Information Technology Fundamentals and Computer Systems
Information Technology Fundamentals and Computer Systems tests whether you can classify hardware and software, describe the CPU-memory-storage-input/output cycle, and use binary storage units correctly. Expect questions on components, input/output devices, primary versus secondary memory, and data versus information.
Core rules and concepts
- A computer executes the fetch-decode-execute cycle. The CPU contains the control unit, ALU and registers. RAM is volatile working memory; ROM holds firmware; cache is fast memory close to the CPU.
- Storage units use bytes: 8 bits = 1 byte; 1 KB = 1024 bytes in the binary convention, then MB, GB and TB. Vendors may use decimal powers, so state the convention.
- Hardware is physical; software is instructions. System software includes the operating system and utilities; application software performs user tasks.
- Input devices send data in; output devices present results; secondary storage keeps data when power is off.
Worked example
A file is 3 GB. Using the binary convention, convert it to MB and bytes. 3 GB × 1024 = 3072 MB. 3072 MB × 1024 = 3,145,728 KB; × 1024 = 3,221,225,472 bytes. The reasoning matters: multiply by 1024 at each step, not 1000, and keep units labelled.
Traps that cost marks
- Calling RAM permanent storage; RAM loses contents on power-off.
- Mixing up KB/MB/GB order or using 1000 when the question expects 1024.
- Treating a touchscreen as output only; it is both input and output.
- Confusing data (raw facts) with information (processed, meaningful data).