Question 1

In computer fundamentals: The list of coded instructions that tells a computer exactly what to do is called what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In computer science basics, learners must distinguish between artifacts used to design a solution and the artifact that actually runs on the machine. The question asks for the term used to describe the explicit, executable list of coded instructions that directs the computer's processor step by step. Given Data / Assumptions: We are discussing general-purpose digital computers. The instructions are coded in a programming language or machine language. The focus is on what gets executed by the computer, not just planned or documented. Concept / Approach: A computer executes instructions from memory. When these instructions are authored in a programming language and assembled/compiled (or interpreted) for execution, the result is a computer program. Design tools like algorithms and flowcharts are planning representations, not executable artifacts by themselves. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Identify what is being asked: a list of coded, executable instructions.2) Map terms: Algorithm = stepwise idea; Flowchart = diagram; Utility program = a type of software, but not a generic term for all coded instructions; Computer program = exact term for coded instructions.3) Select the option that precisely names the executable instruction list. Verification / Alternative check: When you write C, Java, or Python code that controls a computer and is run by a compiler/interpreter, you call it a program. Operating systems and apps are collections of programs. This matches the definition requested. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Algorithm: a language-independent plan; not necessarily coded or executable. Flowchart: a graphical plan; not executed by the CPU. Utility program: a specific category (e.g., antivirus, archiver), not the general concept. None of the above: incorrect because 'Computer program' fits perfectly. Common Pitfalls: Confusing algorithm (conceptual recipe) with program (coded instructions). Believing that any diagram or pseudo-code is directly executable. Final Answer: Computer program.

Question 2

In computer architecture and data manipulation: A number used to control or shape the form of another number (for example by selective bit operations) is called what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Low-level programming and digital logic often use a special value to clear, set, or test selected bits of another value. Recognizing the correct terminology is essential for understanding bitwise operations and systems programming. Given Data / Assumptions: The operation is numerical but focuses on bits. The controlling value determines which bits pass through, are set, or are cleared. Common operations include AND, OR, XOR, and NOT. Concept / Approach: A bitmask, or simply mask, is a number whose bits are used to select or modify bits in another number. For example, AND with 0 clears a bit; OR with 1 sets a bit. Thus the controlling number is called a mask. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Identify that the question describes control over the 'form' of another number, implying bit-level gating.2) Recall terminology: mask (bitmask) is the standard term.3) Choose 'Mask' as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Example: To zero the lower 4 bits of 0xAB (10101011), AND with 0xF0 (11110000). The value 0xF0 is the mask controlling the operation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Map: refers to associations, not bit control. Marker: annotation concept, not a numeric controller. Modulo: arithmetic operator for remainders, not bit selection. None of the above: incorrect because 'Mask' is exact. Common Pitfalls: Confusing 'mask' with 'map' due to similar spelling. Assuming masking only means hiding; in computing it is precise bit manipulation. Final Answer: Mask.

Question 3

Digital number systems: The binary numeral system is based on powers of which base value?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Computers represent and process data using the binary numeral system. Understanding the base and place values of binary is foundational for logic design and programming. Given Data / Assumptions: The system in question is the binary system. Place values scale by repeated powers of the base. Concept / Approach: In any positional numeral system, each digit position represents a power of the base. Decimal uses base 10 (10^0, 10^1, …). Binary uses base 2, so positions are 2^0, 2^1, 2^2, and so on. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Recall definition: binary = base 2.2) Therefore, all weights are powers of 2. Verification / Alternative check: Example: 1011₂ = 12^3 + 02^2 + 12^1 + 12^0 = 8 + 0 + 2 + 1 = 11 in decimal. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 10: base of decimal, not binary. 8: base of octal. 16: base of hexadecimal. None of the above: incorrect because 2 is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing hexadecimal (base 16) used as a compact binary representation with the underlying binary base. Final Answer: 2.

