Guess Paper (Solved)

Paper-I
“Theory of Computer Science”

Compiled by:
Farhan Rahmat
Table of Contents

1.1 Data representation ...................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1.1 Binary systems ........................................................................................................................................ 1
1.1.2 Hexadecimal ........................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1.3 Data storage ......................................................................................................................................... 11
1.2 Communication and Internet technologies................................................................................................. 12
1.2.1 Serial and parallel data transmission ................................................................................................... 12
1.2.2 Security aspects .................................................................................................................................... 12
1.2.3 Internet principles of operation ........................................................................................................... 12
1.3 Hardware and software ............................................................................................................................... 38
1.3.1 Logic gates ............................................................................................................................................ 38
1.3.2 Computer architecture and the fetch execute cycle ............................................................................ 52
1.3.3 Input devices ........................................................................................................................................ 53
1.3.4 Output devices ..................................................................................................................................... 53
1.3.5 Memory, storage devices and media ................................................................................................... 53
1.3.6 Operating systems ................................................................................................................................ 80
1.3.7 High- and low-level languages and their translators ............................................................................ 84
1.5 Ethics ........................................................................................................................................................... 85

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1.1 Data representation
1.1.1 Binary systems
1.1.2 Hexadecimal
1. Express the denary value 109 as
(i) a binary number using an 8-bit byte;
(iii) a hexadecimal number.

128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
Is Is Is Is Is Is Is Is
109>=128? 109>=64? 45>=32? 13>=16? 13>=8? 5>=4? 1>=2? 1>=1?
N Y Y N Y Y N Y
0 1 1 0 1 1 0 1
=109-64 =45-32 =13-8 =5-4 =1-1
=45 =13 =5 =1 =0
=(01101101)2

(iii) a hexadecimal number.

Is 109<256?Y
=109÷16
=6 remainder 13
=(6D)16 (Note: A=10,B=11,C=12,D=13,E=14,F=15)

2. Express the denary number 78 as

(i) a binary number stored in an 8 bit byte,
(ii) a hexadecimal number,
(i) a binary number stored in an 8 bit byte,

128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
Is Is Is Is Is Is Is
78>=128?N 78>=64?Y 14>=32?N 14>=16?N 14>=8?Y 6>=4?Y 2>=2?N
0 1 0 0 1 1 1 0
=78-64 =14-8 =6-4 =2-2
=14 =6 =2 =0
=(01001110)2

(ii) a hexadecimal number,

Is 78<255?Y
=78÷16
=4 remainder 14
=(4E)16 (Note: A=10,B=11,C=12,D=13,E=14,F=15)

3. 01011101 and 11010010 are two numbers stored in the computer.

(i) Write down the decimal equivalent of 11010010.
(ii) 1
2
8 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
0 1 0 1 1 1 0 1
0x128 1x64 0x32 1x16 1x8 1x4 0x2 1x1
0 64 0 16 8 4 0 1

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 =64+16+8+4+1
=(93)10

4. Convert the following binary numbers into decimal number & hexadecimal
number:
(i) (00001100)2
(ii) (01011001)2
(iii) (00000111)2

128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0
0x128 0x64 0x32 0x16 1x8 1x4 0x2 0x1
0 0 0 0 8 4 0 0
=8+4
=(12)10

8 4 2 1 8 4 2 1
0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0
0x8 0x4 0x2 0x1 1x8 1x4 0x2 0x1
0 0 0 0 8 4 0 0
=0 =8+4
=0 =12
=0 =C
=C
=(C)16

(01011001)2

128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1
0x128 1x64 0x32 1x16 1x8 0x4 0x2 1x1
0 64 0 16 8 0 0 1
=64+16+8+1
=(89)10
8 4 2 1 8 4 2 1
0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1
0x8 1x4 0x2 1x1 1x8 0x4 0x2 1x1
0 4 0 1 8 0 0 1
=4+1 =8+1
=5 =9
=59
=(59)16

(00000111)2

128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1
0x128 0x64 0x32 0x16 0x8 1x4 1x2 1x1
0 0 0 0 0 4 2 1
=4+2+1
=(7)10

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 8 4 2 1 8 4 2 1
0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1
0x8 0x4 0x2 0x1 0x8 1x4 1x2 1x1
0 0 0 0 0 4 2 1
=0 =4+2+1
=0 =7
=7
=(7)16

5. Is there a short cut to working out a binary number that is made of solid ones,
such as: (01111111)2?

127 (=128-1)
128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
0x128 1x64 1x32 1x16 1x8 1x4 1x2 1x1
0 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
=64+32+16+8+4+2+1
=(127)10

63(=63-1)
128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1
0x128 0x64 1x32 1x16 1x8 1x4 1x2 1x1
0 0 32 16 8 4 2 1
=32+16+8+4+2+1
=(63)10

31 (=32-1)
128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1
0x128 0x64 0x32 1x16 1x8 1x4 1x2 1x1
0 0 0 16 8 4 2 1
=16+8+4+2+1
=(31)10

6. Convert the following Hexadecimal numbers into denary system and binary
system:
(i) A1
(ii) 37
(iii) FF
(iv) 0D
(v) ABC

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 1. A1
Binary:
A1-->(10,1)
10 1
8 4 2 1 8 4 2 1
1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1
=(10100001)2
Decimal: 10 1
16^1 16^0
16 1
=10x16 =1x1
=160 =1
=160+1
=(161)10

2. 37
Binary:
37(3,7)
3 7
8 4 2 1 8 4 2 1
0 0 1 1 0 1 1 1
=(00110111)2
Decimal: 3 7
16^1 16^0
16 1
=3x16 =7x1
=48 =7
=48+7
=(55)10

3. FF

Binary:
FF-->(15,15)
15 15
8 4 2 1 8 4 2 1
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
=(11111111)2

Decimal: 15 15
16^1 16^0
16 1
=15x16 =15x1
=240 =15
=240+15
=(255)10

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 4. ABC
Binary:
(A,B,C)(10,11,12)
10 11 12
8 4 2 1 8 4 2 1 8 4 2 1
1 0 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0
=(101010111100)2

Decimal:

A B C
16^2 16^1 16^0
256 16 1
=10x256 =11x16 =12x1
=2560 =176 =12
=2560+176+12
=(2572)10

7. When a key is pressed on the keyboard, the computer stores the ASCII
representation of the character typed into main memory.
The ASCII representation for A is 65 (denary), for B is 66 (denary), etc.
There are two letters stored in the following memory locations:

(a) (i) Show the contents of Location 1 and Location 2 as binary. [2]
(ii) Show the contents of Location 1 and Location 2 as hexadecimal. [2]
(b) The following machine code instruction is stored in a location of main memory:

Convert this binary pattern into hexadecimal. [4]

(c) Explain why a programmer would prefer to see the contents of the locations
displayed as hexadecimal rather than binary, when debugging his program that
reads the key presses. [2]

(a) (i) 01000001

01000011 [2]
(ii) 41
43 [2]
(b) FA97 [4]
(c) – easier to identify values
– easier to spot errors [2]

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Q25. Electric guitars consist of strings and frets.

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Q26. Digits on an electronic display board can be represented on a 7 × 5 grid. For
example, the digit 3 is represented as:

Each column in the grid is represented in a computer as a 7-bit register. Five registers
are required to represent the state of the whole digit. The value 1 represents a
shaded square and the value 0 represents an unshaded square. For example, the
digit 3 is represented as:

(a) Show the contents of the five 7-bit registers when representing the digit 9:

(b) In order to prevent errors, an 8-bit register is used. The 8th bit will contain:
• 0 – if the first 7 bits add up to an even number
• 1 – if the first 7 bits add up to an odd number
Complete the 8th bit for each register. The first register has been completed for you.

