processors as switching devices are for which generation computers

A) First Generation

C) Third Generation

B) Second Generation

D) Fourth Generation

Ans:- D) Fourth Generation

5. What is the main difference between a main frame and a super computer?

A) Super computers computer is much larger than main frame computers

B) Super computers are much smaller than main frame 

C) Super computers are focused to execute few programs as fastas possible while main frame uses its power to execute as many programs concurrently 

D) Super computers are focused to execute as many as possible while main frame uses its power to execute few programs programs as fast as possible.

Ans:- C) Super computers are focused to execute few programs as fastas possible while main frame uses its power to execute as many programs concurrently

6. ASCII and EBCDIC are the popular character coding systems What does EBCDIC standfor?

A) Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code

B) Extended Bit Code Decimal Interchange Code

C) Extended Bit Case Decimal Interchange Code

D) Extended Binary Case Decimal Interchange Code

Ans:- A) Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code

7. The brain of any computer system is

A) ALU

B) Memory

C) CPU

D) Controlunit

Ans:- C) CPU

8. Storage capacity of magnetic disk depends on

A) tracks perinch of surface

B) bit sperinch of tracks

C) disk packin disk surface

D) All of above

Ans:- D) All of above

9. The two kinds of main memory are:

A) Primary and secondary

B) Random and sequential

C) ROM and RAM

D) All of above

Ans:- C) ROM and RAM

10. A storage area used to store data to a compensate for the difference in speed at which the different unit scan handle data is

A) Memory

B) Buffer

C) Accumulator

D) Address

Ans:- B) Buffer

Very short questions and answer

Short questions.

1. Who is the father of Computer science?

Ans: Charles Babbage

2. In a computer, most processing takes place in

Ans: CPU

3. In which type of computer, data are represented as discrete signals?

Ans: Digital Computer

4. Computers, combine both measuring and counting, are called ?

Ans: Hybrid Computer

5. What translates and executes program at run time line by line?

Ans: Interpreter

6. What converts an entire program into machine language?

Ans: Compiler

7. Who is the father of personal computer?

Ans: Edward Robert

8. EEPROM stands for ?

Ans: Electronic Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

9. The first web browser is ?

Ans: Mosaic

10. IBM stands for ?

Ans: International Business Machines.

11. What is a computer?

Ans: A computer is an electronic device that can accept data, process it according to a set of instructions, and output the processed data as useful information.

12. What are the basic components of a computer?

Ans: The basic components of a computer are the Central Processing Unit (CPU), memory, storage, input devices (such as a keyboard and mouse), output devices (such as a monitor and printer), and software.

13. What is the CPU?

Ans: The CPU, or Central Processing Unit. In simple words we call it as the brain of the computer. It is responsible for carrying out calculations and executing instructions at the right times.

14. What is memory?

Ans: Memory, also known as RAM (Random Access Memory is a temporary storage location that holds data and instructions that the CPU is currently using. The more memory a computer has, the faster it can process data.

15. What is storage?

Ans: Storage refers to the permanent storage location where data is stored for long-term use. It can be a hard drive, solid-state drive, or other storage media.

16. What is software?

Ans: The term "software" refers to a collection of instructions that provide a computer with its operational directives. It includes programs, applications, and operating systems.

17. What is an operating system?

Ans: An Operating system is software that manages the computer's hardware and gives a platform for applications to run on. Examples of operating systems include Windows, macOS, and Linux

18. What is a network?

Ans: A network is a group of computers and other devices that are linked to one another through an internet connection. This gives the devices the ability to interact with one another and share resources. 

19. What is the Internet?

Ans: The Internet is a global network of computers and other devices that are connected together, allowing people to access and share information from anywhere in the world.

20. What is a virus?

Ans: A virus is a type of malicious software that can damage or destroy data on a computer. It can spread from computer to computer through email attachments, downloads, and other means.

21. What is a firewall?

Ans: A firewall is a security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic. It can block unauthorized access and prevent attacks on the network.

