PAPER NO: 317/22/M01B – COMPUTER SYSTEMS MAINTENANCE

Answer All questions

Question 1

Question 1: Computer System Structure (20 marks)

Define the concept of computer system structure and explain its significance. In your answer,
include:

1. A comprehensive breakdown of the components that make up a computer system,

including the CPU, memory types, and storage devices. (10 marks)
2. Discuss how these components connect and interact within the system structure to
perform computing tasks. (10 marks)

Question 2: Functions of a Computer System (20 marks)

Explain the core functions of a computer system. In your discussion, include:

1. A detailed description of the input, processing, and output functions, providing

examples for each. (10 marks)
2. Discuss the role of storage in the computer system and how it supports the overall
functionality. (10 marks)

Question 3: Computer Architecture Models (20 marks)

Identify and describe different computer architecture models. Your response should include:

1. An explanation of at least two different computer system models, including their

characteristics and applications. (10 marks)
2. Illustrate the basic operations of a computer system, including the data processing
cycle and how operations are performed. (10 marks)

Question 4: Storage Media and Their Selection (20 marks)

Discuss the various types of storage media in computing. In your response, include:

1. Identification and categorization of storage media according to technology, including

internal and external options. (10 marks)
2. Outline the criteria for selecting appropriate storage media for specific applications,
justifying your choices. (10 marks)

Question 5: Software Deployment and Support (20 marks)

Analyze the deployment and support of computer software within organizations. In your
analysis, address:

1. The steps involved in deploying system software, including preparation, testing, and
deployment processes. (10 marks)
 2. Discuss how to support business applications through effective use of computer
software and the importance of ongoing maintenance. (10 marks)

ANSWERS

Question 1: Computer System Structure (20 marks)

A computer system structure refers to the organized and interconnected arrangement of the
various physical and logical components that work together to perform computing tasks. It
defines how these components are organized, how they communicate, and how they
contribute to the overall functionality of the system. Understanding this structure is
significant because it provides a blueprint for how a computer operates, influences its
performance, scalability, and compatibility, and guides the design and development of both
hardware and software.

1. A comprehensive breakdown of the components that make up a computer

system, including the CPU, memory types, and storage devices. (10 marks)

A computer system comprises several key components:

o Central Processing Unit (CPU): Often referred to as the "brain" of the

computer, the CPU is responsible for executing instructions that make up
computer programs. It performs arithmetic, logical, and control operations.
Modern CPUs consist of several key parts:
 Control Unit: Fetches instructions from memory, decodes them, and
directs the other components of the CPU to perform the necessary
actions.
 Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs arithmetic and logical
operations on data.
 Registers: Small, high-speed storage locations within the CPU used to
hold data and instructions that are currently being processed.
 Cache Memory (L1, L2, L3): High-speed memory that stores
frequently accessed data and instructions, allowing the CPU to access
them more quickly than accessing main memory. Different levels of
cache exist, with L1 being the fastest and smallest, and L3 being the
slowest and largest.
o Memory: This is where data and instructions are stored temporarily while the
computer is running. There are different types of memory:
 Random Access Memory (RAM): Volatile memory that allows data
to be accessed in any order. It's the primary working memory of the
computer, holding data and instructions that the CPU is actively using.
RAM comes in different forms like DDR4 and DDR5, with varying
speeds and capacities.
 Read-Only Memory (ROM): Non-volatile memory that stores
permanent instructions, such as the boot program (BIOS or UEFI) that
starts the computer. Data in ROM cannot be easily modified. Different
types include PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM.
 Cache Memory (Revisited): As mentioned earlier, cache memory is a
type of high-speed memory that bridges the speed gap between the
CPU and main memory (RAM).
o Storage Devices: These are used for long-term storage of data and programs,
even when the computer is turned off. Common types include:
 Hard Disk Drives (HDDs): Magnetic storage devices that store data
on rotating platters. They offer large storage capacities at a relatively
low cost but have slower access times compared to SSDs due to
mechanical parts.
 Solid State Drives (SSDs): Use flash memory to store data
electronically. They have no moving parts, resulting in faster access
times, better durability, and lower power consumption compared to
HDDs, but are generally more expensive per unit of storage.
 Optical Drives (CD, DVD, Blu-ray): Use lasers to read and
sometimes write data to optical discs. They are less common now but
are still used for software installation, media playback, and data
archiving.
 USB Flash Drives: Portable solid-state storage devices that connect to
a computer via a USB port. They are convenient for transferring and
backing up small to medium amounts of data.
 External Hard Drives and SSDs: Similar to their internal
counterparts but are housed in external enclosures and connect to the
computer via USB or other interfaces, providing portable storage
solutions.
2. Discuss how these components connect and interact within the system structure
to perform computing tasks. (10 marks)

