Computer Knowledge: Fast Factual Marks
Computer Knowledge is factual and quick. Questions cover generations, hardware, memory units, software, MS Office, internet and networking, security, database basics, shortcut keys and banking technology such as CBS, NEFT, RTGS and cheque truncation.
Core areas
- Generations: first - vacuum tubes; second - transistors; third - integrated circuits; fourth - microprocessors; fifth - artificial intelligence and ULSI.
- Memory: 1 byte = 8 bits; 1 KB = 1024 bytes. Primary memory (RAM, ROM, cache) is volatile or firmware; secondary storage (SSD, HDD) is persistent.
- Number systems: binary 1011 equals decimal 11.
- Shortcut keys: Ctrl+C copy, Ctrl+X cut, Ctrl+V paste, Ctrl+Z undo, Ctrl+Y redo, F2 rename in Excel, Ctrl+; inserts today's date.
- Networking and security: LAN versus WAN, IP address, HTTP versus HTTPS, hub versus switch versus router, phishing, malware, firewall, digital signature.
Worked example
Convert binary 1011 to decimal using place values 8, 4, 2, 1: 1011 = 8 + 0 + 2 + 1 = 11. Going the other way, 25 = 16 + 8 + 1 = 11001. Practise both directions, since questions often ask for the decimal equivalent of a binary string or the byte count for a given KB value.
Traps that cost marks
- 1 KB as 1000 versus 1024: use 1024 unless the question clearly refers to decimal SI units.
- Mixing RAM (volatile, working memory) with ROM (non-volatile, holds startup instructions).
- Confusing a switch (works on MAC addresses within a LAN) with a router (routes between networks).
- Skipping banking technology: RTGS has a minimum of Rs 2 lakh and no upper limit, while NEFT has no minimum.