CSC114 · TU past paper
Introduction to Information Technology 2077 question paper
The complete TU 2077 exam paper for Introduction to Information Technology (CSC114), all 12 questions with solved model answers written to the mark scheme.
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- 110 marksSystem SoftwareHideAnswer
Define computer software. Differentiate system software with application software. Explain different types system software in detail.[10]
--- Computer software is a set of programs, instructions, and data that tells the computer hardware what to do and how to do it. Software acts as an interface between the user and the computer hardware, enabling the hardware to perform s...
- 210 marksImportance of NetworkingHideAnswer
What are the benefits of using computer network? Explain different types of system software in detail. What is network topology?[10]
--- A computer network is a collection of interconnected computers and devices that can communicate and share resources with each other. The main benefits are: Benefit Description ------ Resource Sharing Hardware resources like printers,...
- 310 marksDatabase System ArchitecturesHideAnswer
What is database? What are benefits of using storing database system architectures in detail.[10]
Database and Database System Architectures
Part 1: What is a Database? (2 marks)
A database is an organized collection of related data that is stored and managed so that it can be easily accessed, retrieved, updated, and managed. It eliminates data redundancy and provides a structured way to store large amounts of information.
Data is information when dealing with a machine, and databases are used in domains such as banking, airlines, universities, telecom, and sales, all of which require organized, structured storage of large volumes of data.
A Database Management System (DBMS) is the software that manages and controls access to the database.
Part 2: Benefits of Using a Database System (3 marks)
The following are the key benefits of using a DBMS:
1. Data Security
- DBMS has an enhanced security mechanism.
- The Database Administrator (DBA) can define different security levels so that all users are not allowed to access all parts of the database.
- This protects sensitive data from unauthorized access.
2. Data Integrity
- Data integrity is easily maintained in a database, which is difficult to achieve in a traditional file system.
- Integrity constraints ensure that only valid and consistent data is stored.
3. Backup and Recovery
- DBMS maintains automatic backups of the data.
- After a failure has occurred, the system is recovered to a consistent state from the backup.
- This prevents data loss due to system crashes or failures.
4. Reduced Data Redundancy
- Unlike file systems where the same data may be stored in multiple files, a DBMS stores data in a centralized manner, reducing duplication.
5. Easy Data Access and Sharing
- Multiple users can access the same database simultaneously.
- Data can be shared across departments and applications efficiently.
Part 3: Database System Architectures (5 marks)
The following are the main types of database system architectures:
1. Centralized Database System
Definition: A centralized database system is a system which stores the entire information as well as the whole database in one main server, and all other computers access the data from that server computer.
Key Features:
- Works on a client-server model.
- There is one central computer called the database server that stores all data and files.
- The server is responsible for processing the data.
- All client machines in the network access data from this single server.
Diagram:
[Client 1] \ [Client 2] ----> [Central Database Server] [Client 3] /Examples:
- Database systems used by schools, colleges, and banks are centralized database systems.
Advantages:
- Easy to manage and maintain since all data is in one place.
- Strong data security and access control.
- Data consistency is easy to maintain.
Disadvantages:
- If the central server fails, the entire system goes down (single point of failure).
- Performance may degrade as the number of clients increases.
2. Distributed Database System
Definition: A distributed database system stores data across multiple physical locations (different computers or sites), but appears to the user as a single unified database.
Key Features:
- Data is distributed across multiple nodes/sites.
- Nodes are connected via a network.
- Each site can process local queries independently.
Types:
- Homogeneous: All sites use the same DBMS software.
- Heterogeneous: Different sites may use different DBMS software.
Advantages:
- No single point of failure -- system continues even if one node fails.
- Faster local data access.
- Scalable and reliable.
Disadvantages:
- Complex to design and manage.
- Data synchronization across nodes is challenging.
3. Client-Server Architecture
Definition: In a client-server architecture, the database server provides database services and the client machines request those services.
Key Features:
- The server handles data storage, processing, and security.
- Clients send requests (queries) to the server and receive results.
- This is the underlying model on which the centralized database system is built.
[Client: Sends Query] <-----> [Server: Processes & Returns Result]Advantages:
- Centralized control of data.
- Clients do not need to store data locally.
- Easy to update and maintain data at the server level.
4. Cloud Database System
Definition: A cloud database is a database that runs on a cloud computing platform and is accessed over the internet.
Key Features:
- Data is stored on remote servers managed by cloud providers (e.g., AWS, Google Cloud).
- Users access the database via the internet.
- Highly scalable and available on demand.
Advantages:
- No need for physical hardware maintenance.
- Accessible from anywhere.
- Cost-effective (pay-as-you-use model).
