BACHELOR OF COMPUTER APPLICATIONS

(BCA) (Revised)
Term-End Examination

1. (a) What are the features available in fifth

generation computers ? 5
(b) What is a subroutine ? How is it different
from a function ? 6
(c) Draw a flow chart to input two numbers
and print their arithmetic mean. 6
(d) Describe the different kinds of computer
monitors.
(e) What is a DNS ? How can an address like
www.xyz.ac.in be interpreted and accessed
using web ? 6

(f) Convert the following decimal numbers to

hexadecimal numbers as well as binary
numbers 6
(i) (3203) 10
(ii) (4312)10
(g) A company has an office at Delhi and
another at Mumbai. It has a good link that
delivers 2 Mbps between them. It is
required to transfer 8.5 GB of data
urgently from Delhi to a computer at
Mumbai. A courier can reach the airport
and board a flight in 2 hours. The flight
time to Mumbai is another 2 hours and he
can reach the Mumbai office from the
airport in another 2 hours. Which method
would be faster — use the link or send a
courier ? 6
Ans:
(a) The features available in fifth-generation computers include:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): Fifth-generation computers are designed to utilize AI techniques,
such as natural language processing and expert systems, to understand and solve complex
problems.
- Parallel Processing: These computers have multiple processors working simultaneously,
allowing for faster and more efficient computations.
- Advanced Operating Systems: Fifth-generation computers use advanced operating systems
capable of handling complex tasks and managing resources effectively.
- High-Level Language Support: They support high-level programming languages, making it
easier for programmers to write complex software.
- User-Friendly Interfaces: These computers offer intuitive and user-friendly interfaces, making
them accessible to a wider range of users.

(b) A subroutine is a named section of code within a program that performs a specific task. It is
similar to a function, but the key difference is that a subroutine does not return a value. It is
primarily used to break down a larger program into smaller, manageable parts for better
organization and reusability. Functions, on the other hand, are code sections that return a value
upon completion.

(c) Here's a simple flow chart to input two numbers and print their arithmetic mean:

```
Start
↓
Input num1
↓
Input num2
↓
mean = (num1 + num2) / 2
↓
Print mean
↓
End
```

(d) Computer monitors come in various types, including:

- Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) Monitors: Traditional bulky monitors that use a cathode ray tube to
display images.
- Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Monitors: Thin and lightweight monitors that use liquid crystals to
display images.
- Light Emitting Diode (LED) Monitors: Similar to LCD monitors, but with LED backlighting for
better contrast and energy efficiency.
- Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) Monitors: Advanced displays that use organic
compounds to emit light, resulting in better color reproduction and contrast.

(e) DNS stands for Domain Name System. It is a system that translates domain names (like
www.xyz.ac.in) into IP addresses that computers can understand. When a user enters a domain
name in a web browser, the DNS resolves the domain name into its corresponding IP address,
allowing the user's device to connect to the correct web server and access the desired website.

To interpret and access a website like www.xyz.ac.in, the following steps occur:
1. The user enters the domain name (www.xyz.ac.in) in the web browser.
2. The web browser sends a DNS query to the configured DNS server, asking for the IP address
associated with the domain name.
3. The DNS server looks up the IP address for the domain name in its database.
4. Once the IP address is found, it is returned to the web browser.
5. The web browser then establishes a connection with the web server at the provided IP
address to access the website.

(f) Converting decimal numbers to hexadecimal and binary numbers:

(i) (3203)10
- Hexadecimal: (C8B)16
- Binary: (110010001011)2

(ii) (4312)10
- Hexadecimal: (10D8)16
- Binary: (1000011011000)2

(g) In this scenario, using the link would be faster compared to sending a courier. Let's consider
the time it takes for each method:
- Using the link: The link can deliver data at a rate of 2 Mbps. Converting 8.5 GB to bits (1 byte =
8 bits) gives us 8.5 GB * 8 = 68 Gb. At a rate of 2 Mbps, it would take approximately 68 Gb / 2
2. (a) What is open-source software ? What is
open-source software licensing ? Describe
the open-source development model. 8
(b) List with reasons any six precautions you
would take while browsing a website. 6
(c) Describe the constituents and functions of
the Central Processing Unit of a computer. 6

Ans:(a) Open-source software refers to software that is released under a license that allows
users to freely use, modify, and distribute the software's source code. The source code is the
human-readable form of the software that programmers can modify and customize to suit their
needs. Open-source software encourages collaboration and transparency by making the source
code accessible to everyone.

Open-source software licensing refers to the legal framework that governs the distribution and
use of open-source software. These licenses typically grant users the freedom to use, modify,
and distribute the software, as long as they adhere to certain conditions outlined in the license.
The most popular open-source license is the GNU General Public License (GPL), but there are
many other licenses with different terms and conditions.

The open-source development model involves a collaborative and decentralized approach to

software development. It often relies on a community of developers who contribute to the
software project voluntarily. The development process is transparent, and the source code is
accessible to anyone. Developers can modify and improve the software, share their changes
with the community, and collaborate to create better versions of the software over time. This
model fosters innovation, knowledge sharing, and community-driven development.

(b) Precautions to take while browsing a website:

1. Use reputable websites: Stick to well-known and trusted websites to minimize the risk of
malware, phishing attacks, or other malicious activities. Websites with secure protocols (https://)
are preferable.

2. Keep your software up to date: Ensure that your web browser, operating system, and
antivirus software are regularly updated with the latest security patches. Updates often address
known vulnerabilities.

3. Be cautious with personal information: Avoid entering sensitive information on websites that
don't have a secure connection or are unfamiliar. Look for signs of security, such as the padlock
icon in the browser's address bar.

4. Use strong, unique passwords: Choose strong passwords for your online accounts and avoid
reusing them across multiple websites. Consider using a password manager to securely store
and generate unique passwords.
5. Be wary of downloads: Exercise caution when downloading files from websites. Only
download files from trusted sources and avoid clicking on suspicious links or pop-ups that might
lead to malware or viruses.

6. Enable browser security features: Take advantage of built-in security features in your web
browser, such as pop-up blockers, phishing filters, and privacy settings. Adjust these settings
according to your preferences and requirements.

(c) The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the primary component responsible for executing
instructions and performing calculations in a computer. It consists of the following constituents
and performs the following functions:

1. Control Unit: The control unit coordinates and controls the activities of the CPU. It fetches
instructions from the computer's memory, decodes them, and generates signals to control other
components of the CPU.

2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): The ALU performs arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction,
multiplication, division) and logical operations (comparisons, Boolean operations) on data. It
performs calculations based on the instructions provided by the control unit.

3. Registers: Registers are small, high-speed storage units within the CPU. They store data,
instructions, and intermediate results during processing. Common types of registers include the
program counter, instruction register, memory address register, and general-purpose registers.

4. Cache: CPU cache is a small, fast memory located within the CPU. It stores frequently
accessed instructions and data to reduce the time it takes to fetch them from the computer's
main memory. Caches help improve overall system performance.

5. Bus Interface Unit (BIU): The BIU handles communication between the CPU and other
components of the computer. It manages data transfer between the CPU and memory,
input/output devices, and other peripheral devices.

6. Instruction Pipeline: The CPU often employs an instruction pipeline to enhance processing
3. (a) What is a search engine ? Describe how
different actions allow you to conduct a
search on any given topic.
(b) What are the limitations of a computer ?
(c) Describe three key distinguishing features
of Object Oriented Languages.

Ans:
(a) A search engine is a software tool or program designed to help users find information on the
internet. It works by indexing web pages and creating a database of information that can be
searched based on user queries. Search engines use algorithms to rank and display the most
relevant results to the user's search query.

To conduct a search on any given topic using a search engine, you typically perform the
following actions:

1. Enter a query: You enter specific keywords or phrases related to the topic you are searching
for into the search engine's search box. For example, if you're looking for information about
"climate change," you would enter those words into the search box.

2. Review the search results: The search engine processes your query and provides a list of
results that match your search terms. The results are usually displayed as a list of web page
links along with brief descriptions or snippets.

3. Refine your search: If the initial search results are not what you were looking for, you can
refine your search by using additional keywords, phrases, or search operators. These operators
can help you narrow down your search, exclude specific terms, or search for exact phrases.

4. Explore search results: Clicking on a search result link takes you to the corresponding
webpage where you can find more detailed information about the topic. You can browse through
multiple search results to gather information from various sources.

5. Modify and iterate: If the initial search results do not provide the desired information, you can
modify your search query, try different combinations of keywords, or use advanced search
features provided by the search engine to get more accurate and relevant results.

(b) The limitations of a computer include:

1. Lack of human-like understanding: Computers are excellent at executing predefined

instructions and performing complex calculations, but they lack the ability to understand context,
emotions, and subjective information. They cannot interpret information like humans do, which
can limit their ability to handle certain tasks effectively.
2. Dependence on instructions: Computers rely on explicit instructions to perform tasks. They
cannot make independent decisions or solve problems creatively without being programmed
explicitly. They are bound by the limitations of their programming and cannot adapt to new
situations without human intervention.

3. Hardware limitations: Computers have finite hardware resources, such as processing power,
memory, and storage capacity. These limitations can restrict their ability to handle large-scale
computations, process massive amounts of data in real-time, or run resource-intensive software
efficiently.

4. Vulnerability to errors and failures: Computers are susceptible to hardware and software
failures, which can lead to errors or system crashes. They require regular maintenance,
updates, and backups to ensure proper functioning. Additionally, computers are also vulnerable
to security threats like malware, viruses, and hacking, which can compromise data integrity and
privacy.

(c) Three key distinguishing features of Object-Oriented Languages are:

1. Encapsulation: Object-oriented languages promote the concept of encapsulation, which

means bundling data and related functions (methods) together into objects. Objects encapsulate
both the state (data) and behavior (methods) within a single entity, providing data protection and
controlled access. Encapsulation helps in organizing and managing code, enhancing code
reusability, and facilitating modular design.

2. Inheritance: Inheritance allows objects or classes to inherit properties and behaviors from
other objects or classes. In object-oriented programming, classes can be organized in a
hierarchy, with parent classes passing on their attributes and methods to child classes. This
promotes code reuse, as common functionality can be defined in a superclass and inherited by
multiple subclasses, with the option to override or extend specific behaviors as needed.

3. Polymorphism: Polymorphism refers to the ability of objects or functions to take on different

forms or behaviors based on the context. In object-oriented languages, polymorphism allows
objects of different classes to be
4(a) Explain, with the help of a diagram, the
7-layer OSI networking model. Indicate the
function of each layer with an example.
(b) Describe the functions and features of the
following : 12
(i) Linker
(ii) Debugger
(iii) Device Driver

Ans:
(a) The 7-layer OSI networking model is a conceptual framework that standardizes the functions
of a communication system. Each layer performs specific tasks and interacts with adjacent
layers to ensure the smooth transmission of data. Here is a brief explanation of each layer with
an example:

1. Physical Layer: This layer deals with the physical transmission of data. It defines the
electrical, mechanical, and physical aspects of the communication medium. It includes
specifications such as voltage levels, cable types, and data transmission rates. Example:
Ethernet cables and fiber optic cables.

2. Data Link Layer: The data link layer provides error-free transmission of data frames between
adjacent nodes over a physical link. It adds physical addressing, error detection, and flow
control mechanisms. Example: Ethernet switches that forward data packets based on MAC
addresses.

3. Network Layer: This layer handles routing and logical addressing to enable data transfer
between different networks. It determines the optimal path for data packets to reach their
destination. Example: Internet Protocol (IP) that assigns unique IP addresses to devices and
routes packets across the internet.

4. Transport Layer: The transport layer ensures reliable, end-to-end delivery of data. It
segments data received from the upper layers into smaller packets and reassembles them at
the receiving end. It also provides error recovery and flow control mechanisms. Example:
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) that guarantees the delivery and sequencing of packets.

5. Session Layer: The session layer establishes, maintains, and terminates communication
sessions between applications. It allows synchronization, checkpointing, and recovery of data
exchange. Example: Remote Procedure Call (RPC) that enables communication between
distributed systems.

6. Presentation Layer: This layer handles data representation and conversion between different
formats. It ensures that data is presented in a compatible form at both ends of the
communication. Example: Data encryption and compression protocols.
7. Application Layer: The application layer provides network services directly to the user or
application. It supports application-specific protocols and enables interaction between
applications. Example: Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) used for web browsing.

(b) The functions and features of the following are:

(i) Linker: A linker is a software utility that combines multiple object files generated during the
compilation process and resolves references between them to create a single executable file or
a library. Its main functions include:

- Symbol resolution: The linker resolves references to symbols, variables, and functions across
different object files by matching them with their definitions.
- Address relocation: It adjusts memory addresses in the object files to reflect the final locations
in the executable file.
- Library management: The linker links object files with external libraries, making the required
functions and routines available for execution.

(ii) Debugger: A debugger is a software tool used for testing, finding, and fixing errors (bugs) in
programs. It provides various features to aid in the debugging process, such as:

- Breakpoints: It allows the programmer to pause the program's execution at specific lines of
code to examine variables and program state.
- Step-through execution: It enables the programmer to execute the program line-by-line,
examining the values of variables at each step.
- Variable inspection: It allows the programmer to inspect the values of variables during runtime.
- Stack trace: It provides information about the call stack, showing the sequence of function calls
leading to the current point of execution.

(iii) Device Driver: A device driver is a software component that acts as an intermediary between
the operating system and a hardware device. Its functions and features include:

- Device communication: The device driver handles communication between the operating
system and the hardware device, translating high-level commands from the operating system
into device-specific commands.
- Device initialization and configuration: The driver initializes the hardware device, configures its
settings, and sets up communication channels.
- Interrupt handling: The driver handles interrupts generated by the device
5. Explain any five of the following with the help of
diagrams and examples as appropriate : 5x4=20
(a) Uniform Resource Locator
(b) ROM
(c) Memory Management in an Operating
System
(d) Client-Server Architecture
(e) Analogue and Digital Signals
(f) Disk Checkers

Ans:
(a) Uniform Resource Locator (URL):
A Uniform Resource Locator (URL) is a string of characters that provides a reference to a
resource on the internet. It is commonly used to specify the address of a webpage, file, or any
other resource. Here is a diagram illustrating the components of a URL:

```
____________________________________________
| URL Structure |
|____________________________________________|
| | | |
| Protocol | Domain/Host | Port |
| | | |
|__________|___________________________|_______|
| |
| Path/Resource |
|_______________________________________________|

```

Example: Let's take the URL "https://www.example.com:8080/index.html". In this example:

- Protocol: "https" is the protocol used to access the resource (Hypertext Transfer Protocol
Secure).
- Domain/Host: "www.example.com" is the domain or host name of the server where the
resource is located.
- Port: "8080" is the port number on which the server is listening (optional; default is port 80 for
HTTP).
- Path/Resource: "/index.html" is the path to the specific resource on the server.

(b) ROM (Read-Only Memory):

ROM is a type of computer memory that stores data that cannot be modified or erased by
normal computer operations. It contains permanent instructions or data that are essential for
booting up the computer and initializing hardware components. Here is a diagram illustrating the
structure of ROM:
```
_____________________________
| |
| Read-Only |
| Memory |
|_____________________________|
| |
| Permanent Data |
| |
|_____________________________|
```

Example: In a computer system, the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is typically stored in
ROM. It contains firmware that initializes hardware components during the boot process,
enabling the computer to start up.

(c) Memory Management in an Operating System:

Memory management is a crucial aspect of an operating system that involves allocating and
managing computer memory resources. The operating system handles memory management to
ensure efficient and secure utilization of the system's memory. Here is a diagram illustrating the
memory management process:

```
______________________________________
| |
| Memory Management |
| in Operating System |
|______________________________________|
| |
| Memory Allocation |
| |
|______________________________________|
| |
| Memory Deallocation |
| |
|______________________________________|
| |
| Memory Protection |
| |
|______________________________________|
| |
| Virtual Memory Management |
| |
 |______________________________________|
```

Example: When a process is executed in an operating system, memory is allocated to it. Once
the process completes, the allocated memory is deallocated to make it available for other
processes. Memory protection mechanisms ensure that processes cannot access memory
locations that they are not authorized to access. Virtual memory management techniques, such
as paging and swapping, are used to efficiently utilize the available physical memory and
provide an illusion of larger memory to processes.

(d) Client-Server Architecture:

Client-Server architecture is a network architecture model where client devices request services
or resources from server devices. The server responds to the client's requests and provides the
requested services. Here is a diagram illustrating the client-server architecture:
 ___________________________________________________
| |
| Client-Server Architecture |
|_____________________________________________________|
| |
| ________ ________ |
| | | | | |
| | Client | <--> | Server | |
| |________| |________| |
| |
| |
| Request Response |
| _______ _______ |
| | | | | |
| | Client| <-->| Server| |
| |_______| |_______| |
| |
| |
| ________ ________ |
| | | | | |
| | Client | <--> | Server | |
| |________| |________| |
| |
| |
| Request Response |
| _______ _______ |
| | | | | |
| | Client| <-->| Server| |
| |_______| |_______| |
| |
|_____________________________________________________|

```

Explanation: In a client-server architecture, clients (such as computers, smartphones, or tablets)

communicate with servers to access services or resources. Clients send requests to servers,
and servers respond with the requested information or perform the requested actions. The
interaction between clients and servers follows a request-response model.

Clients initiate the communication by sending requests to the server. The server processes the
requests, performs the necessary operations, and sends back responses to the clients. This
interaction can happen simultaneously between multiple clients and the server.
Examples of client-server architecture include web browsing (where the browser client requests
web pages from a web server), email services (where the email client requests emails from an
email server), and online gaming (where the game client communicates with a game server).

(e) Analog and Digital Signals:

Analog and digital signals are two types of signals used to transmit and process information.
Here is a diagram illustrating the difference between analog and digital signals:

```
______________________________________________________
| |
| Analog and Digital Signals |
|______________________________________________________|
| |
| Analog Signal |
| |
| _______ |
| | | |
| | | |
| |_______| |
| |
| |
| |
| Digital Signal |
| |
| _______ _______ _______ |
| | | | | | | |
| | | | | | | |
| |_______| |_______| |_______| |
| |
| |
| |
```

Explanation:

Analog Signal: An analog signal is a continuous signal that varies smoothly over time. It
represents information using continuous variations in amplitude, frequency, or phase. Examples
of analog signals include human speech, music, and natural sounds. In the diagram, the analog
signal is represented by a continuous waveform.

Digital Signal: A digital signal is a discrete signal that represents information using a series of
discrete values or levels. It uses binary digits (bits) to represent information, where each bit can
be either a 0 or a 1. Digital signals are more resistant to
 BACHELOR OF COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
(BCA) (Revised)
Term-End Examination
BCS-011 : COMPUTER BASICS AND PC SOFTWARE

1. (a) Convert the following, hexadecimal

numbers to equivalent decimal numbers
and binary numbers : 4
(i) (79) 16
(ii) (AC)16

(b) What will be the storage capacity of a

2.5 inch diameter disk pack having
4 plates, 150 sectors per track,
2048 tracks per surface with each sector
capable of storing 1024 bytes ? 4

(c) Discuss the uses of various components of a

computer as defined in Von Neumann
Architecture.

(d) Explain Compilers, Debuggers, Linkers

and Text Editors in the context of
programming software.

(e) What is an algorithm ? What is the relation

between a flow chart and an algorithm ?
Draw a flow chart to find the sum and
average of marks of a student in 5 different
subjects. Marks are given out of 100.

(f) Which of the following is a valid Internet

Protocol Address ? Justify. 3
(i) 192.168.5.512
(ii) 172.-2.1.0
(iii) 56.26.257

(g) What are the advantages of using Local

Area Networks ? List the characteristics of
LANs. How are Wide Area Networks
different from Local Area Networks ? 7
(h) What is a web browser ? Why is it needed ?
Name at least three popular web browsers. 3

Ans:
(a)
(i) (79)16 = (121)10 = (01111001)2
(ii) (AC)16 = (172)10 = (10101100)2

(b) The storage capacity of the disk pack can be calculated as follows:

Number of plates = 4
Number of sectors per track = 150
Number of tracks per surface = 2048
Bytes per sector = 1024

Total storage capacity = Number of plates * Number of sectors per track * Number of tracks per
surface * Bytes per sector
Total storage capacity = 4 * 150 * 2048 * 1024 = 1,572,864,000 bytes

(c) The Von Neumann Architecture is a design concept for a computer system that consists of
various components, each serving a specific purpose. Here are the uses of the components:

1. CPU (Central Processing Unit): It performs arithmetic and logical operations and controls the
execution of instructions.

2. Memory: It stores instructions and data that the CPU can access. It is used for temporary
storage during program execution.

3. Input/Output devices: These devices allow interaction between the computer and the external
world. They are used for data input and output.

4. Control Unit: It manages and coordinates the activities of all the components in the computer.

5. ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit): It performs arithmetic and logical operations on data.

(d) In the context of programming software:

1. Compilers: Compilers are software tools that translate high-level programming languages into
machine-readable code. They convert the entire program at once and generate an executable
file.

2. Debuggers: Debuggers are tools used by programmers to identify and fix errors, bugs, and
issues in their programs. They allow step-by-step execution, code inspection, and variable
tracking for debugging purposes.

3. Linkers: Linkers are programs that combine multiple object files and libraries into a single
executable file. They resolve references between different modules, making the program ready
for execution.

4. Text Editors: Text editors are software tools used for writing and editing program code. They
provide features like syntax highlighting, auto-indentation, and search/replace functionalities.

(e) An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure or a set of rules for solving a specific problem or
accomplishing a specific task. It is a precise description of how to solve a problem, independent
of any programming language.

A flowchart is a visual representation of an algorithm using different symbols and arrows to

depict the flow of control. It provides a graphical representation of the steps involved in solving a
problem.

Here's a flowchart to find the sum and average of marks in 5 different subjects:

```
+-------------+
| Start |
+-------------+
|
|
v
+----------------+
| Initialize sum |
+----------------+
|
|
v
+--------------+
| Input marks |
+--------------+
|
|
v
 +----------------+
| Add to sum |
+----------------+
|
|
v
+-----------------+
| Repeat for next |
| subject |
+-----------------+
|
|
v
+------------------+
| Calculate average|
+------------------+
|
|
v
+-----------------+
| Display results |
+-----------------+
|
|
v
+-----------+
| End |
+-----------+
```

(f) Valid Internet Protocol (IP) Addresses:

(i) 192.168.5.512 is not a valid IP address. The maximum value for each octet in an IP address
is 255, so the value 512 is out of range.

(g) Advantages of using Local Area Networks (LANs):

1. Resource Sharing: LANs allow for the sharing of resources such as printers, files, and
applications among multiple users within the network, increasing efficiency and reducing costs.

2. High Speed and Performance: LANs provide high-speed data transfer rates, allowing for
faster communication and data sharing among connected devices.

3. Centralized Management: LANs can be centrally managed, making it easier to administer and
control network resources, security, and user access.
4. Collaboration and Communication: LANs facilitate easy collaboration and communication
among network users through features like file sharing, email, instant messaging, and video
conferencing.

5. Data Security: LANs enable the implementation of security measures such as firewalls,
access controls, and encryption to protect sensitive data within the network.

Characteristics of LANs:
- Limited geographic area, typically within a building or campus.
- High data transfer rates.
- Shared resources and services.
- Local administration and control.
- Lower cost compared to wide area networks (WANs).
- Typically uses Ethernet or Wi-Fi technology.
- Private network owned by an organization.

Wide Area Networks (WANs) differ from LANs in the following ways:
- Geographic Area: WANs cover a larger geographic area, such as cities, countries, or even
globally, connecting multiple LANs together.
- Slower Data Transfer Rates: WANs generally have slower data transfer rates compared to
LANs due to the longer distances and multiple network devices involved.
- Public or Private Ownership: WANs can be privately owned by organizations or provided by
telecommunications companies as public networks.
- Higher Costs: WAN infrastructure and connectivity costs are typically higher compared to
LANs due to the larger scale and reliance on telecommunications services.
- More Complex Network Architecture: WANs require routers and other networking devices to
establish connections and route data between different LANs.

(h) A web browser is a software application that allows users to access and view websites on
the internet. It acts as an interface between the user and the World Wide Web (WWW),
interpreting and displaying web pages, handling user interactions, and providing access to
various online services.

Three popular web browsers are:

1. Google Chrome: Developed by Google, Chrome is known for its speed, stability, and
extensive features. It supports a wide range of extensions and offers synchronization across
devices.
2. Mozilla Firefox: Firefox, developed by Mozilla, is an open-source browser that prioritizes
privacy and security. It offers a customizable interface, strong privacy features, and a vast
collection of add-ons.
3. Microsoft Edge: Edge is the default web browser for Windows 10 and is developed by
Microsoft. It offers a clean interface, fast performance, and integrates well with other Microsoft
services.
Note: The popularity of web browsers can change over time, and new browsers may emerge.

2. (a) What is memory hierarchy ? Explain with

the help of a diagram. Why is memory
hierarchy created in a computer system ? 7
(b) What is perverse software ? List various
types of perverse software. Give four ways
to counter perverse software. 8
(c) Explain any five features of a spreadsheet
software. 5

Ans:
(a) Memory Hierarchy:
Memory hierarchy refers to the organization and arrangement of different types of memory in a
computer system, based on their speed, capacity, and cost. It involves the use of multiple levels
of memory with varying characteristics, each serving a specific purpose in the overall storage
and retrieval of data. The primary objective of memory hierarchy is to provide a balance
between the speed of data access, cost, and capacity.

Here is a simplified diagram representing the memory hierarchy:

