4.7.2 The Stored Program Concept Quiz

What is the stored program concept?

• Machine code instructions stored in main memory are fetched and executed serially by a processor that performs arithmetic and logical operations.

• Machine code instructions are stored in a separate memory and executed in parallel by multiple processors.

• Machine code instructions are stored in the processor and executed randomly.

• Machine code instructions are stored in external storage and executed by an external device.

Answer explanation

The stored program concept means that machine code instructions are kept in main memory, allowing the processor to fetch and execute them serially, performing necessary arithmetic and logical operations.

Who were the two mathematician-scientists that independently proposed how to build a more flexible computer after World War II?

• Alan Turing and John Von Neumann

• Charles Babbage and Ada Lovelace

• Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein

• Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison

Answer explanation

Alan Turing and John Von Neumann independently proposed concepts for more flexible computing architectures after World War II, laying the groundwork for modern computer science.

What was the early computer called that took three weeks to re-wire in order to do a different calculation?

• ENIAC

• UNIVAC

• IBM 701

• Colossus

Answer explanation

The early computer ENIAC was known for its re-wiring process, which could take up to three weeks to switch between different calculations, highlighting its lack of programmability compared to modern computers.

What was the main idea behind the new computer architecture proposed by John Von Neumann?

• Data and program processing should be stored in the same memory

• Computers should be smaller and more portable

• Computers should use punch cards for input

• Computers should be operated manually

Answer explanation

The main idea of John Von Neumann's architecture is that both data and programs are stored in the same memory, allowing for more efficient processing and flexibility in computing. This concept is foundational to modern computer design.

What is the 'stored-program' architecture now commonly known as?

• Von Neumann architecture

• Harvard architecture

• Turing architecture

• Babbage architecture

Answer explanation

The 'stored-program' architecture is commonly known as the Von Neumann architecture. It describes a computer design where the program and data are stored in the same memory, allowing for more flexible processing.

What is Colossus regarded as?

• The world's first mechanical computer

• The world's first programmable, electronic, digital computer

• The world's first analog computer

• The world's first quantum computer

Answer explanation

Colossus is recognized as the world's first programmable, electronic, digital computer, designed during World War II to break encrypted messages, marking a significant advancement in computing technology.

How was Colossus programmed?

• By a stored program

• By punch cards

• By switches and plugs

• By magnetic tape

Answer explanation

Colossus was programmed using switches and plugs, allowing operators to configure the machine for specific tasks. This method was essential for its operation during World War II, distinguishing it from later stored program computers.

When did the Manchester Small-Scale Experimental Machine (SSEM) successfully execute its first program?

• June 21st, 1948

• July 21st, 1948

• June 21st, 1949

• July 21st, 1949

Answer explanation

The Manchester Small-Scale Experimental Machine (SSEM) successfully executed its first program on June 21st, 1948, marking a significant milestone in computing history.

Who wrote the first program for the Manchester Small-Scale Experimental Machine (SSEM)?

• Freddie Williams

• Alan Turing

• Tom Kilburn

• John von Neumann

Answer explanation

Tom Kilburn wrote the first program for the Manchester Small-Scale Experimental Machine (SSEM) in 1948. His work was crucial in demonstrating the capabilities of early computers.

What was the nickname given to the Manchester Small-Scale Experimental Machine (SSEM)?

• The Kid

• The Baby

• The Child

• The Infant

Answer explanation

The Manchester Small-Scale Experimental Machine (SSEM) was nicknamed 'The Baby' because it was one of the first computers and represented a small-scale version of larger machines, emphasizing its experimental nature.