COMPUTER STUDIES PAMPHLET

GRADE 8 – 9

PREPARED BY :

TOLOPU HUMPHREY

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 1

 TOPIC 1: INTRODUCTION
Computers were introduced quite a long time ago, but up to date, many people still don't understand
what a computer really is, including those who use them. Let me ask you simple questions;
Do you know what a computer is?
Have you ever seen a computer?
Have you ever touched or used it before?
Do you want to know it now?
If you want to know it now, don’t worry, you are going to know it as long as you finish reading this
pamphlet I have made just for you, because this pamphlet tries as much as possible to explain every
important detail about what you ought to know, bearing in mind that you are going to sit for exam.
Besides, computer studies is a practical subject- which means you do not only need to pass your exam
but also to be equipped with practical skills which you will need to use in your life even after school.
Moreover, some of you will take on computer studies as a subject for your career path way in senior
secondary, for this reason, I have tried as much as possible again to simplify the practical aspect with
authentic pictures for your easy understanding of every aspect of this material.
This pamphlet is suitable for use by both teachers and pupils. However, it has mainly focused on the
needs of the learner; therefore, I have framed it in a self explanatory manner, with interactive
questions, so that as you read, you will feel as if someone is talking to you.
Why is this material just right for you?
i. It has model pictures which makes it easy to understand
ii. Simple language has been used so that all learners, including those with low literacy levels can
understand the concepts.
iii. All concepts have been explained in the simple but precise way
iv. Major topics have been carted for, unless otherwise.
v. Information has been extracted from various approved materials for use in schools
vi. You deserve just the best like this one.
You need to understand what a computer is, how it is made and how it works:

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 2

Definitions of a computer

Q: What is a computer?
A computer has many definitions, others define a computer as:
 A Computer is a man made electronic device that operates under the control of the set
of instructions given.
 A computer is an electronic device used to manipulate data
 A computer is a device that can accept, process and store data and information
 A computer is an electronic device that accepts user input as data and transmits it under
the influence of sets of special instructions (Program) to produce desired output as
information.
Q: Which definition is easy for you?
Close the pamphlet and write it again, two or three times.

Can you define a computer now?

 Which one is a computer ?

B
A

All these devices may be considered as Therefore, a computer system is a collection

computers because they all use electricity, input (set) of devices (parts) that work together to
data and manipulate (process) it to give out produce the required results.
information to the user. COMPONENTS OF A COMPUTER SYSTEM
 The components of a computer system
The computer system are simply the parts that makeup this
system.
Q: First, do you know what a system is?
 There are four main components of a
A system is a collection of different parts that
computer system. These are;
work together to perform a certain function or
i. INPUT
job.
ii. PROCESS
iii. STORAGE
iv. OUTPUT
TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 3
Diagram of a computer system

Diagram of a computer system

[email protected] 7

INPUT Examples of Input Devices are

 Input is anything that is introduced  Keyboard
or captured into the computer for  Mouse
processing  Touch Screen
 Input devices are devices used by a  Microphone
person to capture or put data into a  Digital camera
computer system.  Scanners
 Light pen
 Bar code reader
 Joystick

3.Output
2. Process  Outputs-Outputs are outcomes
 Process is the manipulation or /products of the processes.
converting of raw data into useful  These are what come out as a result of
information the processing.
 Processing is done by the Central OUTPUT DEVICES:
Processing Unit (CPU) These are devices which display/produce
 The CPU is also known as a system unit information from the computer to the user.
 All the computer parts are connected to Examples of Output Devices
the CPU  Monitors
 Printers
 Plotters
 Speakers
 Projectors

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 4

4. Storage
 Storage refers to the keeping/retaining of data and information so that it can be used later.
 Storage is done in storage devices
Examples of storage devices are:
o Hard disk, Memory cards, Memory sticks ( flash), CDs, DVDs, Floppy diskettes ( but Floppy
diskettes are not common now)

TOPIC 2 : PARTS OF THE COMPUTER

A computer is made up of two main parts. These are
a) Hardware
b) Software
 Computer works through the hardware and software interactions.
Q: What do they mean by hardware and software?
 Hardware refers to the parts of a computer that you can see and touch.
 Software refers to the instructions, or programs that tell the hardware what to do.
What is the difference between hardware and software?
The difference is that, hardware are the physical parts of the computer you can see and touch while the
software are the programs that tell the hardware what to do. You can’t see and touch them.
Hardware & Software Parts
 A Computer has many hardware and software parts.
Examples of hardware:
Keyboard, mouse, monitor etc..
Examples of software:
M-S office, visual basic etc.

Examples Of Hardware

Keyboard Scanner
Monitor

Mouse Printer
CPU

[email protected] 15

Other computer parts

c) The user (human ware) – this is the person who operates the computer
Without the input from the user, the computer will not be able to do anything.
d) Data – is the meaningless information introduced into the computer for processing.
Information is meaningful and useful data
NOTE: know the difference between data and information

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 5

TOPIC 3: HISTORY OF COMPUTERS

THE ABACUS
 3000 years ago, the Chinese invented a calculating device called the ABACUS to perform simple
arithmetic operations.
 The ABACUS uses movable beads strung on wires above and below a cross bar and its
operations are based on the idea of the place value notation.
 The beads of the counter represent the digits. The value of the digit in each position is
determined by adding the values of the beads pressed against the cross piece.

Charles Babbage’s Engine

 Charles Babbage proposed a calculating machine in 1822.
 Babbage designed a “Difference Engine” in the year 1822, which could produce reliable tables.
 In 1842, Babbage came up with his new idea of Analytical Engine, which was intended to be
automatic.
 The machine took input from the punched card. The Analytical engine had a memory which
could perform arithmetic operations.

Charles Babbage

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 6

 IBM The commercially available digital
computers, which could be used for
 In 1952, the International Business
business and scientific applications, had
Machines (IBM) Corporation introduced
arrived.
the 701 commercial computers.
 In rapid succession, improved models of
the UNIVAC I and other 700-series
machines were introduced.
 In 1953, IBM produced the IBM-650,
and sold over 1000 of these computers.

HOW COMPUTERS STARTED

(Brief history of computers)
 Many years ago, people have been developing different machines for doing different kinds of
tasks/jobs, especially problems to do with calculations and measurements. These innovations
were started way back as far as 1600 years ago.
 The meaningful development however started from 1940.
 A machine which is called the first computer, was known as the Analytical Engine. The analytical
engine was made by Charles Babbage.
 Because of this, Charles Babbage is known as the father of computers
 Development of computers are now categorized in generations
 Generation in computing means processing technique/technology that was used in processing
data. There are five generations of computers up to date. These are:
FIVE GENERATIONS OF COMPUTERS

GENERTIO PERIO TECHNOLOGY SIZE/FEATURES

N D IT USED

First 1940- -Vacuum tubes -Very big and not portable

generation 1956 for processing -Used too much electricity & produced more heat
- Magnetic -solved one task at a time
drums for -no screen out put, produced only hard copy
memory
Second 1957- -transistors for -big but smaller than the earlier computer
generation 1963 processing -faster
-magnetic core -Cheaper and less heavy
for memory -Used less electricity & produced less heat
Used computer programs
Third 1964- Used smaller -increased speed
generation 1971 transistors called -keyboards & monitors introduced
semi-conductors -Were multitasking
-smaller in size and relatively cheaper
Fourth 1972- Microprocessors -developed microchips which holds thousands of Ics
generation present -developments of smaller computers of nowadays
-introduced the mouse and other handheld devices

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 7

 -cheaper
-More processing speed
-Improved user interfaces
Fifth Present -artificial -computers will process and respond to natural language
generation - intelligence (still -they will have the ability to organize themselves
future being developed) -E-g voice recognition, imitation of human actions and predict
-it will use the next action. (Games, security systems, simulations, etc.)
quantum
computation,
molecular and
nano technology

TYPES OF COMPUTERS (CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS)

 There are four basic types of computers
 Computers are classified according to their size and processing power
CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS IN ORDER OF INCREASING SIZE AND PROCESSING POWER:
1. Super Computers
2. Mainframe Computers
3. Mini Computers
4. Micro Computers
Below are pictures of these computers with examples:
Super Computers
 Super-computers are very fast and powerful machines.
 Their internal architecture enables them to run at the speed of tens of MIPS (Million
Instructions per Second).
 Super-computers are very expensive and for this reason are generally not used for CAD
applications.
 Examples of super-computers are:
Cray and CDC Cyber 205.