These components are interconnected through a system of buses, which are sets of electrical
pathways that allow data to be transferred between them. Key buses include

Front-Side Bus (FSB) / System Bus:- Historically connected the CPU to the main memory
and other components. In modern systems, this has largely been replaced by faster and more
integrated interfaces.
Memory Bus:- Connects the CPU (or the memory controller integrated into the CPU) to the
RAM, allowing for the transfer of data and instructions between them.
Input/Output (I/O) Bus (e.g., PCI-e, SATA, USB): Connects the CPU and memory to various
peripheral devices, including storage devices, input devices (keyboard, mouse), and output
devices (monitor, printer). PCI-e (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is a high-
speed serial bus used for connecting graphics cards, network cards, and high-performance
storage. SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) is primarily used for connecting
storage devices like HDDs and SSDs. USB (Universal Serial Bus) connects a wide range of
peripherals.
The interaction between these components to perform a computing task typically
follows these steps:

1. Input - The user provides data or instructions through input devices, which are then
transferred to the main memory via the I/O bus and the input controller.
2. Fetching:- The CPU's control unit fetches an instruction from the main memory (RAM)
via the memory bus. The instruction's location in memory is determined by the program
counter.
3. Decoding:-The control unit decodes the fetched instruction to determine what operation
needs to be performed.
4. Execution:- The control unit directs the ALU to perform the arithmetic or logical
operation specified by the instruction. This may involve retrieving data from registers or main
memory and storing the result back in registers or memory.
5. Memory Access:- During execution, the CPU may need to read data from or write data to
the main memory. This communication happens over the memory bus. Cache memory plays
a crucial role in speeding up this process by providing faster access to frequently used data.
6. -Storage Access:-If the task requires accessing data stored on a storage device (e.g.,
opening a file), the CPU sends a request via the I/O bus to the storage controller. The storage
device retrieves the data, and it's transferred back to the main memory. Similarly, when
saving data, it's transferred from main memory to the storage device.
7. Output:- Once the processing is complete, the results are transferred from the main
memory to an output device (e.g., monitor, printer) via the I/O bus and the output controller,
making the information available to the user.

This intricate dance of data and instructions moving between the CPU, memory, and storage
devices, orchestrated by the system's buses and controllers, is fundamental to how a computer
executes programs and performs tasks.

Question 2: Functions of a Computer System (20 marks)

The core functions of a computer system can be broadly categorized into four main areas:
input, processing, output, and storage. These functions work in a coordinated manner to
enable the computer to perform useful tasks.

