UNIT –I

Fundamentals of Computers – Characteristics of Computers - Computer Language –

Operating Systems – Generation of Computers

Fundamentals of Computers

Unit-1:
INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER

1. Define computer ?
 Computer is a electronic device.
 A computer is used to getting input process the input and produce
the output.
 A computer can perform various tasks.
2. Define data ?
 Data is sequence of one or more symbols
 Data is raw material
 Data is represented Alphabets (A-Z, a, z and numbers (0-9))
Eg: pen, yes, 123
3. What is information ?
 A group of data is called information.
 A processed data is called information.
 When data are processed structed and organized in a meaning way.
Eg: My name is K.Sethuraman.
4. What is instruction ?
 A set of rules can be used perform operation.
ADD -> addition of two number.
STA -> store the value in memory.
5. What is program ?
  A group of instruction are called program.
 It can be used to perform operation in a computer.
 It is executed in central processing unit.
6. Uses of computer
 It is used to medical shop.
 Helps to write or type a letter.
 It is used to banking and fund transaction.
 Download books.
7. What are major operation on a computer ?
 Accept the input.
 Process the input.
 Store the input value.
 Produce the output.
 Control the computer operation.

5 Marks
1. Explain block diagram of computer and its components ?
Block diagram of represented below

Data Input unit Storage Output Result

unit unit

Control unit

ALU
Input Unit
 The input unit receive data from the input device.
 The input unit consists of two or more input device.
 The input devices are keyboard, mouse, scanners, speaker....etc.
Storage Unit
 The storage unit save the data from the input unit.
 The storage data is used to processing and performing operation.
 The storage device is called harddisc.

Storage device are divided into categories:

 Main memory.
 Secondary memory.

Output Unit
 The output unit is produce the result.
 The output unit is consists of one or more output device.
 The output unit are printer, monitor.............etc.
 The output result is stored in a storage unit for further use.

Central Processing Unit

 It is denoted as CPU.
 CPU combined control unit and ALU.
 It is the brain of the computer.
 CPU can control and perform the operation.
 It take all decisions.

Control Unit
 It is denoted as CU.
 It control all the operation of the computer.
 The function of control unit is Fetch, Decode and Execute.
 It tells the computer “What sequence of operation it must
perform”

ALU
 It is denoted as Arithmetic Logical Unit.
 Arithmetic Operations are +, -, *, /, %(mod)
 The Logical Operators are AND,OR,NOT.
 It perform arithmetic and logical operation.
 It does comparison and takes decisions.
2. Explain Characteristics of computer ?

It has the following characteristics.

 Speed
 It perform all calculation is very fast.
 It is a fast calculating device.
 The speed is measured in mille second, micro second(10),
nano second (10).
 Storage capacity
 A computer has a large storage capacity.
 It can store files, document songs.......etc.
 A large volume of data stored in memory.
 Accuracy
 A computer gives accurate result.
 A computer can perform any operation give accurate
result.
 A computer can perform large amount of data, at gives
accurate result.
 No Thoughts (No Feelings)
 A computer does not have no thoughts and no feelings
 A computer have not thoughts because they are machine.
 A computer does not have emotions, knowledge,
experience.
 No I2
 Computer does not work without any instructions.
 It can only perform what is programmed to do.
 Power Of Remembering
 It can remember data for us.
 A computer can recall any amount of information at any
time.
 When required information retrieved after several years.
 Diligence
 A computer can work for hours without any break and
creating error.
 It never gets tried.
 It can also repeating the same tasks for many times.
 It never loses its concentration.
 Versatility
  A computer can perform different type of work at the same
time.
 It has capacity of multitasking.
Eg: The user can sit infront of computer while doing many
works.( watching movie, playing games.....)
at the same time.

3. Differentiate between hardware and software?

Hardware

 Physical part of the computer is called hardware.

 Hardware can be transferred from one place to another.
 The computer hardware is keyboard, mouse, monitor.....etc.
 Hardware is not affected by computer virus.
 If Hardware is damaged, it is replaced with new one.
 Hardware is constructed using materials are components
 Hardware operates under the control of software.

Types of Hardware

Hardware

Internal External
Hardwar Hardwar
e e

 Hardware can be classified into 2 types.

 Internal hardware
 External hardware

Internal Hardware
  A device that is installed within the computer is called
internal hardware.
 It is a component.
 It resides inside the computer.
 The internal hardware are RAM, ROM,Harddisc mother
board..........etc.

External Hardware
 A device that is connect outside the computer is called
external hardware.
 It is component.
 It resides outside the computer,
 The External hardware are Keyboard, Mouse, Printer......etc.

Software
 A set of instruction given to the computer to solve a problem is
called software.
 Software is also called programs.
 Different software are used to solve different problems.

There are two types of software on the basic of their functionality:

Software

Application System
Software Software

Spread sheet Word Operating System

Software processing System Software
software Software

Application Software
 It is a group of program design to solve a single task (or) a group
of related task.
 Application software makes computer popular and easy to use.
  It is also known as application package.
 Application software is used to perform various application on
computer.
 Some common application software are

Types of Application Software

Wordprocessing Software
 It makes use of computer for editing. Creating and printing
document.
Eg: write a letter

SpreadSheet Software
 It is a numeric data analysis to create a budget, ledger and perform
mathematical and financial calculation.

System Software
 System software helps in running the computer hardware and
computer system.
 It enable the application software to interact with each other.
 Programs that support the execution and development of other
program.

Types of System Software

Operating System(os)
 Starting the computer
 Managing Application
 Managing memory
 Handling input and output
 Providing user interface

System utilities software

 To performthe maintenance types tasks such as managing disk,
drive,printers.
 To keep the computer system running smoothly.
 What is compiler ?
 To translate the high level language into assembly language program.
 The time to taken to compile a program.

Source Assembly
Compiler
Program Language

Define Assembler?
 A program that translate from assembly language into machine code
(object code).

Assembly Assembler Machine code

Language
 A object code contains combination of machine instruction data
needed to place property in memory.