Mainframe Computers
 Mainframe computers are built for general computing, directly serving the needs of business and
engineering.
 Although these computing systems are a step below super-computers, they are still very fast and will
process information at about 10 MIPS.
 Mainframe computing systems are located in a centralized computing center with 20-100 workstations.
(hosts, I will explain what hosts are later)

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 8

  This type of computer is still very expensive and is not readily found in architectural/interior design
offices.

Mini Computers
 Minicomputers were developed in the 1960's resulting from advances in microchip technology.
 Smaller and less expensive than mainframe computers, minicomputers run at several MIPS and
can support 5-20 users.
 CAD usage throughout the 1960's used minicomputers due to their low cost and high
performance.
 Examples of minicomputers are: DEC PDP, VAX11.

Micro Computers
 Microcomputers were invented in the 1970's and were generally used for home computing and
dedicated data processing workstations.
 In the 1980's many medium and small design firms were finally introduced to CAD as a direct result of the
low cost and availability of microcomputers.
 Examples are: IBM, Compaq, Dell, Gateway, and Apple Macintosh.
 The average computer user today uses a microcomputer. These types of computers include PC's, laptops,
notebooks, and hand-held computers such as Palm Pilots.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 9

TOPIC 4: Types of microcomputers

What are the Different Types of Computers?

Laptop
Desktop

Smartphone
Tablet

[email protected] 40

Types of computers
 Desktop computer – this is not
portable. It’s designed to be placed on
 Desktop computers are used at work,
top of an office desk.
home, school, or the library.
 They can be small, medium, or large in
style, and usually sit on a desk.
 Once you add a monitor, mouse, and a
keyboard, you have what is known as a
Desktop desktop computer.

Laptop computer
 A 'laptop' computer is a light, compact and portable PC.
 Laptops contain a rechargeable battery so that they can be used even when not plugged into a
mains power supply.
 They also have a built-in LCD monitor. It is designed to be used by placing it on the lap. It is also
called notebook

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 10

Laptop Computer

Notebook computers - are portable computers

 Notebook computers are small in size
 They are also known as laptop PCs (Laptop Personal Computers)

Notebook computer

Advantages of lap tops

 They are portable- you can easily carry them
 Ruggedness – laptop computers are designed to withstand most of the rigors of travel.
 Display – active color screen show sharper, clearer images which prevent eye strain.
 Power – laptop batteries serve as built in uninterruptible power supply.
Disadvantages of Laptops
 Performance – many laptops have slower clocks speed to conserve power and also have similar
memory capacity.
 Expandability – laptops PCs limit your expansion options.
 Laptops have few Connecting ports and no growth potential.
 Security – laptop PCs are easier to steal.
 Display – laptops screens are limited to VGA resolution.
Other Types of Computers
Today, there lots of everyday devices that is basically specialized computers, even though we don't
always think of them as computers. Here are a few common examples:

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 11

Types of computers

 Smartphone

Any mobile phone can do a lot of things a computer can do, such as browsing the internet or playing
games. These phones are often called smart phones.

 Tablet
These use a touch-sensitive screen for typing and navigation. Since they don't require a keyboard or
mouse, tablet computers are even more portable than laptops.

The iPad is an example of a tablet computer.

EMBEDDED COMPUTERS
o Embedded computers are devices that have the components of a computer
o The embedded computers can work like a computer but they are not computers as such.
o They are also known as special-purpose, dedicated computers and computer-like devices.
Examples of embedded devices are:
 Washing machine, Fax machine, Calculator, TV, Photocopier, Microwave oven, MP3 player, DVD
player

TERMINOLOGIES AS USED IN INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT)

INFORMATION:
 Information is the processed data.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 12

  Information refers to data which has been processed.
Information consists of the facts and figures that are stored and used by a computer.
 Data is the unprocessed information
COMMUNICATION
 Communication is the process of sending and receiving messages.
 However, communication is effective only when the message is understood and when it
stimulates action.
TECHNOLOGY
Technology is the application of scientific knowledge for practically creating processes and products that
satisfy human needs.
DATA
 They are new facts that are meaningless to the user and cannot be used to make decision e.g.
numbers, letters etc.
INPUT ( DATA )
 Input is the raw information entered into a computer from the input devices.
PROCESSING
 Refers to the way data is manipulated to turn into information e.g. arithmetic operation,
addition, subtraction etc.

Difference between data and information

Data Information
Meaning Data is raw, unorganized When data is processed, organized, structured or presented in
facts that need to be a given context so as to make it useful, it is called Information.
processed. Information is interpreted data.
Data can be something
simple and seemingly
random and useless until
it is organized.

Example Each student's test score The class' average score or the school's average
is one piece of data score is the information that can be concluded
from the given data.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 13

What is ICT?
 ICT is the combination of the three words; Information Communication and Technology.
 It covers all communication equipment that includes manipulation, creation, storing and sorting.
 It also refers to Technology. It is similar to Information Technology (IT), but it focuses primarily
on Communication Technologies. This includes the internet, wireless networks, cell phones, and
other communication media. In short, it is not restricted to Computers, but ICT incorporates cell
phones, cameras, and other hand held devices such as Personal Digital Assistants (PDAS)
INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT)

 Many pupils know that they are learning ICT at school, but they don’t really know what this ICT
means. Do you really know what it means yourself now?

Information Communication Technology refers to the use of technology for information

processing and communication.

 So ICT is concerned with all the equipments that are used to process and communicate
information.
Q: What are some of these equipment that are used in ICT?
 Computers, Mobile phones, TVs, Radio and so on.
 Therefore, ICT does not only look at computers, but so many other things
 In Zambia, the Zambia Information and Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA) is the
body that regulates the use of information and communication devices.

WHAT ARE THE FUNCTIONS OF A COMPUTER?

A computer has four functions:

1. Accepts data Input

2. Processes data Processing
3. Produces output Output
4. Stores results Storage

How should a computer be kept?

Things a computer like: (things you should do to keep the computer)

 Clean environment
 Good ventilation
 Stable, vibration free surface
Things computer don’t like (what you should avoid)

 Dust
 Heat, Cold or Moisture
 Drinking and eating over the keyboard
 Don’t place objects on top of monitors

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 14

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF A COMPUTER?
 Computers Process data fast and accurately
 In production of documents, editing and correcting is done accurately
 Management of information is up to date.
 Computers can store information for a long period of time
 It saves time when you want to produce many copies.
 It saves space in terms of filing/storage
WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF COMPUTERS?
 Computer Hardware costs are higher
 It requires a skill to operate it
 Computers are expensive to buy.
 Maintenance costs are high.
 Loss of employment - because some tasks/job are now being done by computers
 Computers have health risks or problems – computers can cause some health problems, e-g
poor eye sight
 They cause deskilling – loss of personal skills
 Over dependent – some people cannot do anything without the computer
 Environmental impact – if computers and computer parts are not well disposed off, they cause
damage to the environment.
 Increased data theft – some people can easily still your data from the computer and use it for
their personal gain. Example, leaking confidential information
 Privacy risks– other people may access your confidential information even when you put
passwords there
 Need for retraining – you will be required to retrain again and again because new ideas keep
coming

What are the Characteristics of Computers

The Computer has the following characteristics: these are also considered as advantages of the
computer, so you can use them as answers to the same question if you like, if you asked to mention
characteristics, then state these:

i. Speed - Work can be done fast and neatly.

ii. Accuracy – computers rarely make mistakes
iii. Reliability – computer output is reliable as long as the input is reliable and correct
iv. Memory - It saves space for keeping more information
v. Diligence – computers work tirelessly for a long period of time
vi. Automation – computers are automatic, meaning they can work on their own when they are set
vii. Versatile – computers can be used for different purposes

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 15

TOPIC 5: COMPUTER HARDWARE
 The computer is made up of two parts:
1. hardware and
2. software
What is Hardware and Software
Q: Do you remember what computer hardware means?

