Introduction to Computer Systems
Suggested Answers to Exam-style Questions:
Introduction to Computer Systems
1. Name three things which are contained on the motherboard of
a computer. (3 marks)
CPU, RAM and ROM – 1 mark for each correct answer
2. Explain what the four main sections of a computer are, and
what they do. (8 marks)
• Inputs – These are the raw data which are added to
the computer system (1 mark). Examples include
keystrokes and clicks on a mouse (1 mark).
• Processing – This refers to the method by which the
computer converts the raw inputs into outputs
(1 mark). The CPU tends to run most of the main
processing tasks in the computer (1 mark).
• Output – This refers to the information that comes
out of the computer (1 mark). One of the most common
types of outputs is the graphical data which is seen on
the computer monitor, but outputs can also be printbased or audio (1 mark).
• Storage – This refers to the devices connected to a
computer which are able to store data (1 mark).
The storage device can be Read Only (like CD-ROMS)
which can be modified easily; or it can be RAM (which
stores data which can be erased and rewritten) (1
mark).
3. Explain the following terms and provide an example of each
type:
a) Batch processing – This refers to when a computer
system does a large chunk of its processing at a set
time (1 mark). A common batch processing task is to
backup all the newly created data onto a suitable
storage medium (1 mark).
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Introduction to Computer Systems
b) Real time processing – This refers to processing
within a realistic useable period of time (1 mark).
For example, when booking a cinema seat online, this
would need to be done extremely fast (5–30 seconds)
or you would begin to lose interest (1 mark).
c) Transaction processing – This refers to a type of
processing where one large process is made up of
different minor processes (1 mark). For example, when
buying something at an EPOS point, the entire process
will only go ahead if all the minor stages are completed
correctly (e.g. chip read correctly, etc) (1 mark).
d) Interactive processing – This refers to processing
which is constantly occurring (1 mark). For example,
online games where data is being sent and received
continually (1 mark).
4. Name the following components in a computer system.
a) A circuit board which connects most of the other devices on
a computer – Motherboard (1 mark).
b) It takes digital data from the computer system and turns it
into visible images – Graphics card (1 mark).
c) It turns digital computer data into analogue audio signals –
Sound card (1 mark).
5. Match the following devices with the word that best describes
their function e.g. keyboard equals input. You can use
words more than once.
a) Hard disk = Storage (1 mark).
b) Mouse = Input (1 mark).
c) Mobile telephone = Communications (1 mark).
d) Printer = Output (1 mark).
e) Modem = Communications (1 mark).
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Introduction to Computer Systems
6. Outline one advantage and one disadvantage of each of the
following types of input devices:
a. Manual – Advantage: Manual input devices offer users
control over data, allowing them to use their skills and
hand-eye coordination (e.g. digital design) (1 mark).
Disadvantage: Manual inputs require a human to be
present, which can be expensive and tiring for more
mundane tasks like data entry (1 mark).
b. Automatic – Advantage: Automatic data capture
devices collect the data automatically and feed it
straight into a computer. This tends to cut down on
errors and speeds up the process (1 mark).
Disadvantage – The technology can be expensive, so
the efficiency savings have to outweigh the costs (1
mark).
c. Wireless – Advantage: A wireless graphics tablet can
be passed around a classroom so that pupils can take
turns writing on the whiteboard (1 mark).
Disadvantage: The wireless signal may be broken due
to poor reception (1 mark).
7. Match each of the following input devices with two of the
statements shown in the table below.
a) OCR – Statements 1 and 2 (2 marks).
b) OMR – Statements 4 and 5 (2 marks).
c) MICR – Statements 3 and 6 (2 marks).
8. Match each of the following memory types with one of the
statements shown below.
a) ROM = Non-volatile memory (1 mark).
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Introduction to Computer Systems
b) RAM = Volatile memory (1 mark).
c) Cache = Temporary storage used by a computer for
fast retrieval of data (1 mark).
9. Match each of the following software types with one of the
statements shown below.
a) Operating system = Statement 2 (1 mark).
b) Application software = Statement 3 (1 mark).
c) Utilities software = Statement 4 (1 mark).
d) Programming software = Statement 1 (1 mark).
10. Describe the main characteristics of the following types of
software licence:
a) Site licence – A site licence allows users to run as
many copies as they want as long as they are on the
same site (2 marks).
b) Software lease – Businesses can pay a low fee,
normally annually, which allows them full access to the
software they require. They never actually own the
software but are entitled to receive upgraded versions
as long as they are paying the licence fee (3 marks).
11. Describe one benefit of each the following types of software:
a) Hosted software – IT support available from the
hosting company (1 mark).
b) Locally installed software – Not affected by network or
Internet connectivity (1 mark).
12. Provide a definition of application software, and provide
three examples of this type of software. (4 marks)
Definition of application software – Application software
allows users to carry out tasks (1 mark). Three examples
– Web design, graphics, database (1 mark each).
Total marks available on this worksheet = 56 marks
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