Scribd
Upload
15 views2 pages

Computer Systems Exam: Key Concepts & Choices

The document outlines an open-book test on computer systems, lasting 2 hours and totaling 100 marks. It includes six questions covering topics such as choosing the right computer for various tasks, matching input and output devices to scenarios, diagnosing computer slowness, comparing storage options, recommending hardware specifications for future-proofing, and discussing future tech trends. Students are required to answer four questions with detailed explanations and real-world applications.

Uploaded by

mucheonenation
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
15 views2 pages

Computer Systems Exam: Key Concepts & Choices

The document outlines an open-book test on computer systems, lasting 2 hours and totaling 100 marks. It includes six questions covering topics such as choosing the right computer for various tasks, matching input and output devices to scenarios, diagnosing computer slowness, comparing storage options, recommending hardware specifications for future-proofing, and discussing future tech trends. Students are required to answer four questions with detailed explanations and real-world applications.

Uploaded by

mucheonenation
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SYSTEMS

DURATION: 2 HOURS. TOTAL MARKS: 100

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.​ This is an open-book test. You are allowed to use reference materials, but your responses
must be original.
2.​ Answer any four (4) out of six (6) questions. Each question carries 25 marks.
3.​ Provide detailed explanations with real-world applications.

Question 1: Choosing the Right Computer for the Job

Imagine you are setting up a new business and need to choose computers for different tasks.
Which type of computer (supercomputer, mainframe, server, personal computer, or embedded
system) would you choose for the following, and why?

​ Managing customer transactions in a supermarket


​ Running a small business office
​ Processing huge amounts of scientific data in a research lab
​Controlling smart devices in a home automation system​
Your response should include an analysis of processing power, storage needs, and
scalability for each choice.

Question 2: Matching Input and Output Devices to Real-Life Situations

Technology is everywhere, and the right input and output devices make all the difference. For
each of the following scenarios, suggest the most suitable input and output devices and explain
why:

​ A doctor diagnosing patients using medical imaging


​ A student taking online exams
​A game developer designing a virtual reality experience​
Your answers should consider accuracy, ease of use, efficiency, and the specific
technological requirements of each scenario.
Question 3: Why is My Computer So Slow?

Your friend is frustrated because their laptop has become slow, frequently crashes, and
overheats. They ask for your help. As a tech-savvy problem solver, explain the possible reasons
why this is happening. Consider issues related to the CPU, RAM, storage, and cooling system.

Now imagine you are an IT technician diagnosing the problem remotely. Propose a step-by-step
troubleshooting guide to systematically identify and fix the issue.

Question 4: StorageDilemmas: What’s the Best Choice?

A photographer wants to store thousands of high-resolution images safely and quickly. A small
business wants a cost-effective way to back up its files. A gamer wants fast storage for loading
large games. Compare and recommend the best storage option for each situation from these
choices:

​ HDD (Hard Disk Drive)


​ SSD (Solid State Drive)
​ Cloud Storage
​External Backup Drive

Question 5: Building a Future-Proof Computer

Your uncle wants to buy a new computer that will remain fast and reliable for at least five years.
He plans to use it for work, online meetings, photo editing, and occasional gaming. What
hardware specifications would you recommend for:

​ Processor (Single-core vs. Multi-core)


​ RAM (How much memory?)
​ Storage (HDD, SSD, or hybrid?)
​Additional features (Graphics card, cooling system, etc.)

Question 6: Future Tech: What’s Next in Computing?

Computers are evolving rapidly! Pick two of the following and explain how they are changing
the way we use computers:

​ AI-powered processors
​ Cloud vs. Edge computing
​ Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality

Common questions

Powered by AI

For a doctor diagnosing patients, high-resolution monitors and digital imaging systems ensure accuracy in medical imaging . A student taking online exams would benefit from a comfortable keyboard and a reliable display, ensuring ease of use and focus . For a game developer designing a virtual reality experience, VR headsets are paramount for engaging interactions, while advanced graphics cards provide the necessary processing power to render immersive environments .

AI-powered processors offer significant advancement by enabling automatic optimization and real-time data processing, enhancing both efficiency and performance . Cloud computing allows scalable and flexible data management while reducing physical infrastructure needs. However, edge computing offers latency reduction and efficient data handling by processing data closer to its source, enhancing real-time processing capabilities . Both technologies signify significant shifts towards more efficient and intelligent computer usage scenarios.

First, check for running applications that may overload the CPU and RAM, as excessive usage can slow down performance . Clean up the storage to manage disk space and ensure there's enough free space since full disks can lead to crashes. Check the cooling system - ensure fans are working and the laptop is placed on a hard surface to prevent overheating . Update software and drivers to fix any bugs and enhance performance. Finally, run diagnostics tools to identify hardware failures or malware affecting speed .

To manage customer transactions in a supermarket, a server would be ideal due to its ability to handle multiple transactions simultaneously and provide centralized control . For running a small business office, personal computers are sufficient because they offer versatility and cost-effectiveness for tasks like word processing and accounting. Processing enormous scientific datasets in a research lab requires the power of supercomputers, known for their high processing capabilities to manage complex computations . Embedded systems are suitable for controlling smart devices in a home automation system as they offer tailored, efficient control with low power consumption .

A photographer should utilize SSDs for storing high-resolution images due to their fast access speeds and durability . A small business seeking cost-effective backup solutions could rely on cloud storage, offering remote access and cost efficiency without physical hardware constraints . Gamers benefit from SSDs for loading large games quickly, providing much shorter loading times compared to HDDs due to higher data transfer speeds .

Recommendations include a multi-core processor, which supports multitasking and handles work and gaming efficiently . At least 16GB of RAM should support photo editing and gaming demands . A hybrid storage solution, including both SSD for fast boot times and an HDD for additional storage, is ideal . A dedicated graphics card enhances performance for gaming and editing, while an effective cooling system prevents overheating and maintains reliability over time .

You might also like