1. A detailed description of the input, processing, and output functions, providing

examples for each. (10 marks)
o Input: This function involves receiving data and instructions from the external
world. Input devices are used to feed information into the computer system in
a format that it can understand.
 Description: Input is the initial stage where raw data or commands are
entered into the computer. This data can be in various forms, such as
text, images, audio, video, or physical signals.
 Examples:
 Typing text using a keyboard.
 Moving the cursor and selecting items with a mouse.
 Scanning a document using a scanner.
 Capturing images or videos with a webcam.
  Speaking into a microphone.
 Touching an icon on a touchscreen.
 Reading data from a barcode scanner.
o Processing: This is the core function where the computer manipulates the
input data according to the instructions provided by software. The CPU is the
primary component responsible for processing.
 Description: Processing involves performing operations on the input
data to transform it into a meaningful and useful form. These
operations can include arithmetic calculations, logical comparisons,
data manipulation, and control of other system components.
 Examples:
 Calculating the sum of numbers in a spreadsheet.
 Sorting a list of names alphabetically in a word processor.
 Applying filters to an image in a photo editing software.
 Executing the instructions of a computer game.
 Converting audio signals into digital data for music playback.
 Analyzing sensor data in a weather monitoring system.
o Output: This function involves presenting the processed information to the
user or another system in a comprehensible format. Output devices are used to
display or transmit the results.
 Description: Output is the final stage where the results of processing
are presented. This can be in various forms, such as visual displays,
printed documents, audio signals, or data transmitted to other devices.
 Examples:
 Displaying text and graphics on a monitor.
 Printing documents on a printer.
 Playing sound through speakers or headphones.
 Projecting a presentation using a projector.
 Transmitting data over a network.
 Controlling a robotic arm based on processed instructions.
2. Discuss the role of storage in the computer system and how it supports the
overall functionality. (10 marks)

Storage plays a vital role in a computer system by providing a means to retain data and
programs persistently, even when the power is turned off. It acts as a repository for all the
information that the computer uses and generates. Its significance in supporting the overall
functionality is multifaceted:

* **Persistence of Data and Programs:** Without storage, all data and

programs would be lost once the computer is shut down. Storage devices
ensure that the operating system, applications, user files, and other
important data are saved and can be accessed again later. This allows for
continuity and the ability to reuse information.

* **Loading and Running Applications:** When you want to use a software

application, such as a word processor or a web browser, the program files
are loaded from the storage device into the main memory (RAM). The CPU can
then access and execute these instructions. Storage provides the permanent
location for these applications.

* **Saving User-Generated Content:** Storage allows users to save the

documents, images, videos, and other files they create or modify. This
ability to save and retrieve personal data is a fundamental aspect of
computer usage.

* **Virtual Memory:** In situations where the RAM is insufficient to hold

all the currently running programs and data, the operating system can use a
portion of the hard disk or SSD as an extension of RAM, known as virtual
memory (swap space or page file). This allows the system to handle more
processes than the physical RAM would otherwise permit, although with
slower performance.

* **Booting the System:** When the computer is turned on, the operating
system needs to be loaded into RAM before it can start managing the system.
The boot program, stored in ROM, initiates this process by locating and
loading the operating system files from the storage device into the main
memory.

* **Data Archiving and Backup:** Storage devices are crucial for creating
backups of important data, protecting against data loss due to hardware
failures, software errors, or other unforeseen events. External hard
drives, SSDs, and cloud storage are commonly used for this purpose.

In essence, storage provides the permanent foundation upon which all other
functions of a computer system rely. It ensures that the system has access
to the necessary software and data to perform tasks and that the results of
these tasks can be saved for future use. Without reliable and sufficient
storage, the functionality of a computer would be severely limited.

Question 3: Computer Architecture Models (20 marks)

Computer architecture models provide a high-level description of how the components of a

computer system are organized and how they interact. Different models have evolved over
time to address varying performance requirements and application domains.

1. An explanation of at least two different computer system models, including their

characteristics and applications. (10 marks)
o Von Neumann Architecture: This is a widely used architecture where the
CPU accesses both instructions and data from a single main memory address
space.
 Characteristics:
 Single Address Space: Instructions and data are stored in the
same memory unit and accessed through the same set of
address and data buses.
 Sequential Execution: Instructions are typically fetched and
executed one after another (though modern implementations
often employ pipelining and other techniques to overlap
execution).
 Simplicity: The unified memory structure simplifies the design
and programming of computers.
 Applications: The Von Neumann architecture is the basis for most
general-purpose computers, including desktop PCs, laptops, and
servers. Its simplicity and flexibility make it suitable for a wide range
of applications.
o Harvard Architecture: This architecture features separate memory units for
instructions and data, with dedicated address and data buses for each.
 Characteristics:
  Separate Address Spaces: Instructions and data are stored in
distinct memory units.
 Parallel Access: The CPU can fetch the next instruction from
instruction memory while simultaneously accessing data from
data memory, potentially leading to faster execution.
 Increased Complexity: The separation of memory and buses
adds to the complexity of the system design.
 Applications: Harvard architecture is commonly used in embedded
systems, digital signal processors (DSPs), and microcontrollers where
speed and real-time processing are critical. Examples include
automotive control systems, audio and video processing units, and
network devices.
2. Illustrate the basic operations of a computer system, including the data
processing cycle and how operations are performed. (10 marks)