What is loader ?
 A loader loads programs and libraries into the main memory from the
storage device.
 A loader is a program used by an os to load program.
Loading is the process of placing the program into memory for
execution.

Source object
Assembler Loader Object program
program program ready for
execution
memory
 Define linker ?
 A linker is a computer program that takes one or more object
programs generated by a compiler and combines them in a single
executable program.

Source Object file 1

program 1

Translate

Source Object file 2

program 2

What is interpreter?

 It is a computer program that translates and executes instruction

written in computer programming language.

Source pre
program processing Intermediate code Interpreter

 Translation is done for execution.

 Explain classification of computer ?

Types of computer

Digital Analog Hybrid

mini micro super mainframe

desktop laptop PDA

There are three main ways to classify computers.

 By type
 By purpose
 By size

1. Digital computer

 A computer can perform calculation and logical operation with

digit.
Eg: Desktop, Laptop
 It is a used to prepared bills and financial calculation.
 It is a low speed computer.
 These computers arerepresenting data / information in a binary
form.
 There represents singal in just two states 0’s and 1’s.

Signal representation
1 1
 0 0 0

2. Analog computer

 These computer represent data in continuous form.

 There are no breaks during signal transmission.
 Signal represent in series of waves.

Used for

 Communication
 Measuring temperature
 Broadcast
 High speed

Signal representation

3. Hybrid computers

 The combination of analog and digital computer is called hybrid

computers.

Signal representation

P(12,0,
Used for 0)
 Control robots
 Various engineering field
 ICU (ECG)
4. Micro Computer

 Microcomputer is the smallest computer system there size

range from calculator to desktop.
 It is known as grandchild computer.
 Microcomputer are called personal computer, because they
are used by one person at a time.

Application
 Office use computer
 Personal computer at home

Characteristics
 Small in size
 Used by one person
 Not expensive
 Generate less heat
5. Mini computer

 They are more powerful and most useful us compared to

micro computer to micro computer.
 There are all general purpose system.
 Portable computer because of small size.
 Mini computer are also because as mid-range computer (or)
child computer.
 It is design to serve multi used simultaneously.

Application
 Work group system in office.
 Departmental system
 Network server in lab.

Characteristics
 Larger memory size
 Greater storage capacity

6. Super computer
 The fastest and most powerful type of computers are called
super computer.
  Super computer contains a number of CPU with operate in
parallel and make it faster.
 It is also known as grand father computer.
 It is designed for scientific jops.

Application
 Weather forecasting
 Weapon research
 Electronic design

Characteristics
 Powerful computer
 Highly expensive
 Speed is measured in billions of instruction persecond.

7. Maniframe computer

 It is known as father computer.

 Mainframes computer are offer fast processing and greater
storage area.

Application
 Central database server
 Millitary
 Industrial organisation

Characteristics
 High speed
 Larger storage capacity
 Larger in size
 High expensive
 More than one processor at a time

Desktop computer
 They are the common computer that see in homes and schools.
 They need a small $ place.
 It is placed in a desk or table.
  It is cheaper than laptop and notebook.
 It is used to perform varity of tasks.

Laptop
 It is a brand of microcomputer which can be accommodated
in a small bag.
 It is portable computer within integrated screen and keyboard.
 It is smaller in size than a desktop computer.
 Easy access to the internet in any place.
 Less capacity compared to pc.
 More compact.
 Less power requirement

Notebook computer
 Smallest micro computer
 It can weight less than a kilogram.
Most notebook have built in micro phone and webcan.
Easy setup in classroom.

PDA(personal digital assistant)

 A hand size computer
 It have no keyboard but the screen serves both the input and
output device.
 It is known as palmtop computer.
 It is touch screen techonology.
operating system
 Os is a software which makes a computer to actually work.
 Os organizes and controls the hardware.
Eg.Windows,unix, mac os
 It controls the execution of all kinds of program.

User 1 User 2 User n

os

Sys s/w Application s/w

CP O/I
U
RAM
M

 An os perform basic task such as

 Controlling and allocating memory.

 Controlling I/O devices.
 Control the computer hardware.
 Running application.
 Managing file system
 It can be represented as follows

1
1
1
OS
 Advantages of os
 Easy to use
 User friendly
 Intermediate between all h/w’s and s/w’s
 No need to know any technical languages.
 It platform of all programs.

Structure of os

System programs
 This layer consists of assembler, linker,loader ...etc.

Application programs
 This is dependent on user needs.
 The user written the program in any programming language.

Software
 A set of instruction given to an computer to solve a problem is
called software.
 Software is also called program.

Hardware
 A physical part of the computer is called hardware.
 Hardware operate under the control of software.

Types of os
 It has the following types of os
.
 Multiuser
 Allow two or more used to run at same time.
 Some os permit hundred or thousand of user.
 Multi processing
 Support running a program more than one cpu
 Multi tasking
  Allow more than one program to run concurrently.
 Multi threading
 Allow different part of a single program to run concurrently.
 Real time
 The time interval required to process and respond to input.
 It respond to input instantly.

Explain the computer language ?

Language
 Languages are used to communicate one person to another person
to another person.
 To express feelings and emotion to other one.

Computer language
 A computer language are the language by which a user command a
computer to work.
 It is a set of rules that provides a way of telling a computer what
operation to perfrom
 It is a system of communication.

Computer Language

Low level High level Middle level

language
Machine language language
similar to human language
use mnemonics to
Use 1’s and 0’s language (c,c++,java) create instruction
Ex. Binary language (assembly language)

Eg:
C= A+B Highlevel

Assembly
language
ADD A,B
Machine
language
H/W
1000011110
Highlevel language
 A language that people can read, write and uunderstand.
 Use English word.
 Must be translated before the computer can understand it.
 It is a third generation language.
 Need a compiler or interpreter to translate its code to machine code.
Eg: if,else, continue, break.

Low level language

 Machine language is a system of instruction and data executed
directly by a computer CPU.
 The set of symbolic instruction in binary that is used to represent
operation and data are called machine code.
 Machine language is a collection of binary digits or bits that the
computer reads and interprets.
 It is consists of 0’s and 1’s
 It is referred as object code.
 It is used in first generation.

