Computer Overview & Components
Complete Notes + Previous Exam MCQs for KVS / NET / GATE / DSSSB / NVS
Introduction to Computer
A computer is an electronic programmable device that accepts input, processes data, stores information, and produces output.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Speed | Performs millions of operations per second |
| Accuracy | Produces precise results |
| Storage | Stores huge amount of data |
| Automation | Works automatically after instruction |
| Versatility | Can perform different types of tasks |
Components of Computer
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| CPU | Processes instructions and controls operations |
| ALU | Performs arithmetic and logical operations |
| Control Unit | Controls execution of instructions |
| Memory Unit | Stores data and instructions |
| Input Devices | Used to enter data |
| Output Devices | Used to display output |
Memory Types
| Memory | Type | Feature |
|---|---|---|
| RAM | Volatile | Temporary memory |
| ROM | Non-Volatile | Permanent memory |
| Cache | High Speed | Between CPU and RAM |
| Register | Fastest | Located inside CPU |
Input and Output Devices
| Device | Use |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | Text Input |
| Mouse | Pointing Device |
| Scanner | Image Input |
| MICR | Cheque Processing |
| OMR | Mark Recognition |
| Printer | Hard Copy Output |
| Monitor | Soft Copy Output |
Computer Generations
| Generation | Technology |
|---|---|
| First Generation | Vacuum Tubes |
| Second Generation | Transistors |
| Third Generation | Integrated Circuits |
| Fourth Generation | Microprocessors |
| Fifth Generation | Artificial Intelligence |
Expected Question Level
| Exam | Difficulty |
|---|---|
| KVS Computer Teacher | Medium-Hard |
| NET Computer Science | Hard |
| GATE CS | Conceptual + Numerical |
| DSSSB/NVS | Medium |
Previous Exam Based MCQs
1. Which memory is fastest?
A. RAM
B. ROM
C. Cache
D. Register
Answer: D. Register
2. Which memory requires refreshing periodically?
A. SRAM
B. DRAM
C. ROM
D. Cache
Answer: B. DRAM
3. MICR technology is mainly used in:
A. Banking
B. Railway
C. Networking
D. Printing
Answer: A. Banking
4. Cache memory is placed between:
A. RAM and ROM
B. CPU and RAM
C. HDD and RAM
D. ALU and CU
Answer: B. CPU and RAM
5. Which generation used transistors?
A. First
B. Second
C. Third
D. Fourth
Answer: B. Second
6. BIOS stands for:
A. Binary Input Output System
B. Basic Input Output System
C. Basic Integrated Operating System
D. Binary Integrated Operating Structure
Answer: B. Basic Input Output System
7. Which device converts hard copy into soft copy?
A. Printer
B. Plotter
C. Scanner
D. Speaker
Answer: C. Scanner
8. Which memory is non-volatile?
A. RAM
B. Cache
C. Register
D. ROM
Answer: D. ROM
9. Which component is known as the brain of computer?
A. RAM
B. ROM
C. CPU
D. HDD
Answer: C. CPU
10. Which printer is non-impact printer?
A. Dot Matrix
B. Daisy Wheel
C. Laser Printer
D. Drum Printer
Answer: C. Laser Printer
High Weightage Topics
- Memory Hierarchy
- CPU Architecture
- RAM vs ROM
- Registers
- Cache Memory
- Booting Process
- Input Output Devices
- Computer Generations
- BIOS and POST