12. What is encryption?

Ans: Encryption is the process of encoding information in such a way that only parties who have authority can read it. It is used to protect sensitive information, such as passwords and credit card numbers.

13. What is a backup?

Ans: A backup is a copy of data that is stored in a separate location, usually on an external hard drive or cloud storage. It is used to protect against data loss due to hardware failure, theft, or other disasters.

14. What is cloud computing?

Ans: Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services over the Internet. It allows users to access applications and data from anywhere without the need for physical hardware.

15. What is a microprocessor?

Ans: A computer's central processing unit (also known as the CPU) can be found on an integrated circuit known as a microprocessor.

16. What is a motherboard?

Ans: The motherboard is the main circuit board of a computer, which contains the CPU, memory, and other components.

17. What is a GPU?

Ans: A Graphics Processing Unit is a specialized processor designed to handle complex graphics and video processing tasks.

18. What is an SSD?

Ans: Solid State Drive, more usually known as SSD, is a kind of data storage device that store information using flash memory. In comparison to conventional hard disc drives, SSDs provide much improved read and write rates.

19. What is a BIOS?

Ans: The BIOS, or Basic Input/Output System, is firmware that initializes and controls the basic hardware components of a computer.

20. What is a virtual machine?

Ans: A virtual machine is an emulated computer environment created within a physical computer, allowing multiple operating systems to run simultaneously.

21. What is cloud storage?

Ans : Cloud storage is a type of data storage that stores data remotely on servers accessed over the internet, instead of storing data locally on a computer or external storage device.

22. What is a compiler?

Ans: A software program known as a compiler is responsible for converting source code, which is written in a programming language, into machine code, which a computer is able to run and interpret.

23. What is a command-line interface?

Ans: A command-line interface is a method of interacting with a computer using text-based commands entered through a terminal or command prompt.

24. What is a kernel?

Ans : The kernel is the core component of an operating system that manages system resources, including memory, processes, and input/output.

25. What is a file system?

Ans : A file system is a method used by an operating system to organize and store files on a storage device, such as a hard drive or SSD.

26. What is a network protocol?

Ans: A network protocol is a set of rules and standards used to facilitate communication between devices on a network.

27. What is an API?

Ans: Accessing a web-based software Application or online utility requires the use of something called an Application Programming Interface (API), which is an abbreviation for Application Programming Interface.

28. What is a database?

Ans: A database is a collection of structured data that is organized and managed using software, allowing for easy retrieval and manipulation of information.

19. What is a VPN?

Ans: A Virtual Private Network (VPN), is a secure connection between a computer and a remote network or server, allowing users to access resources on the remote network as if they were directly connected.

20. What is a script?

Ans: A script is a set of instructions written in a programming language that can be executed by a computer to automate tasks or perform specific functions.

21. What is a cache?

Ans: A cache is a high-speed memory location used to store frequently accessed data or instructions, improving performance by reducing the need to access slower memory or storage.

22. What is a GUI?

Ans: A Graphical User Interface, is a visual interface that enables users to interact with a computer using icons, menus, and other graphical elements instead of text-based commands.

23. What is a firewall?

Ans: A firewall is a kind of network security device that monitors and regulates the traffic coming into and going out of a network. This helps protect against intrusion attempts and prevents unauthorized access.

24. What is machine learning?

Ans: The field of artificial intelligence (AI) known as machine learning (ML) is a subset of Al that enables software applications to learn and improve from experience without being expressly designed to do so.

Long Questions

1. What is a Computer? Explain Computer block diagram.

Ans: 

The straightforward meaning of a computer is a machine tha can calculate. However, modern computers are not just a calculating device anymore. They can perform a variety of tasks. In simple terms a computer is a programmable electronic machine used to store retrieve, and process data. 

According to the definition, "A computer is a electronic device that takes data, perform instructed arithmetic and logical operations, and gives the output." programmable calopatever is given to the computer as input is called 'data while the output received after processing is called 'information. 