```
---------------------
| CPU Cache |
---------------------
| Main Memory |
---------------------
| Secondary |
| Storage |
---------------------
| Tertiary |
| Storage |
---------------------
```
In this diagram, the CPU cache is the fastest but the smallest type of memory, located directly
on the CPU chip. It stores frequently accessed instructions and data to reduce the time required
to fetch them from slower memory.

The main memory, also known as RAM (Random Access Memory), is the next level in the
hierarchy. It provides larger storage capacity than the cache and is faster than secondary and
tertiary storage.

Secondary storage, such as hard disk drives (HDD) or solid-state drives (SSD), comes after
main memory. It offers greater capacity but is slower in terms of access time compared to main
memory.

Tertiary storage, such as magnetic tapes or optical discs, is the slowest but provides the highest
storage capacity among the different levels of memory.

The memory hierarchy is created in a computer system to optimize the overall performance and
efficiency of data storage and retrieval. By employing different levels of memory, the computer
system can utilize faster and smaller memory for frequently accessed data while utilizing slower
but larger memory for less frequently accessed or archival data. This arrangement allows for a
balance between cost, capacity, and speed, enabling efficient data processing and enhancing
the overall system performance.

(b) Perverse Software:

Perverse software refers to malicious software or malware that is designed to disrupt, exploit, or
harm computer systems or networks. It encompasses a wide range of harmful software that can
cause damage to data, compromise system security, or disrupt normal operations.

Various types of perverse software include:

1. Viruses: Self-replicating programs that attach themselves to other executable files and spread
from one system to another, often causing damage or unwanted behavior.

2. Worms: Similar to viruses, worms can replicate themselves and spread over a network
without requiring user interaction. They can consume system resources and cause network
congestion.

3. Trojans: Programs that appear harmless or useful but contain malicious code. They deceive
users by masquerading as legitimate software and can perform unauthorized actions, such as
stealing sensitive information or providing unauthorized access to a system.

4. Ransomware: Malware that encrypts a victim's files and demands a ransom for their
decryption. It can severely disrupt or deny access to critical data until the ransom is paid.
5. Spyware: Software that secretly gathers information about a user's activities without their
knowledge or consent. It can track browsing habits, capture keystrokes, and steal sensitive
data.

Countermeasures to perverse software include:

1. Antivirus Software: Install and regularly update reputable antivirus software to detect and
remove known malware threats.

2. Software Updates: Keep operating systems, applications, and security software up to date to
patch vulnerabilities that malicious software may exploit.

3. Firewalls: Implement firewalls to monitor and control network traffic, preventing unauthorized
access and blocking malicious software from entering or leaving the network.

4. User Education: Educate users about safe browsing habits, avoiding suspicious email
attachments or links, and being cautious when downloading or installing software from untrusted
sources.

(c) Features of Spreadsheet Software:

1. Grid Interface: Spreadsheet software provides a grid-like interface where data is organized
into rows and columns, forming cells. This grid structure allows for easy input, manipulation, and
analysis of data.

2. Formulas and Functions: Spreadsheet software offers a wide range of built-in formulas and
functions that enable users to perform calculations, manipulate data, and create complex
mathematical and logical operations. These formulas can be applied to individual cells or entire
ranges of data.

3. Data Analysis Tools: Spreadsheet software provides various tools for data analysis, such as
sorting, filtering, and conditional formatting. These features allow users to quickly identify
patterns, trends, and outliers in their data.

4. Charts and Graphs: Spreadsheet software includes charting capabilities that allow users to
visually represent their data through different types of graphs and charts. This feature aids in the
interpretation and presentation of data.

5. Collaboration and Sharing: Spreadsheet software often provides features for collaboration
and sharing. Multiple users can work on the same spreadsheet simultaneously, make real-time
updates, and leave comments. Spreadsheets can also be shared with others via email or cloud
storage platforms.
These features make spreadsheet software a versatile tool for data management, analysis, and
presentation. It is widely used in various domains such as finance, accounting, project
management, scientific research, and more.

3. (a) An organization designs and develops

programs as projects. The progress of
projects needs to be monitored in terms of
content and finance. Recommend some
application software for the organization.
Also explain the features of this software
related to various phases of the software
development. 10
(b) What is wiki ? List the characteristics of
wild. Can wild be used for collaboration ?
Explain. 5
(c) What is MOODLE ? Discuss the merits and
demerits of E-Learning.

Ans:
(a) When it comes to monitoring the progress of projects in terms of content and finance, there
are several application software options that can be recommended for an organization. One
such software is Jira, which is widely used for project management.

Features of Jira related to various phases of software development:

1. Requirements Management: Jira allows organizations to define and manage project

requirements by creating user stories, epics, and backlog items. It provides a centralized
platform for capturing, organizing, and prioritizing requirements.

2. Task Tracking: Jira offers agile task management features, allowing teams to create and track
tasks, assign them to team members, set due dates, and monitor progress. This helps in
tracking the development activities and ensures timely completion of tasks.

3. Issue Tracking: Jira provides a robust issue tracking system, enabling teams to log and track
software defects, bugs, and other issues that arise during the development process. It allows
teams to prioritize, assign, and resolve issues efficiently.

4. Version Control Integration: Jira integrates with version control systems like Git, allowing
teams to link code commits, branches, and pull requests to specific tasks or issues. This
facilitates better visibility and traceability of code changes within the project.
5. Reporting and Dashboards: Jira offers customizable reporting and dashboard features,
allowing stakeholders to gain insights into project progress, team productivity, and financial
aspects. It provides visual representations of data, such as burndown charts and velocity charts,
to aid in decision-making.

6. Budget Tracking: Jira can be configured to track project finances by associating costs with
specific tasks, issues, or projects. It provides budgeting and expenditure tracking features,
ensuring better financial control and visibility.

Other notable project management software options include Microsoft Project, Asana, Trello,
and Basecamp. The choice of software depends on the organization's specific requirements and
preferences.

(b) Wiki is a collaborative website or platform that allows users to create, edit, and link web
pages easily. It enables users to collaboratively build and modify content using a simplified
markup language.

Characteristics of wiki:

1. Open Editing: Wikis allow anyone with access to the platform to edit and contribute to the
content. Users can create new pages, modify existing ones, and add hyperlinks between pages.
This open editing feature promotes collaboration and knowledge sharing.

2. Version History: Wikis typically maintain a version history of each page, allowing users to
track changes and revert to previous versions if needed. This feature helps in maintaining the
integrity of content and facilitates collaboration among multiple contributors.

3. Linking and Cross-Referencing: Wikis emphasize interlinking of pages through hyperlinks,

enabling users to establish connections between related information. This allows for easy
navigation and cross-referencing of content, enhancing the overall knowledge structure.

4. Search Functionality: Wikis provide search capabilities to quickly find specific information
within the platform. Users can search for keywords, page titles, or content, making it easier to
locate relevant information in a large wiki.

5. Discussion and Communication: Many wiki platforms include features for discussions and
communication among users. This allows users to leave comments, ask questions

MOODLE (Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment) is an open-source learning

management system (LMS) widely used for e-learning and online education. It provides a
platform for educators to create and deliver online courses, manage student enrollments, track
progress, and facilitate interactive learning experiences.
Merits of E-Learning:

1. Flexibility and Accessibility: E-Learning allows learners to access educational resources and
participate in courses from anywhere, at any time. It provides flexibility for students to learn at
their own pace and accommodates different learning styles and schedules.

2. Cost-Effective: E-Learning eliminates the need for physical classrooms, printed materials, and
travel expenses. It can significantly reduce costs associated with traditional education, making it
more affordable and accessible to a larger audience.

3. Scalability: E-Learning platforms like MOODLE can accommodate a large number of students
simultaneously. They can scale to meet the demands of a growing user base without significant
infrastructure investments.

4. Personalized Learning: E-Learning can be customized to meet individual learner needs.

MOODLE and similar platforms offer features like self-paced courses, adaptive assessments,
and personalized feedback, enabling learners to focus on their specific learning objectives and
progress at their own pace.

5. Interactive and Engaging: E-Learning platforms often incorporate multimedia elements,

interactive exercises, and gamification techniques to enhance learner engagement. This can
result in a more interactive and immersive learning experience, increasing knowledge retention
and motivation.

Demerits of E-Learning:

1. Lack of Face-to-Face Interaction: E-Learning predominantly relies on online communication

and lacks the face-to-face interaction found in traditional classrooms. This can hinder certain
types of learning experiences, such as group discussions, real-time debates, and physical
demonstrations.

2. Technical Challenges: E-Learning requires access to computers or mobile devices with stable
internet connections. Students who do not have access to reliable technology or face technical
issues may face barriers to participation and learning.

3. Self-Motivation and Discipline: E-Learning demands self-motivation and discipline from

learners, as they need to manage their time effectively, stay organized, and maintain focus
without the structure and accountability provided by traditional classroom settings.

4. Limited Social Interaction: E-Learning can be isolating, as learners may miss out on social
interactions with peers and instructors. Collaborative activities and networking opportunities
need to be intentionally incorporated into the e-learning experience to mitigate this limitation.
5. Subject Suitability: While many subjects can be effectively taught through e-learning, certain
subjects that require hands-on practical training or physical presence may not be suitable for
online delivery.

It is important to note that the effectiveness and success of e-learning depend on various
factors, including the quality of instructional design, learner motivation, technical infrastructure,
and ongoing support from instructors and institutions.

4. (a) What are different types of optical disks ?

Explain their features and give their
advantages. . 8
(b) Explain at least four important features of
the following software applications : 12
(i) E-mail
(ii) Database
(iii) Word Processing

Ans:
(a) Different types of optical disks include:

1. CD (Compact Disc): CDs are one of the oldest types of optical disks and can store up to 700
MB (megabytes) of data. They are primarily used for audio recordings and software distribution.
CDs are read-only (CD-ROM) or rewritable (CD-RW) and offer advantages such as low cost,
widespread compatibility, and portability.

2. DVD (Digital Versatile Disc): DVDs can store significantly more data compared to CDs,
ranging from 4.7 GB (single-layer) to 8.5 GB (dual-layer). They are used for various purposes,
including movies, software installation, and data backup. DVDs are available as read-only
(DVD-ROM), write-once (DVD-R), and rewritable (DVD-RW or DVD+RW) formats. They offer
larger storage capacity and improved video quality over CDs.

3. Blu-ray Disc: Blu-ray discs (BD) are designed to store high-definition video content and have
a much larger capacity compared to CDs and DVDs. They come in different sizes, such as
single-layer (25 GB) and dual-layer (50 GB or more). Blu-ray discs support higher data transfer
rates and offer superior video and audio quality. They are commonly used for movies, gaming
consoles, and data storage.

Advantages of optical disks:

- High storage capacity: Optical disks provide large storage capacities, allowing users to store a
significant amount of data, including multimedia content.
- Longevity: Optical disks have a longer lifespan compared to magnetic storage media like hard
drives, as they are less susceptible to mechanical failures or data corruption.
- Portability: CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs are portable and can be easily transported and
shared with others.
- Read-only and write-once options: Some optical disks, such as CD-ROM and DVD-R, offer
read-only or write-once capabilities, ensuring data integrity and preventing accidental
modifications.

(b) Important features of software applications:

(i) E-mail:
1. Inbox and folders: E-mail applications provide an inbox for receiving and organizing incoming
messages. They allow users to create folders and labels for better email management.
2. Composing and sending: E-mail applications enable users to compose, format, and send
messages to individuals or groups. They often include features like attachments, spell-check,
and rich text formatting.
3. Contacts and address book: E-mail applications have built-in address books or contact
management features that store and organize email addresses and other contact information.
4. Filtering and sorting: E-mail applications offer filtering and sorting options to help users
organize and prioritize incoming messages. This allows users to manage spam, create rules,
and automate email handling.

(ii) Database:
1. Data organization: Database applications provide a structured way to organize and store
large amounts of data. They use tables, fields, and records to manage data in a relational
format.
2. Data querying: Database applications allow users to search, retrieve, and manipulate data
using queries. They support various query languages, such as SQL, to perform complex
operations on the stored data.
3. Data security: Database applications offer security features to control access to sensitive
data. They provide user authentication, permissions, and encryption to protect data integrity and
confidentiality.
4. Data integrity and consistency: Database applications enforce data integrity rules, such as
primary key constraints and referential integrity, to maintain data accuracy and consistency.

(iii) Word Processing:

1. Text editing: Word processing applications provide a user-friendly interface for creating,
editing, and formatting text documents. They offer features like text selection, copy-paste,
undo-redo, and automatic formatting.
2. Formatting options: Word processing applications allow users to format text documents with
various fonts, sizes, styles (bold, italics, underline), colors, alignment, and indentation. They
also provide options for adding headers, footers, page numbers, and tables.
3. Spelling and grammar checking: Word processing applications have built-in spelling and
grammar checking tools to help users identify and correct errors in their documents. They
highlight spelling mistakes and grammatical errors and offer suggestions for corrections.
4. Collaboration and sharing: Word processing applications support collaboration features,
allowing multiple users to work on the same document simultaneously. They provide features
like track changes, comments, and version history. Additionally, these applications enable users
to share documents via email or cloud storage platforms.

These features enhance productivity, improve document presentation, and facilitate effective
communication and collaboration in various professional and personal settings.

5. Explain any five of the following with help of an

example/diagram, if required : 20
(a) The activities/actions performed by a
search engine
(b) Use of subroutines and functions
(c) TCP/IP model
(d) Security threats on Internet
(e) Batch systems and Time sharing operating
systems
(f) Diagnostic tools in a computer
(g) Mainframe computers and Supercomputers

Ans:

(a) The activities/actions performed by a search engine:

A search engine performs several activities to provide relevant search results to users. Here are
five key activities:

1. Web Crawling: Search engines use automated programs called crawlers or spiders to
discover and collect web pages from the internet. These crawlers follow links from one page to
another, indexing the content they find. For example, when a search engine crawler visits a
website, it analyzes the text, images, and links on that page.

2. Indexing: Once the crawler collects web pages, the search engine organizes the information
into an index. The index is like a massive database that stores information about the content
and keywords found on web pages. It enables faster retrieval of relevant results when a user
performs a search query.
3. Ranking: When a user enters a search query, the search engine uses an algorithm to
determine the relevance of web pages in the index. The algorithm considers factors like
keyword usage, quality of content, website authority, and user behavior metrics. Pages that are
deemed more relevant are ranked higher in the search results.

4. Retrieval: After ranking the web pages, the search engine retrieves the most relevant ones
from the index and presents them to the user. The search engine aims to provide the best
possible match for the user's query based on relevance, usefulness, and quality of the content.

5. Displaying Search Results: Finally, the search engine displays the search results to the user
in a user-friendly format. This typically includes the page titles, snippets of content, and URLs.
Some search engines also provide additional features like image results, news results, and
featured snippets to enhance the user experience.

(b) Use of subroutines and functions:

Subroutines and functions are fundamental programming concepts that enable code reuse and
modular programming. Here's an example to illustrate their use:

Consider a program that calculates the factorial of a number. Instead of writing the factorial
calculation code multiple times whenever needed, we can define a subroutine or function to
perform the calculation.

Example using a subroutine:

```
sub factorial(n):
if n == 0:
return 1
else:
return n * factorial(n - 1)
```
In this example, the subroutine `factorial` takes an input `n` and recursively calculates the
factorial. It calls itself with a smaller value of `n` until it reaches the base case of `n == 0`.

Example using a function:

```
function factorial(n):
if n == 0:
return 1
else:
return n * factorial(n - 1)
```
Similarly, the function `factorial` performs the same factorial calculation, but in some
programming languages, functions have additional features like the ability to return values
directly.
By using subroutines or functions, we can call the factorial code whenever needed by passing
different values of `n`. This promotes code reuse, improves code readability, and reduces the
chances of errors since the factorial logic is centralized in one place.

(c) TCP/IP model:

The TCP/IP model is a conceptual framework that describes the communication protocols used
on the Internet. It consists of four layers, each responsible for different aspects of network
communication. Here's a brief explanation of the layers:

1. Application Layer: The application layer is the highest layer in the TCP/IP model. It provides
services and protocols for applications to communicate over the network. Examples of
application layer protocols include HTTP for web browsing, FTP for file transfer, and SMTP for
email.

2. Transport Layer: The transport layer ensures reliable data delivery between two hosts. It
establishes a connection, breaks data into smaller packets, and ensures they arrive without
errors and in the correct order. The most common transport layer protocols are TCP
(Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP

(d) Security threats on the Internet:

The Internet is prone to various security threats that can compromise the confidentiality,
integrity, and availability of data. Here are five common security threats:

1. Malware: Malware refers to malicious software designed to infiltrate and damage computer
systems. Examples include viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. Malware can
be spread through infected email attachments, downloads, or compromised websites.

2. Phishing: Phishing is a technique used to trick users into revealing sensitive information such
as passwords, credit card details, or social security numbers. Attackers create fake websites or
send deceptive emails that appear legitimate to deceive users into providing their confidential
information.

3. Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attacks: In a DoS attack, the attacker overwhelms a target system or
network with an excessive amount of traffic or requests, rendering it unable to respond to
legitimate users. Distributed DoS (DDoS) attacks involve multiple sources, making them harder
to mitigate.

4. Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks: In a MitM attack, an attacker intercepts and relays

communication between two parties without their knowledge. This allows the attacker to
eavesdrop, modify, or inject malicious content into the communication stream, compromising the
integrity and confidentiality of data.
5. Data Breaches: Data breaches occur when unauthorized individuals gain access to sensitive
or confidential information. This can happen due to weak security measures, stolen credentials,
or vulnerabilities in systems. Data breaches can result in identity theft, financial loss, or
reputational damage.

(e) Batch systems and Time-sharing operating systems:

Batch systems and time-sharing operating systems are different approaches to resource
management and scheduling in computer systems. Here's an explanation of each:

1. Batch Systems: Batch systems are designed for executing a sequence of jobs without any
user interaction. In a batch system, multiple jobs are collected into a batch and executed one
after the other. The users submit their jobs to the system, and the system processes them in the
background. Users typically do not have direct control over job execution or resource allocation.

Example: Consider a system where users submit their print jobs to a print server. The print
server collects the jobs into a batch and processes them sequentially. Users do not need to wait
for their jobs to finish printing, as the system handles the execution in the background.

2. Time-sharing Operating Systems: Time-sharing operating systems allow multiple users to

interact with a computer system concurrently. These systems divide the CPU time into small
time slices or intervals and allocate them to different users or processes. Each user or process
gets a turn to execute their tasks within the allocated time slice.

Example: In a time-sharing operating system, multiple users can log in and run their programs
simultaneously. Each user gets a fair share of CPU time, and the operating system switches
between tasks rapidly, giving the illusion of parallel execution. This allows multiple users to work
on the same system simultaneously.

(f) Diagnostic tools in a computer:

Diagnostic tools are software or hardware utilities used to identify and troubleshoot issues in
computer systems. They help diagnose hardware and software problems and provide
information to fix them. Here are five commonly used diagnostic tools:

1. System Information Tools: These tools provide detailed information about the hardware and
software components of a computer system. They display details such as the CPU, memory,
storage devices, installed drivers, and software versions.

2. Hardware Diagnostic Tools: These tools help diagnose hardware-related issues. They
perform tests on components like the CPU, memory, hard drive, graphics card, and peripherals
to detect faults or failures. Results from these tests can help identify faulty hardware that may
need replacement or repair.

3. Performance Monitoring Tools: Performance monitoring tools track the system's performance
metrics, such as CPU usage, memory usage,
 BACHELOR OF COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
(BCA) (Revised)
Term-End Examination

1. (a) Convert the following decimal numbers to

binary number and hexadecimal number :
(i) 57
(ii) 0.215

(b) How is the access time on a disk defined ?

Explain the components of access time
with the help of an example.

(c) Explain the components of a memory

system and, the role of cache memory in the
memory hierarchy.

(d) List any four application softwares.

Explain the purpose of each.

(e) Draw a flow chart for a program that

calculates the area of a circle.

(f) What is a Blog ? What are the merits and

demerits of blogging ?

(g) List three categories of a search engine

with the help of an example. What is
indexing in the context of a search engine ?

(h) Explain the advantages and disadvantages

of e-learning.

Ans:
(a) Decimal to Binary and Hexadecimal Conversion:

(i) Decimal number 57:

Binary: 57 in binary is 111001.
Hexadecimal: 57 in hexadecimal is 39.
(c) Components of a Memory System and the Role of Cache Memory:

A memory system typically consists of several components:

1. Primary Memory/Main Memory: It is the main storage unit that holds data and instructions that
are actively used by the processor. It is directly accessible by the CPU and has faster access
times compared to secondary storage devices.

2. Secondary Storage: This includes devices like hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives
(SSDs). Secondary storage provides long-term storage for data and programs but has slower
access times compared to primary memory.

3. Cache Memory: Cache memory is a small and fast memory unit that sits between the CPU
and main memory. It acts as a buffer between the processor and main memory, storing
frequently accessed data and instructions. The purpose of cache memory is to reduce the
average time taken to access data from the main memory. By keeping a copy of frequently used
data closer to the CPU, cache memory helps reduce the number of memory accesses required,
improving overall system performance.

Cache memory operates on the principle of locality of reference, which states that programs
tend to access a relatively small portion of the total memory at any given time. There are
different levels of cache memory, such as L1, L2, and L3, with varying sizes and access speeds.
The cache works by storing copies of data from main memory that have been recently accessed
or are expected to be accessed soon. When the CPU needs to access data, it first checks the
cache. If the data is found in the cache (cache hit), it is retrieved quickly. If the data is not
present in the cache (cache miss), it is fetched from the main memory and also stored in the
cache for future use.

Cache memory helps bridge the speed gap between the fast CPU and the slower main memory,
enhancing system performance by reducing memory latency and improving data access times.

(d) Four examples of application software and their purposes:

1. Word Processor: A word processor, such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs, is used for
creating, editing, formatting, and printing documents. It provides tools for writing and editing text,
adding graphics, adjusting formatting, and spell-checking.

2. Spreadsheet Software: Spreadsheet software, like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets, is

designed for organizing, analyzing, and manipulating numerical and textual data. It allows users
to create tables, perform calculations, create charts and graphs, and automate data processing
tasks.
3. Photo Editing Software: Photo editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop or GIMP, is used
to enhance, manipulate, and retouch digital images. It offers a wide range of tools for adjusting
colors, cropping, applying filters and effects, removing imperfections, and creating compositions.

4. Web Browser: A web browser, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge,
enables users to access and navigate websites on the internet. It interprets HTML documents,
displays web content, and supports various features like bookmarks, tabbed browsing, and
downloading files.

(e) Flowchart for calculating the area of a circle:

```
START
Read the radius (r) of the circle
Calculate the area (A) using the formula: A = π * r^2
Display the calculated area (A)
END
```

(f) Blog:
A blog is a type of website or online platform where individuals or groups regularly share their
thoughts, opinions, experiences, and information in the form of posts. Blogs often focus on
specific topics or niches and allow readers to engage through comments and discussions.

Merits of Blogging:
1. Creative Outlet: Blogging provides a creative outlet for individuals to express themselves,
share their ideas, and showcase their expertise.
2. Knowledge Sharing: Blogs allow individuals to share valuable knowledge, experiences, and
information with a wide audience,

(h) Advantages of e-learning:

1. Flexibility and Convenience: E-learning provides flexibility in terms of time and location.
Learners can access course materials and participate in online classes at their own
convenience, fitting their learning around other commitments and obligations.

2. Accessibility: E-learning eliminates geographical barriers, allowing learners from anywhere in

the world to access educational resources and courses. It opens up opportunities for individuals
who may not have access to traditional educational institutions or who have physical disabilities
that make attending in-person classes challenging.

3. Self-Paced Learning: E-learning often allows learners to progress at their own pace. They
can review and revisit content as needed, spending more time on challenging topics and
progressing quickly through familiar ones. This personalized approach can enhance learning
outcomes.

4. Cost-Effective: E-learning can be cost-effective compared to traditional forms of education. It

eliminates expenses associated with commuting, accommodation, and physical learning
materials. Online courses are often more affordable, and there are often no additional costs for
facilities and infrastructure.

5. Variety of Learning Resources: E-learning platforms offer a wide range of multimedia

resources such as videos, interactive modules, quizzes, and discussion forums. These
resources can enhance engagement, understanding, and retention of the learning material.

Disadvantages of e-learning:

1. Limited Face-to-Face Interaction: E-learning primarily relies on online communication and

lacks face-to-face interaction with instructors and peers. Some learners may find it challenging
to engage in discussions or clarify doubts without immediate personal interaction.

2. Technical Challenges: E-learning requires access to reliable internet connectivity and

adequate technical infrastructure. Technical issues, such as internet outages or compatibility
problems, can disrupt the learning experience and hinder progress.

3. Self-Motivation and Discipline: E-learning often requires learners to be self-motivated and

disciplined as they are responsible for managing their own learning schedules and staying
focused. Lack of structure and accountability can make it difficult for some learners to stay on
track.

4. Limited Hands-On Practical Experience: Certain fields of study, such as science or

engineering, may require hands-on practical experience that is challenging to replicate in an
online environment. Practical skills development and laboratory work may be limited in
e-learning.

5. Social Isolation: E-learning can be a solitary learning experience, lacking the social
interactions and networking opportunities that come with traditional classrooms. Some learners
may miss the social aspect of education and the ability to collaborate and learn from peers in
person.

It's important to note that the effectiveness and suitability of e-learning can vary depending on
the individual learner, the subject matter, and the quality of the e-learning platform or course.

2. (a) What is an Operating System ? List and

explain any four services/functions of an
operating system. 6

(b) What are the characteristics and

advantages of a Local Area Network ?
Explain any one LAN topology with the
help of a diagram. 8

(c) Define the term 'Open Source Software'.

Explain any two important features of the
model used for open source software
Development.

Ans:
(a) An Operating System (OS) is a software that acts as an interface between the hardware and
the user, managing computer resources and providing an environment for running applications.
It is responsible for controlling and coordinating the activities of computer hardware and
software components.

Four services/functions of an operating system are:

1. Process Management: The operating system manages and controls the execution of
processes. It allocates system resources, such as CPU time, memory, and input/output devices,
to different processes. It also provides mechanisms for process synchronization and
communication.

2. Memory Management: The OS is responsible for managing the computer's memory

resources. It allocates and deallocates memory space to processes, ensuring efficient utilization
of memory. It also handles virtual memory management, which allows running programs to use
more memory than physically available.

3. File System Management: An operating system provides a file system that allows users to
organize and store data in files. It manages file operations like creating, opening, reading,
writing, and deleting files. The OS also handles file permissions, ensuring data security and
access control.

4. Device Management: The operating system manages computer peripherals and devices such
as printers, scanners, disk drives, and network interfaces. It provides a unified interface for
accessing these devices, abstracting the hardware details and allowing applications to interact
with devices without needing to know specific device details.

(b) Characteristics and advantages of a Local Area Network (LAN):

Characteristics:
1. Limited Geographical Area: LANs cover a small geographic area, such as a single building,
office, or campus. They are designed for providing network services within a confined area.

2. High Data Transfer Rates: LANs are capable of high-speed data transfer, typically ranging
from 10 Mbps to several gigabits per second. This enables efficient communication and sharing
of resources among connected devices.

3. Shared Resources: LANs allow devices to share resources such as printers, files, and
applications. This facilitates collaboration and increases productivity within a localized network
environment.

Advantages:
1. Resource Sharing: LANs enable the sharing of expensive resources, such as printers or
network storage devices, among multiple users. This reduces costs and enhances efficiency by
eliminating the need for dedicated resources for each device.

2. Data Sharing and Collaboration: LANs facilitate the sharing of data and files between
connected devices. Users can access and collaborate on shared documents, improving
communication and teamwork within an organization.

One LAN Topology: Ethernet (Star Topology)

In a star topology, all devices are connected to a central networking device, usually a switch or
hub. Each device has its own dedicated connection to the central device. This central device
acts as a communication hub, facilitating data transfer between connected devices.