Question 4

Human–computer interaction: Which computer input device allows operation without relying on the keyboard, enabling point-and-click selection on a graphical interface?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Modern graphical user interfaces provide multiple input methods other than typing. The question asks which device specifically enables common desktop interaction without using a keyboard. Given Data / Assumptions: Standard desktop environment with pointer-based UI. Goal is to 'dispense with' keyboard usage for typical navigation and selection. Concept / Approach: The mouse converts two-dimensional hand motion into cursor movement, supporting clicks, drags, and context menus. This device, more than any other traditional peripheral, enables complete navigation without typing. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Identify devices that can replace typing for navigation.2) Compare: mouse (universal pointer), joystick (primarily gaming), light pen (specialized), touch (requires a touch-enabled screen).3) Select the device most commonly intended to replace keyboard input in general-purpose computing: the mouse. Verification / Alternative check: Operating systems can be fully controlled with a mouse for launching apps, menus, and dialogs. Text entry still needs a keyboard, but navigation does not. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Light pen: niche hardware used with CRTs; not common. Joystick: not designed for general UI navigation. Touch interface: requires a touchscreen; not universally available on desktops at the time the question targets. None: incorrect because 'Mouse' fits. Common Pitfalls: Assuming touch is always available; desktop PCs typically rely on mice. Final Answer: Mouse.

Question 5

In data communications: A single packet or unit of transmission at the data-link layer is referred to as what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The OSI model defines layers and the names of data units at each layer. At the data-link layer (Layer 2), network interface cards send and receive bounded units with headers and trailers. Given Data / Assumptions: We are at the data-link layer, not the network or transport layers. Typical examples include Ethernet, 802.11, and PPP. Concept / Approach: The proper term for a data-link layer packet is a frame. Frames include addressing (MAC), control information, and a frame check sequence for error detection. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Identify the OSI layer: data-link.2) Recall units: bits (physical), frames (data-link), packets (network), segments (transport), data (application).3) Choose 'Frame' as the correct label. Verification / Alternative check: Ethernet specifically defines an Ethernet frame with fields like Destination MAC, Source MAC, Type/Length, Payload, and FCS. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Block/Group: generic terms, not OSI-specific. Path: refers to a route, not a data unit. None of the above: incorrect because 'Frame' is precise. Common Pitfalls: Confusing network-layer 'packet' with data-link 'frame'. Final Answer: Frame.

Question 6

Computer organization: The section of code that executes when the processor receives an interrupt (i.e., the routine to which control is transferred) is known as what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Processors temporarily suspend normal execution when an external or internal event occurs, such as I/O completion, a timer tick, or a fault. Understanding the software component that responds is basic to operating systems and embedded programming. Given Data / Assumptions: An interrupt occurs and the CPU transfers control to a predefined routine. We are naming that routine, not the table of addresses or the system call mechanism. Concept / Approach: The routine that runs in response to an interrupt is called an Interrupt Service Routine (ISR), also known as an interrupt handler. The ISR executes, performs minimal required work, and returns via a special instruction so the interrupted program can resume. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Map terms: the code executed on interrupt == ISR.2) Distinguish from related components: an interrupt vector is the address entry pointing to the ISR, and SVC is a software-invoked call, not necessarily an external interrupt.3) Choose 'Interrupt service routine (ISR)'. Verification / Alternative check: All major architectures (x86, ARM, RISC-V) define handlers/ISRs that save context, service the event, and return with an 'iret'/'rfe' style instruction. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Interrupt vector: a pointer, not the routine itself. Trap handler: handles synchronous exceptions; related but not the generic interrupt term. Context switcher: part of OS scheduling, not the event-handling code. Supervisor call (SVC): a software interrupt for system calls, not the general name for the routine. Common Pitfalls: Confusing the vector table entry with the routine body. Equating traps/exceptions and asynchronous interrupts. Final Answer: Interrupt service routine (ISR).

Question 7

Character encoding: The acronym ASCII expands to which standardized phrase used in computing for text representation?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: ASCII is the historic 7-bit character encoding that maps letters, digits, punctuation, and control codes to numeric values. Correctly recalling its full form is a common exam objective. Given Data / Assumptions: We are referring to the common computing acronym ASCII. Context is text representation. Concept / Approach: ASCII stands for American Standard Code for Information Interchange, defining 128 code points from 0 to 127 (including control characters like LF and carriage return). Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Recall the standardized phrase.2) Select the option with exact wording and capitalization. Verification / Alternative check: Examples: The character 'A' is 65, 'a' is 97, and space is 32 in ASCII. Many modern encodings (like UTF-8) remain ASCII-compatible for the first 128 values. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 'Scientific' or 'security' variants are not the official standard name. None is incorrect because the correct expansion is present. Common Pitfalls: Mixing 'standard' with 'scientific' or 'security' in memory. Final Answer: American standard code for information interchange.

