Assignment 1 Solution
Q1- A scanner works by shining light on a document and using sensors to capture
the reflected image, which is converted into digital data. In a computer lab, the
document is placed on the scanner bed, scanned via software, and saved in desired
formats like PDF (for text) or JPG (for images).
Procedure: Working of a Scanner in a Computer Lab
1. Switch on the computer and the scanner.
2. Place the document face down on the scanner bed.
3. Open the scanning software (e.g., Windows Fax and Scan, or scanner
utility).
4. Select Scan Option – choose color/black & white, resolution, and page size.
5. Preview the scan (optional) and adjust the area if needed.
6. Click Scan – the document will be digitized.
7. Save the scanned file by choosing the required format:
o PDF → for text documents.
o JPG/PNG → for images/photos.
o TIFF → for high-quality archival storage.
8. Check the saved file in the chosen location (Desktop, Documents, etc.).
Q2- Testing and Verifying the Functionality of Output Devices
Output devices are used to display or produce the results of computer processing.
To ensure they work properly, we need to test them using sample files and verify
their performance.
1. Monitor (Visual Display Unit):
Display a sample text or image file.
Check for clarity, resolution, brightness, and color accuracy.
Ensure there are no flickers, dead pixels, or distortions.
Adjust display settings if needed.
2. Printer (Inkjet/Laser):
Send a test print (available in printer settings) or print a sample document.
Verify alignment, clarity of text, and accuracy of colors.
Check paper feed, ink/toner levels, and connectivity (USB, Wi-Fi).
Ensure no paper jams or smudges occur.
3. Plotter (for Large Drawings):
Send a sample CAD drawing or graph to the plotter.
Verify that lines, curves, and dimensions match the file accurately.
Ensure smooth pen/cutter movement without misalignment.
Check quality of output for large-scale printing.
Q3- In a computer lab, MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) and OMR
(Optical Mark Recognition) devices are used as specialized input tools to read
data quickly and accurately.
Using MICR:
To use a MICR device, a document such as a bank cheque is placed into the MICR
reader. The device uses a magnetic field to detect characters printed with special
magnetic ink at the bottom of the cheque. These characters represent information
such as bank code, cheque number, and account details. The MICR reader converts
the magnetic signals into digital data, which is then transmitted to the computer
system for processing and storage in databases. This ensures secure and error-free
transaction handling.
Using OMR:
For OMR, specially designed forms such as multiple-choice answer sheets are
used. The candidate fills bubbles with a dark pencil or pen. The OMR device scans
the sheet using light sensors, detecting the presence or absence of marks in
predefined positions. The detected data is converted into digital format and stored
in the computer for evaluation or analysis.
Conclusion:
Both MICR and OMR devices automate data entry by reading specialized inputs—
MICR for magnetic characters and OMR for marked responses—ensuring fast,
accurate, and reliable transfer of information into computer systems.
Q4- In a computer lab, the performance of magnetic storage devices, optical
storage devices, and flash memory can be compared by saving and retrieving a
sample file across each device and observing speed, reliability, and ease of use.
1. Magnetic Storage (e.g., Hard Disk Drive, HDD):
A text or image file is saved on the HDD. The time taken to write the file and later
retrieve it is measured. HDDs generally provide large storage capacity at low cost
but are slower due to mechanical parts.
2. Optical Storage (e.g., CD, DVD, Blu-ray):
The same file is burned onto a CD/DVD using optical writing software. Retrieval
is tested by reading the file back from the disc. Optical devices are reliable for
distribution but have slower read/write speeds and limited storage capacity
compared to HDDs and flash.
3. Flash Memory (e.g., USB Drive, SSD):
The file is copied to a USB flash drive or SSD. Saving and retrieval are very fast
because flash memory uses electronic circuits with no moving parts. It is portable,
durable, and energy-efficient.
Conclusion:
By saving and retrieving the same file, we observe that flash memory offers the
fastest performance, HDDs provide higher capacity at moderate speed, and optical
devices are slower with limited usage today.
Q5- In a computer lab, both barcode readers and digital cameras function as
input devices to capture and transfer data into a computer system for processing
and storage.
1. Barcode Reader:
A barcode reader uses a laser or LED light to scan printed barcodes, which
represent data in black-and-white lines. In the lab, the reader is connected to the
computer via USB or wireless interface. When a barcode is scanned, the reflected
light is converted into electrical signals, which are then decoded into numeric or
alphanumeric data. This data is automatically entered into the computer, often
appearing in applications such as inventory software or databases.
2. Digital Camera:
A digital camera captures images or videos and stores them on internal memory or
a memory card. In the lab, the camera is connected to the computer using a USB
cable, memory card reader, or wireless transfer. The stored media files are then
imported into the computer using file explorer or photo management software.
These files can be edited, stored, or analyzed depending on the application.
Conclusion:
Barcode readers provide fast, accurate data entry, while digital cameras allow
visual data capture. Both devices enhance the lab environment by offering efficient
methods of input and seamless transfer of data to computer systems.