```
+-------+
|Switch |
+-------+
| | |
| | |
+-+-+--+-+
| |
| |
+--+--+ +--+--+
|Device| |Device|
+------+ +------+
```

In the above diagram, the switch acts as the central networking device, and each device
(represented as rectangles) has its own connection to the switch. This topology allows for
efficient data transfer between devices, as data packets only need to travel between the source
and destination devices via the switch. It also provides scalability, as additional devices can be
easily added by connecting them to the switch.

(c) Components of a Memory System and the Role of Cache Memory:

The memory system of a computer consists of several components:

1. Cache Memory: Cache memory is a small, high-speed memory located between the CPU
and main memory. It stores frequently accessed instructions and data to reduce the time taken
to retrieve them from slower main memory or storage. The cache memory operates on the
principle of locality, which states that recently accessed data is likely to be accessed again

Open Source Software (OSS) refers to software that is released under a license that allows
users to freely use, modify, and distribute the software's source code. The source code is made
available to the public, allowing anyone to inspect, modify, and improve the software.

Two important features of the model used for open source software development are:

1. Free and Open Distribution: One of the key features of open source software development is
that the software is freely available to users. This means that users can download, use, and
distribute the software without any licensing restrictions or fees. The open distribution model
enables widespread adoption of the software and encourages a large user base, which in turn
leads to a vibrant and active community of developers and contributors.

2. Continuous Improvement and Iterative Development: Open source software development

follows an iterative and incremental development process. The software is released early and
often, allowing users to provide feedback and report bugs. This feedback loop facilitates
continuous improvement of the software, with regular updates and releases that address user
needs and incorporate new features and enhancements. The iterative development approach
ensures that the software evolves based on real-world usage and feedback, resulting in a
product that is more reliable, secure, and aligned with user requirements over time.

These two features, along with others, contribute to the success and popularity of open source
software development by fostering collaboration, innovation, and community engagement.

1. Transparency and Collaboration: Open source software development encourages

transparency by making the source code accessible to everyone. This allows developers to
review and audit the code for security, identify and fix bugs, and suggest improvements. It
promotes collaboration among a global community of developers, who can contribute their
expertise, ideas, and enhancements to the software. The open nature of the development
process fosters peer review and knowledge sharing, resulting in robust and reliable software.
2. Meritocracy and Community-driven Development: Open source software development
operates on a meritocracy model, where contributions and decisions are based on merit and
expertise rather than hierarchical structures. Anyone can participate and contribute to the
project, regardless of their background or affiliation. The community-driven development
approach ensures that the software evolves and improves through the collective efforts of its
users and developers. It encourages innovation, fosters diversity of ideas, and allows for rapid
development cycles and continuous improvement.

Overall, the open source software development model promotes collaboration, transparency,
and community involvement, leading to high-quality software that can be freely used, modified,
and distributed.

3. (a) Discuss the following in brief : 8

(i) Assembler
(ii) Editor
(iii) Interpreter
(iv) Compiler

(b) What is port ? Explain the characteristics

of Parallel, Serial, USB and Small
Computer System Interface ports.
(c) What are the security threats related to
Internet ? How can they be prevented ?

Ans:

(a) Brief discussion on the following:

(i) Assembler: An assembler is a software tool that converts low-level assembly language code
into machine code, which can be directly executed by a computer's processor. It translates
mnemonic instructions and symbols into binary code instructions specific to the target
architecture. Assemblers are used in programming and software development to create
executable programs.

(ii) Editor: An editor is a software tool used for creating, modifying, and formatting text or code. It
provides a user-friendly interface for manipulating text and code files. Editors can be simple text
editors or advanced integrated development environments (IDEs) that offer features like syntax
highlighting, code completion, and debugging capabilities.
(iii) Interpreter: An interpreter is a software program that directly executes instructions written in
a high-level programming language without the need for prior compilation. It reads the source
code line by line, interprets each line, and executes the corresponding instructions. Interpreters
are commonly used in scripting languages like Python, Ruby, and JavaScript.

(iv) Compiler: A compiler is a software tool that translates high-level programming languages
into machine code. It takes the entire source code as input, performs lexical analysis, syntax
analysis, semantic analysis, and generates an executable machine code file. Unlike interpreters,
compilers produce standalone executable files that can be executed independently of the
compiler itself.

(b) Ports: In computing, a port refers to a physical or virtual interface through which data is
exchanged between a computer and external devices or networks. Here are the characteristics
of different types of ports:

- Parallel Port: A parallel port is an older type of port that transmits data in parallel, using
multiple data lines simultaneously. It allows for faster data transfer compared to serial ports but
is less common today. It typically uses a 25-pin or 36-pin connector.

- Serial Port: A serial port is a port that transmits data sequentially, using a single data line. It is
commonly used for connecting devices like modems, mice, and serial printers. Serial ports
typically use a 9-pin or 25-pin connector.

- USB (Universal Serial Bus) Port: USB ports are a widely used standard for connecting various
devices to a computer. USB supports hot-plugging, allowing devices to be connected and
disconnected while the computer is running. It provides a versatile and easy-to-use interface for
devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, external storage, and more.

- Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) Port: SCSI is a parallel interface used to connect
peripheral devices, such as hard drives, tape drives, scanners, and optical drives, to a
computer. It offers high-speed data transfer and allows for the connection of multiple devices on
a single bus.

(c) Security threats related to the Internet:

1. Malware: Malicious software such as viruses, worms, and Trojans can infect computers and
compromise data integrity and confidentiality. Malware can be prevented by using up-to-date
antivirus software, avoiding suspicious email attachments and downloads, and regularly
updating software.

2. Phishing: Phishing involves tricking users into revealing sensitive information, such as
passwords or credit card details, by impersonating trustworthy entities. To prevent phishing,
users should be cautious of unsolicited emails or messages, verify the authenticity of websites
before providing personal information, and avoid clicking on suspicious links.

3. Hacking and Data Breaches: Hacking refers to unauthorized access to computer systems or
networks, often with the intent of stealing or manipulating data. Data breaches occur when
sensitive information is accessed or exposed without authorization. Preventive measures
include using strong passwords, implementing two-factor authentication, regularly updating
software, and implementing firewalls and intrusion detection systems.

4. Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks: DoS attacks aim to disrupt the availability of a network or
service by overwhelming it with

4. (a) What is data transmission channel ?

Compare and contrast Guided and
Unguided channels.
(b) Compare and contrast the following :
(i) SRAM versus DRAM
(ii) SIMM versus DIMM
(iii) ROM versus PROM
(iv) CD-ROM versus USB Drive
(c) What is a URL ? Explain with the help of a
an example, the need of DNS in Internet. 4

Ans:
(a) A data transmission channel is a physical or logical pathway through which data is
transferred from a sender to a receiver. It provides a means for information to be transmitted
over a distance, allowing communication between devices or systems. There are two types of
data transmission channels: guided and unguided.

Guided channels, also known as bounded or wired channels, use physical media to transmit
data. Examples of guided channels include twisted-pair cables, coaxial cables, and fiber-optic
cables. In guided channels, the data signals are confined within the physical medium, which
provides protection against external interference and attenuation. These channels offer higher
data transmission rates, better reliability, and lower error rates compared to unguided channels.
However, guided channels require physical infrastructure and are limited by the length and
capacity of the medium.
Unguided channels, also known as unbounded or wireless channels, transmit data through the
air or free space without the need for physical connections. Examples of unguided channels
include radio waves, microwaves, and infrared signals. Unguided channels offer the advantage
of mobility and flexibility as they eliminate the need for physical cables. However, they are more
susceptible to interference, attenuation, and signal degradation due to environmental factors
such as distance, obstacles, and electromagnetic interference.

In summary, guided channels use physical media for data transmission, providing better
reliability and higher transmission rates but requiring physical infrastructure. Unguided channels
transmit data through the air or free space, offering mobility but being more susceptible to
interference and signal degradation.

(b) (i) SRAM versus DRAM:

- SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) is a type of memory that uses flip-flops to store data.
It is faster and more expensive compared to DRAM.
- DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) is a type of memory that uses capacitors to store
data. It is slower and less expensive compared to SRAM.
- SRAM does not require constant refreshing to retain data, while DRAM needs to be refreshed
periodically.
- SRAM is used for cache memory and provides faster access times, while DRAM is used for
main memory and offers higher storage capacity.

(ii) SIMM versus DIMM:

- SIMM (Single In-Line Memory Module) and DIMM (Dual In-Line Memory Module) are form
factors for memory modules.
- SIMM modules have a 32-bit data path and provide memory access for a single bank of
memory.
- DIMM modules have a 64-bit data path and can provide memory access for two independent
banks of memory.
- DIMMs offer higher memory capacity and bandwidth compared to SIMMs.
- SIMMs are generally used in older systems, while DIMMs are more commonly used in modern
computers.

(iii) ROM versus PROM:

- ROM (Read-Only Memory) is a type of memory that contains data that cannot be modified or
erased. It is used for storing firmware or permanent instructions.
- PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory) is a type of memory that can be programmed
once by the user. Once programmed, the data becomes permanent and cannot be modified or
erased.
- ROM is manufactured with the data already stored during the fabrication process, while PROM
can be programmed by the user using a special device.
- PROM provides the flexibility of programming specific data into the memory, while ROM is
fixed with the data it contains.
(iv) CD-ROM versus USB Drive:
- CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read-Only Memory) is a type of optical storage medium that can
store data and is read by a CD-ROM drive. It has a higher storage capacity than floppy disks
and is commonly used for software distribution.
- USB drive, also known as a flash drive or thumb drive, is a portable storage device that uses
flash memory to store data. It connects to a computer via a USB port

5. Explain any five of the following with the help of

an example/diagram, if required : 5x4=20
(a) Network Interface Card
(b) Word Processing
(c) Collaboration in the context of Internet
(d) Router and Switches
(e) Activities in Software Project Management
(f) Two Data Entry Devices
(g) Cookies in the context of Browser Software

Ans:
(a) Network Interface Card:
A network interface card (NIC) is a hardware component that allows a computer to connect to a
network. It provides the physical interface between the computer and the network, enabling
communication and data transfer.

Example: Imagine you have a computer that needs to connect to the internet through a wired
connection. In this case, you would need a network interface card. The NIC would be a physical
card that you install into your computer's motherboard. It typically has an Ethernet port that
allows you to connect an Ethernet cable from your computer to a modem or a router. This
connection enables your computer to send and receive data over the network.

Diagram:
```
+------------------+
| Network |
| Interface |
| Card |
+------------------+
|
| +--------------------------------+
 +----->| Computer |
+--------------------------------+
```

(b) Word Processing:

Word processing refers to the creation, editing, and formatting of text documents using
specialized software called word processors. Word processing software provides various
features and tools to manipulate and manage text, such as formatting options, spell check,
grammar check, and the ability to insert images and tables.

Example: Microsoft Word is a popular word processing software. Suppose you need to create a
report for your school project. You can open Microsoft Word and start typing the content of your
report. You can apply different formatting styles to headings, adjust the font and size of the text,
and insert images or graphs to enhance the visual appeal of your document. Once you have
completed your report, you can save it as a file on your computer or print it for submission.

Diagram:
```
+-------------------------------------+
| Word Processing |
| Software (e.g., |
| Microsoft Word) |
+-------------------------------------+
|
|
+----------------+
| Document |
| Content |
+----------------+
```

(c) Collaboration in the context of Internet:

Collaboration in the context of the internet refers to the ability of individuals or groups to work
together on a shared project or task, regardless of their physical location. The internet provides
various tools and platforms that facilitate collaboration and enable real-time communication,
document sharing, and simultaneous editing.

Example: Google Docs is an online collaboration tool that allows multiple users to work on the
same document simultaneously. Suppose you and your classmates need to collaborate on a
group project. Instead of working on individual copies of the project, you can create a shared
document on Google Docs. Each team member can access the document through their web
browser and make changes in real-time. Everyone can see the edits made by others, and the
document is automatically saved and updated for all users.
Diagram:
```
+------------------------------------+
| Collaboration Platform |
| (e.g., Google Docs) |
+------------------------------------+
|
|
+----------------+
| Document |
| Content |
+----------------+
```

(d) Router and Switches:

Routers and switches are network devices used to facilitate communication and data transfer
within a computer network. While both devices are involved in network connectivity, they have
different functionalities.

Router: A router is a networking device that connects multiple networks together and directs
data packets between them. It operates at the network layer of the OSI model and uses routing
tables to determine the best path for data transmission.

Switch: A switch, on the other hand, is a networking device that connects devices within a local
area network (LAN). It operates at the data link layer of the OSI model and uses MAC
addresses to forward data packets to the appropriate device within the network.

(d) Router and Switches:

Router: A router is a networking device that connects multiple networks together and directs
data packets between them. It operates at the network layer of the OSI model and uses routing
tables to determine the best path for data transmission.

Switch: A switch, on the other hand, is a networking device that connects devices within a local
area network (LAN). It operates at the data link layer of the OSI model and uses MAC
addresses to forward data packets to the appropriate device within the network.

Example: Consider a small office network that consists of multiple computers and a printer. The
network requires both a router and switches. The router connects the office network to the
internet, allowing the computers to access online resources. It also directs data packets
between the internal network and the internet. The switches, on the other hand, connect the
computers and the printer within the office LAN. When one computer wants to send data to
another computer or print a document, the switch ensures that the data is sent only to the
intended recipient.
Diagram:
```
+---------+
| Router |
+---------+
|
+--------+--------+
| | |
+--+--+ +--+--+ +--+--+
|Comp1| |Comp2| |Printer|
+-----+ +-----+ +------+
Switch Switch
```

(e) Activities in Software Project Management:

Software project management involves planning, organizing, and managing software
development projects. It includes various activities to ensure the successful completion of the
project within the defined constraints, such as time, budget, and scope.

Example: Let's consider the activities in software project management for developing a mobile
application:

1. Requirement Gathering: Understanding the client's requirements and documenting them in a

clear and detailed manner.

2. Project Planning: Creating a project plan that outlines tasks, timelines, resource allocation,
and dependencies.

3. Design and Architecture: Defining the application's structure, user interface, and system
components.

4. Development: Writing code and implementing the functionality of the mobile application.

5. Testing: Conducting various testing activities, such as unit testing, integration testing, and
user acceptance testing, to ensure the application works as expected.

Diagram:
```
+------------------+
| Requirement |
| Gathering |
+------------------+
|
|
 +--------+--------+
| Project |
| Planning |
+------------------+
|
|
+--------+--------+
| Design and |
| Architecture |
+------------------+
|
|
+--------+--------+
| Development |
+------------------+
|
|
+--------+--------+
| Testing |
+------------------+
```

(f) Two Data Entry Devices:

Data entry devices are hardware peripherals used to input data into a computer system. Here
are two examples of data entry devices:

1. Keyboard: A keyboard is a common data entry device that allows users to input text,
numbers, and commands into a computer. It consists of a set of keys, including alphanumeric
keys, function keys, and special keys (e.g., Enter, Backspace). Users press the keys to type
characters or execute specific functions.

2. Barcode Scanner: A barcode scanner is a device used to read barcodes printed on products
or other items. It uses a laser or image sensor to scan the barcode and convert it into a digital
format. The scanned data can be used for inventory management, sales tracking, or other
applications.
Diagram:
```
+------------------+
| Keyboard |
+------------------+

OR

+------------------+
| Barcode Scanner |
+------------------+
``
 BACHELOR OF COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
(BCA)
December, 2017
BCS-011 : COMPUTER BASICS AND PC SOFTWARE

1. (a) Convert the following decimal numbers to

binary number and hexadecimal number : 4
(i) 125
(ii) 0.025

(b) Define the term Main Memory. List the

differences between RAM and ROM. 4

(c) Define the terms Tracks, Sectors and

Cylinders in the context of a hard disk. A
disk pack has 12 platters (plates) having
2048 tracks on every surface. It can store
1024 bytes per sector (assume each track
has 512 sectors). Calculate the storage
capacity of this disk in gigabytes. 6

(d) List two functions of File management and

three functions of Memory management
systems in the context of Operating
systems. 5

(e) What is the role of a Compiler in a.

computer ? How is a Compiler diferent
from an Interpreter ? 5

(f) List the advantages of using formulae and

macros in a spreadsheet software. 3

(g) For the following IPv4 subnet masks, what

would be the size of Net ID and Device ID ? 4
(i) 255.255.0.0
(ii) 255.255.255.0
(h) What is LAN ? What are the advantages of
LAN ? 5
(i) What are the features of a browser
software ?

Ans:
(a) Decimal to Binary and Hexadecimal Conversion:
(i) 125:
Binary: 125 in binary is 1111101.
Hexadecimal: 125 in hexadecimal is 7D.

(ii) 0.025:
Binary: To convert a decimal fraction to binary, multiply the fraction by 2 and take the integer
part as the binary digit. Repeat the process with the fractional part until the desired precision is
achieved.
0.025 in binary is 0.00001.
Hexadecimal: To convert a decimal fraction to hexadecimal, multiply the fraction by 16 and take
the integer part as the hexadecimal digit. Repeat the process with the fractional part until the
desired precision is achieved.
0.025 in hexadecimal is 0.04.

(b) Main Memory:

Main memory, also known as primary memory or random-access memory (RAM), refers to the
internal memory of a computer that is directly accessible by the CPU. It holds data and
instructions that are currently being processed by the CPU.

Differences between RAM and ROM:

RAM (Random-Access Memory):
- Volatile memory: RAM loses its contents when the power is turned off.
- Read and write access: Data can be both read from and written to RAM.
- Used for temporary storage: RAM stores data and instructions during the execution of
programs.
- Faster access speed: RAM provides faster read and write operations compared to other types
of memory.

ROM (Read-Only Memory):

- Non-volatile memory: ROM retains its contents even when the power is turned off.
- Read-only access: Data stored in ROM can only be read and cannot be modified.
- Used for permanent storage: ROM contains firmware or software instructions that are
permanently programmed during manufacturing.
- Slower access speed: ROM generally has slower access speeds compared to RAM.

(c) Tracks, Sectors, and Cylinders in a Hard Disk:

- Tracks: A track is a concentric circle on a disk surface. It represents a complete circular path
that can be read from or written to.
- Sectors: A sector is a subdivision of a track. It is the smallest individually addressable unit on a
disk and typically stores a fixed amount of data.
- Cylinders: A cylinder consists of all the tracks with the same track number on each platter
surface. In other words, it is a set of tracks at the same position on different surfaces.

Given:
- 12 platters (plates) with 2048 tracks on every surface.
- Each track has 512 sectors.
- Each sector can store 1024 bytes.

To calculate the storage capacity:

Number of platters = 12
Number of tracks per platter = 2048
Number of sectors per track = 512
Bytes per sector = 1024

Total storage capacity (in bytes) = Number of platters * Number of tracks per platter * Number of
sectors per track * Bytes per sector
Total storage capacity = 12 * 2048 * 512 * 1024 bytes

To convert bytes to gigabytes, divide the total capacity by 1,073,741,824 (1024^3).

Total storage capacity (in gigabytes) = Total storage capacity (in bytes) / 1,073,741,824

(calculate the result)

Total storage capacity = (12 * 2048 * 512 * 1024) bytes
Total storage capacity (in gigabytes) = Total storage capacity / 1,073,741,824 gigabytes

(d) Functions of File Management and Memory Management Systems:

File Management:
1. File creation and deletion: File management systems provide functions to create new files
and delete existing files. This includes allocating storage space for new files and removing files
from the file system.
2. File organization and access: They allow for organizing files into directories or folders and
provide mechanisms to access and manipulate files. This includes functions for file opening,
closing, reading, writing, and seeking within files.

Memory Management:
1. Memory allocation: Memory management systems allocate and deallocate memory to
processes or programs based on their memory requirements. This involves tracking the
available memory space and assigning portions of memory to processes when requested.
2. Memory protection: Memory management systems enforce protection mechanisms to prevent
unauthorized access or modification of memory by different processes. They ensure that each
process can only access its allocated memory space and protect the integrity of the system.

(e) Role of a Compiler and Difference from an Interpreter:

Role of a Compiler: A compiler is a software program that translates the source code written in a
high-level programming language into machine code or executable code that can be directly
executed by the computer's processor. It performs a complete analysis of the source code,
including syntax and semantic checks, and generates optimized machine code.

Difference between Compiler and Interpreter:

1. Translation process: A compiler translates the entire source code into machine code before
execution, whereas an interpreter translates and executes the source code line by line or
statement by statement in a sequential manner.
2. Output: A compiler produces an executable file that can be run independently, while an
interpreter executes the source code directly without generating an executable file.
3. Performance: Since a compiler translates the entire source code in advance, it can optimize
the code and generate efficient machine code. This usually results in faster execution compared
to an interpreter, which interprets the code on the fly.
4. Error handling: A compiler performs a thorough analysis of the code and reports errors before
the execution phase. In contrast, an interpreter stops execution when it encounters an error and
reports it immediately.

(f) Advantages of Using Formulas and Macros in Spreadsheet Software:

1. Efficiency and automation: Formulas and macros enable automated calculations and
repetitive tasks, saving time and reducing errors. They can perform complex calculations,
manipulate data, and generate dynamic reports based on the input data.
2. Consistency and accuracy: Using formulas ensures consistent and accurate calculations
across different cells or sheets in a spreadsheet. Macros allow for standardized and consistent
procedures to be applied to multiple data sets or workbooks.
3. Flexibility and scalability: Formulas and macros provide the flexibility to customize and adapt
the spreadsheet functionality according to specific needs. They can be modified, expanded, and
reused, making it easier to handle evolving data and changing requirements.

(g) Size of Net ID and Device ID for given IPv4 subnet masks:
(i) 255.255.0.0:
Net ID size: The subnet mask 255.255.0.0 indicates that the first 16 bits (two octets) represent
the network ID. Therefore, the size of the Net ID is 16 bits.
Device ID size: The remaining 16 bits (two octets) represent the device ID. Therefore, the size
of the Device ID is 16 bits.

(ii) 255.255.255.0:
Net ID size: The subnet mask 255.255.255.0 indicates that the first 24 bits (three octets)
represent the network ID. Therefore, the size of the Net ID is 24 bits.
Device ID size: The remaining 8 bits (one octet) represent the device ID. Therefore, the size of
the Device ID is 8 bits.

(h) LAN and Advantages of LAN:

A LAN (Local Area Network) is a computer network that connects devices within a limited
geographical area, such as a home, office building, or campus. It allows multiple devices, such
as computers, printers, and servers, to communicate and share resources within the network.

Advantages of LAN:
1. File and resource sharing: LAN enables easy sharing of files, documents, and resources,
such as printers and scanners, among connected devices. This promotes collaboration and
efficient utilization of resources within an organization.
2. Data transfer and communication: LAN provides high-speed data transfer capabilities,
allowing for quick and seamless communication between devices. It facilitates real-time sharing
of information, instant messaging, and email communication.
3. Centralized data management: LAN allows for centralized storage and management of data.
This ensures data integrity, security, and ease of backup and recovery procedures. It also
enables centralized software installations and updates.
4. Cost-effective: Implementing a LAN is often more cost-effective than providing individual
networking solutions for each device. LAN infrastructure can be shared among multiple devices,
reducing the overall network setup and maintenance costs.
5. Enhanced security: LANs provide the ability to implement network security measures, such as
firewalls, access controls, and encryption, to protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized
access. This helps in maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of information.

(i) Features of a Browser Software:

1. Graphical User Interface (GUI): Browser software provides a user-friendly graphical interface
that allows users to interact with web content easily. It includes features like menus, toolbars,
and navigation buttons for seamless browsing experience.
2. Web Page Rendering: Browsers have rendering engines that interpret and display HTML,
CSS, and JavaScript to render web pages accurately. They handle the layout, formatting, and
multimedia elements, ensuring the proper presentation of web content.
3. Tabbed Browsing: Tabbed browsing enables users to open multiple web pages within a single
browser window, each on its separate tab. This feature allows for efficient multitasking and easy
navigation between different websites.
4. Bookmarks and History: Browsers provide bookmarking and history features, allowing users
to save their favorite websites for quick access and maintain a record of previously visited web
pages. This helps in organizing and revisiting important content.
5. Plug-ins and Extensions: Browsers support the installation of plug-ins and extensions that
enhance their functionality. These add-ons provide additional features like ad-blockers,
language translators, password managers, and developer tools, customizing the browsing
experience to individual needs.
2. (a) What is a Parallel port ? How is it different
from a Serial port ? For connecting a
printer, which of the two (serial/parallel)
ports will be preferred ? Justify your
answer. 6

(b) Draw a flowchart to find the sum of the

first n natural numbers. 8

(c) What is a Wiki ? What are its

characteristics ? How can it be used for
educational purposes ? Explain with the
help of an example.
Ans:
(a) A parallel port is a type of interface found on computers that allows data to be transferred in
parallel, meaning multiple bits of data are sent simultaneously. It is typically used to connect
devices that require high-speed data transfer, such as printers or scanners. In a parallel port,
data is transmitted through multiple data lines simultaneously.

On the other hand, a serial port is an interface that transmits data one bit at a time sequentially
over a single data line. It is commonly used for connecting devices that don't require high-speed
data transfer, such as modems or mice. Serial ports transmit data in a serial manner, meaning
the bits are sent one after another.

