Hello Friends,this section is specifically dedicated to those users who wants to clear the fundamental of computer science. Here we have included Computer Engineering General Knowledge multiple choice questions with answers(MCQs). Students can expect some questions from this section for sure in the respective university exams,competitive exams and interviews.So practice it well and enjoy with good score you expect.
1. In most IBM PCs, the CPU, the device drives, memory expansion slots and active components are mounted on a single board. What is the name of this board?
- Motherboard
- Breadboard
- Daughter board
- Grandmother board
The board you are referring to is commonly known as the "motherboard" or "system board." The motherboard is the primary circuit board in a computer that houses various essential components, including the CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory modules, expansion slots, and other active components.
The motherboard serves as a central hub that connects and allows communication between different hardware components in the computer system. It provides electrical connections and pathways for data transfer between the CPU, memory, storage devices, expansion cards, and other peripherals.
On the motherboard, you will typically find the CPU socket, memory slots, expansion slots (such as PCI or PCIe slots), connectors for storage devices (like SATA or M.2 connectors), USB ports, audio ports, and various other connectors for peripherals.
By consolidating these components onto a single board, the motherboard helps streamline the internal architecture of the computer and simplifies the assembly and maintenance process.
2. What is meant by a dedicated computer?
- Which is used by one person only
- Which is assigned one and only one task
- Which uses one kind of software
- Which is meant for application software
A dedicated computer refers to a computer system that is designed and optimized to perform a specific task or set of tasks. It is built to handle a specific application or workload with a high level of efficiency and reliability.
Unlike general-purpose computers, which are designed to perform a wide range of tasks and run various software applications, dedicated computers are tailored for a specific purpose or function. They are typically optimized for performance, accuracy, and reliability in executing a specialized task.
Some examples of dedicated computers include:
1. Embedded Systems: These are dedicated computer systems integrated into other devices or machinery to control and manage specific functions. Examples include computer systems embedded in cars, appliances, industrial equipment, or medical devices.
2. Server Clusters: These are groups of interconnected computers or servers working together to provide high-performance computing or serve specific functions such as web hosting, data processing, or scientific calculations.
3. Supercomputers: These are high-performance computing systems designed to handle extremely complex and computationally intensive tasks, such as weather forecasting, scientific simulations, or cryptography.
4. Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems: These dedicated computers are used in retail or hospitality environments to handle sales transactions, inventory management, and other related functions.
Dedicated computers are often optimized for specific hardware configurations, software environments, and operating systems to achieve maximum efficiency and reliability for their intended purpose. They may have specialized software, firmware, or hardware components tailored to the specific task they are designed to perform.
3. The system unit of a personal computer typically contains all of the following except:
- Microprocessor
- Disk controller
- Serial interface
- Modem
A modem is a device used to connect a computer or other electronic devices to a network or the internet. The term "modem" is a combination of the words "modulator" and "demodulator."
The main function of a modem is to convert digital data from a computer into analog signals that can be transmitted over analog communication lines, such as telephone lines. It also performs the reverse function, converting analog signals back into digital data for the receiving computer or device.
Here is a breakdown of the components typically found in the system unit:
- Motherboard: It is the main circuit board that connects and allows communication between different hardware components.
- Central Processing Unit (CPU): It is the primary processing unit of the computer responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations.
- Memory Modules: These are electronic components that store data and instructions for the CPU to access quickly. Examples include RAM (Random Access Memory) modules.
- Storage Drives: These devices store and retrieve data in the computer. Examples include hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), or optical drives (e.g., CD/DVD drives).
- Power Supply: It provides electrical power to all the components within the system unit.
- Expansion Slots: These are slots on the motherboard that allow additional cards or modules to be added to the computer, such as graphics cards, sound cards, or network cards.
4. A computer program that converts an entire program into machine language is called a/an
- Interpreter
- Simulator
- Compiler
- Commander
A computer program that converts an entire program into machine language is called a "compiler."
A compiler is a software tool that translates source code written in a high-level programming language (such as C, C++, Java) into machine code or executable code that can be directly executed by a computer's hardware. The compilation process involves several stages, including lexical analysis, syntax analysis, semantic analysis, code optimization, and code generation.
The compiler takes the entire program as input, analyzes its structure and syntax, checks for errors or inconsistencies, and generates the corresponding machine code or executable file. This machine code can then be run by the computer's processor without the need for further translation.
The purpose of a compiler is to bridge the gap between human-readable programming languages and the machine language understood by the computer's hardware. It allows programmers to write code in a high-level language that is more human-friendly and expressive, while still enabling efficient execution on the underlying computer system.
In contrast to a compiler, an "interpreter" is another type of program that translates and executes source code line by line, rather than converting the entire program into machine code upfront. Interpreters execute the program directly without generating a separate executable file.
5. A computer program that translates one program instructions at a time into machine language
- Interpreter
- CPU
- Compiler
- Simulator
A computer program that translates one program instruction at a time into machine language is called an "interpreter."
An interpreter is a software program that reads and executes source code line by line. It analyzes each instruction, translates it into machine code or intermediate code, and immediately executes it. Unlike a compiler, which translates the entire program before execution, an interpreter performs the translation and execution process in a sequential manner.
When an interpreter encounters a specific line of code, it interprets and executes it on-the-fly. This allows for immediate feedback and dynamic execution. If an error occurs in a particular line, the interpreter stops the execution and reports the error at that moment.
