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FUNDAMENTALS OF IT Flashcards

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1
Q

What are five input devices?

A

Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Controller and Microphone

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2
Q

What are five output devices?

A

Alarm, Headphones, Light, Projector and speakers

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3
Q

What is the definition of an input device?

A

An input devices allows data to be entered into a computer system

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4
Q

What is the definition of an output device?

A

It is where outputs are created by a computer for example a printed document

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5
Q

What is a biometric devices?

A

A biometric device uses human characteristics as security.

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6
Q

What are the advantages and disadvantages of biometric devices?

A

Advantages:
Security is improved and can be shared like passwords
A biometric scanner can prove someone is who they say they are
Disadvantages:
Can be very costly to install
It can be effected by the environment. For example, if you were using biometrics in the dark

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7
Q

What is a processor?

A

The processors job is to mange the functions of the computer system by processing the data and instructions. The primary processor is the CPU (Central Processing Unit)

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8
Q

What is a motherboard?

A

The motherboard is the main circuit of the computer. The CPU and the ROM are both connected to this. It also contains a PCI slots for expansion cards and ports for external devices

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9
Q

What is the power supply unit?

A

The power supply unit converts electric from the AC (alternative current) from the main supply to the DC (direct current) which a computer system can then use.. The PSU for the desktop computers is internal and the wireless portable devices require external chargers.

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10
Q

What is volatile storage?

A

Volatile storage means that it is temporary. It is lost when the device is turned off.

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11
Q

What is non volatile storage?

A

Non-volatile storage can be accessed over a long period of time. It also saves data when the device isn’t on.

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12
Q

What is the RAM?

A

RAM is volatile storage. It stores programmes that are currently running. It also stores parts of the operating system that gets accessed by the CPU. The RAM is made up of different storage locations. Each of these can be assessed by a unique code. RAM stands for Random Assess Memory.

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13
Q

What is the ROM?

A

The ROM is non-volatile storage. This storage can’t be changed. The ROM stores the boot program/ BIOS. This is for when the computer gets turned on. The BIOS then loads up the operating system.

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14
Q

What is the cache memory?

A

Cache memory is volatile storage. Its stores data that is accessed frequently. This is quick to access as this is closer to the CPU than the RAM.

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15
Q

What is magnetic storage?

A

A hard magnetic disk drive is the most common when it comes to secondary storage. A read/write head moves nanometres above the disk platter and uses the magnetic field of the platter to read or edit data. The advantage of this type of secondary storage is that it is quick to access. A negative is that isn’t very portable and moving this type of device can damage it.

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16
Q

What is optical storage?

A

Optical storage uses a laser to project beams of light on a disc to read what’s on it. The negative of this is that the discs can only hold a limited amount of storage. The positive of this is that discs are very portable

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17
Q

What is solid state storage?

A

There are no moving parts in solid storage. SSDs are replacing HDDs. This is because it is faster and uses less energy. They are usually very durable but they could snap.

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18
Q

What is Cloud storage?

A

This is where you store data on a large severs owned by a hosting company. It is free depending on how much storage you use. The advantage of this is that you can store lots of data and if you reach the limit that is allowed by the company you can upgrade to get more space. The disadvantage is that if you have a bad internet connection it won’t be easy to get your data bad.

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19
Q

What are the differences on the two storage protocols?

A

Small Computer System Interface is a protocol for attaching external devices to a computer system (SCSI).

Serial Attached System also known as (SAS) is an improved version of SCSI that allows up to 28 external devices to be connected at the same time to a computer system

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20
Q

What are expansion cards?

A

Expansion cards have a specific purpose and are connected to the motherboard.

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21
Q

What is a graphics card?

A

It processes graphical data and converts it to a displayable output on a monitor

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22
Q

What is a sound card?

A

It coverts sound waves into digital data when sound is been inputted through a microphone. They also convert digital data into analogue sound waves to output audio through to speakers.

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23
Q

What is a network interface card?

