Computer Fundamentals

1. What is a Computer?

Ans. A computer is an electronic device that can perform Arithmetic

Calculations and Logical Operations at a great speed with a high degree of
accuracy. It can store the results and other data as well and still, never gets
tired.

Now, with the advent of Multimedia and Internet, it is used for many
other purposes as well.

2. Draw the functional diagram of the Computer.

Ans.

3. Name the four phases of information cycle.

Ans. The four phases of information cycle are:

a. Input

b. Processing

c. Storage

d. Output

4. What is the difference between Hardware and Software?

Ans. Hardware implies all the physical components of the Computer i.e. all
that we can touch while software implies the set of instructions required to
run the computer.

Keyboard and Printer are examples of hardware while Windows and

Norton Antivirus are examples of software.

5. Name any two input devices:

a. Keyboard

b. Mouse

6. Name any two output devices:

a. Monitor

b. Printer

7. What is the difference between Hard Copy and Soft Copy?

Ans. Soft Copy like Software is the display that you see on the monitor
and needless to say; you cannot touch it (even if you break the monitor
although I would advise you against any such misadventure).

Hard Copy on the other hand is the same display; printed on a sheet
of paper and you may touch it (and you do not need to break anything
isnt that great?)

8. What is CPU?

Ans. CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. Now, with large scale
miniaturization, the complete CPU is just as big as a chip and hence is
also called a microprocessor.

Since, all the processing happens inside CPU, it is also known as

the brain of the Computer.
9. Name the different components of the CPU.

Ans. The different components of CPU are:

a. ALU

b. CU

c. Registers

10.What is ALU?

Ans. ALU stands for Arithmetic and Logic Unit. The function of ALU is to
carry out all the arithmetic calculations and logical operations.

11.What is CU?

Ans. CU stands for Control Unit. The function of CU is to send control

signals to synchronize various tasks and operations performed by the
computer.

12.What are registers?

Ans. Registers are used to store the intermediate results of various

calculations and operations.