1. What is the meaning of computer?

A computer is an efficient electronic device that receives raw data from the user, processes it by
using a set of instructions (called a program), generates an output and saves it for further use.

2. What are the different function of computer?

There are Five main function of a computer:

- Takes data as input
- Stores the data in its memory and use them when required
- Processing the data
- Generates the output
- Controls all the above four functions

3. What are the different types of Memory and its description?

 Cache memory
Cache memory is a type of high-speed semiconductor memory that can help the CPU run faster.
Between the CPU and main memory, it serves as a buffer. It's used to store the data and
programs that the CPU uses the most frequently. The operating system transfers data and
program pieces from disk to cache memory, from which the CPU can access them.
 Primary Memory (Main Memory)
Only the data and instructions on which the computer is presently working are stored in primary
memory. It has a limited storage capacity, and when the power is turned off, the data is lost. The
majority of it is made up of semiconductor devices. Main memory stores the data and
instructions that must be processed. RAM and ROM are the two subcategories of memory.
 Secondary Memory
This form of memory is also known as non-volatile memory or external memory. It operates at a
slower speed than main memory. These are used to store data and information indefinitely.
These memories are not accessed directly by the CPU; instead, they are accessed through input-
output procedures.
 Computer Random Access Memory (RAM)
the internal memory of the CPU for storing data, program and program result. It is
read/write memory which stores data until the machine is working. RAM is volatile, i.e. data
stored in it is lost when we switch off the computer or if there is a power failure.

 Read Only Memory (ROM)

DRAM is the most common type of system memory since it is inexpensive and compact.
Memory cells, which are made up of one capacitor and one transistor, are used in all DRAMs.
ROM chips are not only used in the computer but also in other electronic items like washing
machine and microwave oven.

4. What are the different types of computer and its description?

Mainframe Computer
It's a high-capacity, high-priced computer. It is primarily employed by large organizations where a huge number of
individuals can use it at the same time.
Super Computer
This is the fastest computer category, but it is also the most expensive. A typical supercomputer is capable of
performing up to 10 trillion calculations per second.
Workstation Computer
The computer of this category is a high-end and expensive one. It is exclusively made for complex work purpose.
Personal Computer (PC)
It is a low capacity computer developed for single users.
Apple Macintosh (Mac)
It is a sort of personal computer manufactured by Apple company.
Laptop computer (notebook)
It is a handy computer that can be easily carried anywhere.
Tablet and Smartphone
Modern technology has advanced further. It has helped develop computers that are pocket-friendly. Tablets and
smartphones are the best examples of such computer.

5. What are the different generation of computer including its different technology being used in every

generation?

 First Generation The period of first generation: 1946-1959. Vacuum tube based.
 Second Generation The period of second generation: 1959-1965. Transistor based.

 Third Generation The period of third generation: 1965-1971. Integrated Circuit based.
 Fourth Generation The period of fourth generation: 1971-1980. VLSI microprocessor based.

 Fifth Generation The period of fifth generation: 1980-onwards. ULSI microprocessor based.
6. Give at least 5 oldest computers that does not belong in the five generation of computer specifying its

name, function, when and where it was invented and its inventor.

Name Function When Where Inventor

Arithmometer Calculating 1820 France Charles Xavier
machine that Thomas de
capable Colmar
of performing
addition,
subtraction,
multiplication and
division.
Difference Engine With a 20-decimal Partially build in London Charles Babbage
capacity, the 1833
Difference Engine
was a digital
device: it
operated
on discrete digits
rather than
smooth
quantities, and
 the digits were
decimal (0–9),
represented by
positions on
toothed wheels
rather than binary
digits (“bits”).
Pascaline It operated by 1644 France Blaise Pascal
counting integers.
It could only
do addition and
subtraction, with
numbers being
entered by
manipulating its
dials.
Analytical Engine Fully program- 1871 London Charles Babbage
controlled,
automatic
mechanical digital
computer. It
would be able to
perform any
calculation set
before it
Practical The carriage was 1867 United States  Christopher
Typewriter returned to the Latham Sholes 
left margin by a
foot pedal similar
to a sewing
machine treadle.
This machine was
a blind writer and
wrote in only one
case; that is, it not
have both capitals
and small letters,
but wrote only in
capitals.

7. For 5 points each. Convert the following into the specified unit with complete solution.

a. 12000000 bits = petabyte

 1byte 1 kb 1 mb
12000000 bits x ¿ 1500000 byte x ¿ 1464.84375 kb x = 1.430511475 mb
8 bits 1024 bytes 1024 kb
1 gb 1 tb 1 pb
x = 1.39698 x 10-03 gb x = 1.36424 x 10-6 tb x = 1.33227 x 10-9 PB
1024 mb 1024 gb 1024 tb
b. 80 gigabytes = nibble

1GB= 2000000000nibbles

2000000000nibbles
80GB x = 160000000000 nibbles or 1.6 x 10 11
1 GB
c. 98090987654321 byte = word

1byte = 0.5 word

1 word
98090987654321 byte x = 49045493827160.5 word
2bytes