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1.1.3 Data storage
Q52. Give one benefit of storing music files in MP3 format.
(a) Any one from:
– file size is small
– fast to download/upload files
– format can be played on several types of devices, e.g. mobile phone, CD player,
laptop etc. [1]
(b) Describe the type of memory used in MP3 players. [2]
(b) Any two from:
– type of EEPROM
– non-volatile memories
– solid state memories
– NAND based memories
– mini hard disk drives [2]

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1.2 Communication and Internet technologies
1.2.1 Serial and parallel data transmission
1.2.2 Security aspects
1.2.3 Internet principles of operation
Q40. State two advantages and one disadvantage of having a network of
Computers, rather than a series of standalone machines, in a school classroom. [3]

- Sharing of software and data files

- Sharing of hardware, e.g. printers
- Communication
- Security of files more of a problem
(1 per -, max 3) (3)

Q41. (a) State the meaning of

(i) Serial and parallel modes of data transmission. [4]
(ii) simplex and duplex

- Serial is the transmission of data one bit at a time/through one wire

- Parallel is the transmission of data more than one bit at a time/many wires
- Simplex is the transmission of data in one direction only
- Duplex is the transmission of data in both directions simultaneously (4)

Q42. During transmission data can be corrupted. Check sums and parity checks can be
carried out on the data.
(a)Explain how check sums and parity checks are used to detect transmission errors.

-Check sum is the result of adding all the bytes of data (and ignoring the carry out of
the
byte)
-The result is sent along with the data and
-Checked against the total calculated as the data arrives
-If the two totals differ then a transmission error has occurred
-Parity involves every byte having its bits adding to either an odd or even total
-Type of parity must be agreed between sender and recipient
-Use of a parity bit to make each byte the correct type
-If bit is changed during transmission then the sum of bits will not match parity type
(1 per -, max 2 per type of check, max 4) (4)
[4]
(b)Bytes of data transferred using a serial cable are checked for errors at the
receiving end using an even parity check.
Can these bytes of data pass the even parity check?
(a) 01010101 [1]
(b) 11001000 [1]
(c) How can any errors be corrected? [2]

(a) Yes [1]

(b) No [1]
(c) – re-reading the byte that was sent
– request that the byte is resent [2]

Q43. The data which is transmitted between survey sites and head office is liable to errors.
Data which is received is checked for errors.
(a) One method of checking for errors is to use parity checks.
The following four bytes have been received:
01101001 10111100 10101010 00100100

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 (i) One of the bytes contains an error. State which byte. [1]
(ii) Explain your choice of answer in (i). [2]
(iii) Explain why a byte may still be in error even if it passes the parity test.
[1]
(b) A second method of checking for errors is to use check sums.
Explain how check sums are used to check data for transmission errors. [4]

(a) (I)10111100/the second one [1]

(ii)- This has an odd number of ones
- The others all have an even number of ones
- Even parity is being used
(1 per -, max 2) [2]
(iii)- There may be two (or an even number of) errors in one byte [1]
(b) - data bytes are added together
- MOD 256
- Result (Check Sum) is sent with data
- Calculation redone at receiving end
- Results compared
(1 per -,1st +conditional 3, max 4) [4]

Q44. (a) Define the term protocol.

-Set of rules...
-to control the transmission of data [2]

(b) Explain hypertext transfer protocol (http). [2]

Short for HyperText Transfer Protocol, the underlying protocol used by the
World Wide Web. HTTP defines how messages are formatted and transmitted,
and what actions Web servers and browsers should take in response to
various commands

Q45. (a) State two differences between a local area network (LAN) and a wide area
network(WAN). [2]

– LAN over short distances/buildings/site // WAN geographically remote

– LAN uses own communication medium/WAN uses third party
– LAN more secure/WAN more open to attack
(1 per –, max 2) [2]

(b) State what is meant by each of the following types of data transmission. Give
an advantage of each.
(i) Serial
– Individual bits sent one after another/along single wire
– can be used over long distances
– Less chance of corruption/less chance of bits having order changed [2]

(ii) Parallel [4]

– a byte is sent simultaneously / at the same time along 8 wires
– Much faster transmission rate [2]

(c) The following bytes were received during a data transmission.

01101101 10101010 10111101 10110001

Parity is being used as an error check.

State which one of the bytes has been corrupted. Explain why you chose the
one that you did. [3]

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 Parity is being used as an error check.
State which one of the bytes has been corrupted. Explain why you chose the one that
you did.
Corrupted byte
Reason [3]
Q46. (a) Give one effect of hacking. [1]

One effect from

fraud/transferring money
viewing sensitive confidential data
changing data
selling data
virus/logic bomb
blackmail
loss of data/file
misuse + qualification [1]

(b) Give two ways of protecting computer systems against hacking. [2]

(b) Two ways from

passwords/codes
encryption
monitoring attempts to access the system/logging use
lock keyboard/computer/doors
firewalls
smart card
fingerprints/biometrics
do not read emails from unknown sources
USB security device [2]

Q47. Many bank customers now bank on-line using the Internet.
(a) State two advantages for the bank of on-line banking. [2]

(a) Two advantages for the bank from

less staff/employment costs/queues in the bank
can close branches/less costs for maintaining branches
less paper/electronic transactions/less cheques/less cash/no cheques/no cash
new international customers [2]

(b) State two disadvantages for a bank customer of on-line banking. [2]

(b) Two disadvantages for the customer from

need to have/be able to use devices capable of accessing the internet
cannot have the personal service offered by the conventional bank
cannot get cash/cannot put in cash
insecure/security risks/fraud/hacking
cost of ISP/phone bill
if there is no broadband then the phone lines are tied up [2]

(c) Give two advantages to customers of using Internet banking. [2]

(c) Any two from:

no time wasted travelling to the bank
easier/faster to manage accounts
no money spent on travelling expenses going to bank
no embarrassment asking for loans face to face with a manager

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 possible to still bank even when banks closed/can bank 24/7
don’t have to wait for post/immediate payments can be made
disabled people don’t have to travel to a bank
less chance of being robbed for cash [2]

(d) Give two disadvantages to customers of using Internet banking. [2]

(d) Any two from:
hackers can intercept data/risk of fraud
no personal touch
customers can easily mis-manage their accounts
increase in phone bills
without broadband, ties up the phone line
increased risk of losing personal data [2]

Q48. A company has set up an Internet website to sell their electrical goods online.
(a) Give two features you would expect to see on the website. [2]

(a) Any two from e.g.:

– electronic checkout
– shopping basket
– ability to track status of order on line
– secure buying using credit cards
– “when customer bought X, they also bought Y” facility
– search facilities for items
– recognise customers as soon as they log on
– drop down boxes to choose categories
– sales confirmation by automatic email
– save customer details/customised pages
– online help facility
– hyperlinks to other pages
– ability to bookmark/tag page(s) [2]

(b) Payments for goods can be made by credit/debit cards. Data from the cards is
encrypted.
(i) What is encryption?
(ii) Why is data encrypted? [2]

(b) (i) Any one from:

– process of changing/scrambling/encoding data into a meaningless form
– use of software/algorithms to turn data into a meaningless form [1]
(ii) Any one from:
– to avoid data being read/understood by hackers/unauthorised people
– to protect sensitive data from unauthorised people [1]

(c) Apart from credit card fraud, people have other fears about buying from the
Internet.
Describe one of these fears. [1]
(c) Any one from:
– viruses being downloaded from the site
– bogus/fake sites
– “unwanted sites”/porn sites coming up when searching
– unsolicited mail
– “cookies” (etc.) being stored on hard drive (spying software)
– hacking [1]

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Q49. To log on to a computer, a user needs to type in a user id followed by a password;
these should match up.
(b) Sometimes it is necessary to key in the password twice.
Name this type of data check. [1]

(b) verification [1]

Q50. FIVE security or data loss issues are shown on the left hand side.
FIVE possible methods of data recovery or protection are shown on the right.
Match the definitions/descriptions on the left to the most appropriate method on the
right by drawing connecting arrows.

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 (b) Five security or data loss issues are shown on the left-hand side.
Five possible methods of data recovery or protection are shown on the right.
Draw a line to match each definition/description of Issues to the most appropriate
Methods of Data Recovery.