Eg : 0011

Middle level language(Assembly language)

 It is just one level higher than machine language.
 Assembly language is a programming language that uses symbolic
names to represent operation registers and memory locations.
 Assembly language uses a mnemonic to represent each low-level
machine code or operation.

Eg : ADD. A, B STA 200H

What is memory? Explain types of memory?

 Memory is a physical device used to stored data and instruction.
 The data can be stored temporary or per
 It is the major part of the computer.
 The performance the computer system depends on the size of the
computer.
Types of memory
Memory

Primary Secondar
memory y memory
Flash CD Flopp DV
RA RO
drive y disk D
M M
PRO EPROM
SRA DRA EEPRO
M
M M M
Primary memory Secondary memory

1. It is called as main memory 1. It is called as back memory

2. Fast access data and small
storage
3. Small size
4. A system cannot run without a
primary memory
5. It is a volatile memory
6. It is divided into two catagories
RAM and ROM
7. It is used for processing data
8. It is access directly by CPU
2. Low access data and large
storage
3. Large size
4. A system can run without a
secondary memory.
5. It is a non-volatile memory
6. It is divided in flash drive, CD,
DVD and FLOPPY DISK
7. It is used for storing data
8. It does not access directly by
CPU

Differentiate between RAM and ROM

RAM ROM
1. It is denoted as Random 1.It is denoted as Read Only
Access Memory Memory
2. It is read and write data in 2. Read data only in memory
memory. (R/W)
3.it is volatile 3.It is a non-volatile
 4.The data is erased, during power
failure.
5.Temporary memory.
6.Holdos and application program.
7.data can be changed or deleted.
4.The data is not erased, during
power failure.
5. permanent memory.
6.Hold system software.
7.data cannot be changed or
deleted.

S-RAM
 Static indicates that the memory retains its contents as long as power is
being supplied.
 Large size.
 Expensive.
 High power consumption.

D-RAM
 It must be continually refreshed in order to maintain the data.
 Small size.
 High expensive.
 Low power consumption.

ROM

PROM EPROM EEPRO

PROM M
 Programmable Read Only Memory.
 It can be modified only once by a user.
 It can be programmed only once and it is not erased.

EPROM
 Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory.
 Erasable means we can change (or) erase the data.
 It much expensive than ROM.
 Change data with the help of ultra violet rays.

EEPROM
 Electrically Erasable Programming Read Only Memory.
 It can erased by electrical charges.
  EEPROM can be erased one byte at a time.
 Both erasable and programming take 5 to 10 milli seconds.

Explain the generation of computer ?

First generation (1946-1959)
The period of first generation was from 1946-1959. The computers of
first generation used vacuum tubes as the basic components for memory and
circuitry for CPU. These tubes like electric bulbs, produced a lot of heat and the
installations used to fuse frequently. Therefore they were very expensive and
only large organizations were able to afford it.
In this generation mainly batch processing operating system was used
punch cards, paper tape and magnetic tape was used as input and output
devices. The computer in this generation used machine code as the
programming languages.
The main features of the first generation are
 Vacuum tube techonology
 Unreliable
 Supported machine language only.
 Very costly.
 Generated a lot of heat.
 Slow input and output devices
 Huge size
 Need of AC
 Consumed a lot of electricity.

Second generation (1959-1965)

The period of second generation was from 1959-1965. In this
generation, transistor were used that were cheaper, consumed less power, more
compact in size, more reliable and faster than the first generation machines
made of vaccum tube. In this generation magnetic cores were used as the
primary memory and magnetic tape and magnetic disks as secondary storage
devices.
In this generation assembly language and high level language like
FORTRAN, COBOL were used. The computers used batch processing and
multiprogramming operating system.
The main features of se3cond generation are
 Use of transistors
 Reliable in comparison of first generation computers.
 Smaller size as compared to first generation computers.
 Faster than first generation computers.
  Still very costly.
 AC required.

Third generation (1965-1971)

The period of third generation was from 1965-1971. The computers of third
generation used integraterciruit (ICs) in place of transistors. A single IC has
many transistor, resistors and capacitors along with the associated circuitry.
The IC was invented by Jack Kilbey. This development made computers
smaller in size, reliable and efficient. In this generation remote processing time-
sharing, multiprogramming operating system were used high-level
languages(FORTRAN-11 TO IV, COBOL, PASCAL PL/1, BASIC, ALGOL-
68.etc) were used during this generation.
The main features of third generation are
 IC used
 More reliable in comparision to previous two generations
 Smaller size
 Generated less heat
 Faster
 Lesser maintenance
 Costly
 AC required
 Supported high-level language

Fourth generation
Generation used very large scale integrated (VLSI) circuits. VLSI circuits
having about 5000 transistors and other circuit element with their associated
circuits on a single chip made it possible to have microcomputers of fourth
generation.
Fourth generation computers become more powerful, compact, reliable and
affordable. As a result, it gave rise to personal computer (pc) revolution. In this
generation time sharing, Real time networks, distributed operating system were
used. All the high-level languages like C, C++,DBASE etc..., were used in this
generation.
The main features of fourth generation are
 VLSI techonology used
 Very cheap
 Portable and realiable
 Use of pcs
 Very small size
 Pipeline processing
  No ac required
 Computers became easily available

Fifth generation
The period of fifth generation is 1980-till date. In the fifth generation,VLSI
technology became VLSI(Ultra Large Scale Integration) techonolgy, resulting
in the production of microprocessor chips having ten million electronic
components.
This generation is based on parallel processing hardware and AI(Artificial
Intelligence) software. AI is an emerging branch in computer science. Which
interprets the means and method of making computers think like human
beings.All the high-level languages like C and C++, JAVA,....Net etc.., are used
in this generation.
All includes
 Robotics
 Neutral networks
 Game playing
 Development of expert system to make decisions in real life
situations.
 Natural language understanding and generation.

