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Users want to know whether the BIOS is still required in a computer system today - NSC Information Technology - Question 2 - 2016 - Paper 2
Question 2
Users want to know whether the BIOS is still required in a computer system today. Motivate the need for the BIOS by stating TWO important tasks it performs. How doe... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Users want to know whether the BIOS is still required in a computer system today - NSC Information Technology - Question 2 - 2016 - Paper 2
Step 1
Motivate the need for the BIOS by stating TWO important tasks it performs.
Answer
The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is still a crucial component in modern computer systems. Its two essential tasks are:
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Power-On Self Test (POST): The BIOS checks the system hardware components to ensure that everything is functioning correctly before the operating system loads.
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Booting the Operating System: The BIOS locates and loads the operating system into memory, initializing the system's hardware at the lowest level.
Step 2
How does the use of virtual memory prevent the problem of the operating system running out of memory when executing programs?
Answer
Virtual memory acts as an extension of a computer's physical memory by utilizing disk space. When the RAM is full, the operating system transfers inactive data from RAM into virtual memory, allowing the active programs to run without interruptions. This mechanism ensures that the system does not run out of memory while executing multiple tasks.
Step 3
How does EACH of the following contribute to improving the performance of the CPU: 1. Cache memory 2. Hyperthreading 3. Dedicated video/graphics cards
Answer
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Cache Memory: This is a small-sized type of volatile computer memory that provides high-speed data access to the CPU. It stores frequently accessed data and instructions, reducing the time the CPU needs to fetch data from the slower main RAM, which enhances overall performance.
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Hyperthreading: This technology allows a single CPU core to handle multiple threads simultaneously, improving parallelization and ensuring that the processor is used more efficiently. This enables better performance in multitasking scenarios.
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Dedicated Video/Graphics Cards: These cards contain their own GPU and memory, allowing them to handle graphics rendering tasks independently of the CPU. By offloading these tasks, they help the CPU focus on other computations, thereby increasing the system's overall processing capability.
Step 4
Give TWO possible reasons for this AND explain how to solve this problem.
Answer
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Insufficient RAM: Over time, as more applications and processes run, the system may not have enough RAM, leading to performance degradation.
- Solution: Upgrade the RAM to meet the demands of the applications being used.
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Fragmented Hard Drive: As files are saved and deleted, the storage can become fragmented, leading to slower read/write speeds.
- Solution: Regularly defragment the hard drive to ensure files are stored in contiguous sections, improving access times.
Step 5
Briefly explain what plug-and-play compliance means.
Answer
Plug-and-play compliance refers to the capability of a device to be automatically recognized and configured by the operating system upon connection without requiring user intervention. This feature streamlines device installation, enhancing user experience.
Step 6
Briefly explain the concept of mirroring used in RAID technology.
Answer
RAID mirroring, also known as RAID 1, involves duplicating the same data on two or more hard disks. This redundancy ensures that if one disk fails, the data remains accessible from the other disk, thus improving data reliability.
Step 7
State TWO techniques that have been introduced to improve the reliability of hard disks as storage devices.
Answer
- Error-Correcting Codes (ECC): This technique detects and corrects data corruption to ensure reliability in data storage.
- SMART (Self-Monitoring, Analysis, and Reporting Technology): This system monitors the health of the disk and predicts potential failures by analyzing various internal metrics.
Step 8
State TWO advantages of using network-attached storage devices to backup data on-site.
Answer
- Accessibility: NAS devices can be accessed by multiple users on a network, making it easy to share and retrieve data.
- Centralized Management: They offer a single location for data storage, allowing for easier backup management and data organization.
Step 9
Motivate the use of SaaS at a school.
Answer
SaaS (Software as a Service) provides several advantages for schools, such as:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Schools can save on hardware and software maintenance costs as SaaS solutions typically operate on a subscription model.
- Scalability and Accessibility: SaaS applications can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, promoting remote learning and scalability as the school expands its needs.