CHAPTER -- 01

Ques.01: What is computer?

Computer is an electrical machine that store, retrieves and processes data. It
can’t think or reasons. It can only carry out instructions given to it. A set of instructions that
directs it actions in called a program. Different program are used to solve different problems.
Input Processin Output
Keyboard gProcessor Monitor

Ques.02: How computer solve a problem describe it with appropriate block

diagram?
A computer reads a program a stores it in the memory and executes instructions to:
1. Input data from disk, keyboard and other storage media.
2. Process data and
3. Output result to display scream disk or other media.

Ques.03: Define the Components of a computer?

A computer used to process data and a data processing system consists of more than just
machines. A computer system contain

1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Human ware/Operator/Instructor
4. Operational procedure/Instructions

Ques.04: Importance/characteristics and limitation of a computer?

There are some important criteria, which can easily justify the use of computers.
1. Volume of data: The computer is accustomed to handle a large volume of data with in a second.
2. Accuracy: Computers assure high degree of accuracy and the consistency of data is reliable.
3. Repetition: Processing cycles that repeat time again and again. Once a computer executes
programs, it goes on automatically performing the task as many times as required.
4. Complexity: Computer can perform complex calculations, after executing the complex
calculations, it provide the required answers.
5. Speed: Computer works on very high speed. It enables to respond very quickly to a given
situation.
6. Common data: Many computers can use a single data item at a time.
Limitations of a computer:
1. Computers can not think
2. Computers can not do any think without instructions.
3. It can not think or justify as a human being.
Ques.05: Comparison between system and application program?
System programs:
System programs are system functions. We can also say these are back-end functions help
operate the computer. Inner systems of a computer are controlled by system program.
Example: Firewall, Operating system configured function.
Application programs:
Application program carries out a task for the user. Application programs get users work done
and system program help a computer manage itself.
Example: Command-prompt window.

Ques.06: Computer can be classified into two categories based on purpose:

1. Special purpose
2. General purpose
Special purpose:
Uses: Controlling traffic light, Collections of tolls on highways, Automobiles,
Weapons, Appliances, Games etc.
General purpose:
Uses: Variables kinds of tasks.

Ques.06: Classify computer based on its capacity?

Computer systems can be divided into four major categories based on throughput:
1. Micro computer
2. Mini computer
3. Mainframe computer
4. Super computer
Micro computer:
Micro computer (also known as personal computer-PCs) are micro processor based small
Laptop or Desktop or Notebook systems with varying capabilities.
Early micro computer had limited processing power and limited choice of input-output devices.
Mini computer:
A mini computer system performs the basic arithmetic and logic functions and supports. They
are physically smaller, less expensive have small storage capacity compared to mainframes.
Mainframe computer:
A largest computer generally consists of modules mounted on mainframe. That’s why its called
mainframe computer.
Advantages: Greater processing speed, storage capacity larger variety of input-output devices.
Super computer:
A very large and powerful mainframe computer is called super computer.
Example: Cray x-MP is a super computer.
Uses: Sophisticated, Scientific problems, National security purpose.
Ques.07: Comparison among workstation, clients, servers and terminals
(Definition)?

Workstation:
High-end microcomputers are known as workstations. It represents the bridge between
microcomputers and minicomputers.
Servers:
Servers make programs and data available for users having access to a computer network.
Clients:
Users who run programs called clients which known how to contract the server and obtain
information from the server.
Terminals:
Terminals have only screen and a keyboard and the electronics that allow them to communicate
with the computer.
Example: PC (Personal Computer)