Input

All the data received by the computer goes through the input unit. The input unit comprises different devices like a mouse, keyboard scanner, etc. In other words, each of these devices acts as a mediator between the users and the computer.

The data that is to be processed is put through the input unit The computer accepts the raw data in binary form. It then processes the data and produces the desired output.

The 3 major functions of the input unit are-

Take the data to be processed by the user.

Convert the given data into machine-readable form.

And then, transmit the converted data into the main memory of the computer. The sole purpose is to connect the user and the computer. In addition, this creates easy communication between them.

CPU - Central Processing Unit

Central Processing Unit or the CPU, is the brain of the computer. It works the same way a human brain works. As the brain controls all human activities, similarly the CPU controls all the tasks.

Moreover, the CPU conducts all the arithmetical and logical operations in the computer.

Now the CPU comprises of two units, namely - ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) and CU (Control Unit). Both of these units work in sync. The CPU processes the data as a whole.

Let us see what particular tasks are assigned to both units.

ALU - Arithmetic Logic Unit

The Arithmetic Logic Unit is made of two terms, arithmetic and logic. 

There are two primary functions that this unit performs.

1. Data is inserted through the input unit into the primary memory. Performs the basic arithmetical operation on it. Like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It performs all sorts of calculations required on the data. Then sends back data to the storage. 2. The unit is also responsible for performing logical operations like AND, OR, Equal to, Less than, etc. In addition to this it conducts merging, sorting, and selection of the given data.

CU-Control Unit

The control unit as the name suggests is the controller of all the activities/tasks and operations. All this is performed inside the computer.

The memory unit sends a set of instructions to the control unit. Then the control unit in turn converts those instructions. After that these instructions are converted to control signals.

These control signals help in prioritizing and scheduling activities. Thus, the control unit coordinates the tasks inside the computer in sync with the input and output units.

Memory Unit

All the data that has to be processed or has been processed is stored in the memory unit. The memory unit acts as a hub of all the data. It transmits it to the required part of the computer whenever necessary.

The memory unit works in sync with the CPU. This helps in faster accessing and processing of the data. Thus, making tasks easier and quicker.

There are two types of computer memory-

1. Primary memory - This type of memory cannot store a vast amount of data. Therefore, it is only used to store recent data. The data stored in this is temporary. It can get erased once the power is switched off. Therefore, is also called temporary memory or main memory.

RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It is an example of primary memory. This memory is directly accessible by the CPU. It is used for reading and writing purposes. For data to be processed, it has to be first transferred to the RAM and then to the CPU.

2. Secondary memory As explained above, the primary memory stores temporary data. Thus it cannot be accessed in the future. For permanent storage purposes, secondary memory is used It is also called permanent memory or auxiliary memory. The hard disk is an example of secondary memory. Even in a power failure data does not get erased easily.

Output

There is nothing to be amazed by what the output unit is used for. All the information sent to the computer once processed is received by the user through the output unit. Devices like printers, monitors projectors, etc. all come under the output unit.

The output unit displays the data either in the form of a soft copy or a hard copy. The printer is for the hard copy. The monitor is for the display. The output unit accepts the data in binary form from the computer. It then converts it into a readable form for the user.

2. Write about Generations of Computer

Ans: There are five generations of the computer, which can be classified as below:

First Generation (1946 - 1959): During the first generation, computers were based on electronic valves (Vacuum Tubes). Some popular computers of first-generation are ENIAC, EDVAC, UNIVAC, etc.

Second Generation (1959-1965): During the second generation, computers were based on Transistors. Some popular computers of second-generation are IBM 1400, IBM 1620, IBM 7000 series, etc.

Third Generation (1965-1971): During the third generation, computers were based on Integrated Circuits (ICs). Some popular computers of the third generation are IBM 360, IBM 370, PDP, etc. 

Fourth Generation (1971 - 1980): During the fourth generation, computers were based on very large scale integrated (VLSI) circuits. Some popular computers of fourth-generation are STAR 1000, CRAY-1, CRAY-X-MP, DEC 10, etc.