For connecting a printer, a parallel port would be preferred over a serial port. Printers often
require fast data transfer rates to handle large amounts of data efficiently. A parallel port can
provide this high-speed communication as it transmits multiple bits simultaneously, which results
in faster printing compared to a serial port. Additionally, parallel ports have specific control lines
dedicated to printer functions, such as status signals and handshaking, which make them more
suitable for printer connections.

(b) Here is a flowchart to find the sum of the first n natural numbers:

```
Start
|
V
Input the value of n
|
 V
Initialize sum = 0
|
V
Initialize counter = 1
|
V
While counter <= n
|
V
Add counter to sum
|
V
Increment counter by 1
|
V
End While
|
V
Display sum
|
V
Stop
```

(c) A wiki is a collaborative website or platform that allows users to create, edit, and organize
content collectively. It enables users to contribute and modify content easily using a web
browser, making it a powerful tool for collaborative knowledge creation and sharing.

Characteristics of a wiki include:

1. Open Editing: Wikis allow anyone to edit and contribute to the content, promoting
collaboration and collective knowledge building.

2. Version History: Wikis usually keep track of the revision history of pages, allowing users to
see previous versions and revert to earlier content if needed.

3. Linking: Wikis heavily utilize linking to connect related articles and provide a rich
interconnected web of information.

4. Searchability: Wikis typically have search functionality, making it easy to find specific
information within the vast amount of content.
Wikis can be used for educational purposes in various ways. One example is creating a
collaborative knowledge base for a specific subject or course. Students and educators can
contribute to the wiki by adding information, resources, and references, which can be
continuously updated and improved over time. This collaborative effort helps build a
comprehensive and up-to-date repository of knowledge that can benefit both current and future
learners. Students can also use the wiki to discuss and share insights, ask questions, and
provide explanations, fostering active engagement and learning within a community of learners.

3. (a) What is meant by Open Source Software ?

Explain the developmental model and
licensing of open source software. 6
(b) Explain the uses and functions of the
following networking devices : 8
Modem
Repeater
Router
Gateway
(c) What are the various components of a
CPU ? Explain the role of each component.
How is a CPU interfaced with memory ?
Explain. 6
Ans:
(a) Open Source Software refers to software that is released with a license that allows users to
access, modify, and distribute the source code freely. It promotes collaboration, transparency,
and community-driven development. The development model of open source software involves
a decentralized approach where developers from around the world contribute to the codebase.

The licensing of open source software typically follows certain principles. One of the most
well-known licenses for open source software is the GNU General Public License (GPL), which
grants users the freedom to run, study, modify, and distribute the software. Other open source
licenses include the MIT License, Apache License, and BSD License, each with its specific
terms and conditions.

The developmental model of open source software relies on a community of developers who
voluntarily contribute their time and expertise. This collaboration leads to the continuous
improvement and refinement of the software. Development discussions, bug tracking, and code
repositories are often hosted on platforms like GitHub, fostering transparency and enabling
developers to work together effectively.
(b) The following are the uses and functions of various networking devices:

1. Modem: A modem (modulator-demodulator) is used to modulate and demodulate data

signals between digital devices and analog transmission media such as telephone lines. It
converts digital signals from a computer into analog signals suitable for transmission over
telephone lines and vice versa. Modems are commonly used for connecting to the internet via
dial-up, DSL, or cable connections.

2. Repeater: A repeater is a networking device that amplifies or regenerates signals in order to

extend the reach of a network. It receives incoming signals, cleans and boosts them, and
retransmits them to other parts of the network. Repeaters help overcome signal degradation
and extend the distance over which data can be transmitted without loss of quality.

3. Router: A router is a device that connects multiple networks together and forwards data
packets between them. It acts as an intermediary between devices within a local area network
(LAN) and between different networks, such as the internet. Routers use routing tables and
protocols to determine the most efficient paths for data transmission, ensuring that data reaches
its intended destination.

4. Gateway: A gateway is a device that acts as an entry point between two different networks
that use different protocols. It translates data between the two networks, allowing them to
communicate with each other. Gateways are commonly used in scenarios where incompatible
networks need to exchange information, such as connecting a local network to the internet.

(c) The various components of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) include:

1. Control Unit: The control unit manages and coordinates the execution of instructions within
the CPU. It fetches instructions from memory, decodes them, and controls the flow of data
between various components.

2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): The ALU performs arithmetic and logical operations, such as
addition, subtraction, multiplication, and comparison. It operates on data fetched from memory
or registers.

3. Registers: Registers are small, high-speed memory units within the CPU that store data and
instructions temporarily. They provide quick access to data needed for processing and hold
intermediate results during calculations.

4. Cache: Cache is a small but fast memory located inside the CPU. It stores frequently
accessed instructions and data, reducing the time required to fetch data from main memory.

5. Bus Interface Unit (BIU): The BIU manages the flow of data between the CPU and other
components, such as memory and I/O devices. It handles the address bus, data bus, and
control bus to facilitate data transfer.
A CPU is interfaced with memory through buses. The address bus is used to specify the
location in memory from which data is to be read or written. The data bus transfers the actual
data between the CPU and memory. The control bus carries control signals, such as read/write

4. (a) Differentiate between the following : 6

(i) Packet and Circuit switching
(ii) Full-duplex and Half-duplex data
transmission
(iii) Twisted pair and Optical fibre cable
(b) Explain the advantages of source
data-entry devices. Describe the features of
any three source data-entry devices. 8
(c) Explain the features of Procedural
Programming Languages with the help of
an example. How is Object Oriented
Programming different from Procedural
Programming ?

Ans:
(a)

(i) Packet switching and Circuit switching are two different methods of transmitting data:

- Packet switching: In packet switching, data is divided into small packets before transmission.
Each packet is sent independently and can take different routes to reach the destination. The
packets are reassembled at the destination. This method allows for efficient use of network
resources and can handle variable traffic loads. It is commonly used in data networks, including
the internet.

- Circuit switching: In circuit switching, a dedicated communication path is established between

the sender and receiver before data transmission. The path remains reserved for the entire
duration of the communication. It guarantees a continuous connection and fixed bandwidth for
the duration of the communication. Circuit switching is commonly used in traditional telephone
networks.

(ii) Full-duplex and Half-duplex data transmission refer to the capability of devices to transmit
and receive data simultaneously:

- Full-duplex: In full-duplex transmission, data can be transmitted and received simultaneously. It

allows for bidirectional communication, similar to a two-way street where traffic flows in both
directions at the same time. Full-duplex communication provides faster data transfer rates and
reduces latency.

- Half-duplex: In half-duplex transmission, data can be transmitted or received, but not both
simultaneously. It operates in a simplex mode, similar to a one-way street where traffic flows in
only one direction at a time. Half-duplex communication introduces some latency and reduces
the overall data transfer rate compared to full-duplex.

(iii) Twisted pair and Optical fibre cable are two types of transmission media used in networking:

- Twisted pair: Twisted pair cables consist of insulated copper wires twisted together in pairs.
They are commonly used in Ethernet networks for short to medium-range communication.
Twisted pair cables are inexpensive, easy to install, and can support various data rates.
However, they are susceptible to electromagnetic interference and have limited bandwidth
compared to optical fibre cables.

- Optical fibre cable: Optical fibre cables use thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data as
pulses of light. They offer high-speed, long-distance transmission with minimal signal loss and
resistance to electromagnetic interference. Optical fibre cables are commonly used in
high-bandwidth applications such as telecommunications, internet backbone networks, and
long-range data transmission.

(b) Source data-entry devices are input devices used to capture and enter data directly at the
source. They offer several advantages:

1. Accuracy: Source data-entry devices enable data to be entered directly at the point of origin,
reducing the chances of errors or transcription mistakes that can occur when data is entered
manually later on.

2. Efficiency: By entering data directly at the source, time and effort are saved since there is no
need for additional data entry steps or manual transfer of information.

3. Real-time data: Source data-entry devices allow for the immediate capture and availability of
data, providing real-time insights and enabling timely decision-making.

Three examples of source data-entry devices are:

- Barcode scanner: It uses a laser or image sensor to scan barcodes on products, capturing
data such as product codes, prices, and inventory information directly into a computer system.

- Magnetic stripe reader: It reads data stored on the magnetic stripe of cards, such as credit
cards or ID cards. The information is directly transferred to a computer system for processing,
eliminating the need for manual entry.

- RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader: It uses radio waves to capture data stored on
RFID tags attached to objects or products. The reader can quickly retrieve information from the
tags, such as product details or inventory status, and transmit it to a computer system.

(c) Procedural Programming Languages have the following features:

- Emphasis on procedures and functions: Procedural languages focus on organizing code into
reusable procedures or functions. These procedures contain a series of steps

(c) Procedural Programming Languages have the following features:

- Emphasis on procedures and functions: Procedural languages focus on organizing code into
reusable procedures or functions. These procedures contain a series of steps or instructions
that manipulate data and perform specific tasks. The program's flow of execution follows a
top-down approach, where procedures are called sequentially.

- Global data: Procedural languages often use global variables to store data that can be
accessed and modified by multiple procedures within the program. This allows for sharing and
manipulation of data across different parts of the program.

- Structured programming: Procedural languages promote structured programming techniques,

such as the use of control structures like loops (for, while) and conditional statements (if-else).
These structures help in controlling the flow of execution and making decisions within the
program.

Example:
Consider a procedural programming example in the C programming language to calculate the
factorial of a number:

```c
#include <stdio.h>

// Function to calculate factorial

int factorial(int num) {
int fact = 1;
for (int i = 1; i <= num; i++) {
 fact *= i;
}
return fact;
}

// Main function
int main() {
int number;
printf("Enter a number: ");
scanf("%d", &number);
int result = factorial(number);
printf("Factorial of %d is %d\n", number, result);
return 0;
}
```

In this example, the code is organized into procedures (functions). The `factorial` function
calculates the factorial of a given number using a loop. The main function prompts the user for
input, calls the factorial function, and displays the result.

Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) differs from procedural programming in the following

ways:

- Emphasis on objects: Object-oriented programming focuses on representing real-world objects

as software objects. Objects encapsulate both data (attributes) and behavior
(methods/functions) related to the object. Programs are structured around objects that interact
with each other.

- Inheritance and polymorphism: OOP allows for the creation of classes, which act as blueprints
for objects. Inheritance enables the creation of subclasses that inherit properties and methods
from a superclass, promoting code reuse. Polymorphism allows objects of different classes to
be treated as objects of a common superclass, enabling flexibility and modularity in the code.

- Encapsulation and data hiding: OOP promotes encapsulation, which means bundling data and
methods together within an object. Data hiding protects the internal data of an object from direct
access, allowing controlled access through methods. This enhances data security and code
maintainability.

Example:
Consider an example in an object-oriented language like Java to model a bank account:

```java
public class BankAccount {
private String accountNumber;
 private double balance;

public BankAccount(String accountNumber, double balance) {

this.accountNumber = accountNumber;
this.balance = balance;
}

public void deposit(double amount) {

balance += amount;
}

public void withdraw(double amount) {

if (balance >= amount) {
balance -= amount;
} else {
System.out.println("Insufficient funds.");
}
}

public double getBalance() {

return balance;
}
}

public class Main {

public static void main(String[] args) {
BankAccount account = new BankAccount("123456789", 1000.0);
account.deposit(500.0);
account.withdraw(200.0);
System.out.println("Account balance: " + account.getBalance());
}
}
```

In this example, the `BankAccount` class represents a bank account with attributes like account
number and balance.
5. Explain any five of the following with the help of
an example/diagram, if required : 5x4=20
(a) Disk Defragmenter
(b) Workstation
(c) CD-ROM Disk Layout
(d) Advantages of e-mail
(e) Two-Tier Client-Server Architecture
(f) Features of Project Management Software
(g) Moodle
(h) DNS

Ans:

(a) Disk Defragmenter: Disk Defragmenter is a utility used to optimize the performance of a hard
disk drive by rearranging fragmented files on the disk. When files are created, modified, or
deleted, they may become fragmented, meaning that parts of the file are scattered across
different physical locations on the disk. This fragmentation can slow down the system's
performance.

The Disk Defragmenter tool analyzes the disk, identifies fragmented files, and reorganizes them
to occupy contiguous space on the disk. By doing so, it reduces the time required to read and
write files, improving overall disk performance. Here is a simplified diagram illustrating the
process:

Before Defragmentation:
```
File A ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
File B ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
```

After Defragmentation:
```
File A ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
File B ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
```

(b) Workstation: A workstation is a powerful, high-performance computer designed for

professional use in specialized fields such as engineering, design, scientific research, or content
creation. Workstations are typically optimized for handling complex tasks and running
resource-intensive software.

A workstation usually has superior processing power, larger amounts of RAM, and high-end
graphics capabilities compared to regular desktop computers. It may also include specialized
hardware components or peripherals specific to the intended professional use. Workstations
often have multiple CPU cores, larger storage capacities, and support for advanced graphics
processing.

(c) CD-ROM Disk Layout: The CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read-Only Memory) disk layout refers
to the organization of data on a CD-ROM disc. A CD-ROM is a type of optical disc that contains
data that can be read but not written or modified. The CD-ROM layout consists of several key
components:

- Lead-in: The lead-in area contains information about the disc, such as the disc's format, table
of contents (TOC), and other metadata.

- Data area: The data area contains the actual data stored on the disc. It is divided into sectors,
each capable of holding 2,048 bytes of data. The data can be organized in a hierarchical file
system, such as ISO 9660, allowing the storage and retrieval of files and directories.

- Lead-out: The lead-out area marks the end of the data area. It contains closing information for
the disc and is typically not accessible for regular data storage.

(d) Advantages of e-mail:

- Instant communication: Email enables near-instant communication across the globe.
Messages can be sent and received within seconds or minutes, allowing for quick and efficient
communication.

- Cost-effective: Email is a cost-effective means of communication compared to traditional mail

or phone calls. Sending an email has minimal costs, regardless of the distance or the number of
recipients.

- Easy documentation: Emails provide a written record of communication, making it easy to refer
back to previous conversations or track important information. This documentation can be useful
for legal or business purposes.

- Attachments: Email allows the sending of attachments, such as documents, images, or

multimedia files. This enables the exchange of files without the need for physical media or
courier services.

- Accessibility: Email can be accessed from various devices, including computers, smartphones,
and tablets. Users can access their emails anytime and anywhere with an internet connection.

(e) Two-Tier Client-Server Architecture: The two-tier client-server architecture, also known as
the client-server model, is a computing architecture that divides the application logic between
two main components: the client and the server.

In this architecture, the client is responsible for the user interface and presentation logic. It
interacts directly with the end user and sends requests to the server for data or processing. The
server, on the other hand, is responsible for the application logic and data management. It
processes the client's requests, performs the necessary operations, and returns the results back
to the client.

Here is a simplified diagram illustrating the two-tier client-server architecture:

```
+-------------------+
| Client |
| |
| User Interface |
| Presentation |
| Logic |
+-------------------+
| Requests
|
| +-------------------+
| | Server |
| | |
+--->| Application |
| Logic |
| Data Management|
+-------------------+
```

This architecture is commonly used for small-scale applications where the client interacts
directly with the server. It offers simplicity in terms of communication and data flow but may lead
to scalability and performance limitations as the number of clients increases.

(f) Features of Project Management Software: Project management software is designed to help
plan, organize, and manage projects efficiently. Some key features of project management
software include:

- Task and milestone management: The software allows users to create, assign, and track tasks
and milestones within a project. It enables setting deadlines, defining dependencies, and
monitoring progress.

- Collaboration and communication: Project management software facilitates team collaboration

by providing tools for communication, file sharing, and real-time updates. It allows team
members to collaborate on tasks, share project-related documents, and discuss project details.

- Resource allocation and scheduling: The software helps in managing resources effectively by
providing features to allocate resources, assign them to specific tasks, and track their availability
and utilization. It also assists in creating project schedules and managing timelines.
- Gantt charts and visual representation: Project management software often includes Gantt
charts or other visual representations of project timelines and dependencies. These visuals help
in understanding project progress, identifying critical paths, and managing project priorities.

- Reporting and analytics: The software generates various reports and provides analytical
insights to assess project performance, monitor key metrics, and make data-driven decisions. It
may include features like progress reports, resource utilization reports, and budget tracking.

(g) Moodle: Moodle is an open-source learning management system (LMS) designed to

facilitate online learning and course management. It provides a platform for educators to create
and deliver online courses, engage with students, and assess their progress. Some key features
of Moodle include:

- Course creation and management: Moodle allows educators to create courses, define course
content, and organize learning materials. It provides tools for creating lessons, quizzes,
assignments, and interactive activities.

- Collaboration and communication: Moodle includes features for discussion forums, messaging,
and live chat, enabling students and teachers to interact and collaborate online. It promotes
communication and facilitates peer-to-peer learning.

- Assessment and grading: Moodle provides various assessment tools, such as quizzes,
assignments, and online exams. It supports automated grading and provides a centralized
platform for tracking and managing student grades.

- Customization and extensibility: Moodle offers a high degree of customization, allowing

educators to adapt the platform to their specific needs. It supports the integration of third-party
plugins and extensions to enhance functionality.

- Reporting and analytics: Moodle generates reports on student progress, participation, and
assessment results. It provides insights into learner engagement and performance, helping
educators identify areas for improvement.

(h) DNS (Domain Name System): DNS is a distributed naming system used to translate
human-readable domain names into IP addresses and vice versa. It acts as a phone book of the
internet, allowing users to access websites by typing in domain names rather than IP
addresses.

Features of DNS include:

- Name resolution: DNS resolves domain names to their corresponding IP addresses. When a
user enters a domain name in a web browser, the DNS server translates the domain name into
the corresponding IP address, allowing the browser to connect to the appropriate server.
- Distributed architecture: DNS operates in a distributed manner with a hierarchical structure. It
consists of multiple DNS servers organized in a hierarchical fashion, with each server
responsible for a specific domain or zone. This distribution helps in improving the efficiency and
scalability of the DNS system.

- Caching: DNS servers often cache the results of previous queries to improve performance.
When a DNS server receives a query for a domain name, it checks its cache first to see if it has
the corresponding IP address. If found, it returns the cached result, eliminating the need to
query other DNS servers.

- Load balancing: DNS can be used for load balancing by distributing traffic across multiple
servers. By associating multiple IP addresses with a single domain name through DNS,
requests to the domain can be distributed among different servers, helping to manage high
traffic loads and improve performance.

- Redundancy and fault tolerance: DNS supports redundancy by allowing the configuration of
multiple DNS servers for a domain. If one DNS server fails or becomes unreachable, other DNS
servers can still handle the requests and provide the necessary name resolution.

- DNS security: DNS includes security mechanisms such as DNSSEC (DNS Security
Extensions) to ensure the authenticity and integrity of DNS data. DNSSEC uses digital
signatures to verify the authenticity of DNS responses, preventing DNS spoofing and other
security threats.

Overall, DNS plays a critical role in the functioning of the internet by providing a scalable and
efficient method for translating domain names into IP addresses, enabling users to access
websites and other online services easily.
 BACHELOR OF COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
(BCA) (Revised)
Term-End Examination June, 2018
BCS-011 : COMPUTER BASICS AND PC SOFTWARE

1. (a) Convert the following binary numbers to

equivalent decimal and hexadecimal
numbers : 4
(i) (1011 0101)2
(ii) (0010 1110)2

(b) Explain static RAM and dynamic RAM.

How are they different from each other ?

(c) Explain the concept of von Neumann

architecture with the help of a diagram.

(d) Draw the flow chart to find if a given

number is divisible by 2 or not. 6

(e) Explain the role of a linker and text editor

software. 4

(f) Explain the purpose of timesheet

management in the context of project
management software. 3

(g) Define the term Search Engine in the

context of Internet. Explain spidering and
indexing actions performed by a search
engine. 5

(h) Explain the uses of radio waves and

micro-waves for data transmission. 4
(i) Explain the purpose of any four folders
used in an email account.
Ans:

(a) Binary to Decimal and Hexadecimal Conversion:

(i) (1011 0101)2:

To convert this binary number to decimal, we can use the positional value system. Starting from
the rightmost bit, we assign a weight of 2 raised to the power of the position of the bit (starting
from 0 for the rightmost bit) and multiply it by the value of the bit (0 or 1). Then, we sum up
these values.

(1011 0101)2 = (181)10

To convert the decimal number to hexadecimal, we can use the repeated division method.
Divide the decimal number by 16 repeatedly until the quotient becomes zero. The remainders at
each step give the hexadecimal digits, starting from the least significant digit.

(181)10 = (B5)16

Therefore, (1011 0101)2 is equivalent to (181)10 and (B5)16.

(ii) (0010 1110)2:

Following the same conversion process:

(0010 1110)2 = (46)10 = (2E)16

Therefore, (0010 1110)2 is equivalent to (46)10 and (2E)16.

(b) Static RAM (SRAM) and Dynamic RAM (DRAM):

Static RAM and Dynamic RAM are two different types of computer memory technologies.

Static RAM (SRAM): SRAM is a type of RAM that stores each bit of data using a flip-flop circuit
made of transistors. It retains the stored data as long as power is supplied to the memory.
SRAM is faster and more reliable than DRAM but is also more expensive and consumes more
power. It is commonly used in cache memory and as registers in CPUs.

Dynamic RAM (DRAM): DRAM is a type of RAM that stores each bit of data as a charge on a
capacitor within an integrated circuit. The charge on the capacitor slowly leaks away over time,
so the memory needs to be periodically refreshed to maintain the data. DRAM is cheaper and
provides higher storage density compared to SRAM but is slower and less reliable. It is
commonly used as the main memory in computers.

The main difference between SRAM and DRAM lies in their construction and behavior. SRAM
retains data without the need for refreshing, making it faster and more reliable. In contrast,
DRAM requires refreshing, making it slower but more cost-effective for large memory capacities.
(c) von Neumann Architecture:
von Neumann architecture is a computer architecture design that separates the program
instructions and data from the control unit and memory. It is the basis for most modern
computers. The key components of von Neumann architecture include:

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU consists of the arithmetic and logic unit (ALU) and
the control unit (CU). It performs the execution of instructions and controls the overall operation
of the computer.

2. Memory Unit: The memory unit stores both program instructions and data. It is divided into
two parts: the instruction memory and the data memory. Instructions and data are stored in a
sequential manner, and they can be accessed by the CPU as needed.

3. Input/Output (I/O) Devices: These devices allow the computer to interact with the external
world. They include peripherals such as keyboards, mice, displays, and storage devices.

4. Bus: The bus is a communication pathway that allows data and instructions to be transferred
between the CPU, memory, and I/O devices.