Question 8

Computer types: Which class of computer was historically designed to be as compact and low-cost as possible for single-user tasks?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Computer systems have traditionally been categorized by size, capability, and cost. The question targets the category engineered for compactness and personal use. Given Data / Assumptions: Era: classical taxonomy (mainframe, mini, micro, super). Criterion: compact form factor intended for individual users. Concept / Approach: Microcomputers (personal computers) were built around microprocessors, offering compact size and affordability. Minis served departments; mainframes served enterprises; supercomputers maximize performance, not compactness. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Link 'compact as possible' with single-user systems.2) Identify category: microcomputer.3) Choose 'Micro computer' as correct. Verification / Alternative check: Examples include desktop PCs, early Apple II, IBM PC—each far smaller than minis/mainframes. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Mini: mid-sized multi-user systems. Mainframe: very large enterprise machines. Super computer: optimized for peak performance, not compactness. None: incorrect because 'Micro computer' fits. Common Pitfalls: Confusing 'mini' with 'micro' due to naming similarity. Final Answer: Micro computer.

Question 9

CPU performance terminology: The time required for fetching and executing one simple machine instruction is referred to as what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Measuring processor performance often involves understanding the duration associated with instruction processing. The question asks for the standard term used for one fetch–execute sequence. Given Data / Assumptions: Instruction is 'simple' and typical. We consider the combined fetch and execute operations. Concept / Approach: The CPU cycle (also called the machine cycle) spans the necessary steps to fetch an instruction from memory and execute it. It differs from a single oscillator clock tick; multiple clock cycles may compose one CPU cycle depending on architecture. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Associate 'fetch + execute' with 'machine/CPU cycle'.2) Eliminate unrelated timing terms.3) Select 'CPU cycle'. Verification / Alternative check: Architectures document instruction timing as cycles per instruction (CPI), i.e., number of clock cycles required per CPU cycle for a given instruction mix. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Delay time: generic latency term. Real time: refers to time-constrained systems. Seek time: storage head movement delay, unrelated to CPU. None: incorrect because 'CPU cycle' is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing a clock cycle with a CPU/machine cycle; the latter may include several clock ticks. Final Answer: CPU cycle.

Question 10

Systems analysis: A computer-assisted method used for recording and analyzing existing or proposed (hypothetical) systems—often through diagrams that trace how information moves—is called what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In systems analysis and design, analysts document how information moves between processes, data stores, and external entities. The computer-assisted method that emphasizes the movement of data through a system is the focus here. Given Data / Assumptions: Objective is recording and analyzing an existing or hypothetical system. Method is commonly implemented with software tools. Emphasis is on flows and transformations of information. Concept / Approach: Data flow techniques (such as Data Flow Diagrams, DFDs) model processes, data stores, and data flows. CASE tools support creating these diagrams, validating consistency, and exploring 'what-if' scenarios for proposed systems. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Recognize that the question describes analysis/modeling, not transmission or capture.2) Identify the methodology: data flow analysis/DFDs.3) Select 'Data flow' as the correct term. Verification / Alternative check: Typical artifacts include context diagrams (Level 0) and leveled DFDs that progressively detail processes and flows, exactly matching the described purpose. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Data transmission: refers to communication over networks. Data processing: generic computation; not specifically a modeling method. Data capture: acquisition/entry of data. None: incorrect because 'Data flow' fits. Common Pitfalls: Mixing up the modeling method (data flow) with implementation activities like processing or transmission. Final Answer: Data flow.