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Q51. Describe THREE ADVANTAGES and TWODISADVANTAGES to the general public of
using the Internet to do online shopping. [5]
Any three advantages from:
– can shop 24–7/in own time
– worldwide therefore greater choice
– no need to waste money on travelling to shops
– no need to waste time travelling
– disabled/elderly people don’t have to leave their homes
– cost savings often passed on to customer
– can look for “best value” in a short time
– less pollution since fewer car journeys
Any two disadvantages from:
– shops close down in cities/unemployment/”ghost towns”
– increased risk of fraud/hacking
– less social interaction between people
– can’t see the goods first
– goods may not arrive/”bogus” web sites
– environmental issues/wasted packaging
– “ties up” the phone line if broadband not available
– increase in phone bills [5]

Q53. A company selling CDs uses a unique 6-digit identification number for each CD title.
The right-most digit (position 1) is a check digit.
For example,

The validity of the number and check digit is calculated as follows:

• multiply each digit by its digit position
• add up the results of the multiplications
• divide the answer by 11
• if the remainder is 0, the identification number and check digit are valid
(a) Show whether the following identification numbers are valid or not. You must
show how you arrived at your answer.
(i) 4 2 1 9 2 3
working:
valid or not valid?
(ii) 8 2 0 1 5 6
working:
valid or not valid? [3]

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 (b) Find the check digit for the following identification number:
5 0 2 4 1 __
working:
check digit: [2]

(c) Describe, with examples, two different types of data entry errors that a check
digit would detect. [2]

Q54. (a) What is meant by the term web browser? [1]

(a) – program/software that allows a user to display web pages, web sites, etc.
NOT access the Internet

(b) Rock-ICT has set up a website as shown below:

Give the names of the three parts that have been labelled: [3]

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 (b) (i) webpage (part of)
(ii) radio button
(iii) hyperlink NOT link

(c) How does the website recognise the user’s buying preferences as soon as
they visit the website? [1]

(c) reference to cookies or description of cookie

(d) Hacking is one security issue associated with the Internet and emails.
State two other security issues. [2]

Q55. A computer system is to have wireless access (Wi-Fi) to the Internet.

(a)State five potential security issues. [5]

Any five from:

– viruses
– hacking
– cookies
– pharming
– phishing
– spyware
– tapping into unsecured wifi network/war driving
– shoulder surfing/over-the-shoulder observation of the Internet user’s
credentials/user name
and password [5]

(b) Ahmed uses the Internet for some time and is puzzled by the terminology.
Draw a line to match each description to the appropriate technical term.

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 (c) Ahmed sees the message “Set your browser to accept cookies”.
Explain why some websites make this request. [2]

(c) any two from:

– to enable logon information to be kept on his computer
– to provide pages customised for Ahmed the next time he logs on
– to implement shopping carts and one-click purchasing
– to be able to distinguish between new and repeat visitors to the website [2]

Q88. Describe meaning of SSL?

Organizations that use the Web to collect and transmit sensitive data to customers
or other organizations need to secure their Web site. The general standard is the use
of secure socket layers (SSL), which encrypts data transmitted via a Web site

Q90. Describe ARQ & FEC.

Error correction may generally be realized in two different ways:

 Automatic repeat request (ARQ) (sometimes also referred to as backward error

correction): This is an error control technique whereby an error detection scheme
is combined with requests for retransmission of erroneous data. Every block of
data received is checked using the error detection code used, and if the check

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 fails, retransmission of the data is requested – this may be done repeatedly, until
the data can be verified.
 Forward error correction (FEC): The sender encodes the data using an error-
correcting code (ECC) prior to transmission. The additional information
(redundancy) added by the code is used by the receiver to recover the original
data. In general, the reconstructed data is what is deemed the "most likely"
original data.

Q57. In each case below, state which Internet term is being described.
(a) Malicious software installed on a user’s hard drive or a web server; the software
re-directs the user to a fake website without their consent or knowledge. [1]
(b) Personal Internet journals where a writer enters text about a certain topic;
anyone can comment on the topic. [1]
(c) Websites designed to promote the building of online communities who share the
same interests; usually free of charge; users can add friends, post messages to each
other and update personal profiles. [1]
(d) Legitimate-looking email sent to a user in the hope of gathering personal
information; as soon as the recipient clicks on the link in the email (or email
attachment) they are sent to a fake website. [1]
(e) Software that secretly gathers information by monitoring key presses on a user’s
keyboard; this information is relayed back to the person who sent the software
originally. [1]

(a) pharming
(b) blog(s) [1]
(c) social networking (sites) [1]
(d) phishing [1]
(e) spyware/key logging (software) [1]

Q58. A music club keeps its members’ details on a computer file.

(a) Complete the table below which shows the data type, field length and
validation check used for the club members’ data.

Q59. Explain, using examples where appropriate, the following computer terms:
(a) verification
(b) validation
(c) phishing
(d) pharming
(e) DOS

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 (f) spyware
(g) tapping into wireless networks

(a) Verification
any two points from:
check on input for errors
on screen checking/checked by human
comparing input/use of second operator/by double entry
examples: password entry, email entry [2]

(b) Any one point from:

computer check on input data check data is wrong/correct = 0
detects any data which is incomplete or not reasonable

(ii) Describe one type of validation check.

(ii) Any one point from:

length check – e.g. only 30 characters in name field
character check – e.g. name doesn’t contain numeric chars
range check – e.g. day of month in date is between 1 and 31
format check – e.g. date in the form xx/yy/zz
check digit – e.g. end digit on bar code to check if it is valid
type check – e.g. integer, real
(presence check = 0)

(c) ‘Phishing’ refers to emails that trick people into giving out their personal and
banking information; they can also be sent by SMS. These messages seem to come
from legitimate businesses, normally banks or other financial institutions or
telecommunications providers. The scammers are generally trying to get information
like your bank account numbers, passwords and credit card numbers, which they
will then use to steal your money.

(d) Pharming is when you are redirected to a fake/scam version of a website which
may look identical to the website you were trying to view. This is sometimes referred to
as page-hijacking or page-jacking. In this scam, the legitimate url you typed into your
browser or the bookmarked link you followed automatically changes and redirects
you to a fake address, often which looks very similar to the legitimate address.

(e) DoS stands for Denial of Service. A malicious hacker uses a DoS attack to make a
computer resource (i.e. – website, application, e-mail, voicemail, network) stop
responding to legitimate users. The malicious hacker does this by commanding a
fleet of remotely-controlled computers to send a flood of network traffic to the
target. The target becomes so busy dealing with the attacker’s requests that it
doesn’t have time to respond to legitimate users’ requests. That can cause the
target system to stop responding, resulting in long delays and outages.

(f) Spyware is a software that monitors key presses on a user’s keyboard, and relays
the information back to the person who sent the software.

Q60. (a) Give two examples of computer crime. [2]

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 (b) Describe two methods used to prevent computer crime. [2]
(c) Describe ways to guard against each of the following Internet security issues. (A
different method should be given in each case.)
1. viruses
2. hacking
3. spyware
4. phishing
5. tapping into wireless networks [5]

(c) viruses e.g.

– use anti-virus software // regular virus scans
– don’t open/use disks // don’t open email attachments from unknown sources
Hacking e.g.
– passwords / user IDs
– firewalls
Spyware e.g.
– anti-spyware software
– delete cookies at end of session
Phishing e.g.
– don’t open emails from unknown sources
– don’t divulge personal information via email / unsecure website
– ensure that the site viewed has a valid security certificate (SSL)
tapping into wireless networks e.g.
– secured wifi network (protected by passwords)
– encryption / WEP
– no broadcast of network ID [5]

Q61. State three effects on society due to the increase of businesses using e-commerce.

