Fundamentals of Information Technology and Computer Systems
Domain 1: Fundamentals of Information Technology and Computer Systems
This domain checks whether you can explain what a computer is, how the input–process–output–storage cycle works, and how hardware and software are classified. UPMSP-style questions often ask you to identify devices, compare memory types, convert storage units, and distinguish system software from application software.
Core rules and concepts
- A computer accepts data, processes it under a stored program, and produces information. The CPU has the ALU (arithmetic/logic unit), control unit, and registers.
- Primary memory: RAM is volatile and holds running programs; ROM is non-volatile and stores firmware such as BIOS.
- Secondary storage: hard disk, SSD, pen drive, DVD. Storage units rise by 1024: 8 bits = 1 byte; 1024 B = 1 KB; 1024 KB = 1 MB; 1024 MB = 1 GB; 1024 GB = 1 TB.
- Input devices: keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone, webcam. Output: monitor, printer, speaker, projector.
- System software includes the operating system, utilities, and language translators; application software includes word processors, spreadsheets, and browsers.
Worked example
Question: A pen drive is marked 4 GB. How many MB is that, and is it primary or secondary storage? Reasoning: 1 GB = 1024 MB, so 4 GB = 4 × 1024 = 4096 MB. A pen drive keeps data without power, so it is secondary storage, not RAM. The answer is 4096 MB; secondary.
Traps that cost marks
Do not call RAM “permanent” or ROM “temporary”. Do not use 1000 instead of 1024 in this syllabus unless the question states decimal units. Do not label a touchscreen only as output-it is both input and output. Do not confuse the CPU with the whole system unit.