Hardware is the physical parts of the computer system – the parts that you can touch and see.
Example:
 A motherboard, a CPU, a keyboard and a monitor
What is Software?
Software is a collection of instructions that can be ‘run’ on a computer. These instructions tell the
computer what to do.
Software is not a physical thing
Examples of software are
 web browsers, games,
 Word processors such as Microsoft Word.
Hardware and Software

The Difference between Hardware and Software

Computer hardware is the physical components that make up the computer system where as Software
is instructions that tell computer hardware what to do.

For a computer system to be useful it has to consist of both hardware and software.

Computer needs both of hardware and software

HARDWARE PARTS OF THE COMPUTER

 The parts of the computer you can see and touch are grouped into two types, depending on
how they are used to the computer.
 These groups are:
1. INPUT DEVICES
2. OUTPUT DEVICES
Input Unit
 The main function of input unit is to read the information contained in the program and to
transfer that information to the CPU.
 Some of the input devices are keyboard, mouse, scanner

Input Device
• These are the parts used by a person to communicate to a computer.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 16

 Examples of input devices
 Mouse
 Keyboard
 Microphone
 Joystick
 Touchpad
 Scanner
 Digital camera
 Graphics tablet
 Touch screen
 Stylus/light pen
 Optical mark reader (OMR)
 Magnetic ink character reader (MICR)
 OPTICAL CHARACTER READERS (OCR)


Input devices
 The input devices are further divided as:
a. Pointing devices
b. Imaging devices
c. sensors
POINTING DEVICES

 These are input devices used to select commands on the screen by pointing them and clicking or
pressing a certain button to select that function.

Examples are of pointing devices:

i. Mouse Joystick

ii. Touchpad keyboard

IMAGING DEVICES
 These are input devices used to capture images into the computer. Examples are

Scanner Barcode reader

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 17
Microphone

Digital camera

SENSORS

OUTPUT DEVICE
These are devices or parts that displays information from the computer to be seen or used by the user

Output Devices

 Monitors
 Printers
 Plotters
 Sound Card & Speakers
 Project

 Monitors
There are two types of monitors that are commonly in use. However, other types
are also being developed. The two types are:
Cathode-Ray Tube(CRT) Liquid Crystal Display (LCD or Flat-Panel)

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 18

  Printers
A printer is a peripheral device that
produces a physical or hard copy of the
computer’s output.
 Laser Printer
Laser printers are page printers, which print
one page at a time.

 Plotters
A plotter is a printer that uses a pen
Types of Printers
that moves over a large revolving sheet
There are different types of printers. Some of paper. It is used in many engineering
applications like Architectural plan of a
of them are
building, design of mechanical
 Dot Matrix Printers components of an aircraft or a car etc…
- Dot-matrix printers are character printers,  It requires high quality, perfectly
which print one character at a time. proportioned graphic output on large
sheets.

 Ink Jet Printer

Inkjet printers are character printers, which

form characters and all kinds of images by
spraying small drops of ink on to a paper.

Types of Plotters.
TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 19
  The two basic types of plotters are
called:

Drum
Flatbed plotters plotters.

COMPUTER OUTPUTS Video Output

 Computer gives out two types of  Video output is the ability of the
output. computer to output things on the
 The output may be in the form of visual screen that you can see.
or audio
Example: the information may be;
 The speakers and headphones are
 Text,
examples of audio devices.
 graphics and
 They convert digital output into
 Video.
analogue sound
Audio Output
Output Types
 Audio output is the ability of the
 Video output
computer to output sound.
 Audio output
 Audio devices needed are:
 Sound card
- Plays contents of digitized
recordings.
 Speakers and headphones
- Attached to sound card.

TOPIC 6: MEMORY
 Memory is defined as the storage area of the computer.
 The process of saving data and instructions (commands) are known as storing.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 20

 Types of computer memory
 Computer has two types of memory
I. INTERNAL MEMORY and
II. EXTERNAL MEMORY
TYPES OF INTERNAL MEMORY
a) RAM- Random Access Memory
 This memory is immediately available to the processing unit
 It holds the data and programs that are currently in use
 RAM is volatile- means memory is not permanent, if the computer is switched off, memory is
deleted
 Size of RAM determines the speed of the computer
b) ROM-Read Only Memory
 Keeps data permanently
 It is non-volatile- does not lose information even if power goes off
 Data in ROM cannot be changed
c) Cache memory
 It is Pronounced as “cash”
 It is mainly used to improve the performance of the computer by increasing the speed

EXTERNAL STORAGE
 It refers to the storage of data on devices that you can connect and disconnect from the
computer
 Examples of external memory devices are: (devices used to keep information externally)
 Hard disk drive (HDD)
 Floppy disks
 Flash disks
 Compact disk (CD)
 DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) – it has more space than a CD.
 Secure Disk (SD Memory Card) – they are mainly used to store music and video files
They are mainly used in:
o phones
o Digital cameras
o Modern computers
Main Memory
(a) RAM (Random Access Memory)
RAM is your system's short-term memory. Whenever your computer performs calculations, it
temporarily stores the data in the RAM until it is needed.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 21

 (b) Auxiliary storage

Hard Drive

The hard drive is the data center of the computer. This is where the software is
installed, and it's also where your documents and other files are stored. The hard drive is long-term
storage, which means the data is still saved even if you turn the computer off or unplug it.

Difference between Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read Only Memory (ROM)

RAM (Read Only Memory) ROM (Read Only Memory)

 Access speed is fast  Access speed is slower than main memory.

 Volatile Memory (i.e. Information will be  Non-Volatile Memory.

lost on the failure of power. (i.e. Information will not be lost on the failure of
power.)
 Data disappear when the power is off) The data is still saved even if the power is off
 
 Cost per unit is expensive  Cost per unit is cheaper than main
memory
 Capacity of storage is smaller  Capacity of storage is larger than main
memory
 Most complex and expensive memory.  Simplest and cheapest type of memory.
 data can easily be changed or deleted  The information stored in this memory
cannot be changed or deleted

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 22

STORAGE UNIT:
These are devices that are used to store the input and the output of the computer.
Examples are:
 RAM
 Hard Disk
Computer storage is the keeping of computer data and information for future use ( to be used later)
CPU: (Central Processing Unit)
It’s the heart of the computer which processes the input (data) and produce the output (information). It
is divided into two blocks.
1. Control Unit
It is used to control all the units (parts) in the computer.
2. Arithmetic Logic Unit
It performs arithmetic and logical operations
MEMORY UNIT
 Memory is defined as the brain of the computer.
 Memory is storage area of computer.
 Data is stored in the form of binary digits, which is either stored in zero(0) or one(1).
Measuring memory
Data capacity in memory is measured as below:
 A Word has : 4 bytes = 32 bits
 Byte – 8 Bits
 1 Mega Byte – 1024 Kilo Bytes
 1 Giga Byte – 1024 Mega Bytes
 1 Tera Byte – 1024 Giga Bytes
Meaning of:

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 23

 i. Bit – a bit is the smallest unit of the data. A bit is a binary digit. A computer uses binary digits
only, (it uses only 0 and 1)
ii. Byte – byte is a set of 8 consecutive bits ( 8 bits make a byte)

However, the value 1000 instead of 1024 is accepted and used. Therefore,

 1000 Bytes =1 Kilo byte (Kb)

 1000 kilobytes (kb) = 1 mega byte (Mb)
 1000 mega bytes (Mb) = 1Giga byte (GB)
 1000 Giga bytes (GB) = 1 Tera byte (TB)

CHANGING VALUE FROM ONE UNIT TO AMOTHER

To change or convert from one unit to another, you just need to multiply or divide the value you are give
with 1000.