Any three effects from:

loss of jobs
traditional shops/banks close
city/town centres become deserted as shops/banks close
gap between rich and poor grows (rich get access to savings by shopping
online)
less interaction between people
increase in small businesses
less pollution/less need to travel
security fears
people will need credit cards/bank accounts/computer systems [3]
[3]
Q62. (i) Name one method used to protect data against unauthorised access. [1]

(i) Any one from:

passwords/biometrics
user id/access rights
firewall
removable storage media
physical protection [1]

(ii) Name one method used to protect data in a file from being understood
when an unauthorised person has gained access to the file. [1]

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 (ii) encryption [1]

Q63. A company is concerned about three aspects of the security of data stored in
computer files:
• data corruption
• data loss
• illegal access to data
For each of the above, give one reason why it could occur and state one method
of prevention. Your reasons must be different in each case. [6]

Q64. (a) State three reasons why a computer system failure might occur (malfunction).[3]

(a) Any three from:

– “glitches in the software” e.g. divide by zero
– software conflicts
– virus
– operating system software loss/corruption
– hardware malfunction (e.g. overheating of circuit board, processor fans failing
etc.)
– hardware incompatibility
– power supply interruption/”spikes”
– incorrect power down after use
– hard disk crash/failure [3]

(b) One effect of a computer system failure is the loss or corruption of files. State one
way of recovering a file if it has been lost or corrupted. [1]

(b) Any one from:

– Grandfather-Father-Son (GFS)/file generation system
– backups
– parallel systems
– type/scan and OCR in new data again from the hard copies [1]

(c) How is it possible to ensure illegally accessed files are unreadable? [1]

(c) Any one from:

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 – encryption
– encrypt files [1]

Q65. A college secretary inputs data into fields on a computer screen as shown below:

(a)Choose a suitable different validation check for each of the following:

(i) Student Sex which can be M or F only
(ii) Today’s Date which must be written as, for example, 15/10/2010
(iii) the Examination Result which can be any number from 0 to 100

EACH RESPONSE MUST BE DIFFERENT

(a) (i) Any one from:
– character/type check
– length check
– Boolean check
– presence check
(ii) Any one from:
– format check
– character/type check
– length check
– presence check
(iii) Any one from:
– range check
– character/type check
– presence check

(b) Apart from validation, how would it be possible to ensure only certain data could
be input into each of the fields on the computer screen? [1]

(b) Any one from:

– drop down lists showing M or F only, possible dates, etc.
– use of touch screens with only certain data options
– use of restricted lists
– radio buttons [1]

(c) The secretary takes a ten minute break every hour.

(i) Apart from switching off, how can the secretary make sure the computer system is
secure whilst she takes a ten minute break?
(ii) From a health and safety aspect, why does the secretary need to take regular
breaks? [2]

(c) (i) Any one from:

– lock computer
– log off the system
– if in an office, lock the door
– put into sleep/hibernate mode with password [1]
(ii) Any one from:

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 – to prevent RSI
– to prevent neck/back problems possible
– to prevent eye sight problems/headaches [1]

Q66. Which validation methods are being carried out by the following three pseudocode
statements?
(i) ifage > 10 and age < 20 then print "correct"
(ii) ifgender = "male" and title = "Mr" then print "correct"
(iii) iffield = "" then print "input data is missing"

(a) (i) range check

(ii) consistency check / crossfield check
(iii) presence check [3]

(b) Name a different validation technique and give an example to show how it
works.

(b) 1 mark for name and 1 mark for example. Example must match name
Name Example
– type/character check only letters typed into name field
– format check ensure date typed in correct format
– length check ensure year field has four digits
– check digit on barcodes to ensure they have been read correctly

Q67. A hospital holds records of its patients in a database. Four of the fields are:
• date of visit (dd/mm/yyyy)
• patient’s height (m)
• 8-digit patient ID
• contact telephone number
The presence check is one possible type of validation check on the data. For each
field, give another validation check that can be performed. Give an example of
data which would fail your named validation check.
A different validation check needs to be given for each field.
Example of data which
Field Name Name of validation check would fail the validation
check
Date of visit
Patient’s height
Patient ID
Contact
telephone
number

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30 | P a g e
Q68. The diagram below shows a number of descriptions and terms used in computer
security.
By drawing arrows, connect the correct description to the computer security term.
Program installed.

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Q69. The following five statements about Internet security are incomplete:
(i) Illegal access to a computer system is known as < - - - - (a) - - - - >.
(ii) < - - - - (b) - - - - > are programs that self-replicate (copy themselves) and are
designed to disrupt computer systems.
(iii) < - - - - (c) - - - -> is where a user is sent legitimate-looking emails; as soon as the
email is opened and the recipient clicks on the embedded link, they are sent to a
fake website.
(iv) Software that monitors key presses on a user’s keyboard, and relays the
information back to the person who sent the software, is known as < - - - - (d) - - - - >.
(v) < - - - - (e) - - - - > is malicious code or software installed on the hard drive of a
user’s computer or on a web server; the code or software will re-direct the user to a
fake website without their knowledge.
Complete the five statements using words from the following list:
• cookies
• hacking
• pharming

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 • phishing
• spam
• spyware
• viruses
• web browsers
(a) ....................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) ....................................................................................................................................... [1]
(c) ....................................................................................................................................... [1]
(d) ....................................................................................................................................... [1]
(e) ....................................................................................................................................... [1]

(a) hacking [1]

(b) viruses [1]
(c) phishing [1]
(d) spyware [1]
(e) pharming [1]

Q70. (a) Felipe wrote down the following three statements.

In each case, indicate whether the statement is true or false and give a reason for
your choice.
“encrypting data prevents it from being hacked”
TRUE/FALSE ............................................................................................................................
Reason .....................................................................................................................................

“backing up data removes the risk of the data being infected by viruses”
TRUE/FALSE ............................................................................................................................
Reason .....................................................................................................................................

“wireless (WiFi) networks are less secure than hard-wired systems”

TRUE/FALSE ............................................................................................................................
Reason ................................................................................................................................ [3]

(a) FALSE – encryption only stops data being read / making sense (but does not
prevent the act of hacking)
FALSE – data when backed up could still have the virus attached to it
– when the backed up data is re-loaded at a later date, the virus could be
loaded again into the system together with the stored data
TRUE – tapping into a Wi-Fi network is relatively easy (even when the network is
protected by passwords)
1 mark for each correct TRUE / FALSE with correct corresponding reason [3]

(b) Felipe uses Internet banking. When he logs on, the website asks for the 1st,
4th and 8th characters in his password. He selects the characters from drop-down
boxes.
(i) State why drop-down boxes are used. [ 1]
(ii) Felipe is also asked to confirm the last date and time when he logged onto the
website.
State why he is asked to confirm this. [1]
(iii) When Felipe wishes to return to a previous page on this website, he clicks on the
View My Account option rather than using the browser arrows. If he uses the browser
arrows, he is logged out of the website.
Give a reason why the website does this. [1]

(b) (i) drop down boxes help defeat spyware / key logging software
[1]

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 (ii) – to ensure that it was in fact Felipe who logged on last time [1]
– an additional authentication check
(iii) in case it is not Felipe who attempts to access the account [1]

Q71. Data sent across the Internet are frequently encrypted. The following flowchart
shows a basic encryption method (Note: the → symbol in the flowchart means “is
replaced by”).

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 (c) Any three from:
– customers need a password / PIN
– use of card readers / use of Transaction Authentication Number (TAN)
– only certain characters from password / PIN requested…
– …the requested characters change each time user logs on
– card security code requested

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 – use of drop down boxes
– use of a customer reference number
– inform customer when they last logged on to the website
– use of image verification code e.g. CAPTCHA
– make reference to something unique to the customer e.g. their mobile
phone number
– use of secure protocol e.g. https, padlock symbol [3]

Q72. In a simple symmetric encryption system, each letter of the alphabet is substituted
with another.
The plain text message:
The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.
becomes the cypher text message:
Zag towns jumpy dmh coilp mngu zag bfke qmx.

(a) (i) Decode this cypher text message.

Agbbm Pmubq [2]
(ii) Convert these words to cypher text.
Computer Science [2]
(b) Both the person who sends the message and the person who receives it need to
know what the substitution key is, and they need to keep this secret. A copy of the
substitution key has been sent using SSL transmission.
Explain why this keeps the copy of the key secret during transmission. [2]

(a) 1 mark for each correct word

(i) Hello World [2]
(ii) Nmilozgu Pnwgyng [2]
(b) – use of Secure Socket Layer
– the key itself is encrypted using strong encryption [2]

Q73. Can you decipher this code? Here's a hint: Z=A; +=1; ~=10. Enter the message in the
space below. Try to figure out the code without using the decryption tool for every
letter. Can you think of a faster or easier way to solve this puzzle?

THE CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY WAS CREATED IN 1947 WHEN PRESIDENT

TRUMAN SIGNED THE NATIONAL SECURITY ACT.

Q74. No need for a decoder. Just pick out every third letter!
Use all CAPITAL letters when entering your answer.

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 GENERAL DONOVAN IS CONSIDERED THE FATHER OF MODERN AMERICAN
INTELLIGENCE GATHERING.

Q75. Can you decipher this code? Here's a hint: 11 = A; 10 = Z. Enter the message in the
space below.

THE CIA IS LOCATED IN LANGLEY, VA.

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1.3 Hardware and software
1.3.1 Logic gates
Q76. A car has an engine management system (EMS). The EMS outputs the following
signals.

