Question 1: System Structure and Components (20 marks)

Define the structure of a computer system and list its components. In your response, include:

1. A detailed explanation of the basic structure of a computer system, including the

CPU, memory types, and storage options. (10 marks)
2. Categorize the components according to their functions (input, output, processing,
storage) and provide examples for each category. (10 marks)

Question 2: Computer Architecture and Operations (20 marks)

Describe the key aspects of computer architecture and operations. Your answer should cover:

1. Identification of different computer system models and how they operate, including
the data processing cycle. (10 marks)
2. An articulation of interconnection standards and the elements of bus structure within a
computer system. (10 marks)

Question 3: Storage Media and Data Representation (20 marks)

Discuss the various types of storage media and data representation methods. In your
discussion, include:

1. Identification and categorization of storage media, including internal and external

memory. (10 marks)
2. Explanation of data representation in different number systems (decimal, binary,
octal, hexadecimal) and their significance in computing. (10 marks)

Question 4: Computer Software and Operating Systems (20 marks)

Define computer software and elaborate on its types, particularly focusing on operating
systems. Your response should include:

1. A definition and explanation of system software, including its characteristics and the
structure of an operating system. (10 marks)
2. Identification of various types of operating systems, their functions, and examples,
along with a discussion on application software. (10 marks)

Question 5:
 a) Outline the importance of monitoring computer system performance. and identifying
system faults. Discuss the process of fault identification and solution implementation.
(10 marks)

1. Outline the steps involved in computer repair in line with industry standards,
including preventive measures to maintain operational efficiency. (10 marks)

Question 1: System Structure and Components (20 marks)

1. Basic Structure of a Computer System (10 marks)

A computer system is an integrated set of hardware and software components that process data and
produce output. The main components include:

 Central Processing Unit (CPU):

o Control Unit (CU): Directs the flow of data and instructions.
o Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs arithmetic and logical operations.
o Registers: Temporary data storage for instructions and calculations.
 Memory Types:
o RAM (Random Access Memory): Volatile memory used during active processing.
o ROM (Read-Only Memory): Non-volatile memory storing startup instructions.
o Cache Memory: High-speed memory between RAM and CPU, stores frequently used
data.
o Virtual Memory: Uses hard disk space to extend RAM when needed.
 Storage Options:
o Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Magnetic, high-capacity storage.
o Solid-State Drive (SSD): Fast, reliable flash memory storage.
o Optical Storage (CD/DVD): Used for reading and writing data via lasers.
o USB Flash Drive / SD Cards: Portable external storage devices.

2. Component Categorization (10 marks)

Function Component Example

Input Devices Used to provide data to the system Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner

Output Devices Display or convey processed data Monitor, Printer, Speakers

Processing Carries out computation CPU, GPU

Storage Retains data and programs HDD, SSD, RAM, USB Drive

Question 2: Computer Architecture and Operations (20 marks)

1. Computer System Models & Data Processing Cycle (10 marks)

 Von Neumann Architecture:

 o Shared memory for instructions and data.
o Single bus system leads to bottlenecks.
 Harvard Architecture:
o Separate memory for instructions and data.
o More efficient and faster data access.
 Data Processing Cycle:

1. Input: Gathering raw data (e.g., from a keyboard).

2. Processing: CPU interprets and processes data.
3. Storage: Results stored in memory or disks.
4. Output: Information is presented to the user.

2. Interconnection Standards & Bus Structure (10 marks)

 Bus Structure:
o Data Bus: Carries actual data.
o Address Bus: Transmits memory addresses.
o Control Bus: Sends control signals (e.g., read/write).
 Interconnection Standards:
o USB (Universal Serial Bus): Connects peripheral devices.
o PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express): Links internal components.
o SATA (Serial ATA): Connects to hard drives and SSDs.
o HDMI/VGA: Connects to display devices.
o Ethernet/Wi-Fi: Network connectivity.

Question 3: Storage Media and Data Representation (20 marks)

1. Storage Media Categorization (10 marks)

 Internal Memory:
o RAM, ROM, Cache (located inside the computer).
 External Storage:
o HDDs, SSDs (built-in but accessible externally), USBs, DVDs.

Storage Types:

 Primary Storage: RAM, ROM – fast, volatile/non-volatile.

 Secondary Storage: HDD, SSD – permanent, high-capacity.
 Tertiary Storage: Optical media, cloud backups.

2. Data Representation in Number Systems (10 marks)

 Decimal (Base 10): Uses digits 0–9; standard for humans.

 Binary (Base 2): Uses 0 and 1; fundamental to computing.
  Octal (Base 8): Uses digits 0–7; sometimes used in Unix file permissions.
 Hexadecimal (Base 16): Uses 0–9 and A–F; compact way to represent binary data (e.g., color
codes in HTML).

Significance:

 Computers operate on binary, but higher bases (like hex) simplify human readability and
debugging.

Question 4: Computer Software and Operating Systems (20 marks)

1. System Software & Operating System Structure (10 marks)

 System Software: Controls hardware and provides a platform for application software.
o Includes operating systems, device drivers, and utilities.
 Characteristics:
o Low-level interaction with hardware.
o Automatically manages system resources.
 Structure of an Operating System:
o Kernel: Core part that manages hardware.
o Shell: Interface between user and kernel.
o File System: Manages file storage and access.
o Device Drivers: Allow communication with peripherals.

2. Types of Operating Systems & Application Software (10 marks)

 Types of Operating Systems:

o Single-user, Single-tasking: e.g., MS-DOS.
o Single-user, Multi-tasking: e.g., Windows 10, macOS.
o Multi-user: e.g., Linux, UNIX.
o Real-time OS: e.g., RTLinux, used in embedded systems.
o Mobile OS: e.g., Android, iOS.
 Functions:
o Managing hardware, memory, processes, files, and I/O.
 Application Software: Programs designed for end-users, such as:
o Word processors: MS Word.
o Browsers: Chrome.
o Multimedia tools: VLC, Photoshop.

Question 5: System Performance Monitoring and Repair (20 marks)

1. Importance of Monitoring & Fault Identification (10 marks)

 Importance:
o Ensures system efficiency, reliability, and security.
 o Prevents downtime and data loss.
 Fault Identification Process:

1. Observation: Noting errors (slow performance, system crashes).

2. Diagnosis: Using tools like Task Manager, Event Viewer.
3. Testing: Running diagnostics or replacing suspected faulty components.
4. Solution Implementation: Repairing or replacing parts, updating drivers/software.

2. Computer Repair Steps & Preventive Measures (10 marks)

 Repair Steps (as per industry standards):

1. Backup data.
2. Diagnose the issue.
3. Repair or replace faulty hardware/software.
4. Test the system post-repair.
5. Document the process.
 Preventive Measures:

o Regular updates and patches.

o Antivirus and firewall installation.
o Cleaning internal hardware (dusting).
o Avoid overloading systems.
o Scheduled maintenance checks.