Interpreted languages, such as Python, JavaScript, and Ruby, rely on interpreters to execute their code. The interpreter parses and executes the code one statement at a time, providing flexibility and interactivity during the development and execution process. Interpreters are also commonly used in scripting languages, where quick execution and ease of debugging are important.
It's important to note that interpreters generally have a slower execution speed compared to compiled programs, as they perform the translation process during runtime. However, they offer advantages such as easier debugging, portability across different platforms, and dynamic runtime behavior.
6. A small or intelligent device is so called because it contains within it a
- Computer
- Microcontroller
- Programmable
- Sensor
A small or intelligent device is often called so because it contains within it a "microcontroller."
A microcontroller is a compact integrated circuit (IC) that combines a microprocessor (CPU), memory, input/output (I/O) peripherals, and other essential components required for controlling and executing tasks in embedded systems. It is designed to perform specific functions and is commonly used in various devices and applications, including consumer electronics, automation systems, IoT devices, and more.
The microcontroller's architecture allows it to operate independently with its own dedicated program memory (ROM or flash memory), data memory (RAM), and input/output ports. It can be programmed to process inputs from sensors, perform calculations, and control outputs to drive actuators or communicate with external devices.
Microcontrollers are known for their low power consumption, small physical size, and cost-effectiveness. They provide a practical solution for embedding intelligence and control capabilities into small devices where a full-fledged computer or larger microprocessor may not be necessary or feasible.
Examples of devices that commonly utilize microcontrollers include smart home devices, wearable technology, digital thermometers, remote controls, robotics, and many other embedded systems where compactness, efficiency, and specific functionality are key requirements.
7. A fault in a computer program which prevents it from working correctly is known as
- Boot
- Bug
- Biff
- Strap
A fault in a computer program that prevents it from working correctly is known as a "bug."
A bug is an error, flaw, or defect in a software program that causes it to behave unexpectedly or produce incorrect results. It can manifest in various ways, such as crashes, freezing, incorrect calculations, unexpected behavior, or failure to perform as intended.
Bugs can occur due to programming errors, logical mistakes, poor software design, or compatibility issues with the underlying hardware or software environment. They can be introduced during the development process or emerge during the execution of the program in specific conditions or scenarios.
Identifying and fixing bugs is an essential part of software development and maintenance. Programmers and software testers use various techniques, such as debugging tools, code reviews, and testing methodologies, to detect and resolve bugs. Once a bug is discovered, it is typically documented and reported to the software development team, who then work on resolving the issue by modifying the program's code.
The term "bug" originated from early computing history when an actual insect (a moth) caused a malfunction in a mechanical computer. Since then, the term has been widely used to refer to any kind of software malfunction or programming error.
8. Modern Computer are very reliable but they are not
- Fast
- Powerful
- Infallible
- Cheap
Modern computers are indeed very reliable, but they are not completely infallible or immune to failures.
While significant advancements have been made in computer technology, hardware reliability, and software stability, it is important to recognize that no system is entirely free from potential issues or failures. Here are a few reasons why modern computers may not be considered completely reliable:
1. Hardware Failures: Computer hardware components, such as processors, memory modules, hard drives, or power supplies, can experience failures due to various factors like manufacturing defects, wear and tear, overheating, power surges, or physical damage. These failures can lead to system crashes, data loss, or malfunctioning of specific hardware devices.
2. Software Bugs: Despite rigorous testing and quality assurance processes, software programs can still have bugs or programming errors that may cause unexpected behavior, crashes, or security vulnerabilities. New software updates or patches are regularly released to address such issues and improve stability.
3. External Factors: Computers can be affected by external factors beyond their control, such as power outages, voltage fluctuations, natural disasters, or physical damage caused by accidents or environmental conditions. These external factors can disrupt the normal functioning of a computer system.
4. User Errors: Human errors, such as improper configuration, incorrect usage, or accidental deletion of important files, can impact the reliability and performance of a computer system. It's important for users to follow best practices, maintain backups, and exercise caution while interacting with computer systems.
While modern computers are designed with advanced hardware redundancy, error-correcting mechanisms, and robust software, they are still subject to the limitations and vulnerabilities inherent in any complex technological system. Continuous advancements in technology and ongoing maintenance efforts aim to improve reliability, but complete reliability is challenging to achieve in practical terms.
9. What is the name of the display feature that highlights are of the screen which requires operator attention?
- Pixel
- The blink or flashing cursor
- Touch screen
- Cursor
The display feature that highlights an area of the screen that requires operator attention is commonly known as "blink or flashing cursor."
The blink or flashing cursor is a visual indicator on the screen that draws attention to a specific location or field where user input is required. It typically appears as a blinking vertical or horizontal line, box, or underscore that marks the current insertion point or active input area.
The purpose of the blinking cursor is to guide the operator's attention to the specific location on the screen where they need to interact or enter data. It helps the user identify the active field or position within a text input area, allowing them to start typing or performing actions at the appropriate place.
The blinking cursor is a common feature in text editors, word processors, command-line interfaces, forms, and other interactive applications. It assists users in navigating through the content and indicates the position where their input will be inserted or edited.
10. Personal computers use a number of chips mounted on a main circuit board. What is the common name for such boards?
- Daughter board
- Motherboard
- Father board
- Breadboard
The common name for the main circuit board in a personal computer, which contains a number of chips, is the "motherboard."
The motherboard is a crucial component of a personal computer as it provides the platform for connecting and interconnecting various hardware components. It is a large printed circuit board (PCB) that acts as a central hub, allowing communication and coordination between the CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory modules, storage devices, expansion cards, and other peripherals.