(a) (i) Draw a logic circuit for the following fault condition:
All three signals (A = 1, B = 1 and C = 1) indicate a fault. The driver is warned to stop
the engine – output X = 1.

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 (ii) Draw a logic circuit for the fault condition:
Either (A = 1 and B = 1) or (B = 1 and C = 1) indicate a fault. The driver is warned that
the engine needs a service – output Y = 1.

(iii) Draw a logic circuit for the fault condition:

Either A = 1 or B = 1 or C = 1 indicate a fault. A red warning light shows up on the
dashboard – output Z = 1.

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Q77. Complete the truth table for the following logic circuit:

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 (b) Draw a logic circuit corresponding to the following logic statement:

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Q78. (a) Draw the logic circuit corresponding to the following logic statement:
X = 1 IF ( (A is NOT 1 AND B is 1) OR (B is 1 AND C is 1) ) OR (C is 1)

[5]

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 (b) Complete the truth table for the above logic statement:

[4]

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44 | P a g e
Q79. Complete the truth table for the following logic circuit:

(b) Re-draw the logic circuit shown opposite, using NAND and NOR gates only. [2]

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 (c) Write a logic statement that describes the following logic circuit: [3]

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Q80. Complete the truth table for the following logic circuit:

(b) Write the logic statement to describe the following logic circuit:

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48 | P a g e
Q81. (a) (i) Complete the truth table for the logic circuit which is made up of NAND gates
only.

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50 | P a g e
Q82. A power station has a safety system based on three inputs to a logic network. A
warning signal (S = 1) is produced when certain conditions occur based on these 3
inputs:

A warning signal (S = 1) will be generated if:

either (a) Temperature > 120C and Cooling Water < 100 l/hr
or (b) Temperature < 120C and (Pressure > 10 bar or Cooling Water < 100 l/hr)
Draw a logic network and truth table to show all the possible situations when the
warning

IF (T=1 AND W=NOT 1) OR (T=NOT 1) AND (P=1 OR W=NOT 1) THEN S=1

Q83. A chemical plant gives out a warning signal (W = 1) when the process goes wrong. A
logic network is used to provide input and to decide whether or not W = 1.

A warning signal (W = 1) will be generated if

either (a) Chemical Rate < 10 m3/s
or (b) Temperature > 87 C and Concentration > 2 moles
or (c) Chemical rate = 10 m3/s and Temperature > 87 C
Draw a logic network and truth table to show all the possible situations when the
warning signal could be received.

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1.3.2 Computer architecture and the fetch execute cycle

Q27. (a) Describe what is meant by Von Neumann architecture. [3]

(b) Explain the purpose of each of the following special registers in a processor.
(i) Program Counter (Sequence Control Register). [2]
(ii) Current Instruction Register. [2]
(iii) Memory Address Register. [2]
(iv) Memory Data Register. [2]
(v) Accumulator

(a) Program is stored in memory

along with data
programs and data are indistinguishable
Uses a single processor
Sequential carrying out of instructions
(1 per point, max 3) (3)
(b) (i) Contains the address of the
next instruction to be carried out
Controls the sequence of instructions
(ii) Holds the instruction
while it is being executed
Contains both function and address/operand
(iii) Holds the address of the
instruction/data
that is next to be used
(Must have first mark point before any credit)
(iv) Contents of any address that has been accessed
are placed in here first before being used
May be an instruction or a piece of data
OR:
Holds data/instructions
When being passed between memory and CPU/acts as a buffer
between memory and CPU
(v) Stores results of calculations/does the arithmetic
All input to and output from processor pass through the accumulator
(1 per point, max 2 per dotty, max 10) (10)

Q28. (i) Explain what the accumulator holds and how the contents change
during the fetch-execute cycle. [2]
(ii) Explain what the program counter (PC) holds and how the contents
change during the fetch-execute cycle. [3]
(i) -Hold the data currently being processed
-Result of calculation is held in accumulator...
-before being passed to memory unit
(1 per -, max 2) [2]

(ii) -The address of the next instruction

-Contents incremented (after being read)
-Contents changed by a jump instruction
(1 per -, max 3) [3]
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1.3.3 Input devices
1.3.4 Output devices
1.3.5 Memory, storage devices and media

Q1. (i) What information would be stored on the bar code? [1]
(ii) Why do airports use the bar codes on baggage? [1]

(f) (i) any one from:

passenger name/passenger ID
destination(s)/point of departure
flight id [1]

(ii) any one from:

tracking/uniquely identifies baggage/ensures baggage gets to right place
increased security
links to passenger/ensures luggage cannot travel without passenger [1]

Q2. Name two devices used for direct data capture. Give one application for each
device named. [4]

Q3. An interactive information system is being designed for use in the terminal building of
an airport.
(a) (i) State an input device which would be suitable for use in this
application.
Justify your choice. [2]
(ii) State an output device which would be suitable for use in this
application.
Justify your choice. [2]
(a) (i) -e.g. Touch screen
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 -because it has limited options / is a simple user interface
-acts as both an input and an output [2]
(ii) -e.g. screen / speaker
-To show directions / to see the options
-Output sound warning for incorrect input / verbal instructions [2]

Q4. A supermarket uses barcodes as part of its item price retrieval and automatic stock
control system.
A customer takes items to the point-of-sale (POS) checkout. The barcodes are
scanned.
(a) Describe what happens next regarding data retrieval and stock control. [5]
(b) Name two devices needed at the POS checkout.
Give a reason for your choice of device. [4]

(a) Any five points from:

if the barcode can’t be read, the number is keyed in using a keyboard
the barcode is the key field in the stock file
the barcode is searched for in the stock file
until a match is found
(if no match, error message sent back to POS)
If match found, the appropriate record is accessed
the price + description of goods is sent back to the POS terminal
the stock level in the record is found and 1 is subtracted for each item
bought/scanned
the new stock level is written back to the file
if stock level <= re-order value/minimum stock level, then automatic re-ordering
takes place
the supplier file is accessed to gain necessary information to permit ordering to take
place
when goods are ordered, a flag is assigned to the item to indicate an order has
been initiated
this is repeated until all the barcodes in the customer basket have been scanned
when new goods arrive, the barcodes on the cartons are read and the stock file is
updated
accordingly [5]
(b) 1 mark for device + 1 mark for reason
keyboard
to key in barcode numbers if barcodes don’t scan correctly
magnetic stripe reader
to read loyalty cards/debit cards/credit cards
printer
to produce itemised bill/receipt for customer
speaker/beeper
to produce beeping sound to acknowledge barcode has been read OK or to
indicate an error
when barcode failed to read correctly
LCD screen
to show prices of good scanned/total cost of goods bought
touch screen
select item if fresh food bought which may have no barcode [4]

Q5. Two devices used by the supermarket Point-Of-Sale (POS) terminal are a barcode
reader and a keyboard.
Name two other input/output devices used at the POS and give a use for each
device.
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 device 1
use
device 2
use [4]

(b) 1 mark for each device + 1 mark for correct matching use
device: beeper/loud speaker
use: to indicate barcode correctly read/error in reading barcode
device: (LCD) screen/monitor
use: to show prices and other information about goods
device: touch screen
use: to show prices and other information about goods/to select items that
need to be weighed/identified
device: weighing machine
use: to find weight of loose items (e.g. fruit) to enable pricing
device: (magnetic) card reader/CHIP and PIN reader
use: to read customer’s debit/credit card/enable customer to pay for
goods using a credit or debit card
device: printer
use: to print receipts
(NOT keypad) [4]

Q6. Items sold in supermarkets are all marked with bar codes.
(a) Customers are given an itemised bill at the checkout. Give two advantages to
the customer. [2]
(b) Give two ways the information on the bar code can be input at the checkout.
[2]
(c) Describe how bar codes are used in automatic stock control. [3]

(a) Any two advantages from:

know prices of each item/check errors
proof of purchase
can check totals themselves
can check items [2]

(b) Any two ways from:

using bar code reader/scanner/wand/gun to read bar code
key in/type in/enter manually the number under the bar code
laser = 0
light pen = 0 [2]

(c) Any three points from:

bar code read
item identified on the file
number of items reduced by 1 each time item is sold
when new item come in/returned stock level increased by 1
minimum stock level stored on file
if stock level less than minimum/reorder level …
… automatic re-ordering done alert that stock low = 0 [3]

Q7. Describe the difference between speech recognition and speech synthesis. [2]

3 Two points one from each group:

speech recognition is a form of input;
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 speech recognition requires a microphone;
speech recognition is an example of an expert system
speech synthesis is a form of output
speech synthesis requires speakers
in speech synthesis words are chosen from a database [2]

Q8. Describe three ways you could modify a typical input/output environment to
enable people with disabilities to use the computer system.
[3]

Any three points from: (NB if disability mentioned, shouldn’t conflict with
method/device)
large/concept keyboards/switches
braille keyboards (for partially sighted/blind)
tracker ball to move pointer if keyboard/mouse can’t be used
touch screens (using head wands)
software to predict words (e.g. for dyslexic people)
speech recognition
foot activated control (if no arm movement)
large icons/fonts on screens ( – if partially sighted)
braille printers
speech synthesis speakers = 0
large screen
choice of colours [3]

Q9. A supermarket makes use of barcodes on all its goods as part of its automatic stock
control system.
(a) Describe how the price is found for each item sold. [2]
(b) The following are steps in the automatic stock control system.
Number the steps in the correct order.