A

It allows computers to connect to a network and transfer data to other computers. It is often is shortened to an NIC. This is a piece of internal hardware that a computer needs for it to connect to a network. It used to be a separate expansion card but it is now built into the motherboard.

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24
Q

What is a fibre channel card?

A

Fibre channel cards transfers data across a network. Fibre channel allows for quick transfer speeds. The primary use for this is so that it can connect large data storage to servers in large data centres

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25
What is a storage controller card?
This is required for the computer to manage and use any attached storage devices
26
What are ports?
A port is the interface between external devices and computers. Ports allow data to be transferred to and from the devices
27
What are USB ports?
Connects storage devices such as USB sticks or external hard drives. You can also insert input devices such as mouse.
28
What is a firewire port?
This is very similar to a USB port but this port is designed for Apple. Fireware transfers data at a high speed from devices.
29
What is a SD port?
This allows data from a SD card can be read by a computer and the data from an SD card can be transferred to a computer
30
What is a ethernet port?
This connects computers to network devices such as a router. This will allowing access to the internet.
31
What is a SATA port?
Allows data transfer to HDD, SDDs and optical drives
32
What is a Micro SD card port?
Allows data from smartphones and tablets to be transferred to the computer
33
What is a desktop?
A desktop suitable for use on a desk. However they are big and bulky and not be portable. Individual components may need to be upgraded over time like the graphics card. Desktops are versatile but can still be used for a range of activates.
34
What is a tablet/ laptop?
Both these devices are portable. They can perform lots of different tasks but can be restrictive at times. Because both of these devices are portable so that can be easily stolen.
35
What are smartphones?
These can run a range of applications at once. However, smartphones can have a negative impact on a user. For example, social media. Security can also be an issue as these devices can be easily stolen. The security is not as strong on smartphones as other devices.
36
What is an embedded system?
An embedded system is where a small computer is inserted in a large device. Such as a washing machine.
37
What is an quantum system?
A fully working quantum computer would be able to read data up to 1 million times faster than a normal computer. This is still in the development stage.
38
What are copper cables?
Copper cables are a cheap type of wired internet connection. They may be badly insulated and susceptible to electromagnetic interface. They are less likely to break than fibre optic cables and they are easier to bend. They also have a lower bandwidth then fibre optic ad cannot transmit as much data.
39
What are fibre optic cable?
Fibre optic cable is a very fast but also expensive way of having internet connection. They are not susceptible to electromagnetic interface. Signals are transmitted as waves of light through a glass tube. They have a way quicker bandwidth then a copper cable.
40
What is Bluetooth
It is a temporary short range communication between devices within limit 10 metres. It can be used to transfer audio files from one smartphone to the other. The close proximity is a disadvantage.
41
What is Infrared
Infrared has been replaced by Wi-Fi or Bluetooth because infrared requires devices to be in the line of sight.
42
What is a microwave
Microwave connections uses radio waves to send signals to microwave towers. Can provide digital or analogue formats
43
What is a laser?
This isn't very common but it can send data to devices in the line of sight of each other. However there must be no barriers in the way
44
What is a satellite?
Satellite networks use point to point multipoint communications by using the satellites about the earths atmosphere. This then receives transmissions and rebroadcast them back to life.
45
What is GSM?
GSM is a technology for allowing mobile phones to connect to a network for calls and text messages. Each generation of mobile data is faster then the previous one.
46
What is the hub?
A hub receives data packets from a connected device and transfers a copy to all connected nodes
47
What is a switch?
A switch receives data packets, processes them and transfers them on to a device that is specifically listed in the destination address.
48
What is a modern?
A modern is used to send data across the telephone network. The telephone lines can only transfer analog signals so a modern is used to convert a computers digital data into an analog signal. Another modem converts the signal back to a digital format at the receiving end
49
What is a router?
Routers are used to transfer data packets between networks. Data is sent from a network to another on the internet towards the destination address listed on the data packet. A router stores the address of the computer on the network.
50
What is a wireless access point (WAP)?
Provides a link between wired and wireless networks. It creates a wireless local area network that allows WIFI enabled devices to connect to a wired network
51
What is a combined device?