Question 11

In computer systems and reliability engineering, what is the term for the total duration that a piece of equipment remains in operation (that is, the actual time it is functioning or providing service)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests basic computing terminology related to performance and reliability. In operations, maintenance, and capacity planning, we often distinguish between the time a device is truly operating (providing useful work) and other timing metrics such as access time or seek time that apply to storage devices. Understanding these distinctions helps in interpreting specifications and service-level reports. Given Data / Assumptions: We are asked for the term that describes how long equipment actually operates or provides service. Options include several time-related phrases used in computing and electronics. No numerical calculation is required; it is a definitions question. Concept / Approach: Operational duration (how long something runs) is a broad concept often called uptime, run time, or effective operating time. In many syllabi and certification glossaries, the phrase ‘‘effective time’’ is used to denote the portion of calendar time during which the equipment is genuinely functioning as intended (that is, excluding idle/off periods). This contrasts with device-specific timings such as seek and access times, which measure latencies rather than overall operating duration. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify what is being asked: total time the equipment operates → an operational duration term is required.Map each option to its precise meaning.Eliminate latency- or mode-specific terms that do not represent overall operating duration.Select the option that best labels the actual operating interval. Verification / Alternative check: Compare with common usage: ‘‘seek time’’ and ‘‘access time’’ are storage latencies; ‘‘real time’’ describes a processing constraint where outputs meet strict timing deadlines; ‘‘effective time’’ most closely aligns with the idea of actual operating duration when no explicit ‘‘uptime’’ choice is available. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Seek time: Head-movement latency for magnetic disks; not total operating duration. Access time: Total latency to read/write a data item; again, a delay metric, not an overall operating interval. Real time: Refers to deterministic timing in control systems and operating systems, not a measure of how long equipment runs. None of the above: Not correct because ‘‘Effective time’’ captures the intended meaning among the provided options. Common Pitfalls: Confusing general operational duration with device latencies, or assuming ‘‘real time’’ means ‘‘actual time.’’ In engineering contexts, ‘‘real time’’ has a specialized meaning unrelated to uptime or run length. Final Answer: Effective time

Question 12

In software engineering pedagogy, which programming language among the following is most closely associated with and purposely designed for structured programming practices?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This item evaluates your knowledge of programming-language design goals, specifically the language traditions that encouraged structured programming (sequence, selection, and iteration; block structure; strong typing). Understanding which languages were created with these principles helps explain why they are favored in teaching systematic program design and readability. Given Data / Assumptions: A list of historical high-level languages is provided: PL/1, FORTRAN, BASIC, and PASCAL. The focus is on ‘‘more suited to a structured program,’’ meaning language constructs that encourage clear control flow, block scoping, and disciplined use of procedures/functions. Concept / Approach: Structured programming emphasizes top-down design, limited use of unstructured jumps, and block-structured scoping. Pascal was created by Niklaus Wirth with education and structured programming in mind, featuring clear syntax for procedures, functions, and strong typing, making it a textbook example of a language aligned with structured programming pedagogy. Step-by-Step Solution: Consider each language's design goals and historical use.PL/1 combined many features but was large and not primarily a teaching vehicle for structured programming.FORTRAN (earlier versions) emphasized numeric computation with limited block-structuring; later standards improved, but it was not designed originally for teaching structured methods.BASIC (early dialects) allowed unstructured flow (e.g., heavy GOTO use).Pascal explicitly promoted block structure, strong typing, and procedural abstraction for structured programming. Verification / Alternative check: Most computer science curricula in earlier decades adopted Pascal in introductory courses precisely because it enforces structured style and clear program organization, before many transitioned to languages like Modula-2, Ada, or later C/C++/Java. Why Other Options Are Wrong: PL/1: Powerful but complex; not tailored for teaching structured design fundamentals. FORTRAN: Foundational for numerical work; early versions lacked strong block structuring typical of structured pedagogy. BASIC: Early forms encouraged unstructured flow control; although modern variants add structure, historically it is not the exemplar. None of the above: Incorrect because Pascal is a canonical structured language for teaching. Common Pitfalls: Judging by popularity instead of design intent; overlooking how early language revisions (pre-standardization) handled control flow and types. Final Answer: PASCAL

