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PC Support

Uploaded by

joy.kavulunze
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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NAME: JOY KAVULUNZE

REGISTRATION NUMBER: SCT 121-C004-0436/2023


JOMO KENYATTA UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND TECHNOLOGY

YEAR ONE SEMESTER TWO CAT FOR A DIPLOMA IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

DIT 0205: PC SUPPORT

INSTRUCTIONS: Answer All Question DATE: 22/03/2024

CAT
1)a) Discuss three factors that contribute to slow computer
performance. (3 Marks)

1. Clock Speed (CPU) : A faster clock speed means better performance. However, if a CPU is forced to work too quickly
(a process known as overclocking), it may overheat and reduce performance.
2. Hard Disk Space: The amount of available hard disk space affects performance. If your disk is nearly full, it can slow
down read and write operations.
3. RAM (Random Access Memory) Size: Insufficient RAM can lead to slow performance, especially when multitasking
or running memory-intensive applications.

b) Explain the meaning of the following terms:


(i) Trouble shooting (1 Mark)
Refers to the process of identifying and resolving issues or problems with a system, device, or software. (ii)
Installation of an operating system (1 Mark)
Refers to the process of setting up and configuring the core software that manages a computer’s hardware resources and provides
a platform for running applications.
(iii) Peripheral hardware (1 Mark)
Refers to any external device that connects to a computer for input or output.
2a) What is computer Motherboard? List the functions of the following
two components attached to it.(4marks)
The motherboard serves as the central hub that connects various hardware components and facilitates communication between
them.

i) PCI slot
The PCI slot accommodates various expansion cards, such as LAN cards, sound cards, capture cards, and TV
tuner cards.
By adding expansion cards, users can enhance their computer’s capabilities beyond what’s built into the
motherboard.

ii) CMOS battery


If the computer loses external power (e.g., when the PSU is disconnected), the CMOS battery ensures that
date and time settings remain intact.

It preserves settings related to boot order, hardware configurations, and system preferences.

iii) AGP slot


The AGP slot allows the insertion of video cards (graphics cards) dedicated to handling 3D gaming and high-
resolution graphics.

AGP provides faster data transfer rates compared to standard PCI slots, making it ideal for graphics-
intensive tasks.

b) Differentiate between Baby AT and ATX form factors.


(2marks)
As processors became larger, the Baby AT form factor did not allow for sufficient space to accommodate a combination
of processor, heatsink, and fan. While the ATX allowed for better cooling solutions (such as larger heatsinks and fans) and
more expansion slots.

3) Explain the use of the following types of computer ports: (4marks)


i) VGA port
The VGA port connects a computer’s video card (or integrated graphics) to an external display,
typically a monitor or projector.VGA port has fifteen holes in three rows

ii) Ethernet port


The Ethernet port is used for wired network connectivity.

iii) PS/2 port


The PS/2 port was commonly used for connecting keyboard and mouse to older computers.

iv) Firewire port

The FireWire port is used for high-speed data transfer between devices.
4) Preventive maintenance, formatting and partitioning are some of the
common tasks performed by a PC technician. Briefly elaborate on
what each of these practices entails. (3marks)

Preventive maintenance : involves routine, planned maintenance tasks performed on assets and equipment to
reduce the likelihood of failure, minimize unexpected downtime, and optimize their long-term lifespan.

Formatting refers to the process of preparing a storage device by installing sectors and tracks for data storage by
creating a file system and clearing existing data.

Partitioning involves dividing a storage device (usually a hard drive) into separate logical sections or partitions.

5) a) Describe the following terms (4marks)


i) BIOS
The BIOS is a fundamental software component stored in a computer’s read-only memory (ROM) or flash
memory. It plays a critical role during the boot process and system initialization.

ii) POST
The POST is a set of routines executed by the BIOS immediately after the computer is powered on.

b) Differentiate between warm boot and cold boot (2marks)


Warm boot refers to the restarting of the computer while cold boot is the starting a computer that it was initially off

6) Explain each of the following computer risks and an appropriate


solution for each. (3marks)
i) Malware
Refers to any software designed to harm, disrupt and compromise computer systems,data or privacy.An example of
the malware is the Ransomware and the Trojan Horses

iii) Spyware
Is a type of malware that secretly collects information about a user’s online activities without their knowledge or
consent.An example of the spyware is the Key loggers

iv) Virus
Refers to a self-replicating program that attaches itself to other legitimate programs or files. It spreads by infecting
new files or disks.

7) Define the following terms and give two examples for each case:
(i) RAM (1 Mark)
RAM is a type of volatile memory in computing that temporarily stores and provides swift access to
data.An example of the RAM is the D-DRAM
ii) Processor (1 Mark)
The processor (CPU) is the entire brains of a computer. It carries out program functions, computes data
from input, and manages other system components like memory, peripherals, and display output.An
example of the processor is the intel core and the AMD processors

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