1202: INTRODUCTION QUESTIONS
Introduction to Computer: Definition and Uses
1. What is a computer? Mention three common uses of computers in daily life.
→ A computer is an electronic device that processes data and performs tasks based on
instructions. Common uses: education, banking, and communication.
2. How are computers used in education and healthcare?
→ In education, computers support e-learning and research. In healthcare, they
manage patient records, diagnostics, and medical imaging.
3. Explain the key features that make computers powerful tools.
→ Speed, accuracy, automation, storage capacity, and multitasking.
Computer Generation and Classification
4. What are the five generations of computers? Mention one key feature of each.
→
o 1st: Vacuum tubes – large and slow
o 2nd: Transistors – smaller, faster
o 3rd: Integrated Circuits – more reliable
o 4th: Microprocessors – very fast and compact
o 5th: AI-based – intelligent systems
5. How do analog, digital, and hybrid computers differ?
→ Analog: processes continuous data.
Digital: processes binary data.
Hybrid: combines both types.
6. Classify computers based on size and purpose.
→ Microcomputers (PCs), Minicomputers, Mainframes, Supercomputers; classified
by performance and usage.
Number Systems
7. What is a number system? Name four commonly used number systems.
→ A number system is a way to represent numbers. Examples: Binary, Decimal,
Octal, Hexadecimal.
8. Convert the decimal number 25 to binary and hexadecimal.
→ Binary: 11001
Hexadecimal: 19
9. Explain the difference between binary and octal number systems.
→ Binary uses base 2 (0,1); Octal uses base 8 (0–7).
Computer Organization and Architecture
10. What is the difference between RAM and ROM?
→ RAM is temporary and volatile; ROM is permanent and non-volatile.
11. Define CPU. What are its main components?
→ CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of the computer. Main parts: ALU, CU,
and registers.
12. What is the function of the ALU in a computer system?
→ ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) performs arithmetic and logical operations.
Basic Logic Gates and Truth Tables
13. Name the three basic logic gates.
→ AND, OR, NOT
14. Draw the truth table for the AND gate.
→
A B A AND B
0 0 0
0 1 0
1 0 0
1 1 1
15. What is the difference between a NAND gate and an AND gate?
→ AND outputs 1 only if both inputs are 1; NAND is the opposite — it outputs 0
only if both inputs are 1.