1.1 Hardware and Software

Which of the following is considered an internal hardware component?

• a) Monitor

• b) Keyboard

• c) Processor

• d) Printer

Answer explanation

The processor is an internal hardware component responsible for executing instructions and processing data. In contrast, a monitor, keyboard, and printer are external devices used for input and output.

What does RAM stand for?

• a) Random Access Memory

• b) Read Access Memory

• c) Ready Active Memory

• d) Real Access Memory

Answer explanation

RAM stands for Random Access Memory, which is a type of computer memory that can be accessed randomly. The other options do not accurately describe this essential component of computer architecture.

Which device is primarily used for long-term storage within a computer?

• a) RAM

• b) Processor

• c) Hard Disk Drive

• d) NIC

Answer explanation

The Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is primarily used for long-term storage in a computer, as it retains data even when the power is off. In contrast, RAM is temporary storage, and the processor and NIC serve different functions.

The software that enables computer systems to function and allows user interaction is called:

• a) Application Software

• b) Device Driver

• c) System Software

• d) Internal Software

Answer explanation

System software is essential for computer systems to operate and facilitates user interaction, making it the correct choice. Application software, device drivers, and internal software serve different purposes.

Which of the following is an example of application software?

• a) Scanner

• b) Spreadsheet

• c) CPU

• d) Operating System

Answer explanation

A spreadsheet is a type of application software used for organizing, analyzing, and storing data in tabular form. In contrast, a scanner is hardware, a CPU is a component of a computer, and an operating system manages hardware and software resources.

The hardware component that allows computers to connect to a network is:

• a) GPU

• b) NIC

• c) SSD

• d) HDD

Answer explanation

NIC, which stands for Network Interface Card. It is the hardware component that enables computers to connect to a network, allowing for communication and data transfer.

What type of software provides necessary facilities such as Antivirus and Disk Defragmentation?

• a) Application Software

• b) System Utilities

• c) Network Software

• d) Custom Software

Answer explanation

System Utilities are software designed to manage and maintain computer resources. They include tools like Antivirus for security and Disk Defragmentation for optimizing disk performance, making option b) the correct choice.

Which of the following is NOT a type of external hardware?

• a) Keyboard

• b) Motherboard

• c) Monitor

• d) Scanner

Answer explanation

The motherboard is an internal component that connects all hardware parts of a computer, while a keyboard, monitor, and scanner are external devices used for input and output.

What is the purpose of a device driver?

• a) To connect to the Internet

• b) To enable the device to function

• b) To backup data

• d) To clean viruses

Answer explanation

A device driver is software that allows the operating system to communicate with hardware, ensuring it can function properly.

Which of these is responsible for translating high-level programming language into machine code?

• Web browser

• Compiler

• Device Driver

• Operating System

Answer explanation

A compiler is a program that converts code written in a high-level programming language (like Python, Java, or C++) into machine code, which consists of binary instructions that the computer's processor can execute directly. This translation is essential because computers can only understand and process instructions in machine code.