[4]

(a) Any two points from:

– barcode is scanned/keyed in
– barcode is validated (by check digit)
– system looks up barcode in computer files/database
– retrieves (and returns) price [2]

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Q10. A factory uses a computer system to store information about customers, spare parts
and general administration.
(a) Spare parts can be identified by selecting from diagrams on a computer screen.
Describe what hardware would be needed to allow the parts to be selected in this
way. [2]

(b) The factory needs to buy a new printer. It has decided to buy either a dot matrix
printer or an inkjet printer. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using both
types of printer in this application. [3]

(a) Any two correct input devices

OR input device + correct type of screen
– mouse/trackerball + CRT screen/TFT screen
– touch screen + CRT screen/TFT screen
– light pen + CRT screen [2]
(b) Dot matrix printer:
Accept a max of 2 advantages and a max of 2 disadvantages:
Advantages:
– suitable for dirty/dusty/damp atmospheres
– cheap to maintain
– cheap to run
– can operate with continuous/multipart stationery
Disadvantages:
– poor print quality
– very noisy
– very limited colours [3]
Inkjet printer:
Accept a max of 2 advantages and a max of 2 disadvantages:
Advantages:
– inexpensive to purchase
– high quality printouts
– can use colours
– supported by most operating systems
– quiet
Disadvantages:
– run out of printing ink quickly/cartridges run out quickly
– price per page/inks are expensive
– not suitable for dirty/dusty/damp atmospheres [3]

Q11. The following table shows three applications which require specialist output devices.

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 For each application, suggest one possible output device and give a reason for your
choice.

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Q12. A list of four printers and four different applications which use printers is shown below.
(a) Using arrows, link each printer to the most appropriate application.

(b) Give one feature of each printer which makes it appropriate for the application.
3D printer
Dot matrix printer
Colour inkjet printer
Colour laser printer [4]

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Q13. For each of the following five groups of hardware items, write down a computer
application that would need those items.

Q14. (a) An airport uses electronic devices as part of its security systems.
One system matches the face of a passenger with the photograph in their
passport.
What two input devices would be needed to do this? Give reasons for your
choice of
device. [4]
(b) When the passenger goes to the check-in desk, their luggage is weighed.
(i) How does the computer system capture the luggage weight? How
does it Then check that it does not exceed the airline’s weight limit?[3]
(ii) The computer also prints out a label identifying passenger ID, flight
number and destination. This label, which is tied onto the luggage, is
computer readable.
Describe a suitable data capture system which could be used to read
these labels so that the luggage can be tracked. [2]

(a) 1 mark for name of device + 1 mark for reason

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 scanner
to produce an electronic/digital map version of the passport photograph
(scans) into computer readable format
digital camera/video camera
to produce an electronic image of the passenger’s face
produces a similar format to the scanned image [4]

(b) (i) 1 mark for each point

use of a pressure sensor
sends data back to computer system
need for conversion to digital form (ADC)
computer calculates weight based on sensor data
this calculated value is compared / (or equivalent) to stored values
sends weight back to a small screen at check-in
if weight exceeds airline limit, operator warned at check-in by, e.g., a
flashing screen or
beeping sound / if weight below limit luggage accepted [3]
(ii) 1 mark per point
(labels printed in form of) a barcode
barcode is unique
use of barcode reader/scanner
barcode is used as a key field in passenger record
barcode read at each stage …..
... and this data is stored in passenger record
thus allowing tracking/whereabouts of luggage at any stage [2]

Q15. Name a suitable hardware device to enable automatic data capture in each of the
following applications. Each device must be different.

Q16. The following diagram shows six descriptions of automatic data capture methods
and six terms.
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 Draw lines to connect each description to the correct term.

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Q17 (a) State two differences between random access memory (RAM) and read only
memory(ROM). [2]
(b) Describe what is stored on
(i) RAM,
(ii) ROM
explaining why that type of memory is appropriate. [4]

(a)-ROM cannot be altered, RAM can.

-ROM is not volatile, RAM is.
-ROM is normally smaller capacity than RAM
(1 per -, max 2) [2]

(b) (i) RAM,

-Data in use/software in use/ part of operating system
-Processor can only use what is stored in RAM/not needed for long [2]
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 (ii) ROM
-Bootstrap/boot loader/loader/startup program
-It must be available when the computer is switched on/must not be
altered [2]

Q18 Name THREE different types of storage media and give an example of each.

Q19. A company produces animation effects using computers rather than producing
them manually.
(b) Each image takes about 400 kilobytes of storage. 25 images per second are
produced.
How much memory would be needed to store a 30-minute animation?

Q20. Juan uses a company which offers the following

Internet broadband transfer rates:
• 56 megabits per second DOWNLOAD
• 16 megabits per second UPLOAD
(b) If each music track is 3.5 megabytes in size, how long would it take Juan to
download his 40 tracks?
(Show your working.)
(c) He has decided to upload 36 photographs onto his social networking website.
Each photograph is 1.8 megabytes in size.
How long wo uld it take to upload his photographs?

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Q56. (a) John has bought a 4 Gbyte MP3 player.
(You may assume: 1 byte = 8 bits, 1 Mbyte = 1024 kbytes and 1Gbyte = 1024 Mbytes)
(i) We can assume that each song lasts 3 minutes and is recorded at 128
kbps(kilobits per second).
How much memory is required per song? [2]
(ii) Using your answer in (i), how many songs can be stored on John’s MP3 player?[2]
(b) John also bought a device for recording television programmes. It allows him to
record a programme at the same time as he is watching an earlier recording.
Describe how such a system would work. [3]

Q21. The doors on a train are opened and closed automatically. Motors are used to
operate the doors.
The system is controlled by a microprocessor.
Each door has a sensor which detects if a passenger enters or leaves the train as the
doors are closing. If a passenger is detected, the doors are automatically re-
opened.
(a) Name a sensor which could be used to detect a passenger. [1]
(b) If the sensor in one of the doors fails, describe a safety mechanism to prevent
injury to a passenger. [1]

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 (c) Describe how the sensors, microprocessor and door motors interact to ensure a
passenger is not trapped in a closing door. [4]

(a) Any one from:

– infra red (sensor)
– pressure (sensor)
– proximity (sensor) [1]

(b) Any one from:

– additional sensors used
– door defaults to open position
– sounds an alarm if a sensor fails [1]

(c) Any four points from:

– sensors continuously send signals/data
– sensor sends signals/data sent to the microprocessor
– signal converted to digital if necessary (using ADC)
– microprocessor checks which door(s) is (are) affected
– microprocessor compares sensor reading with stored values
– if reading indicates passenger detected…
– …microprocessor sends signal/data to actuators/motor…
– (converted to analogue using DAC)
– …to operate motors to open doors
– microprocessor also send signal to driver’s cab (automatically) to sound an alarm
– monitoring continues until system switched off [4]

Q22. Data-logging is used for monitoring the level of oxygen in a river.

