Question 1

Question 1Briefly explain the basic architecture of a computer.

Accepted Answer

A computer system comprises of five basic components:Input Unit — An input unit takes the input and converts it into binary form so that it can be understood by the computer. For example, keyboard, mouse etc.Output Unit — It converts the output in binary form to human readable form. For example, monitor, speakers etc.Central Processing Unit (CPU) — It is responsible for processing the data and instructions. It consists of two parts:Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU) — It performs all the four arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) and some logical operations (less than, greater than, less than equal to, greater than equal to, equal to, not equal to).Control Unit (CU) — It acts as a supervisor by controlling	and	guiding the operation taking place.Primary Memory — It is the internal volatile­ memory where data and instructions are stored during processing. It is of two types: Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read Only Memory (ROM).Secondary Storage Unit — It refers to the external storage devices which provide permanent memory to the computer system. For example, hard disk, compact disk, flash drive etc.

Question 2

Question 2What do you understand by input unit? What is its significance ? What does computer input consist of?

Accepted Answer

An input unit takes the input and converts it into binary form so that it can be understood by the computer.Since a computer operates on electricity, it can understand only the language of electricity i.e., either ON or OFF or High/Low voltage or the binary language that uses just two symbols: 1 for ON and 0 for OFF. It cannot understand the the data and instructions if they are not in binary language. Thus, input unit takes data and instructions from the user and converts them into binary form so that the computer can understand them.Different input devices take input in different forms and pass them in digital form to CPU for processing. Computer inputs may consist of:letters, digits, commands from the keyboard.movement of pointer using a mouse or pointing device.sound input from a microphone.

Question 3

Question 4What functions are performed by the control unit ? Can we call it the control centre of computer system ? Why ?

Accepted Answer

Control Unit is responsible for controlling and supervising the processing. It performs the following functions:It controls and guides the interpretation, flow and manipulation of all data and information.It sends control signals until the required operations are done properly by ALU and memory.It fetches the program instructions from the memory unit one by one. The instructions are decoded and executed one after the other.After an instruction is executed, it sends a signal to memory to send the next instruction in sequence to CU.It controls the flow of data from input devices to memory and from memory to output devices.Yes, we can call control unit the control centre of computer system because it acts as a supervisor by controlling and	guiding all the other components of the computer system as well as the operations taking place.

Question 4

Question 10What is the meaning of the term volatile primary memory ? What can be done to overcome the problems of volatility ?

Accepted Answer

Volatile primary memory means that when the power goes off, the contents of the primary memory get erased.Since computer's primary memory is volatile or temporary, secondary memory space is used to store data and information permanently for later use. Secondary storage media are the hard disk, CD-RWs, pen drive etc.

Question 5

Question 11Distinguish between internal and external memory.

Accepted Answer

Internal memoryExternal memoryInternal memory is also known as primary storage or main memory.External memory is also known as secondary storage.It is volatile in nature in case of RAM but ROM is non-volatile.It is non-volatile in nature.It is used to store data temporarily (in case of RAM).It is used to store data permanently.Internal memory is a working memory.External memory is not a working memory.Examples are RAM and ROM.Examples are hard disk, CD, DVD, flash drive etc.

Question 6

Question 12What is the role of memory in a computer functioning ? What types of memory does the computer work with?

Accepted Answer

The memory of a computer is more like a predefined working place, where it temporarily keeps information and data to facilitate its performance. When the task is performed, it clears its memory and memory space is then available for the next task to be performed.The computer works with two types of main memory:Random Access MemoryRead Only MemorySince the main memory is volatile, the computer also uses secondary memory to store data permanently.

Question 7

Question 13What are RAM and ROM ? How are they alike ? How are they different ? What are EEPROM, PROM and EPROM?

Accepted Answer

RAM refers to Random Access Memory where both read and write operations can take place. But the RAM is a volatile memory and its contents are lost when power is turned off.ROM refers to Read Only Memory where only read operation can take place. It does not have a write capability. ROM is a non-volatile memory.RAM and ROM are the main memory of a computer and both of them are required for the smooth functioning of a computer system.The RAM provides memory for reading as well writing and its contents can be modified as and when required. ROM, on the other hand, stores some instructions which are permanent. ROM cannot be written onto. One can only read instructions from ROM.EEPROM refers to electrically erasable programmable ROM. In EEPROM, the EPROM is erased electrically which is faster. Also, with EEPROM, selective bytes can be erased unlike UV-EPROM which erases fully.PROM refers to programmable ROM. It is a user-programmable memory in which information is burnt using special equipment called a ROM burner. It can be programmed only once.EPROM refers to erasable programmable ROM. In EPROM, one can program the memory chip through various mechanisms (e.g., UV radiation) and erase it as many times as needed. The UV-EPROM can take up to 20 minutes for erasing EPROM contents.