Fifth Generation (1980 - Present): The fifth generation is still ongoing. The computers are based on multiple technologies, such as ultra large scale integration (ULSI), artificial intelligence (AI), and parallel processing hardware. The fifth generation of computers includes Desktop, Laptop, NoteBook, etc.

3. What do you mean by Computer Software and Hardware?

Ans: Software

Computer software is a group of instructions or programs that instructs the computer system to work accordingly. 

There are mainly two types of software:

System Software: System software help establish communication between hardware components so that the user can interact with the computer. These types of software are necessary for the computer to operate correctly. They provide an interface to run additional third party programs or utility tools. Operating systems, drivers, utility software, and firmware are typical examples of the system software.

Application Software: Application software is designed to help users to perform specific tasks, such as online surfing, setting the alarm, listening to music, playing videos, photo designing, editing, etc. This type of software mostly runs in the frontend and allows end- users to work on. Web browsers, Photoshop software, multimedia software and word processors are the example of the application software.

Hardware

The physical parts attached to a computer that form a whole computer are called hardware or hardware components. There can be different types of hardware, depending on the structure. Some most common hardware are mouse, keyboard, monitor, printer, etc. These are the parts that can be seen and touched by humans.

Basic Parts of Computer : The essential components of the computer can be defined as follows:

Input Unit: Input Units or devices are used to input the data or instructions into the computers. Some most common input devices are mouse and keyword.

Output Unit: Output Units or devices are used to provide output to the user in the desired format. The most popular examples of output devices are the monitor and the printer.

Control Unit: As its name states, this unit is primarily used to control all the computer functions and functionalities. All the components or devices attached to a computer interact with each other through the control unit. In short, the control unit is referred to as 'CU'. 

Arithmetic Logic Unit:- The Arithmetic Unit helps perform all the computer system's arithmetic and logical operations. In short, the arithmetic logic unit is referred to as 'ALU'.

Memory: Memory is used to store all the input data, instructions, and output data. Memory usually has two types: Primary Memory and Secondary Memory. The memory found inside Merupu is called the primary memory, whereas the memory that is not the integral part of the CPU is called secondary memory.

Note: Control Unit, arithmetic logic unit, and the memory simultaneously form the central processing unit (called CPU in short). 

4. Write about different Functions of Computer.

Ans: There are four core functions of the computer, as explained

below:

Input: Whatever is given to a computer is called the input. The input data is given to the computer using the input devices. The computer only takes data in a binary form (raw format). The input devices help convert the entered data in the binary form to be understandable by the computer. Data can be inputted in various forms, such as letters, numbers, images, etc.

Processing: Processing is the primary function of the computer. CPU helps to process the data according to the instructions entered into the computer system. The processing of data is an internal process of the computer system, and the data is executed in a queue. After the processing has been completed, the data is further transferred as the output. The processor (CPU) is the computer's brain, and it is a microchip. The processor's speed varies in different computers because it depends on several factors, such as the type of CPU, memory, and motherboard.

Typically, the following operations are performed on the data during the processing:

I) Arithmetic Operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, differentials, square root, etc.

ii) Logical Operations, such as equal to, not equal to, greater than, less than, opposite, etc.

Output: Anything that comes out from the computer is called the output. It is the human-readable data and displayed on the computer screen (monitor). Output can be stored in the storage devices if desired. The output devices help convert the processed data of the CPU into the human-understandable form.

Storage: The device used to store the data of a computer system is called the storage. Storage devices help to store digital data. They can store the data while the computer is operating and after processing. There are volatile and non-volatile storage options. The volatile storage can store the data as long asthe power source is connected, whereas non-volatile can store the data permanently even after the power source is disconnected.

5. What are the Characteristics of a Computer System.

Ans: The essential characteristics of the computer make it such an important part of human lives. Let's understand the basic characteristics of computers:

Speed: Computers are a high-speed electronic machine. They can carry around 3-4 million instruction per second. Even advanced computers can handle trillions of instructions per second, cutting down the time to perform any digital tasks.