Computer Generations
 First Generations :

Time-Period : 1942 To 1955

Technology Used : Vaccum Tubes
Memory Capacity : 10,000 To 20,000 Bytes
Execution Speed : Few Thousands Instructions Per Second
Languages : Machine Language
Important Computers : UNIVAC-1,UNIVAC- 2,IBM-170,IBM-650
 Second Generations :

Time-Period : 1955 To 1964

Technology Used : Transistors & Diode
Memory Capacity : 4,000 To 64,000 Bytes
Execution Speed : Upto 1 Million Instructions Per Second
Languages : Assembly, FORTRAN, COBOL & ALGOL
 Important Computers : CDC-60, UNIVAC-1004 & IBM-1620
 Third Generations :

Time-Period : 1964 To 1975

Technology Used : ICs with SSI & MSI
Memory Capacity : 32,000 To 4 Million Bytes
Execution Speed : Upto 10 Million Instructions Per Second
Languages : FORTRAN, PL-1 & BASIC LANGUAGE
Important Computers : IBM-360 & UNIVAC-100
 Fourth Generations :

Time-Period : 1975 To 1989

Technology Used : ICs with VLSI, Microprocessor
Memory Capacity : 51,200 To 32 Million Bytes
Execution Speed : Upto 100 Million Instructions Per Second
Languages : C, C++
Important Computers : Apple-II, TRS-80, VAX-9000 & IBM-PC
 Fifth Generations :

Time-Period : 1989 To Today

Technology Used : ICs with ULSI, Multi-core Processor
Memory Capacity : Upto 32 Million Bytes
Execution Speed : Very Fast
Languages : JAVA, XML
Important Computers : Dell Vostro-1015, Acer, Sony, Compaq,

INPUT DEVICES AND OUTPUT DEVICES

 An input can send data to another device, but it cannot receive data from
another device
 Input devices are necessary to convert our information or data into a form
which can be understood by the computer
 The devices which are used to input the data and the programs in the
computer are known as "Input Devices". or Input device can read data and
convert them to a form that a computer can use

Following are some of the important input devices which are used in a computer
−

 Keyboard
 Mouse
 scanner
 Magnetic Ink Card Reader(MICR)
 Optical Character Reader(OCR)
 Optical Mark Reader(OMR)
 Light pen
 Joy stick
 Touch screen
 Micro phone


Keyboard
 Keyboard is used in the input phase of a computer-based
information system.
 Keyboard is most common input device is used today.
 The data and instructions are input by typing on the keyboard.
 The message typed on the keyboard reaches the memory unit of a
computer. It’s connected to a computer via a cable.
 Apart from alphabet and numeral keys, it has other function keys
for performing different functions.
 It contains a total of 101 to 104 keys

 Mouse

 The mouse is an input device which is used with your personal computer.
 It rolls on a small ball and has two or three buttons on the top.
  When you roll the mouse across a flat surface the screen censors the
mouse in the direction of mouse movement.
 The cursor moves very fast with mouse giving you more freedom to work
in any direction.
 It is easier and faster to move through a mouse.
 It is a pointing device

Scanner

 The keyboard can input only text through keys provided in it.
 If we want to input a picture the keyboard cannot do that.
 The Scanner is an optical device that can input any graphical matter and
display it back.

Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR):

 This is widely used by banks to process large volumes of cheques and
drafts.
 Cheques are put inside the MICR.
 As they enter the reading unit the cheques pass through the magnetic field
which causes the read head to recognize the character of the cheques.

Optical mark Reader(OMR)

 This technique is used when students have appeared in objective type

tests and they had to mark their answer by darkening a square or circular
space by pencil.
 These answer sheets are directly fed to a computer for grading where
OMR is used.
 OMR is a special type of optical scanner used to recognize the type of
mark made by pen or pencil.
 Optical character Recognition(OCR)
OCR IS USED TO READ A PRINTED TEXT
 Suppose you have a set of handwritten characters on a piece of paper.
You put it, inside the scanner of the computer.
 This pattern is compared with a site of patterns stored inside the
computer.
 Whichever pattern is matched is called a character read.

Jo y Stick

 It is used to playing video games

 It can be moved in all four direction
 Joystick is also a pointing device, which is used to move the cursor
position on a monitor screen.
Light pen

 Light is a type of pointing device that is used to choose a displayed menu

option on screen for a program.
 This pen contains a photocell placed in a small tube.
 This is an input device which is used to draw lines or figures on a
computer screen.

Touch Screen

 The Touch screen takes input as when a finger or object comes in contact
with the screen, the light beam is broken, and the location of the breaking
of a light beam is recorded, which acts as inputs.

Micro Phone

It is an input Device
To input the sound that is stored in digital form
OUT PUT DEVICES

 An OUTPUT device can receive data from another device and generate
output with that data, but it cannot send data to another device
 Output devices can adopt different shapes and styles, which are used to
give the output of the processing of data.
 The output can be in any form i.e. typed, printed, sketched, visible,
nonviable, audio, video etc.
 Output devices are those peripheral devices that allow a user to retrieve
information from a computer
 Examples of output devices include the following.

Monitor
 Receives data from a computer (output) and displays that information as
text and images for users to view.
 It cannot accept data from a user and send that data to another device.

There are mostly two types of monitors:

1. LCD or liquid crystal display monitor.

2. CRT or Cathode Ray tube monitor.

Speakers

 Receives sound data from a computer and plays the sounds for users to
hear.
 It cannot accept sound generated by users and send that sound to another
device.
 Speakers are one of the most common output devices used with computer
systems.
 Some speakers are designed to work specifically with computers, while
others can be hooked up to any type of sound system.
 ... The sound produced by speakers is defined by frequency and
amplitude.