Here is a simplified diagram illustrating the von Neumann architecture:

```
+----------------+
| CPU |
| ALU |
| Control Unit |
+----------------+
| Control Signals
|
| +---------+
| |
```
| | Memory |
| +---------+
| Data
|
+----------------+
| I/O Devices |
+----------------+
```

In von Neumann architecture, both instructions and data are stored in the same memory and
accessed using the same bus. This allows for flexible programming and efficient use of
resources. However, it can also lead to potential bottlenecks when the CPU and memory
compete for access to the bus.

(d) Flowchart to Determine Divisibility by 2:

Here is a flowchart to determine whether a given number is divisible by 2 or not:

```
+----------------------+
| Start |
+----------------------+
|
| Is the number divisible by 2?
|-------------------------------Yes
|
|
+----------------------+
| Display "Divisible"|
+----------------------+
|
|
+----------------------+
| Stop |
+----------------------+
|
|
+----------------------+
| Display "Not |
| Divisible" |
+----------------------+
```

The flowchart begins with the "Start" symbol and checks if the given number is divisible by 2. If it
is divisible, the flow continues to the "Divisible" condition and displays "Divisible." If the number
is not divisible by 2, the flow continues to the "Not Divisible" condition and displays "Not
Divisible." Finally, the flowchart ends at the "Stop" symbol.

(e) Linker and Text Editor Software:

- Linker: A linker is a software utility that combines multiple object files generated by a compiler
into a single executable program. It resolves references between different modules, performs
memory address assignments, and creates the final executable file. The linker ensures that all
the necessary code and libraries are linked together correctly to produce a working program.
- Text Editor: A text editor is a software tool used for creating and editing plain text files. It
provides functionalities such as entering, modifying, and formatting text. Text editors are
commonly used by programmers to write source code in programming languages. They often
include features like syntax highlighting, code indentation, search and replace, and
customizable settings to enhance productivity and readability.

(f) Timesheet Management in Project Management Software:

Timesheet management is a feature in project management software that allows team members
to record and track the time spent on various project activities. It provides a centralized system
for capturing and managing time-related information. The purpose of timesheet management
includes:

- Time tracking: Timesheet management enables team members to log their hours worked on
specific tasks or projects. It helps in monitoring and managing resource utilization, estimating
project costs, and ensuring accurate billing and invoicing.

- Task allocation and planning: Timesheets can provide insights into how much time is being
allocated to different tasks or projects. Project managers can use this information to distribute
workload effectively, identify bottlenecks or resource constraints, and adjust project timelines
and priorities accordingly.

- Project progress monitoring: By tracking time against tasks, timesheets provide visibility into
project progress. Project managers can compare planned versus actual hours spent, identify
variances, and take corrective actions to keep the project on track.

- Resource management: Timesheet data helps in evaluating resource capacity and availability.
It enables project managers to allocate resources efficiently, identify overutilization or
underutilization of resources, and make informed decisions regarding resource allocation and
planning.

(g) Search Engine, Spidering, and Indexing:

- Search Engine: A search engine is a software program or online service that enables users to
search for information on the internet. It indexes and organizes web pages, documents, images,
and other content to provide relevant search results in response to user queries. Search
engines use algorithms to analyze and rank the indexed information, helping users find the most
relevant and useful content based on their search queries.

- Spidering: Spidering, also known as web crawling or web indexing, is the process performed
by a search engine to discover and collect information from web pages. Search engine spiders,
also called crawlers or bots, systematically browse the internet by following links from one page
to another. They collect data from web pages, including text content, URLs, and metadata, and
store this information for indexing and future retrieval.
- Indexing: Indexing is the process of organizing the collected data from web pages in a search
engine's database. The search engine analyzes the collected information, extracts relevant
keywords and phrases, and creates an index that allows for efficient retrieval of information in
response to user queries. Indexing involves storing the collected data in a structured format that
enables fast searching and retrieval of relevant content.

During the indexing process, search engines apply algorithms to analyze and rank the indexed
content based on various factors, such as relevance, popularity, and quality. This ranking
determines the position of web pages in search engine result pages (SERPs) when users
perform searches.

(h) Uses of Radio Waves and Microwaves for Data Transmission:

- Radio Waves: Radio waves are electromagnetic waves with long wavelengths, typically
ranging from a few centimeters to several kilometers. They are widely used for various forms of
data transmission, including:

1. Broadcasting: Radio waves are used for broadcasting audio signals, such as radio programs
and music. Radio stations transmit signals over specific frequencies, and radio receivers pick up
these signals, allowing users to listen to the broadcasted content.

2. Wireless Communication: Radio waves enable wireless communication in technologies like

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular networks. Wi-Fi routers, for example, use radio waves to transmit
data wirelessly between devices, allowing internet connectivity without the need for physical
cables.

3. Remote Control Systems: Many remote control devices, such as car key fobs and TV remote
controls, use radio waves to transmit signals wirelessly to control and operate devices from a
distance.

- Microwaves: Microwaves are a type of electromagnetic wave with shorter wavelengths

compared to radio waves, typically ranging from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. They
are primarily used for:

1. Microwave Communication: Microwaves are extensively used in point-to-point communication

systems, such as satellite communication and microwave links. They allow for high-capacity
data transmission over long distances, making them suitable for applications like
telecommunication, television broadcasting, and internet connectivity.

2. Microwave Ovens: Microwave ovens use microwaves to heat and cook food. Microwaves are
absorbed by water molecules present in the food, causing them to vibrate and generate heat,
which cooks the food quickly and efficiently.
3. Radar Systems: Radar (Radio Detection and Ranging) systems use microwaves to detect
and track objects. Radar systems are used in various applications, including weather
forecasting, air traffic control, navigation, and military surveillance.

(i) Folders Used in an Email Account:

1. Inbox: The Inbox folder is the default folder where incoming emails are delivered. It acts as
the primary storage for received messages. Users can view, read, reply to, and organize emails
in their Inbox.

2. Sent Items: The Sent Items folder stores copies of emails that have been sent by the user. It
provides a record of the emails sent from the user's account and can bereferred to for reference
or to track previous correspondence.

3. Drafts: The Drafts folder is used to store emails that are in progress or not yet ready to be
sent. Users can save partially composed emails as drafts, allowing them to revisit and complete
them later. This folder is particularly useful when composing lengthy or complex emails that may
require multiple editing sessions.

4. Spam/Junk: The Spam or Junk folder is used to automatically filter and store emails identified
as spam or unwanted messages. Email providers often have algorithms and filters in place to
detect and divert potentially malicious or unsolicited emails to this folder. Users can periodically
review the contents of this folder to ensure no legitimate emails were incorrectly classified as
spam.

These folders help users efficiently manage their emails, keeping their inbox organized and
facilitating easy retrieval of specific messages. Depending on the email service or client,
additional folders such as Trash/Deleted Items (for discarded emails), Archive (for storing old or
important emails), or custom folders created by the user may also be available.
2. (a) Explain the need of memory hierarchy with
the help of an example. Explain the
advantages and disadvantages of using
CD-ROM as a secondary storage device.
(b) What is the role of Operating System of a
computer ? Define the term "Kernel" of an
operating system. What are the uses of
GUI and Input/Output control system for
an operating system user ?
(c) How can Moodle be used for e-learning ?
List the advantages and disadvantages of
Ans:
(a) Memory Hierarchy:

The memory hierarchy is a concept in computer architecture that involves using different levels
of memory with varying characteristics to optimize the overall performance of a computer
system. The primary goal is to provide faster access to frequently used data while
accommodating larger storage capacities.

Example:
Consider a computer system with the following memory hierarchy:
1. Registers: These are small, high-speed memory units located inside the CPU. Registers
provide the fastest access to data and instructions but have the smallest capacity.
2. Cache: Cache is a small but faster memory located between the CPU and the main memory.
It stores frequently accessed data and instructions to reduce the latency of fetching them from
the main memory.
3. Main Memory (RAM): Main memory is the primary storage of a computer system. It has a
larger capacity than cache but slower access times. It holds the data and instructions that are
actively used by the CPU.
4. Secondary Storage: This includes devices like hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives
(SSDs), and CD-ROMs. Secondary storage provides a much larger capacity than main memory
but has slower access times. It is used for long-term storage of data and programs.

Advantages and disadvantages of using CD-ROM as a secondary storage device:

Advantages:
1. Large storage capacity: CD-ROMs can store several hundred megabytes or even gigabytes
of data, making them suitable for archiving large amounts of information.
2. Portability: CD-ROMs are compact and portable, allowing for easy distribution and sharing of
data between different systems.
3. Read-only nature: CD-ROMs are typically read-only, ensuring the data stored on them
remains unaltered and intact. This makes them useful for distributing software, media, and other
content that should not be modified.

Disadvantages:
1. Slow access times: Retrieving data from a CD-ROM takes more time compared to other
secondary storage devices like HDDs or SSDs. This can result in slower performance when
accessing or loading data.
2. Lack of random access: CD-ROMs require sequential access, meaning that accessing
specific data requires scanning through the entire disc. This makes them less suitable for
applications requiring frequent random access, such as databases.
3. Limited write capabilities: While some CD formats allow for writing data, the process is
generally slower and less convenient compared to other storage devices. Additionally, rewritable
CD formats have limited write cycles before their performance degrades.

(b) Role of Operating System:

The operating system (OS) is a fundamental software component that manages and controls
computer hardware resources, provides an interface for users and applications to interact with
the system, and ensures efficient execution of tasks. Its main roles include:

1. Resource Management: The OS manages computer resources such as CPU, memory, disk
space, and input/output devices. It allocates and schedules resources among different
processes and handles conflicts to ensure fair and efficient resource utilization.

2. Process Management: The OS creates, terminates, and manages processes (individual

program instances). It controls process execution, scheduling, synchronization, and
communication between processes.

3. Memory Management: The OS handles memory allocation and deallocation, ensuring that
each process has sufficient memory to execute and preventing conflicts between processes.

4. File System Management: The OS manages the organization, storage, and retrieval of files
on secondary storage devices. It provides a hierarchical file system structure, file access
permissions, and file manipulation operations.

Kernel:
The kernel is the core component of an operating system. It is responsible for managing system
resources and providing essential services to other parts of the operating system and
applications. The kernel directly interacts with the hardware and handles low-level operations,
including process scheduling, memory management, device drivers, and input/output control.

Uses of GUI and Input/Output Control System for an operating system user:
1. Graphical User Interface (GUI): GUI provides a visual way for users to interact with the
operating system and its applications. It uses graphical elements such as windows, icons,
menus, and buttons to facilitate user-friendly interactions. GUIs make it easier for users to
navigate through the system, launch applications, manage files, and perform various tasks
without requiring in-depth technical knowledge. GUIs enhance the user experience by providing
a visually intuitive and interactive interface.
2. Input/Output Control System: The Input/Output (I/O) control system manages the
communication between the computer system and its peripheral devices. It handles input from
devices like keyboards, mice, touchscreens, and sensors, as well as output to devices like
displays, printers, speakers, and network connections. The I/O control system ensures that data
is correctly received from input devices and properly delivered to output devices, allowing users
to interact with the computer system and receive feedback from their actions.

The I/O control system also manages device drivers, which are software components that
enable the operating system to communicate with specific hardware devices. It provides a
standardized interface for applications to access and utilize various input and output devices
without needing to understand the specific details of each device.

Overall, GUI and the I/O control system significantly enhance the user's interaction with the
operating system by providing a visual and intuitive interface and facilitating seamless
communication between the user and the computer's peripherals.

(c) Moodle for e-learning:

Moodle is a popular open-source learning management system (LMS) that is widely used for
e-learning purposes. It provides a platform for educators to create online courses, deliver
educational content, interact with students, and assess their performance. Here are some uses,
advantages, and disadvantages of Moodle for e-learning:

Uses of Moodle for e-learning:

1. Course Management: Moodle allows educators to organize and manage online courses
effectively. They can create course materials, upload resources, set up assignments and
quizzes, and track student progress.
2. Communication and Collaboration: Moodle provides tools for communication and
collaboration between teachers and students. It includes discussion forums, messaging
systems, chat rooms, and wikis to facilitate online interactions and foster collaborative learning.
3. Content Delivery: Educators can use Moodle to deliver educational content in various
formats, such as text documents, videos, presentations, and interactive modules. Students can
access these materials anytime and anywhere with internet connectivity.
4. Assessment and Feedback: Moodle offers features for creating and administering quizzes,
tests, and assignments. It allows automatic grading, provides feedback to students, and
generates reports on their performance.
5. Learning Analytics: Moodle provides analytics tools to track and analyze student progress
and engagement. Educators can gather data on student interactions, access patterns, and
performance to gain insights into their learning behavior.

Advantages of Moodle for e-learning:

1. Flexibility and Accessibility: Moodle allows learners to access course materials and
participate in activities from anywhere and at any time, as long as they have internet access.
This flexibility accommodates diverse learning styles and schedules.
2. Interactivity and Engagement: Moodle offers interactive features such as forums, chats, and
multimedia content, promoting active learning and engagement among students.
3. Collaboration and Communication: Moodle facilitates communication and collaboration
between students and instructors, enabling peer-to-peer learning, group work, and discussions.
4. Customization and Personalization: Moodle can be customized to match the specific needs
and preferences of educators and learners. It supports the creation of personalized learning
paths and adaptive learning experiences.
5. Cost-Effective: Moodle being open-source software, it is cost-effective for educational
institutions as there are no licensing fees. It allows institutions to allocate resources to other
areas of education.

Disadvantages of Moodle for e-learning:

1. Technical Requirements: Moodle requires technical infrastructure, including servers,
databases, and reliable internet connectivity. Setting up and maintaining the necessary
hardware and software can be a challenge for institutions with limited resources or technical
expertise.
2. Learning Curve: Moodle has a learning curve for both educators and students who are new to
the platform. Educators may require training to effectively navigate and utilize all the features
and functionalities of Moodle.
3. Customization Complexity: While Moodle allows customization, it can be complex and
time-consuming to tailor the platform to specific institutional requirements. It may require
technical expertise or additional development work.
4. System Administration: Proper administration and maintenance of Moodle, including regular
updates, backups, and user management, are necessary to ensure smooth operation.
Institutions need dedicated IT staff or resources to handle these administrative tasks.
5. Support and Documentation: While Moodle has a vast user community and extensive
documentation, finding immediate and personalized support for technical issues or
troubleshooting can sometimes be challenging.
6. Integration with Other Systems: Integrating Moodle with existing educational systems or
third-party tools may require additional development or customization, depending on the specific
requirements and compatibility.
7. Security Concerns: As with any online platform, there are potential security risks associated
with Moodle. Institutions need to implement appropriate security measures, such as user
authentication and data encryption, to protect sensitive information.

Despite these disadvantages, Moodle remains a widely adopted and effective e-learning
platform that provides numerous benefits for educators and learners in creating and delivering
online courses.
Disadvantages of Moodle for e-learning:
1. Technical Requirements: Moodle requires technical infrastructure, including servers,
databases, and reliable internet connectivity. Setting up and maintaining the necessary
hardware and software can be a challenge for institutions with limited resources or technical
expertise.
2. Learning Curve: Moodle has a learning curve for both educators and students who are new to
the platform. Educators may require training to effectively navigate and utilize all the features
and functionalities of Moodle.
3. Customization Complexity: While Moodle allows customization, it can be complex and
time-consuming to tailor the platform to specific institutional requirements. It may require
technical expertise or additional development work.
4. System Administration: Proper administration and maintenance of Moodle, including regular
updates, backups, and user management, are necessary to ensure smooth operation.
Institutions need dedicated IT staff or resources to handle these administrative tasks.
5. Support and Documentation: While Moodle has a vast user community and extensive
documentation, finding immediate and personalized support for technical issues or
troubleshooting can sometimes be challenging.
6. Integration with Other Systems: Integrating Moodle with existing educational systems or
third-party tools may require additional development or customization, depending on the specific
requirements and compatibility.
7. Security Concerns: As with any online platform, there are potential security risks associated
with Moodle. Institutions need to implement appropriate security measures, such as user
authentication and data encryption, to protect sensitive information.

Despite these disadvantages, Moodle remains a widely adopted and effective e-learning
platform that provides numerous benefits for educators and learners in creating and delivering
online courses.

3. Compare and contrast any five of the

following :
(a) Ring topology and Star topology
(b) Social networking and Blogging
(c) Macro and Functions in the context of
spreadsheets.
(d) Compiler and Assembler
(e) Laser printing and Inkjet printing
(f) Mouse and Graphics tablet

Ans:
(a) Ring Topology and Star Topology:
1. Ring Topology:
- In a ring topology, devices are connected in a closed loop.
- Each device in the network is connected to exactly two other devices.
- Data is transmitted in one direction around the ring.
- It requires less cabling compared to other topologies.
- Failure of one device can disrupt the entire network.
- Examples of ring topology include Token Ring and Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI).

2. Star Topology:
- In a star topology, devices are connected to a central hub or switch.
- Each device has a dedicated connection to the central hub.
- Data is transmitted from one device to the hub and then to the intended recipient.
- It allows easy addition or removal of devices without affecting the network.
- Failure of one device does not affect the functioning of other devices.
- Examples of star topology include Ethernet and Wi-Fi networks.

(b) Social Networking and Blogging:

1. Social Networking:
- Social networking platforms focus on building connections and facilitating interactions
between individuals or groups.
- Users can create profiles, connect with others, share updates, photos, and videos.
- The emphasis is on real-time interactions, such as messaging, commenting, and liking.
- Popular social networking platforms include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

2. Blogging:
- Blogging involves creating and publishing content on a blog or website.
- Bloggers usually write articles or posts on specific topics of interest.
- Readers can access and consume the content at any time.
- The emphasis is on informative or opinion-based content rather than social interactions.
- Blogs often allow readers to comment and engage in discussions.
- Popular blogging platforms include WordPress, Blogger, and Medium.

(c) Macro and Functions in the Context of Spreadsheets:

1. Macro:
- A macro is a set of predefined instructions or actions that automate repetitive tasks in a
spreadsheet.
- Macros can be recorded or written using programming languages like Visual Basic for
Applications (VBA).
- They can perform complex operations, manipulate data, and enhance productivity.
- Macros allow users to execute a series of steps with a single command or button click.

2. Functions:
- Functions are built-in formulas or predefined operations in spreadsheets.
 - Functions perform specific calculations or tasks based on input values.
- They can be used to perform mathematical calculations, manipulate text, analyze data, etc.
- Functions have predefined syntax and can be used by entering arguments within
parentheses.
- Examples of functions in spreadsheets include SUM, AVERAGE, IF, VLOOKUP, and
CONCATENATE.

(d) Compiler and Assembler:

1. Compiler:
- A compiler is a software tool that translates high-level programming languages (such as C,
C++) into machine code (binary code) that can be directly executed by a computer's hardware.
- It performs a complete translation of the source code, generating an executable file.
- The compilation process includes multiple stages like lexical analysis, syntax analysis,
semantic analysis, code optimization, and code generation.
- The resulting executable file can be run independently without the need for the original
source code.

2. Assembler:
- An assembler is a software tool that translates assembly language code into machine code.
- Assembly language is a low-level programming language that uses mnemonic instructions
representing specific machine operations.
- Assemblers convert these mnemonic instructions into their binary representations.
- Assemblers perform a one-to-one translation from assembly language to machine code.
- The resulting machine code is specific to the computer architecture for which the assembly
language is designed.

(e) Laser Printing and Inkjet Printing:

1. Laser Printing:
- Laser printing involves using a laser beam to create an electrostatic image on a
photosensitive drum or belt.
- The image is formed by selectively charging areas on the drum, which attract toner particles.
- The toner is transferred from the drum onto the paper and then fused using heat to create a
permanent image.
- Laser printers are known for their high-quality output, sharp text, and fast printing speeds.
- They are commonly used in offices and professional environments that require high-volume
printing.

2. Inkjet Printing:
- Inkjet printing works by spraying tiny droplets of ink onto the paper.
- Inkjet printers use printheads that contain numerous microscopic nozzles to release the ink
droplets onto the paper in a precise pattern.
- The ink is absorbed into the paper, and the printed image is created.
- Inkjet printers are generally more affordable and suitable for home or small office use.
 - They are capable of printing vibrant color images and can handle a variety of media types,
including plain paper, photo paper, and transparencies.

Key Differences:
- Technology: Laser printing uses a laser beam and electrostatic charges, while inkjet printing
sprays ink droplets onto the paper.
- Print Quality: Laser printing usually produces sharper and more precise text, ideal for
professional documents, while inkjet printing excels in vibrant color reproduction, making it
suitable for photo printing.
- Speed: Laser printers are generally faster, especially for large print jobs, compared to inkjet
printers.
- Cost: Inkjet printers are usually more affordable upfront, but laser printers may offer lower cost
per page for high-volume printing.
- Media Compatibility: Inkjet printers can handle various media types, including specialty papers
and different sizes, whereas laser printers are more limited in terms of media compatibility.

(f) Mouse and Graphics Tablet:

1. Mouse:
- A mouse is a handheld pointing device that typically consists of buttons and a scrolling
wheel.
- It allows users to move a cursor on the screen by sliding the mouse across a flat surface.
- Mouse input is primarily used for navigating graphical user interfaces (GUIs), selecting
objects, and performing actions by clicking or dragging.
- It is a common input device for computers and laptops.

2. Graphics Tablet:
- A graphics tablet, also known as a digitizing tablet or a pen tablet, is an input device that
allows users to create digital drawings or input handwritten information.
- It consists of a flat surface and a stylus or pen-like device.
- The stylus interacts with the tablet's surface, capturing the pressure and position of the pen
to create digital images or text.
- Graphics tablets are commonly used by digital artists, designers, and illustrators to create
precise and detailed artwork.

Key Differences:
- Function: A mouse is primarily used for navigating and interacting with the computer interface,
while a graphics tablet is designed specifically for digital drawing and inputting handwritten
information.
- Input Method: A mouse relies on physical movements on a flat surface, whereas a graphics
tablet uses a stylus that interacts with the tablet's surface, allowing for more precise and
pressure-sensitive input.
- Applications: A mouse is used in various applications, including general computing, gaming,
and browsing, while a graphics tablet is mainly used by artists and designers for digital art
creation.
- Precision: Graphics tablets provide higher precision and accuracy for tasks that require fine
details, such as drawing or image editing, while a mouse offers general cursor control.
- Learning Curve: Using a graphics tablet often requires a learning curve to adapt to the
hand-eye coordination required for drawing on a separate surface, while using a mouse is
generally more intuitive for most users.

4. (a) How do you define the access time on a

magnetic disk ? Explain with the help of an
example. Why is access time of magnetic
tape higher than magnetic disk ? Explain.
(b) Explain the purpose of TCP/IP protocols.
Also explain the concept of IP addresses
and web addresses, with the help of an
example of each. 7
(c) Explain the concepts of one-diniensional
array with the help of an example. 4
(d) Explain the conditional statement with the
help of an example.

Ans:
(a) Access Time on a Magnetic Disk:
Access time on a magnetic disk refers to the time required to locate and retrieve data from the
disk. It consists of three main components:

1. Seek Time: Seek time is the time taken by the disk's read/write head to move to the desired
track or cylinder where the data is stored. It depends on the physical movement of the head and
the distance it needs to traverse. Seek time is usually measured in milliseconds.

2. Rotational Latency: Rotational latency is the time it takes for the desired sector or block of
data to rotate under the read/write head. It depends on the disk's rotational speed, measured in
revolutions per minute (RPM). Rotational latency is half the time it takes for one complete
rotation.

3. Transfer Time: Transfer time is the time taken to read or write the actual data once the head
is positioned correctly. It depends on the data transfer rate of the disk, which is determined by
factors like disk technology, interface speed, and data density.

Example: Suppose we have a magnetic disk with a seek time of 5 milliseconds, rotational speed
of 7200 RPM (rotations per minute), and a data transfer rate of 150 MB/s. If the required data is
located on the outermost track of the disk, it would take approximately 5 milliseconds (seek
time) + 4.17 milliseconds (rotational latency for half rotation at 7200 RPM) + 0.02 seconds
(transfer time for reading the data) to access the data.

Access Time of Magnetic Tape:

The access time of magnetic tape is generally higher than that of a magnetic disk due to its
sequential access nature. In magnetic tape, the tape needs to be moved forward or rewound to
reach the desired position, which takes time. Unlike a disk, which can directly access any sector,
tape access involves physically scanning through the tape until the desired data is located. This
sequential access mechanism makes magnetic tape slower for random access operations
compared to a magnetic disk.

(b) TCP/IP Protocols, IP Addresses, and Web Addresses:

TCP/IP Protocols:
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is a suite of networking protocols that
enables communication between devices over the internet. It provides a standardized set of
rules and procedures for data transmission and addressing. The purpose of TCP/IP protocols is
to ensure reliable and efficient communication between networked devices by breaking down
data into packets and routing them across networks.

IP Addresses:
An IP address is a unique numerical identifier assigned to each device connected to a network
that uses the TCP/IP protocol. It allows devices to send and receive data over the internet. IP
addresses are of two types: IPv4 (32-bit) and IPv6 (128-bit). They are written as a series of
numbers separated by periods (IPv4) or colons (IPv6). For example, an IPv4 address could be
192.168.0.1.

Web Addresses (URLs):

A web address, also known as a URL (Uniform Resource Locator), is a specific address used to
locate resources on the World Wide Web. It consists of several parts, including the protocol,
domain name, path, and optional parameters. For example, consider the URL
"https://www.example.com/index.html". Here, "https://" indicates the protocol,
"www.example.com" is the domain name, and "/index.html" is the path to the specific web page
or resource.
(c) One-Dimensional Array:
A one-dimensional array is a data structure that stores a collection of elements of the same data
type in a linear manner. Each element in the array is identified by its index, starting from 0 for
the first element. One-dimensional arrays can hold a fixed number of elements.

Example: Let's consider an exampleCertainly! Let's consider an example of a one-dimensional

array to explain the concept further.

Example:
Suppose we want to store the scores of 5 students in a programming class. We can create a
one-dimensional array called "scores" to hold these values.

```
int[] scores = new int[5];
```

In this example, we declare an integer array named "scores" with a size of 5. This means the
array can hold 5 integer values.

To assign values to the array, we can use the index notation. The index starts from 0, so the first
element is at index 0, the second element at index 1, and so on.

```
scores[0] = 85; // Assigning 85 to the first student's score
scores[1] = 90; // Assigning 90 to the second student's score
scores[2] = 76; // Assigning 76 to the third student's score
scores[3] = 92; // Assigning 92 to the fourth student's score
scores[4] = 88; // Assigning 88 to the fifth student's score
```

We can access the values in the array using the same index notation.

```
System.out.println("The score of the second student is: " + scores[1]);
```

This will output: "The score of the second student is: 90".

We can perform various operations on one-dimensional arrays, such as iterating over the
elements, finding the minimum or maximum value, calculating the average, and sorting the
elements.

(d) Conditional Statement:

A conditional statement, also known as an if-else statement, allows the execution of different
blocks of code based on specified conditions. It provides a way to make decisions in a program
based on certain criteria.

Example:
Let's consider an example of a conditional statement to determine if a number is positive or
negative.

