In general computer terminology, which device is popularly referred to as silico sapiens, meaning a silicon based intelligent system?

Introduction / Context:
Some general knowledge questions use creative nicknames or descriptive phrases for modern inventions. The phrase silico sapiens combines silicon, the material used in microchips, with sapiens, which is associated with human beings as in Homo sapiens. This question asks which device is popularly called silico sapiens, highlighting the idea of a thinking machine built from silicon based components.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- The question mentions the phrase silico sapiens and asks which device is known by this nickname.
- The options include computer, robot, monitor and hardware.
- We assume the learner recognises that silicon is a key material in microprocessors and integrated circuits used in computing devices.

Concept / Approach:
The nickname silico sapiens is typically associated with the computer as an artificial or electronic brain. The term points to two ideas: first, that the device is built on silicon based chips, and second, that it shows intelligent behaviour such as calculation, storage and logical decision making, similar in some ways to human thought. While robots also use computers internally, the phrase is more commonly linked with computers in general knowledge references.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Note that silico relates to silicon, the material used in microchips, and sapiens implies a thinking or intelligent entity. Step 2: Among the options, computer is the main device built around silicon chips and often called an electronic brain. Step 3: A robot is a machine that may contain a computer but is more associated with mechanical movement and does not fit the exact traditional nickname used in exam books. Step 4: Monitor is only an output device and hardware is a generic term for physical components, so neither fits the description of an intelligent silicon based system. Step 5: Therefore, identify the computer as the device known as silico sapiens.

Verification / Alternative check:
If you refer to standard computer awareness guides and one liner general knowledge books, you will find that they list silico sapiens as a nickname for the computer. These sources also list other nicknames such as idiot box for television and metal bird for aeroplane. Robots and monitors are not usually associated with the phrase silico sapiens in these lists.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Robot: Although robots can perform tasks automatically and may look intelligent, the common exam nickname for robot is different, and silico sapiens is specifically tied to the general concept of the computer.

Monitor: This device only displays output from the computer and is not itself considered an intelligent system.

Hardware: Hardware is a broad term that includes all physical components of a computer system but does not directly convey the idea of a thinking entity.

Common Pitfalls:
A common confusion arises because robots are often portrayed as intelligent machines in films, so learners may be tempted to pick robot. However, exam focused general knowledge materials consistently associate silico sapiens with the computer as a whole, not with any single peripheral device or mechanical robot. Paying attention to how nicknames are used in standard reference books prevents this error.

Final Answer:
The device popularly known as silico sapiens is the computer.