Computer Fundamentals
This domain checks basic computer literacy: the input-process-output cycle, hardware versus software, data versus information, and binary storage units.
Core rules
- A computer takes input, processes it using the CPU and memory, and produces output; storage holds data for later use.
- Hardware is physical; software is a set of instructions. System software runs the machine; application software does user tasks.
- Data are raw facts; information is processed, meaningful data.
- Storage uses binary units: 8 bits = 1 byte; 1 KB = 1024 bytes; 1 MB = 1024 KB; 1 GB = 1024 MB.
- Input devices include keyboard, mouse, scanner, and microphone; output devices include monitor, printer, and speaker.
Worked example
A form asks for RAM size in MB and the specification says 4 GB. Convert: 4 × 1024 = 4096 MB. The reasoning uses binary units, not decimal units: 1 GB is 1024 MB in the exam's conventional computer-fundamentals treatment. If the question instead asks for bytes, 4 GB = 4 × 1024 × 1024 × 1024 bytes.
Traps that cost marks
- Using 1000 instead of 1024 for KB, MB, and GB conversions.
- Calling RAM non-volatile; RAM loses contents when power is off.
- Treating a scanner as output or a printer as input.
- Confusing data with information in definition questions.