Printer

 A printer is a device that accepts text and graphic output from a computer
and transfers the information to paper, usually to standard size sheets of
paper. Printers vary in size, speed, sophistication, and cost.
 In general, more expensive printers are used for higher-resolution color
printing
 The printer is a very important component of a computer.
 It gives you a printed result of what is displayed on the monitor.
 The output received from the printer is called hard copy because you can
retain it even after you turn off the computer or are no longer working on
it
Types of printer

It has the following categories:

1. inkjet: Sprays ink at a sheet of paper. Ink-jet printers produce high-

quality text and graphics.
2. laser: Uses the same technology as copy machines. Laser printers
produce very high quality text and graphics.
3. LED: Similar to a laser printer but uses light-emitting diodes rather than a
laser to produce an image on the drum.
4. thermal printer: Works by pushing heated pins against heat-sensitive
paper. Thermal printers are widely used in calculators, ATMs and cash
registers.
5. dye-sublimation: Uses heat to transfer dye to paper, fabric, plastic cards or
other media. These printers are often used to print photos or ID cards.

Projector

 A digital projector is an electronic device that is capable of connecting

to a computer or other device and projecting the video output onto a
screen or wall.
 A projector is an output device that projects an image onto a large
surface
 It may be used an alternative to a monitor or television when showing
video or images to a large group of people.
  A projector or image projector is an optical device that projects an
image (or moving images) onto a surface, commonly a projection
screen.
 Most projectors create an image by shining a light through a small
transparent lens

There are 2 types of digital projector

1. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) digital projectors

2. Digital Light Processing (DLP) digital projectors

2 MARKS QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

1. What is Computer
Computer is an advanced electronic device that takes raw data as input from the
user and processes these data under the control of set of instructions (called program)
and gives the result (output)

2. What is meant by Translator?

A translator takes a program written in source language as input and
converts it into a program in target language as output

3. Define Computer Languages?

A programming language is a set of grammatical rules for instructing a
computer or computing device to perform specific tasks.

4. What is a compiler?
Compiler is a program that translates source code into object code.

5. What are the different categories of computers?

1. Analog Computers 2. Digital Computers 3.Hybrid Computers 4.Mini
Computers 5.micro Computers. 6. Mainframe Computers 7. Super
Computers
6. What is an operating system?
An operating system is computer software that manages hardware and
other software. It is an interface between User & Computer.

7. Define the terms : Hardware and Software

Hardware:

 Physical parts of the computer are called hardware.

 Hardware is constructed using physical materials or components.
 Computer is hardware, which operates under the control of a software.
 User cannot make new duplicate copies of the hardware.

Software:

 A set of instructions given to the computer is called software.

 Software is developed by writing instructions in programming language.

8. List two important functions of an ALU

An arithmetic logic unit (ALU) is a digital circuit used to perform
arithmetic and logic operations.
It represents the fundamental building block of the central processing
unit (CPU) of a computer.
9. Differentiate Static Ram and Dynamic RAM.

10. Define Main Memory.

Main memory refers to physical memory that is internal to the computer.
The word main is used to distinguish it from external mass storage
devices such as disk drives
The main memory in a computer is called Random Access Memory.
11. List the characteristics of a computer.
 Speed
 Accuracy
 Diligence
  Versatility
 Power of Remembering
 No IQ
 No Feeling
 Storage

12. What is arithmetic and logic unit?

 An arithmetic logic unit (ALU) is a major component of the central
processing unit of a computer system
 It performs arithmetic and bitwise operations on integer binary
numbers.
13. What is a memory?
 Computer memory is any physical device capable of storing
information temporarily or permanently.
 Memory stores data and instructions required during the
processing of data and output results
14. What is Software?
 software is a collection of instructions that enable the user to
interact with a computer
 A set of instructions given to the computer is called software.
 Software is developed by writing instructions in programming
language.
15. Define: Hardware.

 Physical parts of the computer are called hardware.

 Hardware is constructed using physical materials or components.
 Computer is hardware, which operates under the control of a software.
 User cannot make new duplicate copies of the hardware.

5 MARKS QUESTIONS
1. Write short notes on computer language
 Computer languages are the languages through which user can communicate
with the computer by writing program instructions.

Low Level Language (Machine Language)

Low Level language is the only language which can be understood by the computer.
Binary Language is an example of low level language. Low level language is also known
as Machine Language. The binary language contains only two symbols 1 & 0. All the
instructions of binary language are written in the form of binary numbers 1's & 0's. A
computer can directly understand the binary language. Machine language is also known
as Machine Code.

Advantages

 A computer can easily understand the low level language.

 Low level language instructions are executed directly without any translation.
 Low level language instructions require very less time for thier execution.

Disadvantages

 Low level language instructions are very difficult to use and understand.
 Low level language instructions are machine dependent, that means a program
written for a particular machine does not executes on other machine.

Middle Level Language (Assembly Language)

Middle level language is a computer language in which the instructions are created
using symbols such as letters, digits and special characters. Assembly language is an
example of middle level language. In assembly language, we use predefined words
called mnemonics. Binary code instructions in low level language are replaced with
mnemonics and operands in middle level language.

Advantages

 Writing instructions in middle level language is easier than writing instructions

in low level language.
 Middle level language is more readable compared to low level language.
  Easy to understand, find errors and modify.

Disadvantages

 Middle level language is specific to a particular machine architecture, that means

it is machine dependent.
 Middle level language needs to be translated into low level language.
 Middle level language executes slower compared to low level language.

High Level Language

High level language is a computer language which can be understood by the users. High
level language is very similar to the human languages and have a set of grammar rules
that are used to make instructions more easily. Every high level language have a set of
predefined words known as Keywords and a set of rules known as Syntax to create
instructions. Languages like COBOL, FORTRAN, BASIC, C ,C++, JAVA etc., are the
examples of high level languages.

Advantages

 Writing instructions in high level language is more easier.

 High level language is more readable and understandable.
 The programs created using high level language runs on different machines with
little change or no change.
 Easy to understand, create programs, find errors and modify.

Disadvantages

 High level language needs to be translated to low level language.

 High level language executes slower compared to middle and low level
languages.

____________________________________________________________________________________________

2. Explain the components of Computer system with a neat block

diagram.