Examples 1: converting from small to bigger unit, divide by 1000.

1) Convert 3250 Mbs to GB

 Since you are changing from a smaller unit to a bigger unit or value, just divide by 1000.
 So in this case, you will get: 3250/1000 = 3.25 GB.
 Or you can use the cross multiplication
1000Mbs = 1 GB

3250 Mbs = x

=
= 3.25 GB

Example 2: converting from bigger to smaller unit, multiply by 1000.

2) Write the value of 8.5 GB in megabytes.

 Since you are converting from a higher or bigger value to a lower or smaller unit, just
multiply the value you want to change with 1000.
 So in this case, you will get: 8.5 GB X 1000 = 8500 Kilobytes
 Or you can use the cross multiplication.
Example 3: converting from one unit to another with a unit in between.
 multiply or divide by 1000 x 2 (1 000 000 ),
 Or first convert the given unit into the next/previous unit, and then convert again until you have
the desired unit.

3) Convert 4.2 TB to Mbs

 Between the TB and the Mb, there is GB in between them.
 So since we are changing from a bigger to a smaller unit, multiply by one thousand 2
times.
 In this case you will get 4.2 x1000 x 1000 = 4 200 000 Mbs
TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 24
  You can also change TB to GB first, and then change GB to Mbs using the cross
multiplication

Practice makes perfect:

Try to answer these questions alone:
1. Convert;
a. 5700 bytes into kilobytes
b. 6.9 Tera bytes into Giga bytes
c. 8420 mega bytes into terabytes
2. How many kilobytes are there in a 4.8 GB Memory card?
3. Tingo wants to download a movie from the internet into his memory card. The movie
has 850050 kilobytes space, how many mega bytes are these that will be used in his
card?
Memory Devices
 Floppy Disk Drive, Hard Disk Drive, CD-Drive, DVD Drive, Flash Drive
Hard Disk Drive
 Hard disk is defined as storage device, Disk Platter; It has a Read/Write Head

CD-Drive

 CD-ROM stands for Compact Disk-Read Only Memory. They are flat, shiny disks that store
information. Most new computers have CD-RW drives. CD-RW stands for Compact Disk-
Re-write. This type of disk allows you to write information to it, as well as read from it. Most
can hold up to 700 megabytes of information.
DVD Drive
 The newest computers come with the option of a DVD drive.
 A DVD (Digital Video Disc) looks just like a CD, but holds much more information.
 They can store 4.7 gigabytes of data.

Flash Drive

 A Flash Drive is a relatively new storage device. It’s like a mini, portable hard drive.
 Plug it into the USB (Universal Serial Bus) port on the front of newer computers and save to it.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 25

 Flash disk

External hard disk drive

LET US NOW LOOK AT THE INSIDE OF THE COMPUTER

 Components found inside a computer

1. Motherboard
2. Power Supply Unit
3. CPU/Processor
4. Main Memory ( RAM )
5. Auxiliary storage ( Hard Drive )
6. Relationship above three components

Inside a Desktop Computer

Motherboard

 The motherboard is the computer's main circuit board.

 The function of the mother board is to hold the following:
i. CPU
ii. Memory
iii. Connectors for the hard drive and optical drives
TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 26
 iv. Expansion cards to control the video and audio connections to the computer's ports e-g USB
ports).
The motherboard connects directly or indirectly to every part of the computer.

Computer mother board

Power Supply Unit

o The power supply unit in a computer converts the power from the wall outlet to the type of
power needed by the computer.
o It sends power through the cables to the motherboard and other components.

CPU/Processor
 The Central Processing Unit (CPU), is also called a processor,
 It is found inside the computer case on the motherboard.
 It is sometimes called the brain of the computer,
 Its job is to carry out commands.

Block Diagram of Personal Computer

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 27

TOPIC 7: COMPUTER BASICS
Rules for computer use
1. Don’t eat or drink near the computer.
2. Keep your hands clean.
3. Treat the computer gently.
4. Respect the computer. Don’t complain to it.
Computer is just obeying your command.
5. Computer is your friend, so enjoy with it!
6. Turn off the monitor when you’ve finished.
7. Clean the computer lab to avoid dust and dirt.

Computers are delicate

 Computers are electrical devices.
 Computers don’t like dust, water , strong shock and so on.
How to start computer
 Step 1
 turn on the monitor and then the CPU by pressing the power button as shown in the picture

If your computer has a password, then you enter the password like this, if it doesn’t have, this step will
be skiped.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 28

 Step 2
Login
Username [ Tomu Sec]

Password [ ..... ] (you will be shown)

[email protected] 120

Step 3
Logoff
 Click [ Start ] button

[email protected] 121

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 29

 How to stop computer
 turn off monitor

[email protected] 122

Understanding a Mouse

Left Button Right Button

Used to Used to

• Select files, folders and • Call for useful function so

hyper link that you operate computer
• Open files and folders efficiently
• Highlight words (Context Menu)
• Resize the window
• Move files and folders

Body
Scroll Wheel

Used to

• Scroll view in the window

[email protected] 124

How to hold a Mouse

1. Palm puts on the mouse body.

2. Index finger puts on the left button, and middle finger on the right button.
3. Other fingers grasp sides of the mouse.
4. Wrist should not be wriggled but be relaxed on the table top.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 30

Mouse techniques
 Click – means pressing and releasing the left mouse button once.
 Double click – pressing the left button twice in quick succession.
 Right click – pressing the right hand side mouse button once.
 Drag and drop – the user drags an item from one location on the screen to another.
 Drag – press and hold down left button and the move the mouse to the new location
 Drop – release the button immediately after dragging the item to the new location.
Mouse Pointer (Cursor)
The arrow that moves on the screen when you move the mouse is usually called either a ‘pointer’ or a
‘cursor’. Depending on the situation, the figure of it can be changed into following shapes.

Introduction to the Desktop

 Your screen is your DESKTOP. Your DESKTOP is what you now see on the screen (as shown
below).

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 31

The START Button

The START button is located at the bottom of the screen on the left-hand side of the taskbar and gives
you access to most things available on your computer.

When you click on the START button, you will see a menu. Clicking on this item will run the application.

Task bar

Used to switch between windows, to "pin" favourite programs for easy access, and rearrange them by
clicking and dragging. Point to a taskbar icon to see an image of open files or programs, move your
mouse over the image to preview the window full-screen. You can close windows from the thumbnail
previews—a big time saver.

NOW LET US LOOK AT THE KEYBOARD.

 The Keyboard has 101 keys arranged in five groups.