The basic operations of a computer system revolve around the data processing cycle,
which consists of the following fundamental steps:

1. Input: Receiving data or instructions from an input device (e.g., keyboard,

mouse, sensor).
2. Processing: Manipulating the input data according to the instructions of a
program. This is primarily done by the CPU.
3. Output: Presenting the processed information to the user or another system
through an output device (e.g., monitor, printer, network).
4. Storage: Saving data or instructions for future use on a storage device (e.g.,
hard drive, SSD).

How Operations are Performed:

Let's consider a simple operation: adding two numbers entered by the user and
displaying the result.

5. Input: The user types two numbers (e.g., 5 and 3) using the keyboard. These
inputs are received by the computer and stored in the main memory (RAM).
6. Processing:
 The CPU's control unit fetches the instruction from the program that
tells it to add the two numbers from their memory locations.
 The control unit decodes the instruction and signals the ALU to
perform the addition operation.
 The ALU retrieves the numbers (5 and 3) from the memory locations
specified by the instruction.
 The ALU performs the addition: 5+3=8.
 The result (8) is then stored back into a register within the CPU or a
designated location in the main memory.
7. Output:
 Another instruction in the program tells the computer to display the
result.
 The CPU's control unit fetches this instruction and directs the graphics
processing unit (GPU) or the display controller to prepare the output.
  The result (8) is retrieved from the memory location where it was
stored.
 The output device (monitor) receives the signal and displays the
number "8" to the user.
8. Storage (Optional in this simple example): If the user wanted to save the
result or the original numbers for later use, they would issue a "save"
command. The CPU would then direct the storage device controller to write
the data from the main memory to a specified location on the storage device
(e.g., a file on the hard drive).

This cycle of input, processing, output, and storage (when needed) is repeated for
every task a computer performs, from running complex software to simply displaying
the time. The speed and efficiency with which the CPU and other components handle
these steps determine the overall performance of the computer system.

Question 4: Storage Media and Their Selection (20 marks)

Storage media are physical materials on which data can be recorded and subsequently
retrieved. They are essential for the long-term preservation of information in computer
systems.

1. Identification and categorization of storage media according to technology,

including internal and external options. (10 marks)

Storage media can be categorized based on the underlying technology used to store
data:

o Magnetic Storage: This technology uses magnetic fields to store data on a

magnetic surface.
 Internal:
 Hard Disk Drives (HDDs): Consist of one or more rotating
platters coated with a magnetic material. Read/write heads
move across the platters to access and modify data.
 External:
 External Hard Disk Drives: Portable versions of HDDs
enclosed in a protective casing and connected via USB or other
interfaces.
 Magnetic Tapes: Used primarily for archival storage and
large-scale backups due to their high capacity and relatively
low cost per gigabyte, though access times are slow.
o Optical Storage: This technology uses lasers to read and write data on optical
discs.
 Internal:
 CD-ROM/R/RW Drives: Use lasers to read (ROM) or read
and write (R/RW) data on compact discs.
 DVD-ROM/R/RW Drives: Similar to CD drives but use a
shorter wavelength laser to store more data on a disc of the
same physical size.
  Blu-ray Drives: Use an even shorter wavelength blue laser,
allowing for the storage of high-definition video and large
amounts of data.
 External:
 External Optical Drives: Portable versions of CD, DVD, or
Blu-ray drives that connect via USB.
o Solid-State Storage: This technology uses electronic circuits to store data in
non-volatile memory chips, with no moving mechanical parts.
 Internal:
 **Solid State