A computer can process data, pictures, sound and graphics. They can solve highly
complicated problems quickly and accurately. These are

1) It accepts data or instructions by way of input,

2) it stores data,
3) it can process data as required by the user,
4) it gives results in the form of output, and
5) it controls all operations inside a computer.
Various Components of Computer

Computer is an electronic device which performs tasks given by user with extremely
fast speed and accuracy. Like any other device or machine, a computer system has also a
number of parts. A computer system can be blocked into mainly three parts:

1. Input Unit
2. Central Processing Unit
3. Output Unit

1. Input unit – Input unit is a unit that accepts any input device. The input device is
used to input data into the computer system.

Function of input unit:

1. It converts inputted data into binary codes.

2. It sends data to main memory of computer.

2. Central Processing Unit (CUP) – CPU is called the brain of a computer. An electronic
circuitry that carries out the instruction given by a computer program.

CPU can be sub classified into three parts.

i .Control unit (CU)

ii. Arithmetic & Logic unit (ALU)

iii.Memory Unit (MU)

i. Control unit (CU)- the control unit manages the various components of the
computer. It reads instructions from memory and interpretation and changes in a series
of signals to activate other parts of the computer. It controls and co-ordinate is input
output memory and all other units.

ii. Arithmetic & Logic unit (ALU) – The arithmetic logic unit (ALU), which performs
simple arithmetic operation such as +,-, *, / and logical operation such as >, <, =<, <= etc.
iii. Memory Unit (MU)- Memory is used to store data and instructions before and after
processing. Memory is also called Primary memory or internal memory. It is used to
store data temporary or permanently.

Function of CPU-

1. It controls all the parts and software and data flow of computer.
2. It performs all operations.
3. It accepts data from input device.
4. It sends information to output device.
5. Executing programs stored in memory
6. It stores data either temporarily or permanent basis.
7. It performs arithmetical and logical operations.

3. Output Unit –Output unit is a unit that constituents a number of output device. An
output device is used to show the result of processing.

Function of Output unit:

1. it accepts data or information sends from main memory of computer

2. It converts binary coded information into HLL or inputted languages.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

3. Explain the characteristics of computers.

Basic characteristics about computer are:

1. Speed: - As you know computer can work very fast. It takes only few seconds for
calculations that we take hours to complete. The computer can perform millions
(1,000,000) of instructions and even more per second.

Therefore, we determine the speed of computer in terms of microsecond (10-6 part of a

second) or nanosecond (10 to the power -9 part of a second

2. Accuracy: - The degree of accuracy of computer is very high and every calculation is
performed with the same accuracy. The accuracy level is 7.. The errors in computer are
due to human and inaccurate data.

3. Diligence: - A computer is free from tiredness, lack of concentration, fatigue, etc. It can
work for hours without creating any error. If millions of calculations are to be performed,
a computer will perform every calculation with the same accuracy. Due to this capability
it overpowers human being in routine type of work.

4. Versatility: - It means the capacity to perform completely different type of work. You
may use your computer to prepare payroll slips. Next moment you may use it for
inventory management or to prepare electric bills.
5. Power of Remembering: - Computer has the power of storing any amount of
information or data. Any information can be stored and recalled as long as you require it,
for any numbers of years. It depends entirely upon you how much data you want to store
in a computer and when to lose or retrieve these data.

6. No IQ: - Computer is a dumb machine and it cannot do any work without instruction
from the user. It performs the instructions at tremendous speed and with accuracy. It is
you to decide what you want to do and in what sequence. So a computer cannot take its
own decision as you can.

7. No Feeling: - It does not have feelings or emotion, taste, knowledge and experience.
Thus it does not get tired even after long hours of work. It does not distinguish between
users.

8. Storage: - The Computer has an in-built memory where it can store a large amount of
data. You can also store data in secondary storage devices such as floppies, which can be
kept outside your computer and can be carried to other computers.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

4. Discuss the functions of operating system.

Following are some of important functions of an operating System.

 Memory Management
 Processor Management
 Device Management
 File Management
 Security
 Control over system performance
 Job accounting
 Error detecting aids
 Coordination between other software and users

Memory Management

Memory management refers to management of Primary Memory or Main Memory. Main

memory is a large array of words or bytes where each word or byte has its own address.
Main memory provides a fast storage that can be accessed directly by the CPU. For a
program to be executed, it must in the main memory. De-allocates the memory when a
process no longer needs it or has been terminated.

Processor Management

In multiprogramming environment, the OS decides which process gets the processor

when and for how much time. This function is called process scheduling

Device Management
An Operating System manages device communication via their respective drivers. It
does the following activities for device management −

 Keeps tracks of all devices. Program responsible for this task is known as the I/O
controller.
 Decides which process gets the device when and for how much time.

File Management

A file system is normally organized into directories for easy navigation and usage. These
directories may contain files and other directions.

 Keeps track of information, location, uses, status etc. The collective facilities are
often known as file system.
 Decides who gets the resources.

Other Important Activities

Following are some of the important activities that an Operating System performs −

 Security − By means of password and similar other techniques, it prevents

unauthorized access to programs and data.
 Control over system performance − Recording delays between request for a
service and response from the system.
 Job accounting − Keeping track of time and resources used by various jobs and
users.
 Error detecting aids − Production of dumps, traces, error messages, and other
debugging and error detecting aids.
 Coordination between other softwares and users − Coordination and
assignment of compilers, interpreters, assemblers and other software to the
various users of the computer systems.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of RAM over ROM?

RAM:

RAM is an acronym of Random Access Memory, this is a type of computer memory is

continually read, written, changed and even removed.

Advantages

1. Information stored on is recovered regardless of the sequence used to store it.

2. It is the fastest type of memory in a computer.
3. It consumes less power compared to disk drives hence increasing battry life.
4. It is a silent memory since there are no moving parts on it.

Disadvantages.
 1. It is not cost friendly since its pricing per bit is high.
2. Space limited since computer manufacturers don’t include it in high capacities.
3. It is volatile.

ROM

This a type of memory that allows users to only read/ retrieve data from it but can not
write on it unless it is a special type of ROM.