Question 8

Question 14What is cache memory ? How is it useful ?

Accepted Answer

The cache memory is a high speed memory available inside CPU in order to speed up access to data and instructions stored in RAM memory. Whenever some data is required, the CPU first looks in the cache, if it is there or not. If the data is found in cache, CPU does not access memory and hence the process becomes very fast.Memory caching is effective because most programs access the same data or instructions over and over. By keeping as much of this information as possible in cache memory (SRAM), the computer avoids accessing the slower main memory (DRAM). Hence, cache memory is useful for improving the performance of the computer.

Question 9

Question 15What are major functional components of a mobile system ?

Accepted Answer

The major functional components of a mobile system are as follows:Mobile Processor (Mobile CPU) — This is the brain of a smartphone. It has two sub-processor types:Communications Processing Unit — responsible for making and receiving phone calls.Applications Processing Unit (APU) — responsible for governing, controlling all types of operations taking place on a mobile system by running various apps.Display Subsystem — responsible for providing display facilities, touch sensitive interface and touch sensitive keyboards.Camera Subsystem — designed to deliver a tightly bound image processing package.Mobile System Memory — consists of RAM (work memory) and ROM (mobile's internal storage).Storage — external storage of a mobile system.Power Management Subsystem (Battery) — responsible for providing power to a mobile system.

Question 10

Question 16Draw a block diagram depicting organization of a mobile system.

Accepted Answer

Block diagram depicting mobile system organization is shown below:

Question 11

Question 17What is the role of power management unit in a mobile system ?

Accepted Answer

The Power Management Subsystem is responsible for providing power to a mobile system. The mobile systems work on limited power provided through an attached battery unit. This subsystem has a battery management system that works with a battery charger and a battery unit, and provides power to the mobile system in required form.

Question 12

Question 18What does the communication processor do ?

Accepted Answer

Communication processor of a mobile system is responsible for making and receiving phone calls on a mobile handset. It has a digital signal processor that helps it work with RF Transceiver and the Audio subsystem. Radio Signal Management Unit is responsible for connecting SIM to the base stations through radio signals.

Question 13

Question 19What is the role of application processing unit in a mobile system ?

Accepted Answer

Applications Processing Unit (APU) is responsible for governing and controlling all types of operations taking place on a mobile system by running various types of mobile applications (apps).

Source: This question is from Computer System Overview, Computer Science &mdash; Class 11, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Computer System Overview: Question, Application, Processing, Unit, Mobile, System. These are fundamental topics in Computer Science that students are expected to master as part of the CBSE Class 11 curriculum.A thorough understanding of these concepts will help you answer similar questions confidently in your CBSE examinations. These topics are frequently tested in both objective and subjective sections of Computer Science papers. We recommend revising the relevant section of your textbook alongside practising these solved examples to build a strong foundation.
How to Approach This QuestionRead the question carefully and identify what is being asked. Break down complex questions into smaller parts. Use the terminology and concepts discussed in this chapter. Structure your answer logically — begin with a definition or key statement, then provide supporting details. Review your answer to ensure it addresses all parts of the question completely.
Key Points to RememberWrite programs with proper indentation and comments.
Trace through your code with sample inputs to verify correctness.
Explain the logic behind each step of your solution.
Familiarise yourself with common library functions and methods.
Related Questions from Computer System OverviewQ1: Question 1 Briefly explain the basic architecture of a computer.
Q10: Question 9 What is the role of cache memory ?
Q12: Question 12 In a computer, CU stands for control unit cache unit calculating unit communication unit
Q13: Question 13 Arithmetic and logic unit along with control unit of a computer, combined into a single...
Q14: Question 10 What is the meaning of the term volatile primary memory ? What can be done to overcome...
Practice more questions from Computer System Overview &mdash; Computer Science, Class 11 CBSE

Question 14

Question 20How does display subsystem of a mobile system work ?

Accepted Answer

Display subsystem is responsible for providing display facilities, touch sensitive interface and touch sensitive keyboards.