```
int number = -10;

if (number > 0) {
System.out.println("The number is positive.");
} else if (number < 0) {
System.out.println("The number is negative.");
} else {
System.out.println("The number is zero.");
}
```

In this example, we declare a variable named "number" and assign it the value -10. The
conditional statement checks the value of "number" using the conditions specified.

Since -10 is less than 0, the condition "number < 0" evaluates to true, and the corresponding
code block inside the else if statement is executed. This will output: "The number is negative."

Conditional statements are useful for controlling the flow of a program based on different
conditions and enabling the program to make decisions dynamically.

5. Explain any five of the following with the help of

an example/diagram, if required : 5x4=20
(a) Uses of any two utility softwares
(b) Configuration of a laptop computer
(c) Supercomputer
(d) Open source software
(e) Time-sharing system
(0 Computer virus
(g) Firewall in the context of networking
(h) Characteristics of Metropolitan Area

Ans:
(a) Uses of any two utility software:
1. Antivirus Software: Antivirus software is a utility software designed to detect, prevent, and
remove malicious software, such as viruses, worms, and Trojan horses, from a computer
system. It helps in protecting the computer and its data from potential threats. For example,
software like Norton Antivirus, McAfee, or Avast can be used to scan and remove viruses from a
computer.

2. Disk Cleanup Utility: The disk cleanup utility is a software tool that helps to free up disk space
on a computer's hard drive by removing temporary files, unnecessary system files, and other
items that are no longer needed. It helps optimize the performance of the computer by removing
clutter and freeing up storage space. For instance, in Windows operating systems, there is a
built-in Disk Cleanup tool that allows users to remove unnecessary files and folders.

(b) Configuration of a laptop computer:

The configuration of a laptop computer refers to its hardware specifications and components.
Here's an example of a laptop configuration:

1. Processor: Intel Core i7-10700H (10th generation)

2. RAM: 16GB DDR4
3. Storage: 512GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
4. Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
5. Display: 15.6-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS display
6. Operating System: Windows 10 Home
7. Ports: USB Type-C, USB 3.0, HDMI, Ethernet, headphone jack, etc.
8. Wireless: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
9. Battery: 6-cell Lithium-ion battery
10. Weight: Approximately 4.5 pounds

This configuration showcases the specifications of a laptop, including its processor, RAM,
storage, graphics, display, operating system, ports, wireless capabilities, battery, and weight.

(c) Supercomputer:
A supercomputer is a powerful and high-performance computer system designed to solve
complex computational problems quickly. It is typically used for scientific research, simulations,
weather forecasting, cryptography, and other computationally intensive tasks. Supercomputers
are made up of multiple processors or nodes interconnected through a high-speed network.
They have massive computational power and can perform trillions of calculations per second.
Here's a simplified diagram representing a supercomputer architecture:

```
______________________________________
| |
| Supercomputer Cabinet |
| ____________________________________ |
|| Node 1 || Node 2 || Node 3 ||
|| ---------- || ---------- || ----------||
|| CPU || CPU || CPU ||
|| Memory || Memory || Memory ||
|| ---------- || ---------- || ----------||
|| Node 4 || Node 5 || Node 6 ||
|| ---------- || ---------- || ----------||
|| CPU || CPU || CPU ||
|| Memory || Memory || Memory ||
|| ---------- || ---------- || ----------||
|| ... || ... || ... ||
| ____________________________________ |
|______________________________________|
```

Each node in the supercomputer contains its own CPU(s) and memory. The nodes are
connected through a high-speed interconnect network that allows them to communicate and
share data efficiently.

(d) Open source software:

Open source software refers to software that is freely available for users to access, use, modify,
and distribute. The source code of open source software is openly shared, allowing anyone to
examine, modify, and enhance it. Here's an example to illustrate open source software:

Example: Mozilla Firefox

Mozilla Firefox is an open source web browser. Its source code is publicly available, allowing
developers to study, modify, and distribute the software. Users can also customize Firefox
according to their preferences by installing various

(e) Time-sharing system:

A time-sharing system is a computer operating system technique that allows multiple users to
share a single computer simultaneously. It provides the illusion that each user has their own
dedicated computer, even though the resources are shared. Here's an example to explain how a
time-sharing system works:

Suppose there is a mainframe computer with a time-sharing system installed. Multiple users,
User A, User B, and User C, connect to the mainframe computer remotely using terminals or
personal computers. The time-sharing system divides the available computing resources, such
as CPU time, memory, and peripherals, into smaller time slots or slices.

In the time-sharing system, the CPU switches rapidly between different user tasks, giving each
user a fair amount of time to execute their programs. For example, User A may be allocated 100
milliseconds of CPU time, followed by User B with 80 milliseconds, and then User C with 120
milliseconds.
The time-sharing system ensures that users' interactions with the computer are responsive and
appear to be running concurrently. Each user can run their applications, perform computations,
and access files simultaneously, even though they are sharing the same physical computer.

(0) Computer virus:

A computer virus is a type of malicious software that can replicate itself and infect computer
systems without the user's knowledge or consent. It can spread from one computer to another
and cause harm by altering or corrupting files, stealing personal information, disrupting system
operations, or even rendering a computer unusable. Here's an example to illustrate how a
computer virus can spread:

Let's consider an email attachment virus. User X receives an email with an attachment from an
unknown sender. The attachment contains a hidden virus program. When User X opens the
attachment, the virus program executes and starts infecting files on User X's computer. The
virus may then attempt to send itself to all contacts in User X's email address book, spreading
the infection further.

Once infected, the virus may perform various malicious activities, such as deleting files,
modifying system settings, or stealing sensitive information. It can replicate itself and spread to
other computers through shared networks, removable storage devices, or email attachments,
causing widespread damage if not detected and removed promptly.

(g) Firewall in the context of networking:

A firewall is a network security device or software that monitors and controls incoming and
outgoing network traffic based on predefined security rules. It acts as a barrier between a
trusted internal network and an untrusted external network, such as the Internet. Here's an
example to explain how a firewall works:

Consider a company network protected by a firewall. The firewall can be implemented either as
a hardware appliance or software running on a dedicated server. It has two main components:
the ingress (input) and egress (output) filters.

The ingress filter examines incoming network traffic and applies predefined rules to determine
whether the traffic should be allowed or blocked. For example, the firewall may block incoming
requests from unauthorized IP addresses, restrict access to specific ports or protocols, or scan
incoming files for potential malware.

The egress filter controls outgoing network traffic from the internal network to the external
network. It can prevent unauthorized data exfiltration, restrict access to certain websites or
services, or monitor outgoing communications for suspicious activity.
By enforcing these security rules, the firewall acts as a barrier, protecting the internal network
from unauthorized access, malware, and other cyber threats, while allowing legitimate traffic to
pass through.

(h) Characteristics of Metropolitan Area:

A metropolitan area refers to a large urban region that includes a central city and its surrounding
suburbs and interconnected areas. Here are some characteristics of a metropolitan area:

1. Size and Population: Metropolitan areas are typically densely populated and encompass a
significant geographic area. They include a central city, often with a high population density, and
extend to the suburbs and neighboring towns. The population Certainly! Here are the remaining
characteristics of a metropolitan area:

2. Economic Hub: Metropolitan areas are often the economic centers of a region or country.
They attract businesses, industries, and commercial activities, providing a wide range of
employment opportunities. Metropolitan areas are characterized by diverse economic sectors,
such as finance, technology, manufacturing, healthcare, and services.

3. Infrastructure: Metropolitan areas have well-developed infrastructure to support the needs of

a large population. This includes transportation systems (highways, railways, airports, and
public transportation), communication networks, utilities (electricity, water supply, and
sanitation), educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and recreational amenities (parks,
shopping centers, theaters).

4. Cultural and Social Diversity: Metropolitan areas are known for their cultural and social
diversity. They attract people from different backgrounds, ethnicities, and nationalities. This
diversity is reflected in the multicultural communities, variety of languages spoken, and a vibrant
mix of arts, cuisine, festivals, and traditions.

5. Higher Standard of Living: Metropolitan areas generally offer a higher standard of living
compared to rural areas. They provide access to a wide range of services, amenities, and
opportunities. Residents of metropolitan areas often enjoy better healthcare facilities,
educational institutions, job prospects, cultural activities, entertainment options, and a higher
average income level.

It's important to note that the characteristics of metropolitan areas can vary depending on the
specific region and country. Each metropolitan area has its unique attributes and influences.
 BACHELOR OF COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
(BCA) (Revised)
Term-End Examination
BCS-011 : COMPUTER BASICS AND PC SOFTWARE

1. (a) A hypothetical simple computer has the

following opcodes in its instruction set, each
of which takes two operands that are given
in the next 2 bytes :
00 Add (op1 + op2)
01 Subtract (opt — op2)
10 Multiply (op 1 x op2)
11 Divide (opl op2)
Write, in binary, the instruction that will

(b) Explain Internet Protocol addressing with

the help of an example. 3

(c) Draw a flowchart that takes "n" numbers as

input and produces the smallest of those
numbers as output. 5

(d) Draw the graph for the following :

(i) Analog signal
(ii) Digital signal
(e) List any three features of cloud computing
and describe each of them briefly.

(f) (i) What are the advantages and

disadvantages of using CD as
secondary storage ?
(ii) A tape is 4000 feet long and has a
recording density of 1200 bpi. What is
its storage capacity ?

(g) List five security measures one should take

while browsing.
(h) What is an open source software ? Give
examples. What are the advantages and
disadvantages of using open source
software ?

Ans:

(a) The binary instructions for the given opcodes are as follows:
- Add: 00
- Subtract: 01
- Multiply: 10
- Divide: 11

For example, if you want to write the instruction to perform the Add operation on operands 5 and
3, the binary representation would be:
00 00000101 00000011

(b) Internet Protocol (IP) addressing is a set of rules and conventions used to assign unique
numerical addresses to devices connected to a computer network. These addresses are used
to identify and locate devices on the network. IP addressing follows a hierarchical structure and
uses IP version 4 (IPv4) or IP version 6 (IPv6) standards.

An example of an IP address is 192.168.0.1. In this example, the address is divided into four
parts called octets, separated by periods. Each octet represents 8 bits of the address. IPv4
addresses are 32 bits long, while IPv6 addresses are 128 bits long.

IP addressing allows devices to communicate with each other across different networks. It
ensures that data packets are routed correctly from the source device to the destination device
based on their IP addresses.

(c) Here is a flowchart that takes "n" numbers as input and produces the smallest of those
numbers as output:

```
Start
Set min_num = infinity
Set count = 1
Input n
While count <= n, do the following:
Input number
If number < min_num, then
Set min_num = number
Increment count by 1
Output min_num
End
```
(d)
(i) Analog signal graph:
```
^
|
| /\
| / \
| / \
| / \
|/ \
+----------->
```
Analog signals are continuous waveforms that can take any value within a certain range. The
graph represents the varying amplitude of the signal over time.

(ii) Digital signal graph:

```
^
|
| |
| |
| |
|___|
```
Digital signals are discrete and can only have specific values, usually represented as 0s and 1s.
The graph represents the signal as a series of distinct levels.

(e) Three features of cloud computing and their brief descriptions:

1. Scalability: Cloud computing allows for easy scalability, which means the capacity and
resources can be rapidly adjusted to meet changing demands. It enables businesses to scale
up or down their computing resources as needed without the need for significant infrastructure
investments.

2. Flexibility: Cloud computing offers flexibility in terms of access to data and applications. Users
can access their files and applications from anywhere with an internet connection, using various
devices such as computers, smartphones, or tablets. It provides on-demand access to
resources and promotes collaboration and remote work.

3. Cost-Efficiency: Cloud computing offers cost advantages by eliminating the need for
organizations to invest in and maintain their own physical infrastructure. It reduces capital
expenses associated with hardware and software purchases and enables businesses to pay for
the resources they actually use on a pay-as-you-go basis. This model helps in reducing
operational costs and optimizing IT budgets.
(f)
(i) Advantages and disadvantages of using CD as secondary storage:
Advantages:
- Large storage capacity: CDs can typically store up to 700 MB or more of data, making them
suitable for storing large files, such as multimedia content.
- Portability: CDs are compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry and transport.
- Long-term data storage: CDs have a relatively long lifespan, and if properly handled and
stored, the data can be preserved for many years.

Disadvantages:
- Limited rewritability: CD-Rs (write-once CDs) can onlybe written to once, while CD-RWs
(rewritable CDs) have a limited number of write cycles before they become unreliable.
- Vulnerability to physical damage: CDs are susceptible to scratches, cracks, and other physical
damage, which can render the data unreadable.
- Slower data access: Compared to other storage mediums like solid-state drives (SSDs) or
hard disk drives (HDDs), CDs have slower data access times.

(ii) To calculate the storage capacity of a tape, you need to multiply the length of the tape by the
recording density. In this case, the tape is 4000 feet long, and the recording density is 1200 bpi
(bits per inch).

First, convert the length of the tape to inches:

4000 feet = 4000 * 12 = 48,000 inches

Then, multiply the length by the recording density:

48,000 inches * 1200 bpi = 57,600,000 bits

To convert the result to a more commonly used unit like bytes, divide by 8 (since there are 8 bits
in a byte):
57,600,000 bits / 8 = 7,200,000 bytes

Therefore, the storage capacity of the tape is 7,200,000 bytes or approximately 7.2 megabytes.

(g) Five security measures to take while browsing:

1. Use strong and unique passwords: Create strong, complex passwords for your online
accounts and avoid reusing them across different platforms. Consider using a password
manager to securely store and manage your passwords.

2. Keep your software up to date: Regularly update your operating system, web browsers, and
other software applications to ensure you have the latest security patches and bug fixes. Enable
automatic updates whenever possible.
3. Use HTTPS and secure websites: Look for the "https://" prefix in website URLs, which
indicates a secure connection. Avoid entering sensitive information on websites that are not
encrypted with SSL/TLS.

4. Be cautious of phishing attacks: Be wary of suspicious emails, messages, or links that ask for
personal information or login credentials. Avoid clicking on unknown links or downloading files
from untrusted sources.

5. Use reputable antivirus and antimalware software: Install and regularly update a reputable
antivirus program to protect against malware, viruses, and other online threats. Perform regular
scans of your system to detect and remove any malicious software.

(h) Open source software refers to software whose source code is freely available and can be
modified, distributed, and used by anyone. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of using
open source software:

Advantages:
- Cost-effective: Open source software is typically free to use, which can significantly reduce
software licensing costs for individuals and organizations.
- Flexibility and customization: The availability of source code allows users to customize the
software to meet their specific needs, adding or modifying features as required.
- Transparency and security: The open nature of the source code allows users to inspect and
review the software for potential security vulnerabilities, leading to quicker identification and
fixes.

Disadvantages:
- Support and documentation: Open source software may not always have the same level of
comprehensive documentation or professional technical support as proprietary software.
- Learning curve: Customizing or modifying open source software may require technical
expertise, making it less accessible to users without programming knowledge.
- Compatibility issues: Open source software may face compatibility challenges with proprietary
software or file formats, which can hinder interoperability in certain cases.

Examples of open source software include the Linux operating system, the Apache web server,
and the Mozilla Firefox web browser.
2. (a) What is perverse software and what are its
effects ? Describe briefly any three types of
perverse software.
BCS-011 2
Download More:- https://www.ignouassignmentguru.com/papers
(b) What is an unguided media channel ?
Explain the characteristics of the different
kinds of unguided media channels. 9
(c) What is a sequential access memory device ?
Describe its features. 5

Ans:
(a) Perverse software refers to malicious or harmful software that is intentionally designed to
disrupt or exploit computer systems, networks, or user data. Its effects can be detrimental and
can include:

1. Malware: Perverse software includes various types of malware such as viruses, worms,
Trojans, ransomware, spyware, and adware. These programs can infiltrate systems, steal
sensitive information, corrupt files, and cause system crashes or slowdowns.

2. Botnets: Perverse software can create botnets by infecting multiple computers and turning
them into "zombies" under the control of a central command and control (C&C) server. Botnets
can be used for various malicious activities, including distributed denial-of-service (DDoS)
attacks, spamming, and launching coordinated cyber-attacks.

3. Keyloggers and Password stealers: Perverse software can include keyloggers and password
stealers that secretly record keystrokes or capture login credentials. This information can be
used to gain unauthorized access to user accounts, compromise sensitive data, or engage in
identity theft.

(b) An unguided media channel, also known as a wireless channel, is a communication channel
that allows the transmission of data without the use of physical wires or cables. It uses various
types of electromagnetic waves to propagate signals through the air or other mediums.
Characteristics of different kinds of unguided media channels include:

1. Radio Waves: Radio waves are commonly used for wireless communication. They have the
ability to travel long distances and penetrate obstacles such as walls and buildings. However,
they are susceptible to interference from other devices operating on the same frequency range.

2. Infrared Waves: Infrared waves are used for short-range communication, typically within a
confined space. They require a direct line of sight between the transmitter and receiver and are
less susceptible to interference. However, they have limited range and can be affected by
environmental conditions like dust or smoke.
3. Microwaves: Microwaves are commonly used for high-speed communication over long
distances. They have a higher frequency than radio waves, enabling larger bandwidth and
faster data transmission. However, they require a clear line of sight between the transmitting
and receiving antennas and are also susceptible to interference from weather conditions.

(c) A sequential access memory device is a type of data storage medium that allows data to be
accessed in a sequential order, one item after another. It is commonly used in devices such as
magnetic tapes and optical discs. The features of sequential access memory devices include:

1. Sequential Data Access: Data is accessed in a sequential manner, starting from the
beginning and progressing linearly. To access specific data, the device needs to read through all
the preceding data.

2. Slower Access Speed: Compared to random access memory (RAM) or solid-state drives
(SSDs), sequential access memory devices have slower access speeds. Retrieving data located
towards the end of the storage medium may take significantly longer.

3. High Storage Capacity: Sequential access memory devices typically have high storage
capacities, making them suitable for archiving and storing large volumes of data. However, their
slower access speeds make them less suitable for applications that require frequent random
access or real-time data retrieval.

3. (a) Discuss the following in brief : 8

(i) Repeater
(ii) Bridge
(iii) Hub
(iv) Switch
(b) IGNOU needs to send a letter to each
student of the BCS-011 course, informing
them of the location of their examination
centre. The major portion of the text is the
same for each student, but the roll number,
name of the student and examination centre
location are different. These details are
available in a data file for each student (one
file with all the data). What are the steps
you would follow to make a personalised
letter in Microsoft Word for each student so
that each one feels the letter has been
drafted for him or her alone ?
(c) Explain the four different types of computer
Monitors.

Ans:
(a) Brief explanations of the following network devices:

(i) Repeater: A repeater is a network device used to regenerate and amplify signals in order to
extend the distance of a network transmission. It operates at the physical layer of the network
and helps to overcome signal degradation and attenuation that occurs over long cable lengths.

(ii) Bridge: A bridge is a network device that connects two or more local area networks (LANs)
together and selectively forwards data packets between them based on their MAC addresses. It
operates at the data link layer of the network and helps to segment and filter network traffic.

(iii) Hub: A hub is a network device that acts as a central connection point for multiple devices in
a network. It simply receives incoming data packets and broadcasts them to all connected
devices. It operates at the physical layer of the network and does not perform any intelligent
packet filtering or forwarding.

(iv) Switch: A switch is a network device that connects multiple devices in a network and
intelligently forwards data packets to their intended destinations based on their MAC addresses.
Unlike a hub, a switch creates separate collision domains for each connected device, improving
network performance and efficiency. It operates at the data link layer and provides advanced
features such as VLANs, traffic prioritization, and security.

(b) Steps to create personalized letters in Microsoft Word for each student:

1. Prepare the letter template: Create a letter template in Microsoft Word with the fixed text that
will remain the same for all students. This includes the common information about the
examination center.

2. Set up a mail merge: Use the "Mail Merge" feature in Microsoft Word to import the data file
containing the details of each student, such as roll number, name, and examination center
location.

3. Insert merge fields: In the letter template, insert merge fields at the appropriate places where
the personalized information should appear. For example, insert merge fields for the roll
number, name, and examination center.

4. Preview and verify: Preview the merged letters to ensure that the merge fields are correctly
pulling data from the data file and displaying the personalized information for each student.
5. Complete the merge: Once the preview is verified, complete the mail merge to generate
individual letters for each student. The merge process will replace the merge fields with the
corresponding data for each student.

6. Save or print the personalized letters: Save the merged letters as separate documents or
print them directly, depending on the delivery method chosen.

Sure! Here are the completed answers:

(c) Four different types of computer monitors:

1. Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) Monitor: CRT monitors were the standard display technology for
many years. They use a large cathode ray tube to create an image by projecting electrons onto
a phosphor-coated screen. CRT monitors are bulky, consume more power, but they offer good
color accuracy and viewing angles. However, they are becoming less common as newer
technologies have emerged.

2. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Monitor: LCD monitors use a layer of liquid crystals sandwiched
between two transparent electrodes to create an image. They are thinner, lighter, and consume
less power compared to CRT monitors. LCD monitors offer sharper images and come in various
sizes, making them popular for desktop and laptop displays. However, they may have limited
viewing angles and slower response times.

3. Light Emitting Diode (LED) Monitor: LED monitors are a type of LCD monitor that uses
light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as a backlight source. LED backlighting provides better contrast,
brightness, and energy efficiency compared to traditional cold cathode fluorescent lamps
(CCFL) used in standard LCD monitors. LED monitors are thinner, consume less power, and
offer improved color accuracy and dynamic contrast. They have become the standard choice for
most computer displays.

4. Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) Monitor: OLED monitors use a layer of organic
compounds that emit light when an electric current passes through them. They offer high
contrast ratios, wide viewing angles, and fast response times. OLED monitors can produce
deep blacks and vibrant colors, providing a visually stunning experience. However, they may be
more expensive than other types of monitors and are more prone to burn-in if static images are
displayed for extended periods.

These four types of monitors offer different features and technologies, allowing users to choose
the one that best suits their needs in terms of image quality, power consumption, size, and
budget.
4. (a) What is e-mail ? Describe its advantages
and the facilities it provides. Explain how
one can create an e-mail account on the
e-mail system of one's choice. 8
(b) Describe the mainframe software
architecture. Contrast it with the following,
bringing out any underlying similarities : 8
(i) Two-tiered architecture
(ii) Three-tiered architecture
n-tiered architecture
(c) What is Unicode ? Where and how is it
used ?

Ans:
(a) E-mail, short for electronic mail, is a method of exchanging digital messages between
computer users over the internet or other computer networks. It allows individuals and
organizations to send and receive messages, documents, images, and other files quickly and
efficiently.

Advantages of e-mail:
1. Instant communication: E-mail enables near-instantaneous communication across different
locations and time zones. Messages are delivered within seconds or minutes, making it a
convenient and efficient method of communication.
2. Cost-effective: E-mail eliminates the need for postage, printing, and paper, resulting in
significant cost savings compared to traditional mail. It is particularly beneficial for businesses
and organizations that frequently communicate with customers or partners.
3. Accessibility and convenience: Users can access their e-mail accounts from various devices
such as computers, smartphones, and tablets, allowing them to stay connected and respond to
messages anytime and anywhere with an internet connection.
4. File attachments: E-mail allows users to attach files such as documents, images, and
multimedia, making it easy to share information and collaborate on projects.
5. Record keeping: E-mail provides a digital record of communication, making it easier to search
for and retrieve past conversations or files.
6. Global reach: E-mail overcomes geographical barriers, enabling communication with people
around the world. It has become a universal communication tool used in both personal and
professional contexts.

To create an e-mail account on the e-mail system of your choice, follow these general steps:
1. Choose an e-mail service provider: There are numerous e-mail service providers available,
such as Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail, and others. Visit the website of the desired service
provider.
2. Locate the account creation/sign-up page: On the service provider's website, look for an
option like "Sign Up," "Create Account," or "Get Started."
3. Provide personal information: Fill out the required fields, including your name, desired e-mail
address (usually in the format of username@domain.com), password, and other requested
information.
4. Verify your account: Some e-mail service providers may require you to verify your account by
providing a phone number or an alternative e-mail address. Follow the instructions provided to
complete the verification process.
5. Set up account preferences: Once your account is created and verified, you may have the
option to customize your account preferences, such as setting up a profile picture, organizing
folders, or configuring notification settings.
6. Start using your e-mail account: Once everything is set up, you can start sending and
receiving e-mails by logging in to your account using the provided username and password.

(b) Mainframe software architecture:

Mainframe software architecture refers to the design and structure of software systems that run
on mainframe computers. Mainframes are large, powerful computers capable of handling
massive workloads and serving multiple users simultaneously. The mainframe software
architecture typically consists of the following components:

1. Operating System (OS): Mainframes run specialized operating systems, such as IBM z/OS,
that provide the foundation for executing and managing software applications. The operating
system handles tasks like resource allocation, scheduling, and security.

2. Transaction Processing Monitors (TPMs): Mainframes often use transaction processing

monitors, such as CICS (Customer Information Control System) or IMS (Information
Management System), to manage and control high-volume transaction processing. TPMs
handle tasks like transaction routing, concurrency control, and data integrity.

Contrast with other architectures:

(i) Two-tiered architecture often lacks the scalability and centralized management capabilities of
mainframe architecture. In a two-tiered architecture, the client and server components are
typically closely coupled, meaning that changes or updates to one component may require
modifications to the other. Additionally, two-tiered architecture is typically limited in its ability to
handle large-scale concurrent transactions efficiently.

(ii) Three-tiered architecture: In a three-tiered architecture, the system is divided into three
layers: presentation layer, application logic layer, and data storage layer. The presentation layer
handles the user interface, the application logic layer contains the business logic and
processing, and the data storage layer manages the data. Unlike mainframe architecture,
three-tiered architecture allows for better scalability and separation of concerns. Each layer can
be independently developed, upgraded, or replaced without impacting the other layers. This
architecture also promotes better distribution of resources and allows for easier integration with
other systems.

(n)-tiered architecture: N-tiered architecture is a generalization of three-tiered architecture,

where "n" represents any number of tiers or layers. It allows for more complex and distributed
systems with additional layers, such as security, caching, messaging, or middleware. Each layer
in the architecture has a specific responsibility and can be developed, scaled, or replaced
independently. N-tiered architecture provides flexibility, scalability, and modularity, but it also
adds complexity to the system design and maintenance.

While mainframe software architecture is characterized by its centralized and powerful

computing capabilities, two-tiered, three-tiered, and n-tiered architectures distribute processing
and data across multiple layers or components, providing greater flexibility, scalability, and
modularity. All these architectures focus on dividing responsibilities and improving performance,
but the main difference lies in the level of centralization and the number of layers employed.

(c) Unicode is a computing industry standard for the consistent encoding, representation, and
handling of text characters from multiple writing systems, languages, and symbols. It provides a
universal character set that includes a vast range of characters from different scripts, including
Latin, Cyrillic, Arabic, Chinese, and many others. Unicode allows computers to represent and
process text in a consistent and interoperable manner across different platforms, applications,
and programming languages.

Unicode is used in various areas, including:

1. Operating systems: Modern operating systems support Unicode as the default character
encoding, enabling applications to handle and display text in multiple languages and scripts.

2. Programming languages and software development: Programming languages incorporate

Unicode support, allowing developers to create applications that can process and manipulate
text in different languages. Unicode provides a standard representation for characters, making it
easier to handle internationalization and localization in software.

3. Internet and communication: Unicode is essential for multilingual communication on the

internet. It enables the display of text in different languages on websites, social media platforms,
emails, and instant messaging applications.

4. Data storage and databases: Unicode is used in databases to store and retrieve text data
from various languages and scripts. It ensures that data remains intact and can be accurately
retrieved and displayed, regardless of the languages involved.

5. Internationalization and localization: Unicode plays a crucial role in internationalizing software

applications, allowing them to be adapted and localized for different languages, regions, and
cultural conventions.
In summary, Unicode is a standard character encoding system that facilitates the representation
and handling of text characters from multiple writing systems. Its widespread adoption ensures
compatibility and interoperability across different platforms, applications, and languages in the
digital world.

5. Explain any five of the following with the help of

examples or diagrams wherever required : 5x4=20
(a) Laptop computer
(b) Internet based software architecture
(c) Social networking
(d) Dot matrix printer
(e) Looping statements in programming
languages
(f) Von Neumann architecture
(g) Routers

Ans:
(a) Laptop computer:
A laptop computer is a portable personal computer that is designed for mobile use. It typically
consists of a display screen, keyboard, trackpad or mouse, and a battery-powered system unit.
Laptops are compact and lightweight, allowing users to carry them around and use them
anywhere.

Example: Here is a diagram illustrating the components of a typical laptop computer:

```
___________________________
| |
| Display |
| |
|---------------------------|
| |
| Keyboard |
| |
|---------------------------|
| Trackpad |
|---------------------------|
| System Unit |
|---------------------------|
| Battery |
 |___________________________|
```

(b) Internet-based software architecture:

Internet-based software architecture refers to the design and structure of software applications
that operate over the internet. It involves utilizing web technologies and protocols to develop
distributed and scalable systems that can be accessed by users from various devices and
locations.

Example: A common example of internet-based software architecture is the client-server model.

In this model, the server hosts the application logic and data, while the clients (web browsers,
mobile apps) interact with the server to access and manipulate the information. The
communication between the client and server happens through standardized protocols like
HTTP.