A combined device is also known as a hybrid device. This provides the functionality of many communication devices in a single device. For example, a router or modem. They are more adaptable then a single device but they are more expensive. However you will see an increased performance from a standalone device rather then a combined one
52
What is troubleshooting?
Troubleshooting means to analyse and solve a problem with a computer system. Hardware troubleshooting means that you have to physically fix parts of the computer that has faults or a device that is connected to it. Hardware issues can occur as a result of damage whether it is intentional or not. It can also happen if you have a power surge or there is malware on your device.
53
What is a power surge?
This is where a boost in voltage above the devices normal operating voltage can cause an arc of electrical current within the device. The heat that is caused because of this can cause damage to the computer.
54
What is malware?
This is software that is specifically damage or disrupt a computer system.
55
What steps should you take when an troubleshooting error occurs?
1. Try to look for the simplest explanation first and ask the user questions about the issue that has occurred 2. Create a theory about what could be causing the problem. Then be prepared to test this theory using a series of troubleshooting tests 3. Create a troubleshooting plan and record the steps that are taken before moving on to the next test. Check the system works after each stage of the plan. 4. Created a findings document that describes if and how the problem was fixed. This is for future references in case this happens again.
56
How should you document a troubleshooting issue?
Staff should document any issues on a fault sheet. They should list the following information regarding this issue: The fault itself (Windows not booting up) The system in question The user logged in at the time The exact time and date the issue occurred Symptoms of the issue (computer is going slow) Has this issue happened before? Back up documentation has all the data been backed up properly?
57
What are troubleshooting tools?
These are tools that can be used to identify an error so that a technician has a greater understanding of the problem
58
What is an event viewer?
This is a troubleshooting tool and is a type of utility software that lists detailed information about an error when one occurs. It can be used when the issue needs to be fixed and will display minor and major faults
59
What is a POST (Power on self test)
A power on self test checks memory, power, hardware and cooling system are working properly on the start up. Beep codes signal if an error has been detected. If there is 1 beep then there are not issues. If there are multiple beeps then there has been an error discovered.
60
What is a PING test?
This is the connectivity of two computers. A message is sent to the destination computer and waits for a return message named the echo reply. This procedure can be repeated with other systems until the source of the problem is identified with the computer that is not responding.
61
What is open source software?
Source code is software code written by developers. When the software is open source it means that users can modify and view the code. Linux, Python and Firefox are examples of open source software The benefits of this is that open software is often free or cost very little. Unwanted features can be removed also which then makes the software fun faster. The disadvantages is that the codes may not have been fully tested and be prone to errors. Developers may add malicious code to the program. This is a massive security risk.
62
What is closed source software?
Closed source software means that the code is restricted to any users to view or modify. You have the right to buy the software but you won't actually own it like Fortnite. Closed software is another company's software and is protected by law. The advantages are that the are developers that offer support if the user needs it . The code will have also been well tested and will be updates to keep the software secure. A disadvantages are that the user would have to wait on the company if there is an error with the coding. A user can't modify the codes for their own benefit.
63
What is off the shelf software?
This is any software made for a general use. It includes features that can be used in different ways for different purposes. Microsoft Office would be an off the shelf software. The benefit of this type of software is that the software should have been thoroughly tested so that users have a good experience and that the features will work as they should. Also the end user might be familiar with the software and trust the company. The negative aspects are that it can be expensive to buy some of the off the shelf software. It could have additional features that user doesn't need which can then reduce the performance of the system.
64
What is bespoke software?
Bespoke is software that has been made specifically for a user or an organisation. Programmers may be hired by a user or company so that they can create software for a specific task. For example a hospital may ask for bespoke software so that they can manage and track a hospital patient. Bespoke software can be very expensive as there are people that may need to be hired to make this software. The benefits of this is that the software can be built to a user and company and also the unwanted features can be removed to make the application run faster. The disadvantages is the expense of the software and that the user or staff member may need training on how to use it.