Accuracy: Computers are also known for their accurate performance. They can complete the given jobs at almost 100% accuracy. Although errors may occur in computers, they are usually caused by incorrect input, incorrect instructions, or bugs in chips. All of these are human errors.

Storage Capacity: Computers can easily store a massive size of data. Modern computers come inbuilt with high storage features compared to older days. Additional data can be stored on secondary devices like external hard disks, or flash memory, etc. Due to incredible speed, data can be retrieved from storage in no time.

Reliability: Computers are reliable and consistent; they can process the same tasks any number of times without throwing any error. Computers don't get tired like humans, so they are superior to perform rule-based, repetitive tasks.

Versatility: The variety of tasks that a computer can perform are almost infinite. That means computers can perform different tasks back to back without making errors; they are no longer just a computing machine. For one moment, a computer can be used to perform data entry tasks or ticket booking, and the very next moment, it can be used for complex mathematical calculations astronomical observations, etc. or continuous

6. Write about Classification of Computer.

Ans: According to physical size, computers are classified into the types:

Supercomputer: Supercomputers are the fastest and the most expensive type of computer. They are large and require more space for installation. These types of computers are mainly designed to perform massive data-based and complex tasks. Supercomputers are capable enough to handle trillions of instructions at the same time.

Mainframe Computer: Mainframe computers are comparatively smaller in size as compared to supercomputers. However, they are not much small. These types of computers are designed to perform hundreds or thousands of jobs at a time simultaneously. These computers can handle heavy tasks, including complex calculations and can store vast amounts of data. They are best suited for big organizations such as banking, telecom, and educational sectors.

Microcomputer: Microcomputers are cheap in price and support multi-user platform. These are the general-purpose computers designed to handle all the necessary tasks of individual needs. Since they are comparatively slower than mainframe computers, thereby are suitable for small organizations. They are best suited for internet café, schools, universities, offices, etc. A microcomputer is also referred to as the 'Personal Computer (PC)' in general life. Laptop and desktop are examples of microcomputers.

Minicomputer: Minicomputers are also referred to as Miniframe computers. These are the midsize multiprocessing computer designed purposely for easy carry. These types of computers are light-weight and can fit in a small space. They are suitable for billing, accounting, education, and business purposes. Since these minicomputers are easy to carry, they are the best option for those who need a computer while traveling. Tablet PC, Notebooks, and cell phones are examples of minicomputers.

Workstation: Workstation is a powerful, single-user computer. A workstation is a personal computer with a faster microprocessor, a massive amount of RAM, higher-quality monitors, high graphic memory, etc. This is best suited for performing any specific type of task professionally. According to the type of tasks, a workstation can be referred to as a music workstation, graphic workstation, or engineering design workstation. Most businesses and professionals use workstations for performing tasks like animation, music creation, video editing, poster designs, data analysis and more.

7. What are the advantages and disadvantages of computer system,

Ans : Advantages of Using Computer system are

The following are the main advantages of using the computer:

I) Computers can perform given tasks at incredible speed.

ii) Computers can perform the same task multiple times with the same accuracy.

iii) Computers allow doing several tasks simultaneously as they are best suited for multitasking.

iv) Computers keep the stored data secure and inaccessible from unauthorized users.

v) Computers can automatically perform routine tasks with automation, making humans available for more intelligent tasks.

Disadvantages of Using Computer are

The following are the main disadvantages of using the computer:

I) Computers cannot work on their own. They need instructions from humans to complete tasks. Moreover, computers follow the given instructions blindly without thinking about the outcomes.

ii) Computers need a power supply to work. Without a power supply, they are just useless.

iii) Working on a computer continuously for a long period can cause several health issues.

iv) Wastage of computers and their parts leave a negative impact on the environment.

v) Computers are taking human jobs in many sectors. They are replacing human work and thus increasing unemployment.

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