 Alphanumeric keys.
 Modifier keys.
 Function keys.
 Cursor movement keys.
 Special purpose keys.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 32

 Keyboard

How to use the Keyboard (commonly used keys)

Space bar (space key)

It is used for inputting a space between letters. Make sure you press it only once after a word,
not two or more spaces.
Enter key – is used for…
 In word processing program, for editing and starting a new paragraph
 In spreadsheet (excel), it is used to decide what you typed into an active cell and then move to
the next cell.
Delete key- used for deleting (removing) a letter after the cursor (in front of the cursor.
Back space key – used for deleting (removing) a letter before the cursor (behind the cursor.)
Numeric keys – used for typing both numbers and symbols for the four basic operations (+-
*/)
Arrow keys – for moving the cursor one character to the left, right, up or down.

Caps lock –
• Used to change the cursor type to either upper or lower case.
• Press the caps lock button once to turn it on or off.
• When it is on, the indicator light will show and every letter you type will be in capital letter
• When it is off, every letter you type will be in small letter

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 33

KEYBOARD SHORTCUTS:
Commonly used functions on your keyboard
FUNCTION SHORTCUT
Save Ctrl + S
Highlight / select all Ctrl + A
Undo Ctrl + Z
Redo Ctrl + Y
Copy Ctrl + C
Cut Ctrl + X
Paste Ctrl + V
Bold Ctrl + B
Italics Ctrl + I
Underline Ctrl + U
Print Ctrl + P
Right alignment Ctrl + R
Left alignment Ctrl + L
Centre alignment Ctrl + E
Justify Ctrl + J
Font/font style Ctrl + Shift+ F
Font size Ctrl + Shift + P
Closing a window Alt + F4
Closing a menu Esc button

Q: What should you do if the computer fails to work?

There are times when you are using the computer and then you find that the computer suddenly stops
working properly as expected. The computer stops responding to commands. In this case, you should try
to do the following:

i. Try to wait a bit, maybe it is still processing data in the back ground
ii. If not still, check by pressing the caps lock button to check the light indicator. Still not working?
iii. Press Ctrl + ALT +Del and start the task manager. Select the “ not responding” on the dialogue
box, click on the End Task, then wait patiently for the program to end
iv. If it doesn’t respond still, press and hold the power button until the computer until the
computer shuts down. Wait for a few seconds and switch it on again, choose start windows
normally.
v. Still not working, remove or disconnect the hardware you recently connected to your computer
vi. If still not working, if you can remove or uninstall all recently installed programs.
vii. If not working again, then take your computer for repair to the experts.
But if the computer fails to start (boot) properly,
 Check and make sure all the parts are connected properly
 Remove any external storage devices, like CD, Flash disk and any other
 Disconnect and reconnect some cables
 Check if the CPU fan is working.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 34

 TOPIC 8: SOFTWARE

Definitions of software:
A software can be define as:
 software is asset of instructions that tell the hardware what to do
 it is a set of step by step instructions that needs to be carried out to accomplish a given
task
 software is the program that coordinates the activities of the computer

What are the types of computer software?

There are two main types of computer software:

I. application software
II. system software ( examples are: operating system, utility software, language translator)
 Operating System
 it is the software responsible for coordinating all the computer parts
 it is the most important software to the computer
 all the other software are installed after this one

Examples of Operating System (OS): windows 7, windows XP, windows 8, Macintosh

Functions of the system software:

 starting the computer

 locating and loading programs into main memory
 monitoring system performance
 managing files
 managing passwords and user names (ID)
 controlling input and output devices
 Provides user interface (menu of how the computer interacts with a person) etc.
 Application Software
 These are programs written to perform specific tasks or jobs
 these are specialized software designed to carry out a particular activity

Examples of applications software are: Microsoft word, Microsoft excel, media player, internet
explorer

 Small applications used in phones and tablets are known as App.

What is the difference between application and system software?

Differences between system and application software

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 35

 APPLICATION SOFTWARE SYSTEM SOFTWARE
A single program meant to carry out a specific task Collections of programs that provide instructions
to the computer
many applications can be used on the same machine Only one can be used at a time
at the same time
Cannot work (run) without system software Can work(run) without application software
Can be designed to the needs of the user Difficult to make to the needs of the user

Software protection (copyright)

Software copyright is the law that prevents unauthorized copying or distribution of software. To prevent
this, software comes with a product key.
The product key
This is a set/combination of numbers and letters that are required to be entered when installing
software to make it valid

TOPIC 9: USER INTERFACE

A person and a computer talk to each other. But a computer uses binary language (only uses 0 and 1), a
human also uses a different language which the computer does not understand. So how do they
communicate? They communicate by using a user interface which the operating system provides.
A user interface is a way how computers and users interact. This is done by the computer prompting
(asking) the user to select (click) options/commands, and the user responds by selecting from the given
options in the dialogue boxes (windows) which appear.

Types of user interfaces

Of all the current types of user interfaces, the Graphical User Interface (GUI) and the Command line
interface (CLI) are the commonly used user interfaces. The other types are :
i. Menu-driven interface
ii. Natural language interface
iii. Command line interface (CLI) -you have to type the lines of commands
iv. Graphical User Interface (GUI) – uses the WINP (Window, Icon, Menu and Pointer)
a) Menu- a list of options or commands that a user can select
b) Icon- an icon is a graphical representation of a function
c) Window (dialogue box) – is a frame with suitable tabs/buttons that can be clicked to
accept or reject an option
d) Pointer – a tool that moves around the screen as you move a mouse or arrow keys
 Graphical user interface is the commonly used because it is easy to use.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 36

 TOPIC 10: COMPUTERS IN EVERYDAY LIFE

Computers are very important in our lives, and people are using them every day in so many
ways. This is what will be explained and discussed in this topic.
 Some of the areas where computers are used include: health, education, office
equipment, military, home equipment, entertainment, industries, business, etc.

Areas of computer applications:

 HOME
There are a lot of home appliances that have embedded computers (devices that work like
computers)
Examples of embedded devices in a home:
 Television, Radio, Microwave oven , DVD Player, Washing machine, Wrist watch, Digital camera
Note: Other devices in a home do not use microprocessors, but they use a thermostat, therefore these
are not embedded computers. Examples are:
 Fridge, Stove/cooker, Pressing iron etc.
 IN OFFICE EQUIPMENT
These are equipment used in offices that are controlled by microprocessors.
Examples are:
 Photocopier
 Telephone
 Calculator
 Facsimile
 Projector
 Scanner
 Printer
What is telecommuting?
o It is a term which refers to working from home, instead of travelling physically for work.
o This is done by having a home computer connected to the office computers so that the officer
can work from home.
 EDUCATION
In education computers are used for:
 Teaching, Learning, Research, E-Library /online, Marking, Record keeping, E-learning
 BUSINESS
They are used to do the following:
• E-business
• Advertisements
• Electronic point of sale system – EPOS
• Teleshopping
• Online reservations
TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 37
 • Etc
 OTHER AREAS WHERE COMPUTERS ARE APPLIED (USED) INCLUDE
 Health (medical field) – to diagonise diseases, record keeping, research etc
 Security- to trace crimes etc
 Banking system
 Computer Aided Designs –CAD
 Computer Aided Manufacturing –CAM
 Computer Aided Learning –CAL
 Arts and entertainment – e-g computer games, music production etc
The list is endless

TOPIC 11: HEALTHY AND SAFETY

If computers are not used properly, they can cause a lot of health problems. Some of the risks caused by
the computers and how to prevent them are:

RISK CAUSED BY HOW TO PREVENT IT

Eye strain Constant use of -avoid looking at the screen at an angle
computers in poor -avoid screens that flicker
lighting - avoid screens that are too bright
-take regular breaks
Repetitive strain injuries (e-g Poor position while -always adjust or use adjustable chairs
backache, headaches, sitting at a computer -put your computer on a proper position
shoulder pains, arm/wrist -Use ergonomics keyboard
pains etc) -take regular breaks and walk around
Backache Poor sitting position -use adjustable chairs
-sit upright
Restricted blood circulation Poor sitting posture -Assume correct sitting posture to allow free
blood circulation
Ozone irritation Emission from laser -do not use laser devices near human bodies
devices

What is ergonomics?
 Ergonomics refers to the correct position one must assume when using the computer.
 It also means the science of creating and designing devices according to the way people
think, act and behave to suit their needs and increase productivity.
Some of the computer room rules you should follow:
 Don’t allow dust to enter through
 It must be well carpeted-to trap dust
 It must not be too hot
 It should allow a lot of natural light
 It must be well ventilated
 Don’t allow naked wires
 Do not use foreign storage media like flash discs

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 38

  Do not play games without permission
 Don’t attempt to disconnect any hardware
 Report any suspicious activities to the teacher
 Don’t over load sockets
These are not the only rules, but just a few of them.