Question 13

In computer architecture terminology, any secondary storage device added beyond the immediately usable main memory (primary storage) is referred to as what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The problem checks your understanding of memory hierarchy terms. Computers distinguish between fast, directly addressable main memory (RAM) and slower, larger-capacity secondary storage used to hold programs and data persistently. Knowing the generic term used for these non-volatile or auxiliary media is important in systems discussions. Given Data / Assumptions: We need the umbrella term for storage beyond main memory. Options include specific media as well as a generic term. No calculation is required; this is a concept-definition question. Concept / Approach: ‘‘Backing store’’ (or ‘‘backing storage’’) is the general label for storage subsystems that back up main memory. These include hard disks, solid-state drives, magnetic tape, optical media, and networked storage. They are not directly executed by the CPU like RAM but provide persistent capacity for programs and datasets. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify that the question asks for a general term, not a single device type.Recognize that floppy disks and hard disks are examples of the broader category, not the category name.Select the generic term that encompasses all secondary storage: ‘‘backing store.’’ Verification / Alternative check: Compare common textbook terminology: memory hierarchy typically lists registers → cache → main memory → backing store (secondary storage). The term consistently applies regardless of physical medium. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Floppy disk: A specific legacy medium; not the generic term. Hard disk: A specific device type; again not the umbrella term. Punched card: Historical input and storage medium; too narrow and obsolete for modern context. None of the above: Incorrect because ‘‘backing store’’ is exactly the generic descriptor sought. Common Pitfalls: Equating an example device with the generic category or assuming that only magnetic media qualify. Backing store also includes SSDs and other technologies. Final Answer: Backing store

Question 14

Within the central processing unit (CPU), which section is responsible for selecting instructions, interpreting them, generating the required control signals, and ensuring their execution?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Understanding the functional blocks of the CPU is fundamental to computer organization. The CPU broadly comprises the Control Unit (CU), the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), and various registers and buses. This question asks which block orchestrates the fetch–decode–execute cycle and supervises instruction execution. Given Data / Assumptions: We are to identify the subsystem that selects, interprets, and drives the execution of program instructions. Typical CPU blocks are listed among the options, along with a distractor ‘‘None of the above.’’ Concept / Approach: The Control Unit coordinates the CPU's activities. It fetches instructions from memory, decodes opcodes, sequences micro-operations, and issues control signals to registers, buses, ALU, and memory interfaces. While the ALU performs arithmetic/logic operations, it does so under the direction of the Control Unit. Step-by-Step Solution: Map functions to CPU blocks: decoding and sequencing belong to the Control Unit.Eliminate blocks that do not perform instruction selection/interpretation (e.g., ALU does computation; memory stores instructions/data; registers provide fast storage).Choose the block that generates control signals and manages the instruction cycle: the Control Unit. Verification / Alternative check: Consult the standard instruction cycle model: fetch (CU controls PC, MAR, memory read), decode (CU interprets opcode), execute (CU asserts control lines to ALU, registers, memory, and I/O). This aligns directly with the Control Unit's role. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Memory: Holds instructions and data; does not direct execution. Register unit: Provides temporary, fast storage; does not decode or orchestrate steps by itself. ALU: Executes arithmetic and logic operations but only when commanded; it does not coordinate the overall process. None of the above: Incorrect because the Control Unit precisely matches the description. Common Pitfalls: Conflating the ALU's ‘‘doing the math’’ with overall control. The CU is the ‘‘conductor’’; the ALU is a ‘‘performer’’ within the CPU orchestra. Final Answer: Control unit

Question 15

In operating systems and user interfaces, what is the process called when a user communicates with a file directly from a terminal or console session (for example, opening, reading, writing, or saving via typed commands)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your understanding of human–computer interaction modes, specifically how users work with files from a terminal or console. In classic operating systems and modern shells, users interactively issue commands to access, read, write, and manage files in real time. Recognizing the correct term helps distinguish interactive sessions from automated or batch-style processing. Given Data / Assumptions: A terminal (or console) is used to communicate with the system. The actions involve file operations (open, read, write, save, list, etc.). We need the best term that describes this live, user-driven mode of operation. Concept / Approach: When a user types commands and immediately receives feedback from the system, the mode is called interactive processing. The defining characteristic is the direct request–response loop: the user issues a command, the operating system executes it, and results appear instantly on the terminal. In contrast, batch processing queues jobs for later execution without immediate dialogue. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the mode: user communicates directly with files via commands → live dialogue with the system.Map terms: ‘‘Interactive’’ means immediate user–system exchange; ‘‘Interrogation’’ suggests querying, not the full scope of file I/O; ‘‘Heuristic’’ refers to problem-solving approaches, not I/O modes.Therefore, the correct label is ‘‘Interactive.’’ Verification / Alternative check: Think of examples: using shells like bash, PowerShell, or terminal file editors (nano, vim) are all interactive. The user issues commands and sees results instantly, which matches interactive operation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Interrogation: Emphasizes questioning/querying rather than complete file interaction. Heuristic: Describes a strategy for solving problems, not an I/O mode. All of the above: Incorrect because the other terms do not accurately describe the mode. None of the above: Incorrect because ‘‘Interactive’’ is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing interactive mode with general ‘‘querying’’ or assuming heuristic refers to user interaction. The key is the immediate, conversational feedback loop with the computer. Final Answer: Interactive