Source: This question is from Computer System Overview, Computer Science &mdash; Class 11, CBSE Board.
Key Concepts CoveredThis question tests your understanding of the following concepts from the chapter Computer System Overview: Question, Display, Subsystem, Mobile, System, Work. These are fundamental topics in Computer Science that students are expected to master as part of the CBSE Class 11 curriculum.A thorough understanding of these concepts will help you answer similar questions confidently in your CBSE examinations. These topics are frequently tested in both objective and subjective sections of Computer Science papers. We recommend revising the relevant section of your textbook alongside practising these solved examples to build a strong foundation.
How to Approach This QuestionRead the question carefully and identify what is being asked. Break down complex questions into smaller parts. Use the terminology and concepts discussed in this chapter. Structure your answer logically — begin with a definition or key statement, then provide supporting details. Review your answer to ensure it addresses all parts of the question completely.
Key Points to RememberWrite programs with proper indentation and comments.
Trace through your code with sample inputs to verify correctness.
Explain the logic behind each step of your solution.
Familiarise yourself with common library functions and methods.
Related Questions from Computer System OverviewQ1: Question 1 Briefly explain the basic architecture of a computer.
Q10: Question 9 What is the role of cache memory ?
Q12: Question 12 In a computer, CU stands for control unit cache unit calculating unit communication unit
Q13: Question 13 Arithmetic and logic unit along with control unit of a computer, combined into a single...
Q14: Question 10 What is the meaning of the term volatile primary memory ? What can be done to overcome...
Practice more questions from Computer System Overview &mdash; Computer Science, Class 11 CBSE

Question 15

Question 21What are different categories of software ? Give examples.

Accepted Answer

There are broadly two categories of software:System Software — This type of software controls internal computer operations. The system software can further be classified in two categories:Operating System — An operating system is a program which acts as an interface between a user and the hardware. For example, Microsoft Windows 10, Linux OS.Language Processor — This program is responsible for converting an HLL code (High Level Language code) into machine understandable code. For example, interpreter and compiler.Application Software — An application software is the set of programs necessary to carry out operations for a specified application. For example, Microsoft Word, Adobe Photoshop, etc.

Question 16

Question 22What is system software ? What role does it play in the functioning of the computer ?

Accepted Answer

The software that controls internal computer operations such as reading data from input devices, transmitting processed information to the output devices, checking system components, converting data/instructions to computer understandable form etc., is called System Software.The system software can further be classified into two categories:Operating System —	It is a program which acts as an interface between a user and the hardware. For example, Microsoft Windows 10.Language Processor — It is a special type of a computer software that can translate the source code into an object code or machine code. For example, interpreter and compiler.

Question 17

Question 23Discuss the role of utility software in the context of computer performance.

Accepted Answer

Utilities are those application programs that assist the computer by performing housekeeping functions like backing up disk or scanning / cleaning viruses or arranging information etc.Utilities bridge the gaps by helping to solve the problems and maximize our computer's potential. Some important utilities are as follows:Text Editor — This utility program is used for creating, editing text files.Backup Utility — This utility program facilitates the backing-up of disk so that in case of any damage or data-loss, this backed up data may be used.Compression Utility — This utility program facilitates compression of files. Large files can be compressed so that they take less storage area.Disk Defragmentor — This program speeds up disk access by rearranging the files and free space on our computer, so that files are stored in contiguous units and free space is consolidated in one contiguous block.Antivirus Software — This utility program ensures virus-free work environment. It scans our disk for viruses and removes them, if any virus is found. Moreover, some antivirus software remains present in memory all the time so that they can detect the viruses and counterattack them.

Question 18

Question 24What is the importance of an OS ?

Accepted Answer

An Operating System is a program which acts as an interface between a user and the hardware. For example, Microsoft Windows 10, Linux etc.The primary goal of an operating system is to make the computer system convenient to use and secondary goal is to use computer hardware in an efficient manner. It performs the following functions:It controls all other components of the computer system.It coordinates the use of the hardware among the various application programs for the various users.It manages the CPU time.It manages the main memory of the computer.It executes all the programs.

Question 19

Question 25How are software libraries useful ? Name some software libraries of Python.

Accepted Answer

Software libraries provide pre-written and tested code for a specific set of functions or features that can be included in a software program, saving programmers time and effort. By utilizing existing libraries, programmers can avoid having to write complex code from scratch and can benefit from the experience and knowledge of other developers who have contributed to the library. This results in more efficient coding, faster development, and more reliable software.Some software libraries of Python are as follows:NumPy (Numerical Python)SciPy (Scientific Python)Panda Library

Question 20

Question 26How is system software different from application software ?

Accepted Answer

System SoftwareApplication SoftwareIt is designed to control the operations of a computer system.It is designed to carry out specific tasks such as creating documents etc.These programs help in the running of other softwares.These programs allow a computer to perform useful tasks beyond the running of the system itself.For example - Windows 10For example - MS Word

Computer System Overview

Assignment Questions

Checkpoint 1.1

Checkpoint 1.2

Checkpoint 1.3

Multiple Choice Questions