TOPIC 12: COMPUTER PRIVACY AND SECURITY

 Privacy is about how personal and private data is used and who uses it.
How is personal data revealed?
a) Through internet scams
b) Through online shopping
c) Using snoop ware
d) Through eavesdropping-
e) Web bugs
How can we prevent this and increase data privacy?
o Using spy removal
o Encrypting files
o Hide your identity
o Be alert

Terms used in computer crime:

 Spyware - a program used to gain access to other people’s computer activities without
permission
 Phishing – the act of stealing confidential and personal information; like emails, passwords etc
 Malware - a program that cause/disturbs a normal software to malfunction (work wrongly)
example, a virus.
 Cracking – modifying a software to remove security features (it’s also called piracy)
 Hacking – gaining access to other people’s computers for personal gain.
 Eavesdropping – secretly listening or intercepting communication signals between computers

COMPUTER VIRUSES:
- A VIRUS is a malicious program that causes destruction to the computer system.
- Malware is short for malicious software
- Common examples of malware are: viruses, Trojan horse and worms.
VIRUSES
 A virus is a computer program that replicates itself and may cause damage or disturb computer
operations.
 Viruses spread from one computer to another
Types of viruses
• File viruses/parasitic
• Boot sector
• Polymorphic viruses

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 39

Worm:
- it is spread through the internet
- it will copy itself and fill up your computer memory
- this slows down the computer
Trojan horse:
Trojan horse is a computer program that pretends to be something interesting and harmless but carry
viruses.
How are viruses spread?
They are spread from one computer to another through the following ways:
 receiving infected emails
 downloading program from the internet
 sharing storage devices e-g flash discs, memory cards etc
 networking computers
How to prevent viruses:
i. use updated anti-virus software
ii. scan all new devices connected to your computer
iii. delete the infected files
iv. use original software products
v. isolate infected computers from the network
vi. avoid running programs you are not sure of

TOPIC 13: COMPUTERS AND NETWORKING

What is a computer network? A computer network can be defined as:
 A computer network is a group of two or more computers connected together.
 A computer network is the interconnection of computers
Why are computers networked or connected?
i. To share data files
ii. To share software resources
iii. To share hardware resources
iv. To allow computers to communicate

What hardware resources can be shared on a network?

i. Printer
ii. Scanner
How are computers connected on the network?
They are connected in two ways:
(a) Wired connections – computers are connected by using a physical means.
- Physical material used to connect computers may include:
- Telephone wire, LNB cable, optic fibre
(b) Wireless connection – this does not involve the use of physical means to connect computers.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 40

 - Connection is through microwaves, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and satellite
What are the types of computer networks?
There are many types of computer net works, but the common ones are Local Area network (LAN) and
Wide Area Network (WAN)
 LOCAL AREA NETWORK (LAN)
- Is a network that connects computers within a small area.
- Places where LAN is commonly used are:
- School, colleges, libraries, computer labs, internet café
 WIDE AREA NETWORK (WAN)
- Is a network that connects computers that are in distant places, computers that are far
from each other
- Computers are usually connected without cables, using wireless technology.
- Many LANs can be connected to make WAN. EXAMPLE OF WAN IS THE INTERNET.
 METROPOLITAN AREA NETWORK (MAN)
- It covers a bigger area than LAN but smaller than WAN
- It covers a city/town
 PERSONAL AREA NETWORK (PAN)
- It links personal computers and other small devices
- Can be connected through Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, infrared
 STORAGE AREA NETWORK (SAN)
- Used to increase computer storage
 DESK AREA NETWORK (DAN)
 WI-FI (WIRELESS FIDELITY)
- Wireless network that provides connectivity of computers to the internet and intranet
- A place/location where wireless network is found is called Hotspot.
- Intranet-is a network of computers which are used by an organization. Anyone who
does not belong to that organization cannot use it
- Extranet- this is a network of an organization which can also be used by the other
organizations. In other words, it is shared network

HOW COMPUTERS BEHAVE IN A NETWORK

Computers connected to a network can either be;

Peer – to – Peer network

• In this type of connection, all the computers are of the same size, and have the
same processing power.

Client – server network

• In this type of network connection, there is one or two big computers that work like
servers, the other computers are just clients.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 41

 TOPIC 14: NETWORK TOPOLOGIES
(How computers are connected to each other)
 Topology means a way of connecting computers to each other.
There are three commonly used network topologies. These are

Star topology – computers that connected look like a star

Ring topology – computers are connected in a circle
Bus topology – computers are connected in a line. It is also known as a line or linear
topology.
What are the advantages of using network?
i. It allows users to share devices
ii. Users can share software
iii. Users can easily share files
iv. Users can easily communicate, e-g through e-mails, facebook, whatsapp etc
What are the disadvantages of using network?
i. There is a danger of hacking
ii. Viruses are easily spread
iii. Information may be lost if the file sever breaks down
iv. Networks are expensive to set up
v. It is complicated to manage a large network, therefore it requires training.

TOPIC 15: THE INTERNET

What is an internet?
Internet is defined differently but has the same meaning:
 The internet is worldwide system of interconnected computers.
 Internet is an interconnection of computers
 Internet is an international network of computers

DEFINITIONS AND MEANINGs OF TERMS AS USED IN NERTWORKING:

 WORLD WIDE WEB (WWW)
- Is a collection of many web pages where information about an organization or site is
written.
- There are many websites (www)
- The internet is a collection of all these websites
 UNIFORM RESOURCE LOCATOR (URL)
- A URL is an address on the internet where information can be found
- It shows where a website is located
- Example of a URL are
- https://www.facebook.com another one is https://www.google.com
 WEB BROWSER
- A web browser is application software that allows you to access web pages.
TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 42
 - Examples of web browsers are: fire fox, internet explorer, opera, safari
 SEARCH ENGINE
- A search engine is software that allows you to search for data and information on the
internet.
- Examples of search engines: Google, yahoo, chrome
The difference between the web browser and search engine:
 A web browser is used to access web pages where as a search engine is used to search for
particular information.
 A web browser is a software program installed on your computer locally, where as a search
engine is also a software program that searches for some particular document when specific
keywords are entered.
 The search engine matches the exact keywords entered against the documents available on the
internet and returns a list of documents in which the keywords were found.
 Another difference is that you use a browser to get a search engine.
 UPLOADING
- Is the process of transferring a file, video or picture from your local computer to the
internet or network
 DOWNLOADING
- Is the process of transferring a file, video or picture from the internet or network to
your local computer.
 ONLINE AND OFFLINE
- Online is using your device when you are connected to the network.
- Offline is using your device when you are not connected to the network.
 STREAMING – using or watching the file or video from the internet before downloading it
 ELECTRONIC MAIL (E-MAIL)
- An e-mail is a message typed on a computer or any internet enabled device and sent
electronically to another computer through the internet.
- To send an email, both the sender and the recipient should have an email address.
- example of an email address: [email protected]
 HOST
- A host is any computer attached to the network.
- A host is also called, workstation or client
Parts of an email address:

[email protected]
i. tolopuhumphrey2017 - is the user name
ii. gmail – domain name
iii. .com – extension
 SIGN UP (CREATE) – is a term used to create an email account
 SIGN IN (LOG IN) – is a term which explains the process of opening your account to use it.
 SIGN OUT (LOG OUT) – is a term used when you want to close your account after using it.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 43

TOPIC 16: MULTIMEDIA
 Multimedia means the combination of two or more media.
 It means using two or more forms of media to communicate and share data/information
 Multimedia software is a software that is able to combine different types of media
 Multimedia is the combination of different media elements

WHAT ARE THE ELEMENTS OF MULTIMEDIA?

