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NAME:…………………………………………….
Computer Studies
FORM 2,
2 HOURS.
Answer all questions in this paper in the spaces provided.
SECTION I (70 MARKS)
1. A computer is a machine, which can process data to produce information. Explain why this definition is not
complete. (1 mk)
2. Outline six characteristics of a computer. (6 mks)
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3. List five functions of a computer. (5 mks)
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4. Describe two advantages and two disadvantages of using computers. (4 mks)
Advantages
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Disadvantages
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5. State any three differences between a computer and a mobile phone. (3 mks)
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6. Describe briefly the following data access methods:
Sequential Access. (2 mks)
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Sequential Access. (2 mks)
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7. a) Which generation does the microcomputer belong to? (1 mk)
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b) Write a short note on 5th generation computers. (3 mks)
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8. What is an IC? How does it help in reducing the size of a computer? (3 mks)
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9. State two advantages and two disadvantages of using scanners as input devices.
(4 mks)
Advantages
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Disadvantages
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10. a) How can a CRT be used as an input device? (1 mk)
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b) State one application of each of the following input devices:
i). MICR
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ii). OCR
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iii). Light pen
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iv). Barcodes
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v). Magnetic stripes (5 mks)
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11. a) Calculate the actual value of 1(one) megabyte in terms of bytes. (2 mks)
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b) A hard disc contains a disk-pack of 6 double-sided magnetic disks. If each disk has 40 tracks with 512
bytes per sector and 10 sectors per track, what is the capacity of the hard disk? (3 mks)
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12. Define the following terms:
a) Program counter (2 mks)
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b) Buffer memory (2 mks)
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c) Cache memory (2 mks)
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d) Hard copy (1 mk)
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e) Soft copy (1 mk)
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13. Which type of display is used in electronic calculators, digital watches, and laptop computers? (1 mk)
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14. a) Name four methods of outputting information from a computer. (2 mks)
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b) Describe three uses of COM. (6 MKS)
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c) Outline any three factors you would consider when selecting a printer. (3 mks)
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15. a) What is back-up storage? (2 mks)
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b) State any two advantages and two disadvantages of secondary storage devices.
(4 mks)
Advantages
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Disadvantages
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SECTION B (30 MKS)
16. a) List five advantages of using a laser printer over a dot matrix printer. (5 mks)
b) An ATM is a specialized form of an input device normally used for automatic
payment. List four advantages and four disadvantages of using ATMs.
Advantages (4 mks)
Disadvantages (4 mks)
c) Given that one character occupies a space equivalent to one byte of memory, how
many bits will the statement below produce?
“I AM A FORM ONE STUDENT TAKING COMPUTER STUDIES AS AN OPTION”
(2 mks)
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17. a) Define:
i). Computer software (1 mk)
ii). Operating system (2 mks)
b) Name the two categories into which computer software is broadly categorized.
(2 mks)
c) Briefly describe the two types of operating systems that you know. (4 mks)
d) Outline any three reasons why operating systems were developed. (3 mks)
e) State any three functions of an operating system. (3 mks)