Question 16

Which output device converts digital information from a computer into precise pictorial form on paper, commonly used for engineering drawings, architectural plans, and large-format graphics?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Computers can produce visual output on physical media. For technical drawings and large-format graphics, a specialized device is preferred over standard printers. Understanding which device is designed for high-precision vector output is essential in computer graphics, CAD, and engineering contexts. Given Data / Assumptions: We need an output device that renders images on paper. Use case involves pictorial/graphic form, often with precision requirements. Options include both input devices and legacy devices. Concept / Approach: A plotter is an output device that draws images using vector commands, historically with pens moving over paper. Modern wide-format plotters use inkjet technology but still target high-resolution, large-format output for CAD drawings and maps. This differs from typical desktop printers and unrelated input devices such as mice or touch panels. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify device category: requires producing graphics on paper.Eliminate input devices (mouse, touch panel) and legacy punching devices that are not for pictorial output.Select the device explicitly built for precise graphical hardcopy: the plotter. Verification / Alternative check: Common applications include architectural blueprints, circuit schematics, and GIS maps. Plotters are standard equipment in engineering and design offices for these tasks. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Mouse: Input pointing device, not output. Touch panel: Input interface, not output to paper. Card punch: Legacy input/archival medium; not a graphics output device. None of the above: Incorrect because ‘‘Plotter’’ fits perfectly. Common Pitfalls: Confusing general printers with plotters. While modern printers can print graphics, plotters specialize in precision vector or large-format technical output. Final Answer: Plotter

Question 17

Which type of computing system places the user in direct, conversational interaction with the computer (for example, via a keyboard and display) rather than delayed batch processing?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question distinguishes among system operation modes. Some systems accept jobs for later execution (batch), others deliver deterministic responses to time-critical events (real time), and others support live, conversational use. Knowing the differences aids in selecting the right platform for a given workload. Given Data / Assumptions: The user interacts ‘‘in direct conversation’’ with the machine through a keyboard. Immediate feedback is implied. We must choose the system type that best matches conversational computing. Concept / Approach: Interactive systems enable rapid request–response exchanges, where a user issues commands and sees results instantly. Time-sharing is a related operating mode that allows multiple users to interact concurrently; however, the umbrella term signaling direct dialogue with a single user is ‘‘interactive computer.’’ Batch systems lack immediate interaction, and real-time systems focus on meeting strict timing constraints rather than user conversation. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify key phrase: ‘‘direct conversation’’ equals immediate human–computer interaction.Map system types: batch (delayed), real time (deadline-focused), time sharing (multiuser sharing but still interactive), and interactive (conversational by definition).Select the most direct match: ‘‘Interactive computer.’’ Verification / Alternative check: Terminals connected to timesharing hosts are interactive; single-user OS shells are also interactive. The core attribute is the live dialogue, captured by the term interactive. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Real time processing: Emphasizes guaranteed timing deadlines, not conversational use. Batch processing: Jobs run without ongoing user dialogue. Time sharing: Interactive but stresses multiuser resource sharing; the most literal match to the prompt is ‘‘Interactive computer.’’ None of the above: Incorrect because an explicit correct choice exists. Common Pitfalls: Equating time-sharing with the generic term; while related, the question asks for the direct-conversation mode, which is best labeled as interactive. Final Answer: Interactive computer

