Computer Theory – 40 questions

1. History, Evolution, and Generation of Computers

2. Hardware, Software, Peripheral Devices

3. Algorithm, Flowchart, and Number System

4. Database Management System

5. Office System and Procedure, the need for office automation

6. Graphic User Interface, Electronic Data Interchange

7. Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)

8. Computer Networks

9. LAN, MAN, WAN

10. Working with Internet,

11. Uses of the internet, Search Engines, e-mail, e-commerce, e-banking and e-learning

12. Artificial Intelligence

13. Truth Tables

14. Laws of Boolean Algebra

15. Data Structures

1. History, Evolution, and Generation of Computers

When we study the many aspects of computing and computers, it is important to know about

the history of computers. Charles Babbage designed an Analytical Engine which was a

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general computer It helps us understand the growth and progress of technology through the

times.

What is a computer?

A computer is an electronic machine that collects information, stores it, processes it according

to user instructions, and then returns the result.

A computer is a programmable electronic device that performs arithmetic and logical

operations automatically using a set of instructions provided by the user.

Early Computing Devices

People used sticks, stones, and bones as counting tools before computers were invented. More

computing devices were produced as technology advanced and the human intellect improved

over time. Let us look at a few of the early-age computing devices used by mankind.

1. Abacus

Abacus was invented by the Chinese around 4000 years ago. It’s a wooden rack with metal

rods with beads attached to them. The abacus operator moves the beads according to certain

guidelines to complete arithmetic computations.

2. Napier’s Bone

John Napier devised Napier’s Bones, a manually operated calculating apparatus. For

calculating, this instrument used 9 separate ivory strips (bones) marked with numerals to

multiply and divide. It was also the first machine to calculate using the decimal point system.

3. Pascaline

Pascaline was invented in 1642 by Biaise Pascal, a French mathematician and philosopher. It

is thought to be the first mechanical and automated calculator. It was a wooden box with gears

and wheels inside.

4. Stepped Reckoner or Leibniz wheel

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In 1673, a German mathematician-philosopher named Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz improved on

Pascal’s invention to create this apparatus. It was a digital mechanical calculator known as the

stepped reckoner because it used fluted drums instead of gears.

5. Difference Engine

In the early 1820s, Charles Babbage created the Difference Engine. It was a mechanical

computer that could do basic computations. It was a steam-powered calculating machine used

to solve numerical tables such as logarithmic tables.

6. Analytical Engine

Charles Babbage created another calculating machine, the Analytical Engine, in 1830. It was a

mechanical computer that took input from punch cards. It was capable of solving any

mathematical problem and storing data in an indefinite memory.

7. Tabulating machine

An American Statistician – Herman Hollerith invented this machine in the year 1890.

Tabulating Machine was a punch card-based mechanical tabulator. It could compute statistics

and record or sort data or information. Hollerith began manufacturing these machines in his

company, which ultimately became International Business Machines (IBM) in 1924.

8. Differential Analyzer

Vannevar Bush introduced the first electrical computer, the Differential Analyzer, in 1930.

This machine is made up of vacuum tubes that switch electrical impulses in order to do

calculations. It was capable of performing 25 calculations in a matter of minutes.

9. Mark I

Howard Aiken planned to build a machine in 1937 that could conduct massive calculations or

calculations using enormous numbers. The Mark I computer was constructed in 1944 as a

collaboration between IBM and Harvard.

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History of Computers Generation

The word ‘computer’ has a very interesting origin. It was first used in the 16th century for a

person who used to compute, i.e. do calculations. The word was used in the same sense as a

noun until the 20th century. Women were hired as human computers to carry out all forms of

calculations and computations.

By the last part of the 19th century, the word was also used to describe machines that did

calculations. The modern-day use of the word is generally to describe programmable digital

devices that run on electricity.

Early History of Computer

Since the evolution of humans, devices have been used for calculations for thousands of years.

One of the earliest and most well-known devices was an abacus. Then in 1822, the father of

computers, Charles Babbage began developing what would be the first mechanical computer.

And then in 1833 he actually designed an Analytical Engine which was a general-purpose

computer. It contained an ALU, some basic flow chart principles and the concept of integrated

memory.

Then more than a century later in the history of computers, we got our first electronic

computer for general purpose. It was the ENIAC, which stands for Electronic Numerical

Integrator and Computer. The inventors of this computer were John W. Mauchly and J.Presper

Eckert.
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And with times the technology developed and the computers got smaller and the processing

got faster. We got our first laptop in 1981 and it was introduced by Adam Osborne and

EPSON.

Generations of Computers

In the history of computers, we often refer to the advancements of modern computers as

the generation of computers. We are currently on the fifth generation of computers. So let us

look at the important features of these five generations of computers.