• Text, Audio, Graphics, Video, Animation

MULTIMEDIA DEVICES:

 Are devices that are able to show or play multimedia data. Examples include:
- Microphones, Digital cameras, Computers, Speakers, DVD players
- Projectors, Headphones, Home Theatres, TV

LINEAR Vs NON-LINEAR MULTIMEDIA

What is the difference?

 Linear multimedia is a multimedia which is presented in a sequence

 It is a multimedia where information moves or flows in an order
 It is a traditional media which was known as analogue
Examples:
i. Listening to a radio – you can’t do anything to the program, but you will watch or listen
just the way it is presented
ii. Using a power point presentation in a meeting or lesson
iii. Watching a television program
 Non-linear multimedia – is the multimedia that can be presented in any order
Example:
i. Playing a song on your computer
ii. Watching a video on your computer, or on your DVD, you can even pause, fast forward
or rewind. You can even stop it and restart.

WHAT ARE THE USES OF MULTIMEDIA?

 For Education and training

 Used in Simulations
 For Entertainment
 For Gaming and leisure
 For information sharing

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 44

QUESTIONS AND AND ANSWERS:
Answer all the questions (Multiple choice questions)
How to answer the multiple choice questions;
i. First you should know that all the given answers are usually similar and confusing
ii. All the answers sound correct and may be correct in some sense, but always go for the best choice
according to how they are used, as u learnt from the notes and other books.
iii. If you are not sure about the correct one, start by eliminating the obvious wrong ones
iv. Make sure you understand why those other answers are wrong.
v. When you do that, you will remain with the correct answer.
vi. Don’t guess the answers, but understand why they are either wrong or correct.
vii. Consult if you are not sure, but you can’t consult in exam.

SAMPLE MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS FROM PAST PAPERS AND OTHER BOOKS

1. Which of the following statements is correct about the computer program?

A. The input stage of computing that gets data needed
B. The step by step instructions that tell the computer what to do
C. The step by step user manual on how to operate the computer
D. The output stage of computing that outputs data needed
2. The word digital stems from the term?
A. Decimal B. Binary C. Denary D. Hexadecimal
3. The … is a part of the computer which does calculations, searching and sorting of data.
A. Read only memory (ROM) C. Random access memory (RAM)
B. Backing storage Unit (BSU) D. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
4. What term refers to traditional, physical media, such as video and cassette?
A. Digital B. Google C. Multimedia D. Analogue
5. The binary digits 1 and 0 are called…………………
A. bits B. codes C. text D signal
6. Which input device is mainly used to play computer games?
A. Joystick B. Mouse C Scanner D. Digital camera
7. Which computer is the biggest and fastest ……………………?
A. Main frame computer C. Super computer
B. Micro computer D. Mini computer
8. The parts of the computer which displays information to the user are known as?
A. Input B. Storage C. Output D. Processor
9. Which computer memory stores data and programs permanently?
A. Read only memory C. Random access memory
B. Read access memory D. Random only memory
10. Which of the computer parts enable you see the visuals from the computer?
A. Monitor B. Speaker C. Printer D. Keyboard
11. Which of the following home appliances has no microprocessor?
A. Steam pressing iron C. DVD player
B. wrist watch D. Microwave oven

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 45

 12. The processed data obtained from the computer is called…………
A. Data B. Information C. Numbers D. Letters
13. Which of the following is a network of computers that are found in one building?
A. LAN B. PAN C. WAN D. SAN
14. The type of computer which allows a user to input, edit and output audio is a…………………..
A. Multimedia computer C. multi audio computer
B. Music computer D. speaker computer
15. The smallest unit value used by the computer is a ………………
A. Terabyte B. Megabyte C. Kilobyte D. Bit
16. A desktop is an example of ………………….
A. Minicomputer B Super Computer
C Main Frame Computer D Microcomputer
17. ………………………………… is considered to be the father of computers
A Bill Gates B Anatasoff C Charles Kelvin D Charles Babbage
18. Which of the following is both an input and output part?
A Sensor B Monitor C Touch Screen D All the above
19. Pressing the left mouse button, hold and move the mouse is known as……………………………..
A double click B right click C click and drag D clicking
20. The abbreviations USB STANDs for …………………………………..
A universal serial port B universal serial bus
C universal system port D unusual serial bag
21. Which one of the following is a volatile memory?
A HDD B ROM C RAM D CD
22. Which type of storage loses when power is switch of?
A HDD B ROM C RAM D Cache
23. How do we call the law that prevents people from copying and distributing software without
authority?
A copy right B law C product key D pirate
24. Watching a video online before saving it into your computer is an example of ……………………….
A offline B streaming C uploading D downloading
25. Which key on the computer keyboard is used to leave space in a text document?
A. Del B. Caps Lock C. Enter D. Space bar
26. How many bits make a byte?
A. 8 B. 7 C. 6 D. 5
27. How are the pictures found on the desktop of computer screen called?
A. Icons B. Menu C. Mouse D. Scroll buttons
28. Which of the following software will be loaded first to the memory when the computer is
switched on?
A Spreadsheet software C. Word processing software
B. Operating software D. data software
29. The initials ICT stands for?
A. Internet Computer Technology C. International Communication Technology
B. Inter-Computer Technology D. Information Communication Technology