```
__________________________________
| |
| Web Server |
| |
|----------------------------------|
| |
| Internet Connection |
| |
|----------------------------------|
| |
| Client (Web Browser) |
| |
|__________________________________|
```

(c) Social networking:

Social networking refers to the online platforms and services that allow individuals to create
virtual profiles, connect with other users, and share information, interests, and activities. These
platforms enable users to communicate, collaborate, and build relationships with others in a
digital environment.

Example: Facebook is a popular social networking platform. Users can create profiles, connect
with friends, share posts, photos, and videos, join groups, and engage in discussions. The
platform provides features like news feeds, notifications, messaging, and event organization,
facilitating social interactions and content sharing.

(d) Dot matrix printer:

A dot matrix printer is a type of impact printer that uses a matrix of tiny pins or wires to strike an
ink ribbon, transferring ink onto the paper to create characters or images. The pins or wires form
patterns of dots, hence the name "dot matrix." These printers are commonly used for printing
multipart forms, receipts, and other documents.

Example: The diagram below represents a simplified illustration of how a dot matrix printer
works:

```
________________________________
| |
| |
| Printer Head |
| |
|--------------------------------|
| |
| Ink Ribbon |
| |
|--------------------------------|
| |
| Paper Feed |
| |
|________________________________|
```

(e) Looping statements in programming languages:

Looping statements in programming languages allow the repetition of a set of instructions until a
specific condition is met. They help automate repetitive tasks and iterate over data structures.

Example: One common looping statement is the "for loop." Here's an example in Python that
prints numbers from 1 to 5:

```python
for i in range(1, 6):
print(i)
```

Output:
```
1
2
3
4
5
```

In this example, the loop starts with the value 1 and iterates up to 5. The `range(1, 6)` function
generates a sequence of numbers from 1 to 5, and the loop body prints each (f) Von Neumann
architecture:
The Von Neumann architecture, also known as the Von Neumann model or Princeton
architecture, is a computer architecture design that forms the basis for most modern computers.
It was proposed by mathematician and computer scientist John von Neumann in the 1940s. The
key components of the Von Neumann architecture include a central processing unit (CPU),
memory, input/output (I/O) devices, and a bus system for communication between these
components.

Example: The diagram below illustrates the Von Neumann architecture:

```
____________________________
| |
| CPU (Processor) |
|----------------------------|
| |
| Memory |
|----------------------------|
| |
| I/O Devices |
|----------------------------|
| |
| Bus System |
|____________________________|
```

In this architecture, the CPU executes instructions stored in memory. The instructions and data
are fetched from memory through the bus system. The CPU performs calculations and
manipulations on the data and then stores the results back into memory. Input and output
devices enable the interaction between the computer and the external world.

(g) Routers:
Routers are networking devices that forward data packets between computer networks. They
operate at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model and are essential for directing traffic on
the internet or within local area networks (LANs). Routers use routing tables and protocols to
determine the best path for data transmission.

Example: Here is a simplified diagram showing the role of a router in connecting multiple
networks:
```
______ ______
| | | |
| LAN |-------------| LAN |
|______| |______|
| |
| |
______ ______
| | | |
| |-------------| |
|______| Router |______|
| |
| |
______ ______
| | | |
| LAN |-------------| LAN |
|______| |______|
```

In this example, there are three LANs (Local Area Networks) connected by a router. The router
receives data packets from one LAN and determines the best path to forward them to the
destination LAN. Routers ensure that data reaches its intended destination by examining the
packet's IP address and using routing protocols to determine the next hop on the network path.
 BACHELOR OF COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
(BCA) (Revised)

1.
(a) Your computer has an IP address of
202.41.15.57. You are planning to
communicate with a computer on the same
network that has an IP address of
202.4.1.15.116. What is the subnet mask ? 4
(b) What is the OSI model ? List the layers of
the model from the lowest layer upwards. 4
(c) Write down the 9 logical and relational
operators in C, giving the function of each. 5

(d) What is a compiler ? Draw a diagram

showing the different stages of the program
compilation process.
(e) Let x = 6 and y = 5. What are the values of 5
(i) x! = y
(ii) x < y
(iii) x % y
(iv) (x > 6) I I (y ! = 5)
(f) What is meant by the configuration of a
Personal Computer ? Write down the
configuration of a typical workstation used
for software development work. 6
(g) What is the desktop in a Personal
Computer ? What are the items typically
found in it ? 4
(h) List the five parts of a communication
system and mention the role of each. 6

Ans:
(a) To determine the subnet mask, we compare the IP addresses of the two computers
and find the longest common prefix.

The IP addresses are:

Computer 1: 202.41.15.57
Computer 2: 202.4.1.15.116
The longest common prefix is 202.4, so the subnet mask would be 255.255.0.0. This mask
allows for a range of IP addresses within the same network.

(b) The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model is a conceptual framework that
standardizes the functions of a communication system into seven layers. The layers,
from the lowest to the highest, are as follows:

1. Physical Layer: Deals with the physical transmission of data over the network,
including electrical and mechanical specifications.

2. Data Link Layer: Handles the reliable transmission of data frames between adjacent
nodes, ensuring error-free communication within the local network.

3. Network Layer: Manages the routing of data packets across different networks,
addressing and forwarding them based on logical addresses.

4. Transport Layer: Provides end-to-end, reliable, and transparent data transfer between
host systems, establishing connections and managing flow control.

5. Session Layer: Establishes, manages, and terminates communication sessions

between applications on different devices, allowing them to exchange data.

6. Presentation Layer: Handles data representation and ensures compatibility between

different systems by translating, encrypting, or compressing data.

7. Application Layer: Provides services directly to the end-user applications, enabling

network applications to access network resources and exchange data.

(c) The logical and relational operators in the C programming language are as follows:

Logical Operators:
1. && (Logical AND): Returns true if both operands are true.
2. || (Logical OR): Returns true if either of the operands is true.
3. ! (Logical NOT): Returns the inverse of the operand's logical value.

Relational Operators:
1. == (Equal to): Returns true if both operands are equal.
2. != (Not equal to): Returns true if both operands are not equal.
3. > (Greater than): Returns true if the left operand is greater than the right operand.
4. < (Less than): Returns true if the left operand is less than the right operand.
5. >= (Greater than or equal to): Returns true if the left operand is greater than or equal to
the right operand.
6. <= (Less than or equal to): Returns true if the left operand is less than or equal to the
right operand.
(d) A compiler is a software program that translates source code written in a
programming language (such as C) into machine code or executable code that can be
understood and executed by a computer. The compilation process typically involves
several stages:

1. Lexical Analysis: The source code is divided into tokens or lexemes, such as
keywords, identifiers, operators, and literals.

2. Syntax Analysis: The tokens are analyzed according to the grammar rules of the
programming language to form a parse tree or abstract syntax tree (AST).

3. Semantic Analysis: The compiler checks the semantics of the code, including type
checking, scope resolution, and detecting any errors or inconsistencies.

4. Intermediate Code Generation: The compiler may generate an intermediate

representation of the code, such as an intermediate language or bytecode.

5. Code Optimization: The compiler performs various optimizations to improve the

efficiency and performance of the generated code.

6. Code Generation: Finally, the compiler translates the optimized code into machine
code specific to the target architecture.

Here's a simplified diagram of the compilation process:

Source Code -> Lexical Analysis -> Syntax Analysis -> Semantic Analysis -> Intermediate
Code Generation -> Code Optimization -> Code Generation -> Executable/Machine Code

(e) Given x = 6 and y = 5, the values for the expressions are:

(i) x! = y: The exclamation mark "!" is not a valid operator in C. If you meant the factorial
operation, it is not directly available in C. However, you can write a factorial function to
calculate it. Assuming you meant "x factorial is equal to y," the expression would
evaluate to false (0), as 6 factorial is not equal to 5.

(ii) x < y: This expression evaluates to false (0), as 6 is not less than 5.

(iii) x % y: The "%" operator calculates the remainder when x is divided by y. In this case,
6 divided by 5 leaves a remainder of 1. Therefore, the expression evaluates to 1.

(iv) (x > 6) || (y != 5): The "||" operator represents logical OR. This expression evaluates to
false (0), as both conditions, "x is greater than 6" and "y is not equal to 5," are false.
(f) The configuration of a personal computer refers to the hardware and software setup
that determines its capabilities and functionality. A typical workstation used for software
development work may have the following configuration:

1. Processor: A high-performance processor, such as an Intel Core i7 or i9, with multiple

cores and threads for efficient multitasking and compilation.

2. Memory (RAM): Sufficient RAM, typically 16 GB or more, to handle the demands of

running resource-intensive development tools and applications.

3. Storage: Fast and spacious storage options, such as a solid-state drive (SSD) for
faster read/write speeds and a larger traditional hard disk drive (HDD) for storing large
files and projects.

4. Graphics Card: A dedicated graphics card may not be crucial for software
development work unless it involves graphics-intensive tasks like game development or
graphical simulations.

5. Operating System: A popular choice for software development is a version of the Linux
operating system, such as Ubuntu or Fedora, due to its robust development environment
and extensive toolset. Alternatively, Windows or macOS can also be used.

6. Development Tools: Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) or code editors like

Visual Studio Code, Eclipse, or IntelliJ IDEA, depending on the programming languages
and frameworks used.

(g) In a personal computer, the desktop refers to the graphical user interface (GUI) that
appears after the operating system finishes loading. It provides a visual representation of
the computer's file system and serves as a workspace for the user. The items typically
found on the desktop include:

1. Icons: Representing files, folders, applications, or shortcuts to frequently accessed

resources.

2. Wallpaper or Background: A customizable image or pattern displayed as the desktop

background.

3. Taskbar/Dock: A bar typically located at the bottom (Windows) or bottom/top (macOS)

of the screen, displaying active applications, system icons, and a notification area.

4. Start Menu/Applications Folder: A menu or folder providing access to installed

applications and system utilities.
5. File Explorer/Finder: An interface for browsing and managing files and folders on the
computer's storage.

6. Trash/Recycle Bin: A location where deleted files are temporarily stored before
permanent removal.

(h) The five parts of a communication system are:

1. Sender: The sender is the source or originator of the information or message to be

communicated. It can be a person, a computer, or any device capable of transmitting
data.

2. Receiver: The receiver is the destination of the communication, responsible for

receiving and interpreting the transmitted information.

3. Message: The message is the actual information or data being transmitted from the
sender to the receiver.

2. (a) Explain, with the help of a diagram, the

process of developing content for an
e-learning course. 8
(b) List the features of second and third
generation computers. 6
(c) What is the function of the memory
management system of a computer ?
Explain the primary tasks it needs to
perform. 6

Ans:
(a) The process of developing content for an e-learning course typically involves several steps.
Here is an overview of the process along with a diagram:

1. Analysis: The first step is to identify the learning objectives and target audience. This involves
conducting a needs analysis to determine what knowledge or skills the learners need to acquire.
2. Design: In this phase, instructional designers and subject matter experts collaborate to outline
the course structure and content. They determine the instructional strategies, learning activities,
and assessments that will be used to achieve the learning objectives.

3. Development: The content development phase involves creating the actual course materials.
This includes writing the text, designing visuals, developing multimedia elements (such as
videos, animations, and interactive simulations), and creating assessments.

4. Review: The developed content goes through a review process involving subject matter
experts, instructional designers, and other stakeholders. Feedback is collected, and revisions
are made to improve the content quality.

5. Implementation: Once the content is finalized, it is uploaded to an e-learning platform or

learning management system (LMS). This allows learners to access the course materials,
participate in activities, and track their progress.

6. Evaluation: Ongoing evaluation is an essential part of e-learning course development. It

involves collecting feedback from learners and monitoring their performance to assess the
effectiveness of the course. Based on the evaluation results, necessary revisions and updates
can be made to improve the course content.

Here is a diagram illustrating the process:

```
Analysis Design Development
| | |
v v v
+-----------+ +-------------+ +-------------+
| Learning |->| Course |->| Content |
| Objectives| | Structure | | Development |
+-----------+ +-------------+ +-------------+
| |
v v
Review Implementation
| |
v v
+---------+ +------------------+
| Feedback| | Learning |
| & Revi-|<-----| Management |
| sions | | System/LMS |
+---------+ +------------------+
|
v
Evaluation
```

(b) Features of Second and Third Generation Computers:

Second Generation Computers:

1. Transistors: Second-generation computers replaced vacuum tubes with transistors, which
were smaller, more reliable, and required less power.
2. Magnetic core memory: These computers used magnetic core memory for storage, which
was faster and more reliable than the previous punch cards and tape-based storage systems.
3. Assembly language programming: Assembly language was used to program
second-generation computers, which made programming more efficient and closer to the
machine language.
4. Batch processing: Second-generation computers introduced batch processing, allowing
multiple programs to be loaded and executed in sequence without user intervention.
5. Limited commercial availability: These computers were mainly used by large organizations
and government agencies due to their high cost and complexity.

Third Generation Computers:

1. Integrated circuits: Third-generation computers replaced individual transistors with integrated
circuits (ICs), which contained multiple transistors on a single chip. This led to smaller, faster,
and more reliable computers.
2. High-level programming languages: Third-generation computers introduced high-level
programming languages like COBOL and FORTRAN, making programming easier and more
accessible to a wider range of users.
3. Time-sharing: Time-sharing operating systems were developed, allowing multiple users to
simultaneously access and use the computer resources.
4. Improved storage capacity: The introduction of disk drives provided higher storage capacities
and faster access to data.
5. Miniaturization: Third-generation computers were smaller and consumed less power
compared to previous generations, leading to increased accessibility and use in
3. (a) Discuss the following briefly : 8
(i) Batch processing
(ii) Online processing
Diskless workstations
(iv) Operating system kernel
(b) Describe the structured and modular design
paradigm with the help of a diagram and
pseudo code. 8
(c) What is volunteer computing ? Give an
example of such computing. 4

Ans:
(a) Briefly discuss the following:

(i) Batch processing: Batch processing is a technique used in computing where a group of
similar tasks or jobs are executed together without any manual intervention. In batch
processing, the jobs are collected and processed in batches, typically in a sequential manner.
The input data for all the jobs is usually prepared in advance and stored in files. Batch
processing is commonly used for tasks that can be performed without immediate user
interaction, such as large-scale data processing, automated reports generation, and system
maintenance tasks.

(ii) Online processing: Online processing, also known as real-time processing, refers to the
execution of tasks or transactions in real-time as they occur. Unlike batch processing, online
processing involves immediate user interaction and provides immediate feedback. It is
commonly used in interactive systems such as online banking, e-commerce websites, and
reservation systems. Online processing requires a system to respond quickly to user inputs,
process data in real-time, and provide timely results.

(iii) Diskless workstations: Diskless workstations are computer systems that do not have a
physical hard disk for storing operating system files and user data. Instead, these workstations
rely on network booting, where the operating system and user data are stored on a remote
server or network storage. Diskless workstations typically have a small amount of local memory
(RAM) and network connectivity to access the required resources over the network. This
approach simplifies system administration and reduces hardware costs, as the workstation's
configuration and software can be centrally managed.

(iv) Operating system kernel: The operating system kernel is the core component of an
operating system that manages essential functions and resources of the system. It acts as an
intermediary between the hardware and software applications, providing services such as
process management, memory management, file system access, and device control. The kernel
handles low-level tasks and ensures proper resource allocation and coordination among
different components of the operating system.
(b) Structured and modular design paradigm:

Structured and modular design is an approach to software design that emphasizes dividing a
complex system into smaller, manageable modules, each responsible for specific functionality.
These modules are designed to interact with each other through well-defined interfaces. Here's
an example diagram and pseudo code to illustrate the structured and modular design paradigm:

Diagram:
```
+------------------+
| Module A |
+------------------+
| Function A1 |
+------------------+
| Function A2 |
+------------------+

+------------------+
| Module B |
+------------------+
| Function B1 |
+------------------+
| Function B2 |
+------------------+
```

Pseudo code:
```
Module A:
Function A1:
// Perform task A1

Function A2:
// Perform task A2

Module B:
Function B1:
// Perform task B1

Function B2:
// Perform task B2

Main program:
// Call Module A functions
 ModuleA.FunctionA1()
ModuleA.FunctionA2()

// Call Module B functions

ModuleB.FunctionB1()
ModuleB.FunctionB2()
```

In this example, the system is divided into two modules, Module A and Module B. Each module
encapsulates related functions or tasks. The modules have well-defined functions (A1, A2, B1,
B2) that perform specific operations. The main program calls these functions in a structured
manner, invoking the necessary modules and their respective functions.

(c) Volunteer computing:

Volunteer computing is a form of distributed computing where individuals or organizations
volunteer their computer resources, such as processing power or storage, to contribute to a
larger computing project. Participants typically install special software on their computers,

4. (a) Draw the block diagram of a computer

system and briefly explain the function of
each of the main components. 8
(b) What is a linker ? Explain its function with
the help of a diagram. 4
(c) Describe each of the following
communication modes, bringing out the
similarities and differences among them : 8
(i) Broadcast
(ii) Simplex
(iii) Half-duplex
(iv) Duplex

Ans:
(a) Block Diagram of a Computer System:

```
+-------------------+
| Input Devices |
 +-------------------+
|
|
V
+-------------------+
| Central |
| Processing |
| Unit |
+-------------------+
|
|
V
+-------------------+
| Memory |
+-------------------+
|
|
V
+-------------------+
| Output Devices |
+-------------------+
```

- Input Devices: These components allow users to provide data and instructions to the computer
system. Examples include keyboards, mice, scanners, and microphones.

- Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is the brain of the computer system. It performs
arithmetic, logical, control, and input/output (I/O) operations. It consists of the arithmetic logic
unit (ALU), control unit, and registers.

- Memory: It stores data and instructions that the CPU needs to process. There are different
types of memory in a computer system, such as random-access memory (RAM) and read-only
memory (ROM).

- Output Devices: These components display or present the processed information to the user.
Examples include monitors, printers, speakers, and projectors.

(b) Linker:

A linker is a software tool or program that combines multiple object files generated by a compiler
into a single executable file. Its main function is to resolve references between different modules
or object files and create a final executable program that can be loaded and executed by the
computer.
The linker performs the following tasks:

1. Symbol Resolution: The linker resolves symbols, such as functions and variables, referenced
by different object files. It matches the symbols used in one file with the symbols defined in
another file, ensuring that all references are resolved.

2. Address Resolution: The linker assigns memory addresses to different sections of the
program, including code, data, and libraries. It ensures that there are no conflicts or overlaps in
memory allocation.

3. Relocation: The linker adjusts the memory addresses in the object files to reflect the final
memory layout of the executable program. It updates the references to symbols and adjusts the
relative offsets as necessary.

4. Linking Libraries: The linker links external libraries required by the program. It resolves
references to functions and variables defined in libraries and includes them in the final
executable.

Diagram:
```
+-------------------+
| Object File |
+-------------------+
|
|
V
+-------------------+
| Object File |
+-------------------+
|
|
V
+-------------------+
| Object File |
+-------------------+
|
|
V
+-------------------+
| Linker Output |
+-------------------+
```

(c) Communication Modes:

(i) Broadcast: In broadcast mode, information or data is transmitted from a single sender to
multiple receivers simultaneously. The sender broadcasts the data, and all the receivers receive
the same data. It is like a one-to-many communication.

(ii) Simplex: In simplex mode, communication is unidirectional, meaning data flows only in one
direction. One device acts as the sender, and another device acts as the receiver. The sender
transmits data, and the receiver can only receive the data but cannot send any back.

(iii) Half-duplex: In half-duplex mode, communication is bidirectional but not simultaneous.

Devices can both transmit and receive data, but not at the same time. They take turns
transmitting and receiving, like a walkie-talkie system.

(iv) Duplex: In duplex mode, communication is bidirectional and simultaneous. Devices can
transmit and receive data simultaneously. It can

5. Explain any five of the following with the help of

examples or diagrams wherever required : 5x4=20
(a) Hark disk defragmenter utility
(b) Video card of a Personal Computer
(c) Timesheet Management System
(d) Ring network topology
(e) Device drivers
(f) Infra-red communication
(g) Magnetic ink character recognition

Ans:

(a) Hard Disk Defragmenter Utility:

A hard disk defragmenter utility is a software tool used to optimize the performance of a
computer's hard disk drive. It rearranges fragmented files on the hard disk, placing them
in contiguous clusters, which improves the overall speed and efficiency of file access.
Here's an example to illustrate how it works:

Before defragmentation:
```
| File A | Free Space | File B | Free Space | File C |
```

After defragmentation:
```
| File A | File B | File C | Free Space |
```

(b) Video Card of a Personal Computer:

A video card, also known as a graphics card or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), is an
essential component of a personal computer that processes and renders images, videos,
and animations. It is responsible for generating the output that is displayed on the
monitor. Here's a simplified diagram of a video card:

```
_______
| |
| |
| GPU |
| |
|_______|
|VRAM |
|_______|
| |
| |
| |
|_______|
```

The GPU performs complex calculations related to graphics processing, while the VRAM
(Video RAM) stores the data and textures required for rendering images and videos.

(c) Timesheet Management System:

A timesheet management system is a software application used to track and manage the
working hours of employees. It helps organizations monitor the time spent by employees
on different tasks, projects, or clients. Here's an example of a timesheet:

```
Employee: John Doe
Date: May 15, 2023

| Project | Task | Hours |

|-------------|---------------|-------|
| Project A | Development | 6 |
| Project B | Testing |2 |
| Project C | Documentation | 3 |
|-------------|---------------|-------|
| Total Hours | | 11 |
```
Employees can fill in the timesheet with the details of their activities and the number of
hours worked, providing a clear overview of their productivity.

(d) Ring Network Topology:

A ring network topology is a type of computer network architecture where each network
device is connected to two neighboring devices, forming a closed loop or ring. Here's a
diagram illustrating a ring network topology:

```
Device A ---- Device B ---- Device C ---- Device D
| | | |
--------------------------------------
```

Data flows in a unidirectional manner around the ring, with each device receiving and
forwarding data to the next device. This topology ensures that data can reach any device
on the network by passing through the intermediate devices.

(e) Device Drivers:

Device drivers are software programs that enable communication between the operating
system and hardware devices connected to a computer. They act as translators, allowing
the operating system to send commands to the hardware and receive data from it. For
example:

When a printer is connected to a computer, a device driver is required to facilitate the

communication between the operating system and the printer. The device driver
translates the print commands from the operating system into a format that the printer
can understand, ensuring proper printing functionality.

(f) Infrared Communication:

Infrared (IR) communication is a wireless technology that uses infrared light to transmit
data between devices. It is commonly used in remote controls, infrared data transfer
between smartphones, and certain types of wireless headphones. Here's an example of
how infrared communication works:

Infrared communication between a TV remote control and a television:

```
Infrared
TV Remote Control | Television
\ | /
\ | /
Infrared | Infrared
\ |
I apologize for the incomplete response. Here are the complete explanations for the remaining
topics:

(g) Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR):

Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) is a technology used for the recognition and
processing of characters printed with magnetic ink. It is commonly used in the banking industry
for check processing. MICR characters are printed in a unique font and contain magnetic
particles, which can be easily read by specialized MICR readers. Here's an example of a MICR
line on a check:

```
_____________
|1234567890123|
| 123456 |
| 7890 |
| 123456789 |
| 0123 |
|_____________|
```

The MICR line contains important information such as the bank code, account number, check
number, and other relevant details. MICR readers can quickly scan and process this information
for banking transactions.

I hope these complete explanations provide a better understanding of the topics. If you have
any further questions, please let me know.
 BACHELOR OF COMPUTER
APPLICATIONS (BCA)
(REVISED)
Term-End Examination
December, 2019
BCS-011 : COMPUTER BASICS AND PC

1. (a) Convert the following decimal numbers to

equivalent bineiry number : 2
(i) '37
(ii) 0.125

(b) Convert the following hexadecimal number

to equivalent binary : 2
(FA3)16

(c) What will the storage capacity of a disk of

2.5 inch diameter 8 plates (16 recording
surfaces) with 512 sectors per track and
2048 tracks per recording surface ? Assume
that one sector can store 1048 bytes of
data.

(d) Differentiate between the parallel port and

serial port of a computer.

(e) What is an integrated circuit ? Is

microprocessor an integrated circuit ? 2

(f) Explain the concept of memory hierarchy

with the help of a diagram. 4

(g) Draw a flowchart to find if the given

number is odd. 5
(h) What is the file management in the context
to operating system ? How does file
management system keeps track of a file ?
Explain. 5

(i) What is the role of compiler in a computer

system ? 3

(j) Which of the following are valid IPv4

address ? Give justification : 3
(i) 256.0.0.0
(ii) 192.168.1.27
(iii) 10.0.5.7.5

(k) What is meant by the term 'Network

Topology' ? Explain the bus topology with
the help of a diagram. List the advantages
and disadvantages of bus topology. 6
(1) What is e-Learning ? What are its
advantages and disadvantages ? 4

Ans:

(a)
(i) To convert decimal number 37 to binary:
37 ÷ 2 = 18 remainder 1
18 ÷ 2 = 9 remainder 0
9 ÷ 2 = 4 remainder 1
4 ÷ 2 = 2 remainder 0
2 ÷ 2 = 1 remainder 0
1 ÷ 2 = 0 remainder 1

The binary equivalent of 37 is 100101.

(ii) To convert decimal number 0.125 to binary:

0.125 × 2 = 0.25 (Take the integer part)
0.25 × 2 = 0.5 (Take the integer part)
0.5 × 2 = 1.0 (Take the integer part)

The binary equivalent of 0.125 is 0.001.

(b) To convert the hexadecimal number FA3 to binary:

F = 15 (1111 in binary)
A = 10 (1010 in binary)
3 = 3 (0011 in binary)
The binary equivalent of FA3 is 111110100011.