(a) State one item of hardware that is used to collect the oxygen data. [1]
(b) Explain how the oxygen data is processed by the computer. [2]
(c) State two ways that the oxygen data could be displayed for a user to
understand. [2]
(d) Explain what the computer would do if the amount of oxygen in the water is too
high. [1]
(e) Give two advantages of using data-logging for monitoring the oxygen data in a
river. [2]

8 (a) One item from

probe/sensor, oxygen sensor/gas sensor
AD converter [1]

(b) Two from

AD converter (if not awarded in (a))
sensor (if not awarded in (a))
data stored in database/file
compared with
set parameters
previously stored readings [2]

(c) Two from

spreadsheet
graph/chart
database/table [2]

(d) alarm, signal/messages on screen [1]

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 (e) Two advantages from
data downloaded periodically/in batches
readings are taken automatically
accurate measurements are made
no human error
readings are taken at exactly the right time
readings are taken continuously/ 24/7
automatic calculations can be made [2]

Q23. A computer is used to control the traffic lights at each end of a narrow bridge.

(a) State one type of sensor that could be used to detect a vehicle approaching
the bridge. [1]
(b) Give one reason why an analogue to digital converter (ADC) may be needed.
[1]
(c) Describe how the data received from the sensors is used to control the timing of
the traffic lights.[3]
(d) If the computer controlling the traffic light system detects an error in the system,
or fails completely, what should the lights on the bridge do? [1]
(e)List use of following sensors:
• temperature
• magnetic field
• gas
• pressure
• moisture
• humidity
• pH/acidity/alkalinity
• motion/ infra-red

(a) Any one from:

pressure
infrared [1]

(b) Any one from:

sensor signal is analogue
computers can only understand digital [1]

(c) Any three points from:

number of cars in both directions are totalled
computer compares this total …..
….. with values stored in memory/simulation results
changes lights/takes action if necessary
if no data received, default timing is used [3]
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 (d) Any one point from:
all lights change to red/amber
lights flash
automatic timing sequence [1]

(e) Temperature Sensor:

A temperature sensor produces a signal that depends on the temperature of its
surroundings.

We can use temperature sensor in many appliance such:

Automatic washing machine
Digital thermometer
Controlling heating system in buildings, including greenhouses and chemical
reaction vessels.

Pressure sensor:
A pressure sensor produces a signal that depends on the pressure to which it is
exposed.
Pressure sensor can be used in many appliances such as automatic blood pressure
monitor. Pressure sensor can also control the pressure of gases or liquids in chemical
reaction vessel.

Magnetic Field:
The Magnetic Field Sensor can be used to study the field around permanent
magnets, coils, and electrical devices

Gas:
A gas sensor produces a signal depending on the concentration of a particular gas
or vapor. We can use gas sensor for an inflammable gas to monitor the atmosphere
and sound an alarm if there is a leakage. We can use gas sensor in other
applications such as:
Breathalyser, which measure the concentration of alcohol vapour in a sample of
breath and estimate the concentration of alcohol in blood.
Process control in chemical industry.
Environment monitoring of air pollution.

Moisture/ Humidity sensor

A moisture sensor produces a signal that depends on the concentration of water
vapors in the atmosphere. A moisture sensor can control an irrigation system more
efficiently only allow water when soil is dry. We can use moisture sensor in many
other application including:
Controlling a heating system and air conditioning system.
Maintaining sufficient humidity in the air in a greenhouse.
Measuring humidity for meteorological record and forecasting in a weather
station.

pH/acidity/alkalinity sensor:
pH Sensor measures the pH of aqueous solutions in industrial and municipal process
applications. It is designed to perform in the harshest of environments, including
applications that poison conventional pH sensors.
Typical activities using our pH sensor include:
Acid-base titrations
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 Studies of household acids and bases
Monitoring pH change during chemical reactions or in an aquarium as a result of
photosynthesis
Investigations of acid rain and buffering
Analysis of water quality in streams and lakes

Infrared sensor:
An infra (IR) sensor produces a signal that depends on the level of invisible IR
radiation falling on it.
All objects (unless they are extremely cold) emit significant IR radiation. Security
camera equip with lens and grid of IR sensors uses these IR radiation to form a
detector for a person.

(f) Advantage of using sensors to collect data are:

They can collect data far more frequently than a person.
They are more reliable than a person, who may forget to take readings.
They are more accurate than a person who may misread the signal.
They can collect data from places where it is not possible for a person to go such as
inside a chemical or nuclear reaction vessel.

Disadvantage of using sensors are that they may need a power source to work and
may need regular calibration to check their accuracy.

Q92. The following flowchart shows how a burglar alarm system uses light sensors to
determine if an intruder has entered the house and decides to sound an alarm.
Select statements from the list below, using numbers only, to complete the flowchart.

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Q93. The following flowchart shows how sensors (which can be analogue or digital) and a
computer are used to control the temperature of a greenhouse for plants.
Complete the flowchart using the items from the list below.

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Q94. The following flowchart shows what happens when a customer uses a credit card to
pay for goods at a supermarket. Ten of the boxes are blank.
Using the items from the list, insert the ten missing statements using the appropriate
number only. Each statement may be used once only.

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Q95. The following flowchart shows how the bar code written on an item is used to find
the price, do stock control and produce an itemised bill. Select statements from the
list below to complete the flowchart.

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Q96. A digital camera contains a microprocessor. The camera’s specification includes:
• 20 megapixel resolution
• 32 gigabyte memory card
• autofocus facility
(a) A more expensive model of the camera has 40 megapixel resolution.
(i) Describe one advantage of increasing the resolution. [1]
(ii) Describe one disadvantage of having 40 megapixel resolution. [1]
(b) (i) Describe the type of memory used in the memory card. [1]
(ii) Give one benefit of using this type of memory. [1]
(c) (i) What is the meaning of the term pixel? [1]
(ii) If a compressed image file requires an average of 1 byte per pixel, what is the
maximum number of photos that can be stored on the memory card? [1]
(d) Apart from autofocus, describe one other feature you would expect to see on a
digital camera controlled by a microprocessor.

(a) (i) – higher quality photos

– when “blown up” less likely for photo to “pixelate” [1]
(ii) – uses up more memory (on card)
– takes longer to upload/download a photo
– file size will be greater [1]
(b) (i) – solid state memory
– flash drive
– non-volatile [1]
(ii) – no moving parts (so more robust)
– can be removed from camera and retain its contents
– can erase contents and reuse memory card [1]
(c) (i) – (pic)ture (el)ement [1]
(ii) – 819 or 1638 [1]
(d) Any one point from: e.g.
– auto flash
– anti (hand) shake facility
– easy deletion of unwanted photos
– ability to “manipulate” images after they have been taken/special effects
– “smart” operation e.g. automatically pick out objects, faces, etc.
– auto capture [1]

Q97. The workers in the office use three different types of storage medium.
For each of the three types, state a use to which the medium could be put and
justify your answer.
(i) Hard Disk
(ii) DVD-RW
(iii) CD-ROM

(i) Hard Disk

- Files/Software/Operating system
- Need to store large volumes of data/semi-permanently/access to
data/ability to alter contents easily
(ii) DVD-RW
- Back up/Archive
- Need to be portable/to be rewritable
(iii) CD-ROM [6]
- Import software/keep original copies of software
- Cannot be changed (hence lost)/kept in case of need to reinstall [6]

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Q98. State an example of each of the following types of storage medium and give a use
for each.
(i) Magnetic [2]
(ii) Solid state [2]
(iii) Optical [2]

(i) e.g. – Hard drive/tape

e.g. – Storing OS/Software/User files/Back-up (for tape)/transaction file [2]
(ii) e.g. – Flash Memory/Memory card
e.g. – Take data from one machine to another/use in camera/mobile phone
– use as back-up/backing store
(iii) e.g – CD/DVD/Blu Ray
- use as backup/offline storage [2]

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1.3.6 Operating systems

Q29. State three tasks done by the operating system. [3]

Any three points from:

file management resource management = 0
input/output control/peripheral management
spooling
memory management
multitasking/JCL/batch processing
multiprogramming
handling interrupts
error reporting/handling
security
interfaces with users/WIMP type interfaces
loads/runs programs
processor management
manages user accounts
copy/save/format/DOS utilities [3]

Q30. Many household appliances contain embedded microprocessors.

Explain why most of these microprocessors don’t need operating systems. [2]
(i) Give one example of such a device. [1]
(ii) Give one reason why it does not need an operating system.