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 46

 30. A…….uses windows, icons, mouse, and pointers (WIMP)
B. Graphical user interface C. Menu-driven interface
C. Command line interface D Natural language interface
31. Which input device is mainly used to play computer games?
B. Joystick B. Mouse C Scanner D. Digital camera
32. The biggest computer in terms of size, and fastest is known……………………
C. Main frame computer C. Super computer
D. Micro computer D. Mini computer
33. RAM stands for?
C. Read access memory C. Random access memory
D. Road access memory D. Read after memory
34. A sound card and a…………….. Lets you get the audio from the computer.
A. Monitor B. Speaker C. Printer D. Keyboard
35. Which one of the following devices has is controlled by a thermostat?
A digital camera B fridge
C washing machine D home theatre
36. A ………………………… is a good example of an application software.
A. Operating software C. Programming language
B. Utility programs D. Word processor
37. Where are computers mainly used?
A. At the Bank B. on the station C. at the market D. home
38. The unprocessed information entered into the computer is called…………
B. Data B. Information C. Numbers D. Letters
39. A location where WI-FI network is found is called…………………………..
A wi-fi B café C hotspot D network
40. An …. Is a small graphical representation on the computer’s desktop which represents a
document
A. Picture B. Icon C. Video D. Folder
41. A desktop and a Laptop are examples of a ……………..
B. Super computer C. Mainframe computer
C. Personal computers D. Family computers
42. A computer system is a …………………..
C. Complete, working computer C. Incomplete computer
D. New computer D. Second hand computer
43. The …………………………..and ----------------- are the two commonly used user interfaces.
A Graphical User Interface and Command Line
B. Natural Language and Command Line
C Natural Language and Graphical User Interface
D Graphical User Interface and Menu-Driven Interface
44. Some of the hazards in an ICT workplace are………………….
A. Malaria B. diarrhea C. eye strain D. HIV/AIDS
43. What is a computer?
A. An electronic device that works on its own
B. The step by step instructions that tell the computer what to do
TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 47
 C. A man made electronic device that works with a set of instructions
D. A machine that can be used to type.
44. To switch on the computer, you press on the ……………………………………………………...button.
A. Control B. delete
C. start menu D. power
45. Which one of the following is an example of a search engine?
A Internet Explorer B Chrome
C Yahoo D Opera
46. A computer is known as a binary machine because it uses……………………………to process data
A electricity B control unit C speed D 0s and 1s
47. The type of network which connects computers in the same building or office block is…..
A SAN B MAN C WAN D LAN
48. Which output device will you use to produce large drawings, banners and billboards?
A printer B projectors C monitor D scanner
49. Which of the following input devices is used to read the black and white lines on products?
A MICR B MCR C Barcode Reader D Scanner
50. When people use computers for a long time, they may lose skills. How do we call this
situation?
A Laziness B Technology C Deskilling D Corruption
51. A ………………………is a malicious program that appears to be a good program, but carries
viruses
A worm B Trojan horse C malware D cracker
52. One of the ways of preventing people from accessing our private information is to ………….
A use updated antivirus B use passwords
C switch off the computer D close the program
53. Which network topology is sometimes known as bus topology?
A ring B star C line D bus
54. …………………………………are output devices that produce sound
A printers B speakers C monitors D Projectors
55. The physical parts of the computer one can see and touch are called…………………………………….
A Physical ware B output C hardware D software

SECTION B – SHORT ANSWERS

• Questions from this section are not asked in order of the topics as you learnt them.
• You are required to use one word or a phrase- a short sentence
• Questions will require logical thinking, so be a quick thinker.
• Some questions may require general understanding.
• You have to read widely for you to be able to answer all the questions from this part.
• Try hard to write correct spellings, because wrong spellings may change the meaning of
your answer, even if it is correct.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 48

NOW LET US TRY THESE QUESTIONS
56. The …………………………………………………….is used to see the computer out.
57. How many bytes make a kilobyte?....................
58. A……………………….. And ……………………………… are two examples of output devices
59. What is a host as used in networking……………………………………………………………
60. Cameras that do not require film and can transfer images and video into the computer
are called………cameras
61. The word topology means ……………………………………………………………………………
62. …………………………………………. Is an example of an application software
63. Data stored in …………………………………can easily be changed and overwritten.
64. One example of a Secondary storage device is ………….………………………………….
65. State three characteristics of the comput………………………………..…………………
66. State three household appliances that contain microprocessors.......………………..
67. A……….……is a malicious program that copies itself and destroys computer files
68. In a word processing program, a line that blinks to indicate where to type is called a ……
69. ………... Is part of the computer which holds data and instructions for processing.
70. State one example of a network topology …………..….……………………………………………….
71. ………………………………………………………………..…………are the physical parts of the computer
72. You have a lot of work to type, how would you prevent the following risks as you use the
computer for a long time:
a) Backache……………………..
b) Eye strain…………………….
c) Restricted blood flow……………………………….
73. The ……………………………………..…………………….is referred to as the brain of the computer
74. State three types of user interfaces apart from the Command Line Interface (CLI) ………
75. Graphical User Interface uses WIMP. What does WIMP stand for…………………………….
76. Which input device is used to capture pictures and video data into the computer? ………
77. One difference between the monitor and the printer is that a ……………………produces
soft copy while a ………………… produces a hard copy as output
78. The storage device mostly used in phones and other handheld devices is a ……………….
79. All the computer parts or peripherals are connected to the main circuit board called …….
80. When all the computers in a network are of the same size and have the same processing
power, the network is called……………………………
81. What is a host as used in networking?.......................................
82. The interconnections of many computers is called the …………………………………………………..
83. In computers, data is stored in the ………………………………form
84. State any two elements of multimedia ……………………………………………………………….
85. Write down three rules to help protect the computers………………………………………………
86. People use ………………………………….to prevent viruses from affecting their computers
87. State one way through which computer viruses may be spread…………………………………
88. ……………….is keeping your data in a distorted form so that it cannot be easily read
89. In the Banking systems, a machine usually mounted on the wall to allow customers to
withdraw their money themselves is called………………………………………………..
90. The initials ATM stands for ………………………………….……………………………………………………
TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 49
 91. The shortcut for selecting or highlighting the whole document is by pressing ………………..
92. The two types of computer output is………………………..and……………………………
93. Two examples of devices controlled by embedded microprocessors used in a home are…
94. Although …………..is not designed for playing games, many people use it to play
computer games.
95. When a computer refuses to respond to commands, it is said to have…………………………….
96. One of the functions of the operating system is to…………………………………………………….
97. The ordering or buying goods using the telephone or direct computer link is known
as……
98. A list of commands from which the user can select the desired command is called……….
99. Software that are designed to perform specific tasks are known as………………………………..
100. The person who operates a computer is referred to as a……………………..……………….

PART C: STRUCTURED QUESTIONS

- Questions in this part usually are from one topic, and they are asked in order.
- When you know the topic from which that particular question is based, analyze the whole topic
to have a wider thought about it.
- Do not limit yourself, because questions from this part will also require application in our daily
lives.
101. The diagram below shows one type of the network topologies used in the connection of
computers.

Computer 1

Computer 2

Computer 5 HUB Computer

Printer
mputer

Computer 4 Computer 3

a) What is the name of this network topology? ......................................................

b) State two other examples of network topologies……… …………………… and ……..………………
102. The pictures below show different hardware devices found on a computer
a) Label the hardware parts A, B, C and D.

A ……………………………… B ……………………….. C………………… D ……………………

b) Which of the labeled parts of this computer is used to process data? ……………………………
103. Melody like using the computer to do most of her work.

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 50

 c) State two advantages of using the computer
d) State three disadvantages of using the computer.
104. The following is a sample of an e-mail address of htolopu.
[email protected]
A B
a. Name parts A and B A…………………………………….…… B………………………………………
c. Give two reasons why some people prefer to send e-mails instead of letters
d. Write two examples of search engines
105. Elias and Veronica have been playing video games all day long on the computer using a
keyboard.
a) State two health problems that Elias and Veronica may face due to the continuous use
of the computer
b) Give one way of preventing each problem you mentioned above
c) State one input device that can be used to play the video games instead of the keyboard
d) State one disadvantage of playing computer games apart from the health related
problems
106. Draw a block diagram to show the four basic components/operations of a computer
system
107. Rosemary was using a computer to do her home work, in the process the computer has
frozen. Write down the procedure or steps that Rosemary will follow to deal with a
computer that has refused to respond to commands(frozen)
108. State two differences between the application software and the system software
109. List down four office equipment that are controlled by embedded microprocessors
110. Explain two ways on how computers are used in the following areas:
a) Education
b) Health
c) Business
d) Entertainment
111. Name any three web browsers
112. Name five keys on the keyboard and explain their functions
113. List three advantages and three disadvantages of using internet
114. Explain the meaning of the following types of networks
WAN, LAN, MAN, SAN
115. Explain the meaning of the following terms:
Host, Streaming, Malware, Deskilling, Hacking, Multimedia

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 51

 116. The diagram below shows the architecture of the computer.

CPU

Stage 1 Memory Stage 2

Storage devices

c) State two example of devices that can be used at stage 1 ………………and………………….

d) State two example of device that can be used at stage 2 …………………… and …………………
e) What is the function of the memory? ………………………………………………………………………………

TOLOPU HUMPHREY Page 52