Question 18

The Intel microcomputer set MCS-80 is based on which widely used Intel microprocessor architecture?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Early microcomputer systems were marketed as chip sets or microcomputer sets (MCS). Recognizing which CPU core an MCS references helps relate development tools, instruction sets, and compatible peripherals. Given Data / Assumptions: The product name is Intel MCS-80. We must identify the underlying Intel processor. Options include several Intel 8-bit and 16-bit families. Concept / Approach: Intel's MCS-80 refers to the 8080-based microcomputer set, including CPU and support components. It preceded the 8085 (MCS-85) and the 16-bit 8086 family. The 8082 was not the canonical CPU core of an MCS line. Step-by-Step Solution: Link MCS designation to CPU: MCS-80 → 8080.Eliminate later or different-architecture CPUs (8085, 8086).Confirm the naming convention: MCS-85 is for 8085; MCS-86 is for 8086; thus MCS-80 maps to 8080. Verification / Alternative check: Historical documentation and developer kits consistently pair MCS-80 with the 8080 CPU and its associated peripherals (e.g., 8224 clock generator, 8228 system controller). Why Other Options Are Wrong: 8085 microprocessor: Corresponds to MCS-85. 8086 microprocessor: 16-bit architecture (MCS-86), not MCS-80. 8082 microprocessor: Not the standard CPU basis of a named MCS line. None of the above: Incorrect; 8080 is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing sequential numbering (8080 vs 8085) with MCS labels. Always map the exact MCS family to its CPU. Final Answer: 8080 microprocessor

Question 19

A general-purpose, single-user microcomputer designed for operation by one person at a time is commonly referred to as what?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Computing devices are categorized by purpose (general vs special), scale, and usage model (single-user vs multiuser). The most common category for everyday individual use is the personal computer, a general-purpose, single-user system capable of running a wide range of applications. Given Data / Assumptions: The system is general-purpose (not limited to a single application). It is designed for one user at a time. We must select the standard industry term. Concept / Approach: The term ‘‘PC’’ (Personal Computer) denotes a general-purpose single-user microcomputer. It typically includes a CPU, main memory, mass storage, I/O devices, and an operating system for interactive use. This is distinct from special-purpose computers, which are tailored to specific tasks or embedded applications. Step-by-Step Solution: Match the description to terminology: single-user + general-purpose = personal computer.Eliminate distractors: special-purpose is not general; ‘‘KIPS’’ refers to performance metrics (thousand instructions per second); ‘‘M’’ is not a standard device class.Therefore select PC (Personal Computer). Verification / Alternative check: Industry usage, textbooks, and vendor literature consistently apply ‘‘PC’’ to desktop and laptop systems intended for one user at a time. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Special-purpose computer: Not general-purpose. KIPS: A throughput metric, not a device type. M: Not a recognized class in this context. None of the above: Incorrect because ‘‘PC’’ fits exactly. Common Pitfalls: Confusing performance metrics or shorthand letters with standard system categories. Focus on the functional description. Final Answer: PC (Personal Computer)

Question 20

Identify the machine-oriented high-level programming language historically associated with the GEC 4080 series of computers.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question probes knowledge of historical programming languages tied to specific computer families. Some manufacturers provided machine-oriented high-level languages that balanced close-to-hardware control with higher-level constructs, enabling systems programming and performance-sensitive applications on their platforms. Given Data / Assumptions: Target platform: GEC 4080 series machines. We must choose the language historically linked and described as machine-oriented high level. Distractors include domain-specific or educational languages. Concept / Approach: ‘‘Babbage’’ is historically referenced as a machine-oriented high-level language for certain GEC systems, providing structured features while remaining close to the underlying architecture for efficient systems-level programming. In contrast, LOGO is educational and graphics/turtle-oriented; SNOBOL focuses on string processing; and ALGOL is a general-purpose algorithmic language not specifically ‘‘machine-oriented’’ to the GEC 4080 in the way required by the prompt. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify which option historically aligns with GEC 4080 and is machine-oriented.Eliminate educational or domain-specific languages (LOGO, SNOBOL) and general algorithmic standards (ALGOL) that are not specifically the machine-oriented language of record for the 4080 series.Select ‘‘Babbage’’ as the historically associated, machine-oriented high-level language. Verification / Alternative check: Historical documentation and retrospectives on GEC systems cite Babbage in association with the GEC 4000/4080 line for systems-level development, where machine orientation and performance were important. Why Other Options Are Wrong: LOGO: Educational language emphasizing turtle graphics; not machine-oriented for GEC 4080. SNOBOL: Powerful string-processing language; not tied to GEC 4080 as a machine-oriented systems language. ALGOL: Influential algorithmic language; not the machine-oriented high-level language specifically associated with GEC 4080 in the context of the question. None of the above: Incorrect because Babbage is the best match. Common Pitfalls: Assuming widely known general-purpose languages are the correct answer. The key clues are ‘‘machine-oriented’’ and explicit association with the GEC 4080 platform. Final Answer: Babbage

Computer Fundamentals Questions