Summary Table
Architecture Data Location Access Method Example Use Centralized Single server Network/LAN Banks, Schools Distributed Multiple sites Network Large enterprises Client-Server Server Client requests Web applications Cloud Remote servers Internet Online services
Conclusion
A database is a fundamental component of modern information systems. The choice of database system architecture depends on the scale, security requirements, and availability needs of the organization. Centralized database systems are widely used in schools, colleges, and banks due to their simplicity and ease of management.
- 45 marksCharacteristics of ComputerHideAnswer
What are different characteristics of a computer? Differentiate digital computer with analog computer. [5]
Characteristics of a Computer and Difference Between Digital and Analog Computer
Part 1: Characteristics of a Computer
Based on the curriculum notes, the key characteristics of a computer are:
1. Speed
A computer can process data very fast. Some calculations that would have taken hours and days to complete can be finished in just a few seconds using a computer.
2. Size and Cost
The size of a computer is portable, making it convenient to use. Over time, computers have become smaller and more affordable.
3. Accuracy
Computers perform calculations and operations with a very high degree of accuracy. Errors occur only due to incorrect input or programming, not due to the machine itself.
4. Storage
Computers can store large amounts of data and retrieve it quickly when needed.
5. Automation
Once a program is loaded, a computer can perform tasks automatically without human intervention at every step.
6. Diligence
Unlike humans, a computer does not get tired or lose concentration. It can perform repetitive tasks consistently without any drop in performance.
Part 2: Difference Between Digital Computer and Analog Computer
Basis Digital Computer Analog Computer Definition A computer that processes information using digits, usually the binary number system. A computer that uses continuously changeable aspects of physical phenomena such as electrical, mechanical, etc. Data Representation Represents data in discrete form (0s and 1s). Represents data in continuous form (voltage, current, etc.). Accuracy Highly accurate and precise. Less accurate compared to digital computers. Output Output is in the form of digits or numbers (discrete). Output is in the form of graphs or continuous signals. Speed Generally faster for general-purpose tasks. Slower for complex computations. Examples IBM PC, Apple Macintosh Planimeter, Nomogram Usage Used for general-purpose computing, business, education, etc. Used in scientific and engineering measurements. Storage Can store large amounts of data. Has limited or no data storage capability.
Summary: Digital computers work on binary digits and are used for general-purpose tasks, while analog computers work on continuous physical quantities and are mainly used in scientific measurements. Today, digital computers are far more widely used due to their accuracy, speed, and versatility.
- 55 marksPrimary MemoryHideAnswer
What is primary memory? Compare primary memory with secondary memory. [5]
Primary memory (also called main memory or internal memory) is the memory that is directly accessible by the CPU and holds the data and instructions that are currently being processed. It is a volatile memory, meaning its contents are lo...
- 65 marksMemory HierarchyHideAnswer
Define memory hierarchy. Explain different types of ROM in detail. [5]
--- Memory hierarchy is the arrangement of different types of computer memory in a layered structure based on their speed, cost, and storage capacity. As we move up the hierarchy, memory becomes faster and more expensive but has smaller ...
- 75 marksInput DevicesHideAnswer
Explain any two input devices in detail. [5]
An input device is hardware that allows a user to enter data, instructions, or commands into a computer for processing. Input devices are mainly of two kinds: - Human data entry devices (keyboard, mouse, joystick, light pen, touch screen...
- 85 marksNumericalConversion of Binary, Octal, Hexadecimal tHideAnswer
Convert (110101.101) binary to decimal. [5]
- Binary number: $110101.101$ - Integer part: $110101$ - Fractional part: $101$ Assign powers of 2 by position (integer part starts at $2^0$ going left; fractional part starts at $2^{-1}$ going right). Digit 1 1 0 1 0 1 . 1 0 1 ---------...
- 95 marksInternet AddressHideAnswer
Define IP address. Why do we need this address? Compare IPv4 address with IPv6 address. [5]
--- An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique numerical label assigned to every device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. It serves as the logical address of a device on a network, enab...
- 105 marksElements of MultimediaHideAnswer
What are different elements of multimedia? Explain. [5]
Multimedia is a combination of different forms of content used to communicate information. The main elements of multimedia are described below: --- Text is the most basic and fundamental element of multimedia. It is used to convey inform...
- 115 marksSecurity MechanismsHideAnswer
What is cryptography? How does cryptography provide security to our data? [5]
Cryptography is the art of protecting information by transforming it (encrypting it) into an unreadable format called cipher text. Only those who possess a secret key can decrypt the message back into readable plain text. In simple terms...
- 125 marksCentral Processing UnitHideAnswer
Write short notes on: a). Central Processing Unit b). IOT [5]
--- The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the processing unit of a computer. It is often called the brain of the computer because it controls and coordinates all operations of the computer system. 1. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) - Performs...