65
What is shareware?
The software allows the user to have a trial of the program for a limited time before they buy it or stop using it. WINRAR is an example of shareware and is a utility software
66
What is freeware?
This is a software that is available to freely use and download. These are usually closed source software that make money through advertisements or additional purchases. The developer of the app still own the software even though it is free to it's users.
67
What are mainframes?
These are very huge and powerful computers. They are very reliable and have been around for a very long time. They are used to process large amounts of data. Banks and airlines use mainframes.
68
What is an embedded system
An embedded system is a smaller computer is installed in a larger device. This like a washing machine or a traffic light. Embedded system normal have specific purposes and often work in real life.
69
What is applications software?
Application software can be used for many different functions depending on the users needs and purpose.
70
What is productivity software?
This is software used for general software for completing tasks accurately. This can include a word processor or presentation software. Email applications are beneficial to organisations because staff can send information to many customers at one time. This costs less then posting a letter. Emails can include attachments that can images.
71
What is are databases and spreadsheets?
Databases and spreadsheets can store data including numbers and text. An example is a simple database or financial spreadsheets. Microsoft access is an example of database software and Excel is an example of spreadsheet software. Data can be atomised with a database whereas with a database it can't be
72
What are development tools?
These are tools for programmers creating or modifying software
73
What is a translator?
A translator converts one type of language to the other
74
What is a complier?
A complier is a type of translator that converts instructions into machinery code
75
What is a debugger?
A debugger is used to test code and display errors
76
What is business software?
This is usually made for a bespoke organisation. An example of business software is design packages such as CAM (computer aided manufacturing) or CAD (computer aided design). The use of this software is to design and construct products.
77
What is anti virus software?
Anti virus software is used to locate and delete virus on the computer. The antivirus scans each file on the computer and compares it on it's database of known viruses. New viruses are created each day so the antivirus software has to be updated regularly. It also scans files that are been downloading and it also scan the hard drive and deletes any viruses
78
What is a firewall?
A firewall manages incoming and outcoming network traffic. Each packet of data has to be processed to see if it can be given access to the network. It does this by examining the destination address and the source. Unexpected data packets will be filtered out and will not be accepted in the network. It also blocks access to malicious websites.
79
What is defragmentation?
Defragmentation software is used to rearrange the file on the hard disc drive so that all parts of the file are together. Defragmentation improves the speed of accessing the data on the hard drive.
80
What is compression?
Compression is to decrease the size of a file. This helps as then more files can be stored on a device. Compressed files can be sent quicker over the networks as they are smaller.
81
What is backing up data?
Backing up data is a copy of data that can be used if the original copy is lost or gets corrupted. Backups should be made frequently and saved in different locations.
82
What is an operating system?
An operation system is what manages the resources of a computer system.
83
What is a single user operating system?
This is mainly found on a phone or a tablet. Only one person will use this device at a time.
84
What is a multi user operating system?
Multi user operating systems allow more then one person to use the processor at once. One user should not be negatively impacted by another user on the same operating system.
85
What is a single processor operating system?
A single processor operating system has only a single operating system. This is then shared between users by dividing the CPU time into time slices.
86
What are multi processor operating systems?
A multi processor operating system is where there is more than one processor. Users still have to share but the system is more improved and the performance is better.
87
What is a protocol?
A protocol is a set of rules that allow devices to be connected on the network and to communicate with each other.
88
What is a TCP Protocol?
TCP is a protocol that allows packets to be sent and received between computer systems. It breaks the packets and then reassembles the original data to it's original destination.
89
What is an IP Protocol?
IP is a protocol that is in charge of routing and addressing data packets. This is to make sure that data is been sent to the right place. Every device on a network is given an IP address to make sure any information is been sent to the right address.
90
What is UDP Protocol?
UDP is a faster alternative to TCP. However is isn't as secure as the TCP as it doesn't scan any errors in packets

FUNDAMENTALS OF IT (2 decks)

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