 1st Generation: This was from the period of 1940 to 1955. This was when machine

language was developed for the use of computers. They used vacuum tubes for the

circuitry. For the purpose of memory, they used magnetic drums. These machines were

complicated, large, and expensive. They were mostly reliant on batch operating systems

and punch cards. As output and input devices, magnetic tape and paper tape were

implemented. For example, ENIAC, UNIVAC-1, EDVAC, and so on.

 2nd Generation: The years 1957-1963 were referred to as the “second generation of

computers” at the time. In second-generation computers, COBOL and FORTRAN are

employed as assembly languages and programming languages. Here they advanced

from vacuum tubes to transistors. This made the computers smaller, faster and more

energy-efficient. And they advanced from binary to assembly languages. For instance,

IBM 1620, IBM 7094, CDC 1604, CDC 3600, and so forth.

 3rd Generation: The hallmark of this period (1964-1971) was the development of the

integrated circuit. A single integrated circuit (IC) is made up of many transistors, which

increases the power of a computer while simultaneously lowering its cost. These

computers were quicker, smaller, more reliable, and less expensive than their

predecessors. High-level programming languages such as FORTRON-II to IV, COBOL,

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 and PASCAL PL/1 were utilized. For example, the IBM-360 series, the Honeywell-

6000 series, and the IBM-370/168.

 4th Generation: The invention of the microprocessors brought along the fourth

generation of computers. The years 1971-1980 were dominated by fourth generation

computers. C, C++ and Java were the programming languages utilized in this

generation of computers. For instance, the STAR 1000, PDP 11, CRAY-1, CRAY-X-MP,

and Apple II. This was when we started producing computers for home use.

 5th Generation: These computers have been utilized since 1980 and continue to be

used now. This is the present and the future of the computer world. The defining aspect

of this generation is artificial intelligence. The use of parallel processing and

superconductors are making this a reality and provide a lot of scope for the future. Fifth-

generation computers use ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration) technology. These are

the most recent and sophisticated computers. C, C++, Java,.Net, and more programming

languages are used. For instance, IBM, Pentium, Desktop, Laptop, Notebook,

Ultrabook, and so on.

Types of Computers

1. Analog Computers – Analog computers are built with various components such as

gears and levers, with no electrical components. One advantage of analogue

computation is that designing and building an analogue computer to tackle a specific

problem can be quite straightforward.

2. Digital Computers – Information in digital computers is represented in discrete form,

typically as sequences of 0s and 1s (binary digits, or bits). A digital computer is a

system or gadget that can process any type of information in a matter of seconds.

Digital computers are categorized into many different types. They are as follows:

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a. Mainframe computers – It is a computer that is generally utilized by large

enterprises for mission-critical activities such as massive data processing.

Mainframe computers were distinguished by massive storage capacities, quick

components, and powerful computational capabilities. Because they were

complicated systems, they were managed by a team of systems programmers who

had sole access to the computer. These machines are now referred to as servers

rather than mainframes.

b. Supercomputers – The most powerful computers to date are commonly referred

to as supercomputers. Supercomputers are enormous systems that are purpose-

built to solve complicated scientific and industrial problems. Quantum

mechanics, weather forecasting, oil and gas exploration, molecular modelling,

physical simulations, aerodynamics, nuclear fusion research, and cryptoanalysis

are all done on supercomputers.

c. Minicomputers – A minicomputer is a type of computer that has many of the

same features and capabilities as a larger computer but is smaller in size.

Minicomputers, which were relatively small and affordable, were often employed

in a single department of an organization and were often dedicated to a specific

task or shared by a small group.

d. Microcomputers – A microcomputer is a small computer that is based on a

microprocessor integrated circuit, often known as a chip. A microcomputer is a

system that incorporates at a minimum a microprocessor, program memory, data

memory, and input-output system (I/O). A microcomputer is now commonly

referred to as a personal computer (PC).

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 e. Embedded processors – These are miniature computers that control electrical

and mechanical processes with basic microprocessors. Embedded processors are

often simple in design, have limited processing capability and I/O capabilities,

and need little power. Ordinary microprocessors and microcontrollers are the two

primary types of embedded processors. Embedded processors are employed in

systems that do not require the computing capability of traditional devices such

as desktop computers, laptop computers, or workstations.

FAQs on History of Computers

Q: The principle of modern computers was proposed by ____

A. Steve Jobs

B. Adam Osborne

C. Alan Turing

D. Charles Babbage

Ans: The correct answer is C.

Q: Who introduced the first computer from home use in 1981?

A. IBM

B. Apple

C. Microsoft

D. Sun Technology

Ans: Answer is A. IBM made the first home-use personal computer.

Q: Third-generation computers used which programming language?

A. Java

B. Machine language

C. FORTRAN

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 D. C and C++

Ans: The correct option is C.

