Computer Fundamentals and Engineering Concepts

What is the primary function of a computer?

• To display visual information on a screen.

• To perform mathematical calculations using electronic circuitry.

• To store large amounts of data permanently.

• To connect to the internet and communicate with other devices.

Which two core physical parts are virtually all computers equipped with?

• Keyboard and Mouse

• Printers and Sensors

• Memory and CPU

• Screen and Speakers

What is the main difference between computer hardware and software?

• Hardware is used for input, while software is used for output.

• Hardware refers to the physical components, while software refers to the programs a computer runs.

• Hardware can be easily changed, while software needs physical replacement.

• Hardware performs calculations, while software stores information.

What does Moore's Law describe in the context of computer engineering?

• The increasing speed of internet connections over time.

• The doubling of the number of transistors on a computer chip approximately every two years.

• The limit to how small electronic components can become.

• The process of converting analog signals to digital signals.

What is the primary goal of using nanotechnology in the development of new transistors?

• To make transistors operate on a single electron.

• To increase the physical size of transistors for better stability.

• To reduce the number of circuits on a chip.

• To prevent current from hopping between circuits.

What is a significant environmental and economic concern related to the increasing processing power and memory in modern computers?

• The difficulty of manufacturing smaller components.

• The rising demand for energy to power them.

• The increased risk of software bugs and glitches.

• The need for more complex cooling systems.

How can engineers improve the energy efficiency of computers through software design?

• By increasing the voltage supplied to transistors.

• By developing algorithms that require fewer calculations.

• By using more complex programming languages.

• By storing more data in each bit.

Which of the following best describes the benefit of using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) in engineering?

• It allows for the physical manufacturing of components directly from digital models.

• It helps engineers simulate designs and test elements before physical production.

• It automates the measurement and adjustment of industrial devices.

• It enables the creation of custom golf putters.