(i) any typical device such as a microwave oven [1]

(ii) any one reason from:
has only one set of tasks to perform
simple input expected (e.g. keypad on front of device)
simple, never-changing hardware
would increase development and manufacturing costs [1]

Q31. Most operating systems provide a user interface.

(a) User interfaces can be either command line interfaces (CLI) or graphical user
interfaces (GUI).
Give ONE advantage and ONE disadvantage of both types of interface.

(a) Any one advantage of CLI from:

– direct communication with computer system
– not restricted to a number of pre-determined options
– simple interface using keyboard only
– faster response
Any one disadvantage of CLI from:
– need to learn a number of/long/complex commands
– need to type in the commands (possibility of errors)
– slow having to type in commands every time
Any one advantage of GUI from:
– only need to click on one simple picture
– so much easier for the novice
– several instructions are replaced by one icon
– no need to understand how computer systems work
Any one disadvantage of GUI from:
– wasteful of computer memory
– if user wants to communicate with computer system directly, GUI is effectively
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 more complex. [4]

Q32. Explain, with examples, the following five computer terms:

• buffer
• polling
• interrupts
• handshaking
• checksum.

• buffer
any two points from:
temporary store/memory
allows speed of CPU/devices to be matched
to hold data being transferred between peripherals and CPU
e.g. pages stored waiting to be printed [2]

• polling
Method in which operating system periodically checks each peripheral device for
communication is called polling

• interrupts
any two points from:
a signal/request generated by a device/program power cut = 0
causes a break in execution of a program/stops program
e.g. printer out of paper [2]

• handshaking
any two from:
exchange of signals/protocols
to establish communication/readiness (to send and receive)
between two devices/computers
examples: printer and computer, modem and computer [2]

• checksum.
(v) count of the number of bits before transmission which is sent with the transmission
so that the receiver can check to see whether the same number of bits have arrived

Q33. Give three file management tasks that are done by a computer operating system.

The operating system is responsible for the following activities in connections with file
management:
• File creation and deletion.
• Directory creation and deletion.
• Support for manipulating files and directories.
• Mapping files onto secondary storage.
• File backup on stable (nonvolatile) storage media.
• Identify and locate a selected file
• Use a directory to describe the location of all files plus their attributes
• On a shared system describe user access control
• Blocking for access to files
• provide simple and fast algorithms to read and write files
• give and deny access rights on files to users and programs
• allocate and de allocate files to processes
• provide users and programs with simple commands for file handling

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Q34. A student gave the following three computer definitions.
Give the name of the term being described in each case.
(i) “a signal from a device sent to a computer causing the CPU to stop its current
operation temporarily”
(ii) “an exchange of signals between two devices when communicating to ensure
synchronisation”
(iii) “a temporary memory to store data waiting to be sent to a device”

(i) interrupt
(ii) handshaking
(iii) buffer [3]

Q35. Which five computer terms are being described below?

(ii) signal sent from a printer requesting attention from the processor; this causes a
temporary break in the execution of whatever the processor is doing
(iii) exchange of signals between two devices to ensure synchronisation when
communication starts
(iv) temporary storage area in a printer that holds data waiting to be printed [5]
(v) count of the number of bits before transmission which is sent with the transmission
so that the receiver can check to see whether the same number of bits have arrived

1 mark for each correct term.

(ii) interrupt [1]
(iii) handshaking [1]
(iv) (printer) buffer, RAM [1]
(v) checksum [1]

Q36. State why the process known as handshaking is necessary between a computer
and the file server before use.

To ensure that both are on and ready for communication/to ensure that both are
using same protocol. [1]

Q37. Describe how buffers and interrupts are used in the transfer of data from primary
memory to secondary storage.
-Data sent to buffer from primary memory
-Processor can continue with other tasks
-Data downloaded from buffer to file server
-When buffer empty, interrupt sent to processor requesting refill of buffer
-Interrupt added to queue and dealt with when top of queue/interrupt dealt with on
receipt by processor.
(1 per -, max 4) [4]

Q38. Describe the stages of the process of transferring data from memory to backing
store. Your answer should include references to buffers and interrupts.

-Processor fills buffer with data

-Processor continues with other job
-Buffer is emptied to storage device
-When buffer empty
-signal sent to processor (interrupt)…
-requesting further data to be sent to buffer
-dependent on priority
-Processor interrupts present job to refill buffer
-Mention of double buffering
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 (1 per -, max 6) [6]

Q39. (i) Explain the role of the buffer and interrupts when a large document of over
200pages is sent to a laser printer. [3]
(ii) The use of two buffers would speed up the printing process.
Explain why.
(i) Any three points from:
data is transferred from (primary) memory to printer buffer
when the buffer is full, the processor can carry on with other tasks
printer buffer is emptied to printer
when printer buffer is empty, printer sends an interrupt to the processor
requesting more data to be sent
according to priorities [3]
(ii) Any two points from:
first (block) of data sent to the first buffer
whilst this data is being printed by the printer
next block of data is sent to the second buffer
when the first buffer is empty
data from the second buffer is then printed
meanwhile more data is then sent to the first buffer
this continues until all data has been processed by the printer [2]

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1.3.7 High- and low-level languages and their translators

Q84. Look at these two pieces of code:

(a) Which of these pieces of code is written in a high-level language? [1]

(a) code B [1]
(b) Give two benefit of writing code in a high-level language. [1]
(b) Any one from:
– no need to understand workings of a computer
– easier to understand for programmer/closer to English
– much easier to debug
– much easier to test
– one-to-many when writing commands
– not machine-specific/portable [1]
(c) Give two benefit of writing code in a low-level language. [1]
(c) Any one from:
– can address memory addresses directly
– no need for compilers/interpreters
– shorter code/code requires less storage/RAM
– can be written to run faster [1]

(d) High-level languages can be compiled or interpreted.

Give two differences between a compiler and an interpreter. [2]
(d) – compiler produces object code / interpreter doesn’t produce object code
– compiler translates whole program in one go / interpreter translates and executes
line at a time
– compiler produces list of all errors / interpreter produces error message each time
an error encountered
– compiler produces “stand alone code” / interpreter doesn’t produce “stand alone
code”
– compilation process is slow but resultant code runs very quickly / interpreted code
runs slowly
(e) Give two differences between high level languages and low level languages.
Any two differences from:
high level low level
portable
problem-orientated machine-orientated
close to English can be difficult to read/understand
one-to-many relationship one-to-one relationship
easier to debug/change/upgrade needs assembler
needs compiler/interpreter [2]

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1.5 Ethics
Q85. List ten commandments of computer ethics.

1. Thou shalt not use a computer to harm other people.

2. Thou shalt not interfere with other people's computer work.
3. Thou shalt not snoop around in other people's computer files.
4. Thou shalt not use a computer to steal.
5. Thou shalt not uses a computer to bear false witness (aka Lie).
6. Thou shalt not copy or use proprietary software for which you have not paid.
7. Thou shalt not use other people's computer resources without authorization or
proper compensation.
8. Thou shalt not appropriate other people's intellectual output.
9. Thou shalt think about the social consequences of the program you are writing or
the system you are designing.
10. Thou shalt always use a computer in ways that ensure consideration and respect
for your fellow humans.

Q86. Distinguish between free software, freeware and shareware

Freeware Software:

Freeware is copyrighted software that is licensed to be copied and distributed

without charges.
Freeware is free because the license says it is, but it’s still under the owners control.
Example:
Netscape
Internet Explorer

Shareware Software:
The software is licensed for copying and sharing for a trial period, but payment must
be made to the owner for permanent use.

Q87. Explain Lossy and Lossless Compression. Give example of each compression
technique.

Lossless

These are used to make a file a smaller size but without losing any of the
information. Using this method you can always get back to the original file
Example:
PNG
RAW

Lossy

Sometimes some loss of quality is acceptable. For example the human ear
cannot hear all frequencies, so a file format that throws away parts that people
can't hear may end up with a smaller file, but it is not possible to get back to how
exactly the original music sounded.
Example:
MP3
JPEG
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Q91. List the difference between Copyright Vs. Plagiarism

Copyright Plagiarism
One who violets copyright breaks laws One who plagiarizes breaks a moral
that protect the right of the creator of code by claiming credit for the work of
an original work. someone els.
Violation of copyright law may results Plagiarism may result in academic
in fines, imprisonment or both. dismissal or loss of job.

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