2. Hardware, Software, Peripheral Devices

https://testbook.com/blog/basic-computer-hardware-notes-pdf/

3. Algorithm, Flowchart, and Number System

Algorithm Vs. Flowchart

Algorithms and flowcharts are different mechanisms used for designing different programs,

particularly in computer programming. An algorithm is a step-by-step summary of the

procedure, while on the other hand, a flowchart illustrates the steps of a program graphically.

What is an Algorithm?

An algorithm is a procedure or set of rules that defines how a program is to be executed. Or

we can say that it is a set of instructions for solving a well-defined computational problem.

What is a Flowchart?

A flowchart is a graphical representation of the steps a program takes to process data. In this,

we can use several geometric patterns to illustrate the numerous actions the program carries

out.

With the help of the flowchart, the designer can efficiently segregate the various elements of

the process. Also, it facilitates the analysis by giving step-by-step instructions on the problem.

Difference Between Algorithm And Flowchart

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Parameters Flowchart Algorithm

Description A flowchart is a graphical An algorithm is a procedure or

representation of the steps a set of rules that defines how a

program takes to process data. program is to be executed. Or

In this, we can use several we can say that it is a set of

geometric patterns to illustrate instructions for solving a well-

the numerous actions the defined computational problem.

program carries out.

Complexity It is easy to design and also very It is comparatively difficult to

user friendly. create and also a bit challenging

to be understood by a layman.

Geometrical It utilizes different types of An algorithm does not include

diagrams geometrical shapes, symbols, any sort of geometrical pattern.

and patterns.

Scope of Usage A flowchart can be used in Algorithms are used in the

different disciplines to describe domain of mathematics and

a process. computer science.

Use A flowchart is used in An algorithm is used to

documenting, designing, and represent the concept of

analyzing a program in different decidability.

disciplines.

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 Users A Flowchart doesn’t demand the An algorithm demands the

knowledge of a computer knowledge of a computer

programming language. programming language.

Debugging It is easy to debug the errors in It is difficult to debug the errors

flowcharts. in algorithms.

Implementation In flowcharts, no rules are used. In algorithms, predefined rules

are used.

Branching and Simple to display branching and Hard to display branching and

Looping looping. looping.

Solution In a flowchart, the solution is In an algorithm, the solution is

represented in a graphical presented in non non-computer

format. language.

Algorithm

An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure or formula for solving a problem. It consists of a

finite set of instructions that, when followed, accomplish a particular task. Algorithms are

fundamental to computer science and programming.

Example: An algorithm to find the largest number in a list:

1. Start.

2. Initialize the largest number as the first number in the list.

3. Compare each number in the list with the largest number.

5. Continue until all numbers are checked.

6. Output the largest number.

7. End.

Flowchart

A flowchart is a graphical representation of an algorithm. It uses various symbols to denote

different types of actions or steps in a process, connected by arrows to show the flow of the

process.

Common Symbols:

 Oval: Start/End

 Rectangle: Process/Instruction

 Parallelogram: Input/Output

 Diamond: Decision

 Arrow: Flow of control

Example: Flowchart to find the largest number in a list:

(Start) --> [Initialize largest number] --> [Compare with next number] --> {Is it larger?} -->

[Update largest number] --> [Continue] --> (End)

Number System

A number system is a writing system for expressing numbers. It defines a set of values used

to represent quantity. The most common number systems are:

1. Decimal (Base 10): Uses digits 0-9. Example: 123.

2. Binary (Base 2): Uses digits 0 and 1. Example: 1011.

3. Octal (Base 8): Uses digits 0-7. Example: 57.

4. Hexadecimal (Base 16): Uses digits 0-9 and letters A-F. Example: 1A3.

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Conversions:

 Binary to Decimal: Multiply each bit by 2 raised to the power of its position and sum

the results.

 Decimal to Binary: Divide the number by 2 and record the remainder.

4. Database Management System

A Database Management System (DBMS) is software designed to store, manage, and retrieve

data efficiently and securely. Here’s a detailed look at its key components and functions:

Key Components of a DBMS

 Data: The actual information stored in the database, which can include text, numbers,

dates, and more.

 Database: An organized collection of data that is managed by the DBMS.

 Schema: The blueprint of the database, defining how data is organized and how

relationships among data are structured.

 Database Engine: The core software component that interacts with the data, users, and

query processor.

Functions of a DBMS

1. Data Storage: Efficiently stores large amounts of data.

2. Data Retrieval: Allows users to query the database to retrieve specific data.

3. Data Manipulation: Supports operations like inserting, updating, and deleting data.

4. Data Security: Ensures that data is protected from unauthorized access.

5. Data Integrity: Maintains accuracy and consistency of data over its lifecycle.

6. Concurrency Control: Manages simultaneous data access by multiple users.

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Types of DBMS

 Hierarchical DBMS: Data is organized in a tree-like structure.

 Network DBMS: Data is organized in a graph, allowing many-to-many relationships.

