Comprehensive Marking Scheme for Computer Studies Exam

1. Define Embedded computers (2 Marks)

 Embedded computers are specialized computing systems that are part of a larger system
or device, performing dedicated functions or tasks within that system. They are typically
embedded in appliances, vehicles, industrial machines, and other electronics. (2 marks)

2. Define computer laboratory (1 Mark)

 A computer laboratory is a room or space equipped with computers and other related
equipment, designed for teaching, research, or practical hands-on use of computers. (1
mark)

3. State three health problems that can be caused by prolonged use of computers (3 Marks)

 Eye strain or Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). (1 mark)

 Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) such as carpal tunnel syndrome. (1 mark)
 Back and neck pain due to poor posture. (1 mark)

4. Mention 3 devices or components housed within the system unit (3 Marks)

 Central Processing Unit (CPU). (1 mark)

 Random Access Memory (RAM). (1 mark)
 Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or Solid-State Drive (SSD). (1 mark)

5. State two technological hardware differences between first generation computers and
third generation computers (2 Marks)

 First generation computers used vacuum tubes, while third generation computers used
integrated circuits. (1 mark)
 First generation computers were much larger and consumed more power compared to the
more compact and efficient third generation computers. (1 mark)

6. Describe the functions of the following keyboard keys (2 Marks)

 Tab: Moves the cursor to the next tab stop or field in a form. (1 mark)
 Backspace: Deletes the character to the left of the cursor. (1 mark)

7. Explain the classification of computers based on functionality (2 Marks)

 Analog Computers: Measure continuous data and perform calculations using physical
quantities. (1 mark)
 Digital Computers: Process data in binary form (0s and 1s) and perform calculations
using discrete values. (1 mark)
8. Mention three functions of Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) unit (3 Marks)

 Provides backup power during power outages. (1 mark)

 Protects against power surges and voltage spikes. (1 mark)
 Ensures a safe shutdown of the computer to prevent data loss. (1 mark)

9. Briefly describe three features of a computer that make it handle tasks better than
human beings (3 Marks)

 Speed: Can perform calculations and process data much faster than humans. (1 mark)
 Accuracy: Performs tasks with a high degree of accuracy, minimizing errors. (1 mark)
 Storage Capacity: Can store vast amounts of data that can be retrieved and processed
quickly. (1 mark)

10. Name two examples of scanning devices (2 Marks)

 Flatbed scanner. (1 mark)

 Barcode scanner. (1 mark)

11. List three attributes that make a programmable calculator to be considered as a

computer (3 Marks)

 Can execute a sequence of operations defined by a program. (1 mark)

 Has memory for storing data and instructions. (1 mark)
 Can perform complex calculations and logical operations. (1 mark)

12. State two major challenges experienced by computers that are shutdown using the
wrong procedure (2 Marks)

 Potential loss or corruption of data. (1 mark)

 Damage to the file system or operating system, leading to boot errors. (1 mark)

13. List two pointing devices (2 Marks)

 Mouse. (1 mark)
 Trackpad or touchpad. (1 mark)

This marking scheme provides detailed answers and the corresponding marks for each question
in the Computer Studies exam