Computer System Quiz

What is the primary role of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) in a computer system?

• To store data permanently

• To control the computer system

• To provide power to the computer

• To connect to the internet

Answer explanation

The primary role of the CPU is to control the computer system by executing instructions and managing operations. It processes data and coordinates tasks, making it essential for overall system functionality.

Which components are typically part of a general-purpose computer system?

• Input, output, processor, primary and secondary storage

• Monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer

• CPU, GPU, RAM, SSD

• Operating system, software, hardware

Answer explanation

The correct choice includes essential components of a general-purpose computer system: input devices (like keyboard), output devices (like monitor), the processor (CPU), and both primary (RAM) and secondary storage (SSD).

Where does the CPU send the results after processing data or instructions?

• To the internet

• To an input device

• To an output device or secondary storage

• To the power supply

Answer explanation

The CPU processes data and sends the results to an output device (like a monitor or printer) or to secondary storage (like a hard drive), where they can be accessed later.

What is the first step in the Fetch Decode Execute Cycle?

• Execute - instruction or data is executed

• Decode - instruction or data decoded in the Control Unit

• Fetch - data or instructions fetched from main memory

• Store - data is stored in memory

Answer explanation

The first step in the Fetch Decode Execute Cycle is 'Fetch', where data or instructions are retrieved from main memory. This is essential before decoding and executing any instructions.

What happens to the Program Counter (PC) during the Fetch Decode Execute Cycle?

• It is decremented by 1

• It is reset to zero

• It is incremented by 1

• It is multiplied by 2

Answer explanation

During the Fetch Decode Execute Cycle, the Program Counter (PC) is incremented by 1 to point to the next instruction in memory, ensuring the CPU processes instructions sequentially.

Where is the memory address held in the Program Counter (PC) copied to?

• Memory Data Register (MDR)

• Current Instruction Register (CIR)

• Memory Address Register (MAR)

• Control Unit

Answer explanation

The memory address in the Program Counter (PC) is copied to the Memory Address Register (MAR) to access the corresponding data in memory. This is a crucial step in the instruction fetch cycle.

What is the role of the Control Unit in the Fetch Decode Execute Cycle?

• It stores data permanently

• It decodes the instruction or data

• It performs arithmetic operations

• It sends data to the printer

Answer explanation

The Control Unit decodes the instruction or data during the Fetch Decode Execute Cycle, directing the processor on how to execute the instruction. This makes 'It decodes the instruction or data' the correct choice.

Which component of the CPU is responsible for decoding instructions and sending control signals?

• Arithmetic Logic Unit

• Control Unit

• Cache

• Memory Unit

Answer explanation

The Control Unit is responsible for decoding instructions and sending control signals to other components of the CPU, coordinating the execution of instructions. This makes it the correct choice for the question.

What is the primary function of the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) in a CPU?

• Storing data temporarily

• Performing mathematical operations

• Sending control signals

• Managing input/output operations

Answer explanation

The primary function of the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) in a CPU is performing mathematical operations. It executes arithmetic and logical calculations, making it essential for processing data.

What does the cache in a CPU do?

• Decodes instructions

• Performs logical operations

• Temporarily holds instructions or data

• Manages network connections

Answer explanation

The cache in a CPU temporarily holds instructions or data to speed up processing. It stores frequently accessed information, reducing the time needed to fetch data from the main memory, which enhances overall performance.