Exercises 2
What is computer?
a programmable, electronic device that accepts
data "input", performs operations on that data 'Processing", and
stores the data "Storage" or results "output' as needed. Thus, these
are a computer’s basic operations.
What is computer science?
is the study of problems and solutions involving computers, software, hardware, and
algorithms.
What is the difference between data and information?
Data is defined as unstructured information such as text, observations, images,
symbols, and descriptions. In other words, data provides no specific function and has no
meaning on its own while Information refers to processed, organized, and structured
data. It gives context for the facts and facilitates decision making. In other words,
information is processed data that makes sense to us.
Mention 3 computer science fields
Computer forensics
Cloud computing
Robotics
Define informatics and mention 5 applied fields of it
it is the application of methods from the computer and information sciences in other
fields of science like:
Bioinformatics
Biomedical informatics
Nursing informatics
Public health informatics
Clinical informatics
Compare between different types of computers
Supercomputers
Characteristics:
Massive processing power (quadrillions of calculations per second).
Parallel processing with thousands or millions of processors.
Large storage for handling huge datasets.
Often custom-built for specific purposes.
Applications:
Climate research and weather forecasting.
Genetic sequencing and protein folding simulations.
Nuclear simulations.
AI research.
Mainframes
Characteristics:
High scalability, supporting thousands of users and applications.
Centralized processing for mission-critical operations.
High security and reliability.
Backward compatibility for running older software.
Applications:
Financial transactions and bank operations.
Insurance claims processing.
Government databases and census.
Airline reservations systems.
Minicomputers (Midrange Servers)
Characteristics:
Moderate power for serving multiple users or smaller tasks.
Multi-user system for departmental applications.
Cost-effective for small to medium-sized businesses.
Multi-usage for database management, web hosting, etc.
Applications:
Scientific labs and research institutions.
Small business server systems.
Departmental servers in large organizations.
Workstations
Characteristics:
High-performance components (powerful CPUs, GPUs, large RAM).
Graphics optimization for 3D rendering and visual effects.
Multi-tasking capability for complex tasks.
Expandability with additional storage and specialized hardware.
Applications:
Computer-aided design (CAD).
Animation and video editing.
Scientific simulations and data analysis.
Microcomputers (Personal Computers)
Characteristics:
Affordable and available for personal or business use.
Variety of types including desktops, laptops, and tablets.
Primarily designed for individual use, but can serve as small servers.
Portable versions like laptops and tablets.
Applications:
Office work (word processing, spreadsheets).
Media consumption (movies, music).
Gaming, internet browsing, and communication.
Embedded Computers
Characteristics:
Task-specific for controlling processes.
Real-time operation with precise timing.
Highly reliable and efficient with low power consumption.
Integrated in hardware and often invisible to users.
Applications:
Automotive systems (engine control units).
Consumer electronics (microwave ovens, smart TVs).
Medical devices (pacemakers, MRI machines).
Industrial machines and robotics.
Servers
Characteristics:
Dedicated roles like file storage, application hosting, or managing databases.
Continuous operation with minimal downtime.
Scalability from small to enterprise levels.
Remote access for users on the same network or over the internet.
Applications:
Web hosting (serving websites).
Database management (enterprise resource planning systems).
File storage and sharing (cloud storage systems).
Email hosting.
Quantum Computers
Characteristics:
Quantum bits (qubits) that can exist in multiple states simultaneously.
Massive parallelism for processing many possibilities at once.
Cryogenic cooling to maintain quantum states.
High error rates requiring significant error correction.
Applications:
Cryptography (factoring large numbers, breaking encryption).
Complex simulations (molecular biology, materials science).
Optimization problems (logistics, supply chains).
AI and machine learning advancements.
Discuss the steps involved in booting the operating system on your pc
1. The BIOS and Setup Program
First, I press the power button. The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), stored in ROM
(Read-Only Memory), kicks in. The part of the system software that includes the
instructions that the computer uses to accept input and output.
2. The Power-On-Self-Test (POST)
Next, the BIOS runs the Power-On Self-Test (POST). This is like a quick health check
for my PC, making sure everything from the RAM to the input/output devices are all
working properly. The computer will produce a beeping sound and an error message
will appear on the monitor if any problems are encountered.
3. Master Boot Record (MBR)
After POST, the BIOS looks at the Master Boot Record (MBR), a tiny piece of data
located in the first sector of the hard disk or removable drive. The MBR identifies where
my operating system (OS) is located so it can be loaded into the main memory (RAM).
It’s like a GPS for finding the OS
4. The Operating System Loads
The BIOS searches for the OS. The settings in the CMOS (Complementary Metal-
Oxide-Semiconductor) chip help determine where to look. Once found, the OS kernel is
loaded into memory, and the OS takes over, starting to load the system configuration.
5. System Configuration
The OS begins configuring the system. It checks the registry, a database storing all
information about peripherals and software, and loads the necessary drivers, which are
utility programs that make peripheral devices work correctly.
6. System Utilities Load
Next, various system utilities load into memory, like volume control, antivirus software,
and other essential programs that keep the system running smoothly.
7. Users Authentication
Finally, the user authentication step occurs. I enter my username and password, and
the user interface starts up, allowing me to interact with my computer and get to work.