The word ROM is an acronym for Read Only Memory. This type of memory is commonly
used to store permanent instructions in a computer such as the booting instructions.

Advantages of ROM.

 Can store data for long periods of time.

 Information stored on it cannot be tampered with unless for the special types of
ROM.
 Preferred memory to be used in special purpose computer.

Disadvantages.

 Its information can only be retrieved (read) but user can not delete, alter or
overwrite its contents except for special types of ROM.
 On some special types of ROM, user can only alter its contents ones.
 Unlike RAM, incorrectly erasing ROM contents will brick the memory (makes
it in unusable).
 ROM is slower type of memory.

6. Explain about the Fundamentals of computers.

Computer: A computer is a truly amazing machine that performs a specified sequence

of operations as per the set of instructions (known as programs) given on a set of data
(input) to generate desired information (output).

A complete computer system consists of four parts:

 Hardware: Hardware represents the physical and tangible components of the

computer.
 Software: Software is a set of electronic instructions consisting of complex codes
(Programs) that make the computer perform tasks.
 User: The computer operators are known as users.
  Data: Consists of raw facts, which the computer stores and reads in the form of
numbers.

The following features characterize this electronic machine:

 Speed
 Accuracy
 Storage and Retrieval
 Repeated Processing Capabilities
 Reliability
 Flexibility
 Low cost

These three steps constitute the data processing cycle.

 Input -Input data is prepared in some convenient form for processing. The form
will depend on the processing machine. For example, when electronic computers
are used, the input data could be recorded on any one of several types of input
medium, such as magnetic disks, tapes and so on.
 Processing - In this step input data is changed to produce data in a more useful
form. For example, paychecks may be calculated from the time cards, or a
summary of sales for the month may be calculated from the sales orders.
 Output - The result of the proceeding processing step are collected. The
particular form of the output data depends on the use of the data. For example,
output data may be pay-checks for employees.
Language Processors:

 Assembler: This language processor converts the program written in assembly

language into machine language.
 Interpreter: This language processor converts High-Level Language program
into machine language by converting and executing it line by line.
 Compiler:-It also converts the HLL program into machine language but the
conversion manner is different. It converts the entire HLL program in one go and
reports all the errors of the program along with the line numbers.

Software

Software represents the set of programs that govern the operation of a computer
system and make the hardware run.

This type of software is tailor-made software according to a user’s requirements.

Analog computers

 Analog computers always take input in form of signals.

 The input data is not a number infect a physical quantity like temp., pressure,
speed, velocity.
 Signals are continuous of (0 to 10 V).
 Accuracy 1% Approximately.
 Example: Speedometer.

Digital Computers

 These computers take the input in the form of digits & alphabets & converted it
into binary format.
 Digital computers are high speed, programmable electronic devices.
 Signals are two level of (0 for low/off 1 for high/on).
 Accuracy unlimited.
 Examples: Computer used for the purpose of business and education is also an
example of digital computers.

Hybrid Computer
  The combination of features of an analog and digital computer is called a Hybrid
computer.
 The main examples are central national defence and passenger flight radar
system.
 They are also used to control robots.

Super Computer

 The biggest in size.

 Most Expensive
 It can process trillions of instructions in seconds.
 This computer is not used as a PC in a home neither by a student in a college.
 Used by Govt. for different calculations and heavy jobs.
 Supercomputers are used for the heavy stuff like weather maps, construction of
atom bombs, earthquake prediction etc.

Mainframes

 It can also process millions of instruction per second.

 It can handle processing of many users at a time.
 Less expensive than Supercomputer
 It is commonly used in Hospitals, Air Reservation Companies as it can retrieve
data on a huge basis.
 This is normally too expensive and out of reach from a salary-based person.
 It can cost up to thousands of Dollars.

Mini Computer

 These computers are preferred mostly by small type of business personals,

colleges etc.
 These computers are cheaper than above two.
 Its an intermediary between microcomputer and mainframe.

Micro Computer/ Personal Computer

 It is mostly preferred by Home Users.

 Cost is less compared to above.
 Small in size.
 A microcomputer contains a central processing unit on a microchip in the form
of read-only memory and random access memory, and a housed in a unit that is
usually called a motherboard.

Notebook Computers

 Notebook computers typically weigh less than 6 pounds and are small enough to
fit easily in a briefcase.
 The principal difference between a notebook computer and a personal computer
is the display screen.
 Many notebook display screens are limited to VGA resolution.
Programming Languages

There are two major types of programming languages. These are Low-Level Languages
and High-Level Languages.

Low-Level languages are further divided into Machine language and Assembly
language.

Low-Level Languages: The term low level means closeness to the way in which the
machine has been built. Low-level languages are machine oriented and require
extensive knowledge of computer hardware and its configuration.

Machine Language: Machine Language is the only language that is directly

understood by the computer. It does not need any translator program. We also call it
machine code and it is written as strings of 1's (one) and 0’s (zero). When this
sequence of codes is fed to the computer, it recognizes the codes and converts it into
electrical signals needed to run it.

For example, a program instruction may look like this: 1011000111101

Assembly Language

It is the first step to improve the programming structure. You should know that
computer can handle numbers and letter. Therefore some combination of letters can
be used to substitute for a number of machine codes.

The set of symbols and letters forms the Assembly Language and a translator program
is required to translate the Assembly Language to machine language. This translator
program is called `Assembler'. It is considered to be a second-generation language.

High-Level languages

You know that assembly language and machine level language require deep knowledge
of computer hardware whereas in a higher language you have to know only the
instructions in English words and logic of the problem irrespective of the type of
computer you are using.

 Higher level languages are simple languages that use English and mathematical
symbols like +, -, %, / for its program construction.
 You should know that any higher level language has to be converted to machine
language for the computer to understand.

10 MARKS QUESTIONS
 1. Discuss the most significant development in each generation of
computers (OR) explain the features of each generation
computers.