 Relational DBMS (RDBMS): Data is organized in tables (relations), which are linked

by keys. Examples include MySQL, Oracle, and PostgreSQL.

 Object-oriented DBMS (OODBMS): Data is stored in objects, similar to object-oriented

programming.

Advantages of DBMS

7. Improved Data Sharing: Multiple users can access the database simultaneously.

8. Enhanced Data Security: Provides robust security measures to protect data.

9. Reduced Data Redundancy: Minimizes duplication of data.

10. Data Consistency: Ensures that data remains consistent across the database.

Disadvantages of DBMS

11. Complexity: Can be complex to design and manage.

12. Cost: May require significant investment in hardware, software, and training.

13. Performance: Can be slower than simpler file-based systems for certain tasks.

Popular DBMS Software

 MySQL: Open-source RDBMS widely used for web applications.

 Oracle: Comprehensive RDBMS is known for its robustness and scalability.

 MongoDB: NoSQL database is known for its flexibility and scalability.

 Microsoft SQL Server: RDBMS developed by Microsoft, widely used in enterprise

environments.

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 5. Office System and Procedure, the need for office automation

Office System and Procedure

Office systems and procedures refer to the structured methods and processes used to manage

office tasks and operations efficiently. These include:

1. Document Management: Organizing, storing, and retrieving documents.

2. Communication: Internal and external communication protocols.

3. Scheduling: Managing appointments, meetings, and deadlines.

4. Data Management: Collecting, storing, and analyzing data.

5. Workflow Management: Streamlining tasks and processes to ensure smooth operations.

Need for Office Automation

Office automation involves using technology to automate routine office tasks, enhancing

efficiency and productivity. Here are some key reasons why office automation is essential:

1. Increased Efficiency: Automating repetitive tasks saves time and reduces errors,

allowing employees to focus on more strategic activities.

2. Cost Savings: Reducing manual labor and errors leads to significant cost savings.

3. Improved Data Management: Automation systems can handle large volumes of data

efficiently, ensuring accurate and timely information retrieval.

4. Enhanced Communication: Automated systems streamline communication within teams

and with clients, improving collaboration and decision-making.

5. Better Resource Management: Automation helps in optimal allocation and utilization of

resources, leading to better productivity.

Benefits of Office Automation

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• Time Savings: Automating tasks like data entry, scheduling, and document management

frees up time for more critical tasks.

• Error Reduction: Automation minimizes human errors, ensuring higher accuracy in

tasks.

• Consistency: Automated processes ensure consistent quality and performance.

• Scalability: Automation systems can easily scale with the growth of the business.

• Employee Satisfaction: By reducing mundane tasks, employees can engage in more

meaningful work, leading to higher job satisfaction.

Examples of Office Automation Tools

• Document Management Systems: Tools like Microsoft SharePoint and Google Drive.

• Communication Tools: Platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams.

• Scheduling Software: Tools like Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook.

• Data Management Systems: Databases like MySQL and Oracle.

• Workflow Automation: Tools like Zapier and Microsoft Power Automate.

Office automation is not just about replacing human effort with machines; it’s about

optimizing how businesses function, freeing up valuable time and resources, and facilitating a

smarter, more efficient way of working.

6. Graphic User Interface, Electronic Data Interchange

A Graphical User Interface (GUI) is a visual way of interacting with a computer or electronic

device using graphical elements like icons, buttons, and menus. GUIs make it easier for users

to interact with software without needing to know complex commands.

Key Features of GUIs:

• Icons: Small pictures representing programs, files, or functions.

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• Windows: Rectangular areas that display information or allow user interaction.

• Menus: Lists of options or commands that users can select.

• Buttons: Clickable elements that perform specific actions.

• Pointers/Cursors: Indicators controlled by a mouse or touchpad to interact with

elements on the screen.

Examples:

• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux (with desktop environments like GNOME

or KDE).

• Applications: Web browsers, word processors, and graphic design software.

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) is the electronic exchange of business documents between

organizations in a standardized format. EDI replaces traditional paper-based documents like

purchase orders and invoices, streamlining business processes and reducing errors.

How EDI Works:

1. Document Preparation: Business documents are converted into a standard EDI format.

2. Transmission: Documents are transmitted electronically between trading partners using

secure protocols.

3. Processing: The receiving system processes the EDI documents automatically, updating

relevant databases and systems.

Benefits of EDI:

• Efficiency: Speeds up the exchange of information, reducing processing time.

• Accuracy: Minimizes errors associated with manual data entry.

• Cost Savings: Reduces costs related to paper, printing, and postage.

• Security: Ensures secure transmission of sensitive information.

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Common EDI Standards:

• ANSI X12: Widely used in North America.

• EDIFACT: International standard used in many industries.

• ODETTE: Used in the European automotive industry.

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