(c) The storage capacity of the disk can be calculated as follows:

Number of surfaces = 8
Number of tracks per surface = 2048
Number of sectors per track = 512
Bytes per sector = 1048

Total capacity = Number of surfaces × Number of tracks per surface × Number of sectors per
track × Bytes per sector

Total capacity = 8 × 2048 × 512 × 1048

(d) Parallel Port: A parallel port is a type of interface found on computers that allows multiple
bits of data to be transferred simultaneously. It is typically used for connecting devices such as
printers. Parallel ports can transmit and receive data in parallel, which means multiple bits are
transferred at the same time.

Serial Port: A serial port is another type of interface found on computers that transmits and
receives data sequentially, one bit at a time. It is commonly used for connecting devices like
modems or mice. Serial ports transmit data in a serial manner, which means bits are sent one
after another.

The main difference between parallel and serial ports is the way data is transmitted. Parallel
ports can transfer multiple bits simultaneously, while serial ports transfer bits sequentially.

(e) An integrated circuit (IC) is a miniaturized electronic circuit consisting of various components,
such as transistors, resistors, and capacitors, fabricated on a small semiconductor material. It is
also commonly referred to as a microchip. Integrated circuits provide a compact and efficient
way to incorporate complex electronic functions into a small package.

A microprocessor is a type of integrated circuit. It is an electronic component that serves as the

central processing unit (CPU) of a computer system. It contains millions or even billions of
transistors and other components, all integrated onto a single chip. The microprocessor
executes instructions, performs calculations, and controls the operations of a computer system.

(f) Memory hierarchy refers to the organization and arrangement of different types of computer
memory, arranged in a hierarchy based on their speed, capacity, and cost. The concept is based
on the principle that higher levels of the memory hierarchy are faster, but more expensive,
whereas lower levels have more capacity but are slower.
A typical memory hierarchy consists of multiple levels, including registers, cache memory, main
memory (RAM), and secondary storage (hard disks). The diagram below illustrates the concept:

```
+------------------+
| Registers |
+------------------+
| Cache |
+------------------+
| Main Memory |
+------------------+
| Secondary Storage |
+------------------+
```

The advantages of memory hierarchy are:

1. Faster access: The memory hierarchy allows for faster access to data and instructions. The
registers and cache memory, being closer to the CPU, have very low access times, enabling
quick retrieval of frequently used data. This helps improve the overall performance of the
system.

2. Cost-effectiveness: The memory hierarchy is designed to strike a balance between

performance and cost. Registers and cache memory, although expensive, are relatively smaller
in size. As we move down the hierarchy, the capacity of the memory increases, but the cost per
unit decreases. This allows for a cost-effective approach to storing large amounts of data.

3. Improved efficiency: The use of a memory hierarchy allows for efficient data management.
Frequently accessed data is stored in the faster and smaller memory levels, ensuring quick
retrieval. Less frequently used data is stored in larger and slower memory levels. This
optimization helps in reducing bottlenecks and maximizing the overall efficiency of the system.

4. Flexibility: The memory hierarchy can be designed to accommodate different types of

memory technologies. This flexibility allows for advancements and improvements in memory
technology to be incorporated into the hierarchy, ensuring compatibility and adaptability with
future developments.

The disadvantages of memory hierarchy are:

1. Complexity: Managing and coordinating the different levels of memory in the hierarchy
requires complex hardware and software mechanisms. This complexity can lead to increased
design and implementation challenges.

2. Increased latency: Although the memory hierarchy aims to provide faster access to data,
there is still a latency involved in accessing memory at different levels. Data that is not readily
available in the faster levels may require additional time to retrieve from lower levels, causing
increased latency in accessing certain data.

3. Limited capacity: The higher levels of the memory hierarchy, such as registers and cache
memory, have limited capacity due to their high-speed nature. This limitation may result in the
need to prioritize certain data or implement strategies to manage the available space effectively.

4. Energy consumption: The memory hierarchy, especially the faster levels such as registers
and cache memory, consumes a significant amount of energy. This energy consumption can
contribute to increased power requirements and heat generation in the system.

(g) Here is a flowchart to determine if a given number is odd:

```
Start
|
Input number
|
|---|---|
| |
Number % 2 == 0
| |
No Yes
| |
Display Display
"Odd" "Even"
```

(h) File management in the context of an operating system refers to the way in which files are
created, organized, stored, and accessed. It involves managing the file system, which provides
a structure and set of operations for working with files.

A file management system keeps track of a file by maintaining a directory structure. The
directory structure acts as a hierarchical organization of files and folders, allowing users to
navigate and locate specific files. Each file is associated with metadata, such as its name, size,
creation date, and permissions, which are stored in the file system.

The file management system tracks the physical location of files on storage devices, such as
hard drives. It maintains a file allocation table or similar data structures to record the location
and status of each file block or sector on the storage media. This information helps in retrieving
and updating files efficiently.
The file management system also handles operations related to file manipulation, including
creating, opening, closing, reading, writing, and deleting files. It enforces access control and file
permissions to ensure data security and privacy.

(i) The role of a compiler in a computer system is to translate high-level programming code
written in languages such as C, C++, Java, or Python into machine code that can be directly
executed by the computer's hardware. A compiler performs a series

2. (a) Explain the three modes of data

transmission. 5

(b) What is URL ? Why is it needed ? Explain

various parts of a URL with the help of an
example. How URL is translated to
physical address of the resource ? Explain
with the help of an example. 8

(c) Explain the following terms in the context

of a search engine : 2+3+2-=,7
(i) Spidering or Web Crawling
(ii) Indexing
(iii) Searching

Ans:
(a) The three modes of data transmission are:

1. Simplex: In simplex mode, data can only be transmitted in one direction. It is a unidirectional
communication mode where the sender can only transmit data, and the receiver can only
receive data. Examples of simplex mode include television broadcasts and keyboard input.

2. Half-duplex: In half-duplex mode, data can be transmitted in both directions, but not
simultaneously. This means that communication can occur in both directions, but not at the
same time. Walkie-talkies and CB radios are examples of half-duplex communication, where
one party talks while the other listens, and vice versa.
3. Full-duplex: In full-duplex mode, data can be transmitted simultaneously in both directions.
This mode allows for bidirectional communication, where both the sender and the receiver can
transmit and receive data at the same time. Examples of full-duplex communication include
telephone conversations and video conferences.

(b) URL stands for Uniform Resource Locator. It is a standardized address used to locate and
access resources on the internet. URLs are necessary to identify the specific location of a
resource, such as a web page, image, video, or any other file, on the World Wide Web.

A URL consists of several parts:

1. Protocol: It indicates the protocol used to access the resource. Common protocols include
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) and HTTPS (HTTP Secure) for web pages.

2. Domain: It specifies the domain name or IP address of the server where the resource is
hosted. For example, in the URL "https://www.example.com", "www.example.com" is the
domain.

3. Path: It represents the specific location or directory on the server where the resource is
stored. It can include folders, subfolders, and the filename. For example, in the URL
"https://www.example.com/images/photo.jpg", "/images/photo.jpg" is the path.

4. Parameters: They are optional and provide additional information to the server about how to
handle the request. Parameters are separated by question marks (?) and ampersands (&). For
example, in the URL "https://www.example.com/search?q=example", "?q=example" is a
parameter indicating a search query for the term "example".

When a URL is entered in a web browser, it is translated to the physical address of the resource
through a series of steps. The browser first resolves the domain name to an IP address using
the Domain Name System (DNS). Then, the browser establishes a connection with the server at
the IP address. Finally, the server retrieves the requested resource based on the path and
parameters specified in the URL.

For example, when a user enters the URL "https://www.example.com/images/photo.jpg" in a

browser, the browser contacts the DNS server to resolve the domain name "www.example.com"
to an IP address. Once the IP address is obtained, the browser establishes a connection with
the server and requests the resource located at the path "/images/photo.jpg". The server
responds by sending the photo.jpg file back to the browser, which displays it to the user.

(c) In the context of a search engine:

(i) Spidering or Web Crawling: Spidering or web crawling is the process by which search
engines systematically browse the internet to discover and retrieve web pages. Specialized
software programs called web crawlers or spiders are used to follow links from one web page to
another, collecting information about the pages they encounter. The collected data is then used
for indexing and ranking purposes by the search engine.

(ii) Indexing: Indexing is the process of organizing and storing the collected information from
web pages in a searchable database. The web crawler analyzes the content of each page it
visits and extracts relevant data such as keywords, headings, links, and meta-tags. This
information is then indexed and associated with the corresponding web page in the search
engine's database. The index allows the search engine to quickly retrieve relevant results when
a user performs a search query.

(iii) Searching: Searching is the process of retrieving relevant information from the indexed
database based on a user's search query. When a user enters a query into a search engine, the
search engine compares the query with the indexed data to identify web pages that are most
likely to satisfy the user's intent. The search engine employs complex algorithms to rank the
retrieved results based on factors such as relevance, quality, and user preferences. The search
engine then presents the ranked results to the user, typically in a list format, allowing them to
find and access the most relevant information based on their query.

In summary, spidering or web crawling involves systematically browsing the web to discover and
retrieve web pages, indexing organizes and stores the collected information in a searchable
database, and searching retrieves relevant information from the indexed database based on
user queries. Together, these processes enable search engines to provide users with accurate
and relevant search results.

3. (a) What is Computer Virus ? How is it

different from Trojan Horse in the context
of a computer ? List the ways to counter
the perverse software. 7

(b) Explain the following features of an

application software : 8
(i) Mail merge in word processing
(ii) Macros in spreadsheet
(iii) Defining relationship in Database
Management System
(iv) Scheduling in Project Management
Software
(c) Differentiate between the open source
software and proprietary software. 5

Ans:

(a)
A computer virus is a malicious program or code that replicates itself by infecting other files or
computer systems. It is designed to disrupt the normal functioning of a computer and can
spread from one computer to another, often without the knowledge or consent of the user.
Computer viruses can cause various types of damage, such as corrupting or deleting files,
stealing sensitive information, or disabling computer systems.

On the other hand, a Trojan Horse is a type of malware that disguises itself as legitimate
software or files, tricking users into executing or downloading it. Unlike viruses, Trojan Horses
do not replicate themselves but rather rely on social engineering techniques to deceive users.
Once installed, Trojan Horses can perform various malicious actions, such as stealing personal
information, creating backdoors for remote access, or launching other types of malware.

Ways to counter perverse software (viruses and Trojan Horses):

1. Install and update antivirus software: Use reputable antivirus software and keep it up to date
to detect and remove viruses and Trojan Horses.
2. Regularly update your operating system and software: Software updates often include
security patches that fix vulnerabilities that malware can exploit.
3. Exercise caution when opening email attachments or downloading files: Be wary of email
attachments or files downloaded from unknown sources, as they can be vehicles for malware.
4. Use a firewall: A firewall helps to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic,
providing an additional layer of protection against malicious software.
5. Enable automatic updates: Configure your operating system and software to automatically
install updates, ensuring that you have the latest security patches.
6. Be cautious of suspicious websites: Avoid visiting or downloading from websites that are
known to distribute malware or engage in malicious activities.
7. Educate yourself and practice safe computing habits: Stay informed about the latest security
threats, be cautious of phishing attempts, and regularly back up your important data.

(b)
(i) Mail merge in word processing: Mail merge is a feature in word processing software that
allows you to create personalized documents, such as letters or envelopes, by merging a
template or main document with a data source. The data source can be a spreadsheet,
database, or other structured data format. Mail merge enables the automatic insertion of
variable information, such as names or addresses, into multiple documents, saving time and
effort in producing personalized documents.

(ii) Macros in spreadsheet: Macros are sets of instructions or commands that automate
repetitive tasks in a spreadsheet. They can be recorded or written using a scripting language.
Macros allow users to define a sequence of actions that can be executed with a single
command or button click. For example, a macro can be created to perform calculations, format
data, or generate reports automatically. Macros enhance productivity and efficiency by reducing
manual repetitive tasks.

(iii) Defining relationship in Database Management System: In a Database Management System

(DBMS), defining relationships involves establishing connections between tables in a relational
database. Relationships define how data in different tables are related or linked to each other.
The most common types of relationships are one-to-one, one-to-many, and many-to-many. By
defining relationships, DBMS ensures data integrity, enables efficient data retrieval and
manipulation, and facilitates the enforcement of business rules and constraints.

(iv) Scheduling in Project Management Software: Scheduling in Project Management Software

refers to the ability to create, manage, and track project schedules. Project management
software allows users to define tasks, assign resources, set dependencies, and estimate
durations. With scheduling features, project managers can create a timeline or Gantt chart that
visually represents the project's tasks, their durations, and the dependencies between them.
Scheduling helps in organizing and managing project activities, tracking progress, and ensuring
timely completion of tasks.

Differentiation between open source software and proprietary software:

Open source software:

1. Source code availability: Open source software provides access to its source code, allowing
users to view, modify, and distribute it freely. This transparency fosters collaboration and allows
users to customize the software to their needs.

2. Licensing: Open source software is typically licensed under an open source license, such as
the GNU General Public License (GPL) or the MIT License. These licenses grant users the
freedom to use, modify, and distribute the software without restrictions.

3. Community-driven development: Open source software projects often have a community of

developers who contribute to the improvement and maintenance of the software. This
collaborative approach encourages innovation, peer review, and rapid bug fixes.

4. Cost: Open source software is usually free of charge, allowing users to use and distribute it
without incurring licensing fees. However, some open source software may have optional paid
support or additional services available.

Proprietary software:
1. Source code restriction: Proprietary software does not provide access to its source code. The
source code is owned and controlled by the company or individual who developed the software.
Users cannot view or modify the source code.
2. Licensing: Proprietary software is distributed under a license that restricts users' rights and
usage. Users are typically granted a license to use the software under specific conditions
outlined by the software vendor. The license may limit the number of installations, usage
duration, or prohibit modifications and redistribution.

3. Development control: Proprietary software is developed and maintained by a specific

company or individual who retains full control over its development roadmap, updates, and
feature additions. Users rely on the software vendor for updates and bug fixes.

4. Cost: Proprietary software often requires users to purchase a license or pay a subscription
fee to use it. The cost of proprietary software can vary depending on factors such as
functionality, usage, and support options.

5. Support and warranty: Proprietary software vendors typically provide customer support,
documentation, and warranties for their products. Users can rely on the vendor for assistance
and troubleshooting.

It's important to note that while open source software is generally free and encourages
collaboration, it may not always meet specific business needs or offer the same level of support
as proprietary software. The choice between open source and proprietary software depends on
the specific requirements, budget, and preferences of the user or organization.

4. (a) Explain the role of various components of a

computer system with the help of a
diagram. 5
(b) Differentiate between the following 10
(i) Serial Access and Random Access
RAM and ROM
(iii) SRAM and DRAM
(iv) ROM and PROM
(v) Inkjet Printer and Laser Printer
(c) What are utility software ? Explain the use
of disk checker and disk defragmenter
utility software.

Ans:
(a) The diagram below illustrates the components of a computer system and their roles:

```
+-------------------+
| User Interface |
+-------------------+
| Application |
+-------------------+
| Operating |
| System |
+-------------------+
| Hardware |
+-------------------+
```

- User Interface: This component allows users to interact with the computer system. It includes
input devices (e.g., keyboard, mouse) and output devices (e.g., monitor, speakers) that enable
communication between users and the system.

- Application: Applications or software programs perform specific tasks or functions on the

computer system. They can include word processors, web browsers, games, and various other
software applications.

- Operating System: The operating system manages and controls the computer's hardware and
software resources. It provides an interface between the user and the hardware, allowing the
execution of applications and providing services such as memory management, file
management, and device management.

- Hardware: The hardware refers to the physical components of the computer system. It
includes the central processing unit (CPU), memory (RAM), storage devices (hard drives,
SSDs), input devices (keyboard, mouse, etc.), output devices (monitor, printer, etc.), and other
peripherals.

(b) Differentiation between the following:

(i) Serial Access and Random Access:

- Serial Access: In serial access, data is accessed in a sequential manner, one item after
another. It requires reading or writing data in a specific order from the beginning to the desired
location. Examples include magnetic tapes.
- Random Access: In random access, data can be accessed directly without reading through
other data. It allows immediate access to any data item by specifying its address. Examples
include hard disk drives and solid-state drives.

(ii) RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read-Only Memory):

- RAM: RAM is a volatile memory that stores data and instructions that are actively being used
by the computer's processor. It allows read and write operations, providing fast access for
temporary data storage during program execution.
- ROM: ROM is a non-volatile memory that stores permanent instructions or data that cannot be
modified or erased. It contains firmware or software instructions that are vital for the system's
operation, such as the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System).

(iii) SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) and DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory):
- SRAM: SRAM is a type of RAM that stores data using flip-flops, which are stable circuits. It is
faster and more expensive compared to DRAM but requires more space. SRAM does not need
to be refreshed continually, allowing for faster access times.
- DRAM: DRAM is another type of RAM that stores data using capacitors. It is cheaper and
denser than SRAM but requires constant refreshing to maintain the stored data. DRAM is
slower compared to SRAM but is widely used due to its cost-effectiveness.

(iv) ROM (Read-Only Memory) and PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory):

- ROM: ROM is a non-volatile memory that contains pre-programmed instructions or data. It is
manufactured with data that cannot be modified by the user.
- PROM: PROM is a type of ROM that can be programmed or written by the user once. It allows
users to burn or write data onto the memory using special programming devices. Once
programmed, the data becomes permanent and cannot be modified.

(v) Inkjet Printer and Laser Printer:

- Inkjet Printer: An inkjet printer sprays tiny droplets of ink onto paper to create text or images. It
uses ink cartridges containing liquid ink and is suitable for producing high-quality color prints.
Inkjet printers are generally slower and more affordable for home or small-scale use.

(c) Utility software refers to a category of software tools that are designed to assist in managing,
optimizing, and maintaining the computer system. They provide additional functionalities beyond
the core operating system and application software. Two common utility software programs are
disk checker and disk defragmenter.

- Disk Checker: Disk checker utility software, also known as disk scan or disk error checking, is
used to identify and fix errors on the computer's hard disk or storage drive. It scans the disk for
physical or logical errors, bad sectors, and file system inconsistencies. Disk checker software
can detect and repair issues that may cause data corruption or system instability. It helps ensure
the integrity and reliability of the disk by identifying and resolving problems.

- Disk Defragmenter: Disk defragmenter utility software is used to optimize the arrangement of
files on the hard disk. Over time, as files are created, modified, and deleted, they can become
fragmented, meaning that parts of the file are scattered across different physical locations on
the disk. This fragmentation can slow down file access times. Disk defragmenter software
rearranges the fragmented files, placing them in contiguous clusters on the disk. By doing so, it
improves the efficiency and speed of file access, resulting in faster overall system performance.
In summary, utility software provides tools for maintaining and optimizing the computer system.
Disk checker software helps identify and fix errors on the storage drive, ensuring data integrity.
Disk defragmenter software optimizes file organization on the hard disk, improving system
performance by reducing file access times.

5. Explain any five of the following with the help

of an example/diagram, if needed : 5x 4=20
(a). Web Browser
(b) Optical Memories
(c) ASCII and Unicode
(d) Looping Statement
(e) Kernel of an Operating System
(f) Linker and Text Editors
(g) Hub and Switches (Networking devices)
(h) WIKI

Ans:

(a) Web Browser: A web browser is a software application that allows users to access and
navigate websites on the internet. It retrieves and displays web pages, processes user inputs,
and renders multimedia content. The following diagram illustrates the basic functioning of a web
browser:

```
+----------------------------------+
| Web Browser |
+----------------------------------+
| +--------------+ |
| | Address | |
| | Bar/URL | |
| +--------------+ |
| |
| +--------------+ |
| | HTTP/HTTPS | |
| | Request | |
| +--------------+ |
| |
| +--------------+ |
| | HTML/CSS | |
| | Rendering | |
| +--------------+ |
| |
| +--------------+ |
| | JavaScript | |
| | Execution | |
| +--------------+ |
| |
| +--------------+ |
| | Display | |
| | Web Page | |
| +--------------+ |
+----------------------------------+
```

The web browser starts by displaying the address bar where users can enter the URL (Uniform
Resource Locator) of the desired website. Once the URL is entered, the browser sends an
HTTP/HTTPS request to the web server hosting the website. The server responds with HTML,
CSS, JavaScript, and other resources that make up the web page.

The browser then processes and renders these resources, executing any JavaScript code
present. Finally, the browser displays the rendered web page on the user's screen.

(b) Optical Memories: Optical memories are storage devices that use light to read and write
data. They are often used for long-term archival storage and backup purposes. One example of
an optical memory is a Compact Disc (CD). Here's a diagram illustrating the structure of a CD:

```
+----------------------------------+
| |
| Data Layer |
| |
+----------------------------------+
| |
| Reflective Layer |
| |
+----------------------------------+
| |
| Protective Layer |
| |
+----------------------------------+
```
The data layer of a CD contains microscopic pits and lands that represent digital information.
These pits and lands are created during the manufacturing process. When the CD is read, a
laser beam is directed onto the data layer. The reflective layer below the data layer reflects the
laser beam back to a sensor. The sensor detects the changes in reflection caused by the pits
and lands, and this information is converted into digital data.

(c) ASCII and Unicode: ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) and
Unicode are character encoding standards used to represent text in computers. ASCII is a
widely used encoding scheme that uses 7 bits to represent 128 characters, including uppercase
and lowercase letters, digits, and special symbols. Here's an example of ASCII encoding for the
letter 'A':

```
ASCII: 01000001
```

Unicode, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive encoding standard that uses
variable-length encoding to represent a wide range of characters from different writing systems.
It can represent characters from various languages, symbols, emojis, and more. Unicode uses
8, 16, or 32 bits depending on the character being encoded. Here's an example of Unicode
encoding for the letter 'A':

```
Unicode: 00000000 01000001
```

(d) Looping Statement: A looping statement is a programming construct that allows a set of
instructions to be repeated multiple times. One common looping statement is the 'for' loop.
Here's an example of a 'for' loop in Python:

Certainly! Here's an example of a 'for' loop in Python:

```python
for i in range(5):
print(i)
```

In this example, the 'for' loop iterates over a sequence of numbers generated by the `range(5)`
function. The loop variable `i` takes on the values from 0 to 4 (5 iterations in total). During each
iteration, the value of `i` is printed to the console using the `print()` function.

The output of this code will be:

```
0
1
2
3
4
```

The loop continues until it has iterated over all the values in the specified range.

(e) Kernel of an Operating System: The kernel is the core component of an operating system
that acts as a bridge between the hardware and software. It manages system resources,
provides essential services, and allows multiple applications to run simultaneously. Here's a
simplified diagram illustrating the role of the kernel in an operating system:

```
+--------------------------+
| User Processes |
+--------------------------+
| |
| +--------------+ |
| | System | |
| | Calls | |
| +--------------+ |
| | |
| +--------------+ |
| | Kernel | |
| | | |
| +--------------+ |
| | |
| +--------------+ |
| | Hardware | |
| | | |
| +--------------+ |
| |
+--------------------------+
```

The user processes interact with the system through system calls, which are functions provided
by the kernel. These system calls allow the user processes to request services from the kernel,
such as file operations, process management, and network communication.

The kernel, in turn, manages and controls the hardware resources, including the CPU, memory,
storage devices, and input/output devices. It ensures proper allocation and utilization of these
resources among the user processes. The kernel also provides mechanisms for process
scheduling, memory management, device drivers, and other essential functionalities of the
operating system.

(f) Linker and Text Editors:

Text Editors:
Text editors are software applications used for creating and modifying plain text files. They
provide a user-friendly interface for editing text and often include features like syntax
highlighting, search and replace, and code snippets. Examples of text editors include Notepad,
Sublime Text, and Visual Studio Code.

Linker:
A linker is a program that takes object files generated by a compiler and combines them
together to create an executable program or a library. It resolves references between different
modules and performs various operations, such as symbol resolution, relocation, and memory
allocation. The following diagram illustrates the role of a linker:

```
+------------------+
| Source Code |
+------------------+
| |
| +-------+ |
| | Compiler |
| +-------+ |
| | |
| +-------+ |
| | Object | +-------+
| | Files +---->| Linker |
| +-------+ | +-------+
| | |
| +-------+ |
| | Executable |
| | Program |
| +-------+ |
| |
+------------------+
```

The source code is first compiled by a compiler, which produces object files (.obj, .o) containing
machine code specific to each source file. The linker then takes these object files and combines
them, resolving references and generating a single executable program or a library.
Certainly! Here's the complete answer:

(g) Hub and Switches (Networking devices):

Hub:
A hub is a basic networking device that connects multiple devices in a local area network (LAN).
It operates at the physical layer (Layer 1) of the network and simply broadcasts incoming data
packets to all connected devices. Here's a simplified diagram illustrating how a hub functions:

```
+----------+ +----------+
| Device A | | Device B |
+----------+ +----------+
| |
| |
+-----------------------------+
| Hub |
+-----------------------------+
| |
| |
+----------+ +----------+
| Device C | | Device D |
+----------+ +----------+
```

When a device sends data to the hub, the hub broadcasts the data to all the connected devices,
regardless of the intended recipient. This means that all devices connected to the hub receive
the data, and it is up to the individual devices to determine if the data is meant for them.

Switch:
A switch is a more advanced networking device that operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of
the network. It keeps track of the MAC (Media Access Control) addresses of connected devices
and selectively forwards data packets based on the destination MAC address. Here's a
simplified diagram illustrating how a switch functions:

```
+----------+ +----------+
| Device A | | Device B |
+----------+ +----------+
| |
| |
+-----------------------------+
| Switch |
+-----------------------------+
 | |
| |
+----------+ +----------+
| Device C | | Device D |
+----------+ +----------+
```

When a device sends data to the switch, the switch analyzes the destination MAC address in
the data packet. It then uses its internal MAC address table to determine the port to which the
destination device is connected. The switch selectively forwards the data packet only to the
appropriate port, reducing network congestion and improving overall network performance.

Unlike a hub, a switch provides dedicated bandwidth to each connected device and allows
simultaneous data transmissions between multiple devices in the network.

It's important to note that modern networking devices often combine the functionalities of a hub
and a switch into a single device, known as a "switch with hub ports" or "switching hub." These
devices have a mix of switch ports and hub ports, providing flexibility for different connectivity
requirements.