First Generation

 The period 1940 to 1956, roughly considered as the First Generation of

Computer.
 The first generation computers were developed by using vacuum tube or
thermionic valve machine.
 The input of this system was based on punched cards and paper tape; however,
the output was displayed on printouts.
 The first generation computers worked on binary-coded concept (i.e., language
of 0-1). Examples: ENIAC, EDVAC, etc.

Second Generation

 The period 1956 to 1963 is roughly considered as the period of Second

Generation of Computers.
 The second generation computers were developed by using transistor
technology.
 In comparison to the first generation, the size of second generation was smaller.
 In comparison to computers of the first generation, the computing time taken by
the computers of the second generation was lesser.

Third Generation

 The period 1963 to 1971 is roughly considered as the period of Third Generation
of computers.
 The third generation computers were developed by using the Integrated Circuit
(IC) technology.

 In comparison to the computers of the second generation, the size of the

computers of the third generation was smaller.
 In comparison to the computers of the second generation, the computing time
taken by the computers of the third generation was lesser.
 The third generation computer consumed less power and also generated less
heat.
 The maintenance cost of the computers in the third generation was also low.
 The computer system of the computers of the third generation was easier for
commercial use.

Fourth Generation

 The period 1972 to 2010 is roughly considered as the fourth generation of

computers.
 The fourth generation computers were developed by using microprocessor
technology.
  By coming to fourth generation, computer became very small in size, it became
portable.
 The machine of fourth generation started generating very low amount of heat.
 It is much faster and accuracy became more reliable.
 The production cost reduced to very low in comparison to the previous
generation.
 It became available for the common people as well.

Fifth Generation

 The period 2010 to till date and beyond, roughly considered as the period of fifth
generation of computers.
 By the time, the computer generation was being categorized on the basis of
hardware only, but the fifth generation technology also included software.
 The computers of the fifth generation had high capability and large memory
capacity.
 Working with computers of this generation was fast and multiple tasks could be
performed simultaneously.
 Some of the popular advanced technologies of the fifth generation include
Artificial intelligence, Quantum computation, Nanotechnology, Parallel
processing, etc.

2. Explain the following a)Computer languages b)Operating

Systems

a) Computer languages are the languages through which user can

communicate with the computer by writing program instructions.

Low Level Language (Machine Language)

Low Level language is the only language which can be understood by the computer.
Binary Language is an example of low level language. Low level language is also known
as Machine Language. The binary language contains only two symbols 1 & 0. All the
instructions of binary language are written in the form of binary numbers 1's & 0's. A
computer can directly understand the binary language. Machine language is also known
as Machine Code.

Advantages

 A computer can easily understand the low level language.

 Low level language instructions are executed directly without any translation.
 Low level language instructions require very less time for thier execution.

Disadvantages

 Low level language instructions are very difficult to use and understand.
 Low level language instructions are machine dependent, that means a program
written for a particular machine does not executes on other machine.

Middle Level Language (Assembly Language)

Middle level language is a computer language in which the instructions are created
using symbols such as letters, digits and special characters. Assembly language is an
example of middle level language. In assembly language, we use predefined words
called mnemonics. Binary code instructions in low level language are replaced with
mnemonics and operands in middle level language.

Advantages

 Writing instructions in middle level language is easier than writing instructions

in low level language.
 Middle level language is more readable compared to low level language.
 Easy to understand, find errors and modify.

Disadvantages

 Middle level language is specific to a particular machine architecture, that means

it is machine dependent.
 Middle level language needs to be translated into low level language.
 Middle level language executes slower compared to low level language.

High Level Language

High level language is a computer language which can be understood by the users. High
level language is very similar to the human languages and have a set of grammar rules
that are used to make instructions more easily. Every high level language have a set of
predefined words known as Keywords and a set of rules known as Syntax to create
instructions. Languages like COBOL, FORTRAN, BASIC, C ,C++, JAVA etc., are the
examples of high level languages.
Advantages

 Writing instructions in high level language is more easier.

 High level language is more readable and understandable.
 The programs created using high level language runs on different machines with
little change or no change.
 Easy to understand, create programs, find errors and modify.

Disadvantages

 High level language needs to be translated to low level language.

High level language executes slower compared to middle and low level
languages
Operating Systems:

The Operating System is a program with the following features −

 An operating system is a program that acts as an interface between the software

and the computer hardware.
 It is an integrated set of specialized programs used to manage overall resources
and operations of the computer.
 It is a specialized software that controls and monitors the execution of all other
programs that reside in the computer, including application programs and other
system software.

Objectives of Operating System

The objectives of the operating system are −

 To make the computer system convenient to use in an efficient manner.

 To hide the details of the hardware resources from the users.
 To provide users a convenient interface to use the computer system.
  To act as an intermediary between the hardware and its users, making it easier
for the users to access and use other resources.
 To manage the resources of a computer system.
 To keep track of who is using which resource, granting resource requests, and
mediating conflicting requests from different programs and users.
 To provide efficient and fair sharing of resources among users and programs.

Characteristics of Operating System

Here is a list of some of the most prominent characteristic features of Operating

Systems

 Memory Management − Keeps track of the primary memory, i.e. what part of it
is in use by whom, what part is not in use, etc. and allocates the memory when a
process or program requests it.
 Processor Management − Allocates the processor (CPU) to a process and
deallocates the processor when it is no longer required.
 Device Management − Keeps track of all the devices. This is also called I/O
controller that decides which process gets the device, when, and for how much
time.
 File Management − Allocates and de-allocates the resources and decides who
gets the resources.
 Security − Prevents unauthorized access to programs and data by means of
passwords and other similar techniques.
 Job Accounting − Keeps track of time and resources used by various jobs and/or
users.
 Control Over System Performance − Records delays between the request for a
service and from the system.
 Interaction with the Operators − Interaction may take place via the console of
the computer in the form of instructions. The Operating System acknowledges
the same, does the corresponding action, and informs the operation by a display
screen.
 Error-detecting Aids − Production of dumps, traces, error messages, and other
debugging and error-detecting methods.
 Coordination between Other Software and Users − Coordination and
assignment of compilers, interpreters, assemblers, and other software to the
various users of the computer systems.

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