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Q&A-KCSE Computer Studies Paper 1

Mention at least two trends in the technological revolution of computers.

  • Continual decrease in computer size
  • Improved speed and power of processing
  • Decrease in computer physical size and its related facilities cost
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Explain what is meant by the two terms download speed and upload speed

download speed :
– speed at which information/data is transferred FROM server/Internet
– speed at which information/data is transferred TO the user’s computer
upload speed :
– speed at which information/data is transferred FROM user’s computer
– speed at which information/data is transferred TO the Internet/server

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State the type of software that is needed for logging onto the Internet and finding websites selling goods and services.

  1. logging on
  2. finding websites

logging on

  •  dial-up/communications software/ISPsoftware

finding websites

  •  browser/search engine
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Explain what is meant by a LIFO data structure.

  • Data enters at one end (of a stack)
  • Leaves at the same end
  • Hence 'last in, first out'
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A car park uses a number plate recognition system. Identify the reason why unsigned integers should be used to record the number of cars entering and leaving the car park, rather than signed integers

  • Unsigned integers store more positive values
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What is repetitive strain injury?

  • the pain felt in muscles, nerves and tendons caused by repetitive movement and overuse.
  • Injury as a result of repetitive use of parts of the body while performing work
  • Strains and injuries due to prolonged typing and use of the mouse
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Describe the following features of a graphical user interface:

(a) Pointer

(b) Desktop

(a) Pointer

  •  A graphical object on a computer screen that responds to move movement and allows the computer user to select and execute commands in graphical user interface operating systems

(b) Desktop

  • It Is a special folder in the file system that is displayed when no other windows are open
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Ahmed uses the Internet for some time and is puzzled by the terminology.
(a) Draw a line to match each description to the appropriate technical term.

  • a computer that responds to requests to provide information and services over the Internet - an Internet server
  • defines how messages are transmitted and formatted over the Internet-HTTP
  • software that enables users to access/view documents and other resources on the Internet - Browser     
  • numerical ID for each device on the Internet-IP address
  • unique ID for a network interface card  -MAC address
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Differentiate between logical and physical network topology

Physical topology - the physical arrangement of nodes of a computer network

Examples

  • bus topology
  • ring topology
  • mesh topology
  • star topology

Logical topology- the way data flows in a network

Examples

  • Ethernet
  • Ring
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Describe the purpose of the
(i) control unit
(ii) memory unit
(iii) arithmetic logic unit

in a computer.

i) To manage the execution of instructions
By running a clock
To decode instructions
(ii) To store OS
To store those parts of applications programs currently running
To store data currently in use
(iii) Part of the processor where data is processed/manipulated
All I/O must pass through here

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Describe two differences between a switch and a repeater

  • a repeater is a two-port device that amplifies a signal from one port to another
  • a switch is a multiport device that uses a table of addresses to send a signal through the correct port
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She lost all her photographs when her computer crashed.
(i) What is meant by the term crashed?
(ii) How could she have avoided losing all her photographs?

  • the computer appears to “freeze”/”hang”
  • computer won’t respond
  • failure of hardware (stops computer normal functioning)
  • failure of software (stops computer normal functioning)
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A typical computer’s main memory consists of both volatile and non-volatile memory.

a)  i)  Explain what is meant by the term volatile memory                                                            (1mark)

  • Memory content is lost when the power is turned off

ii) What is normally stored in the non-volatile part of a computer’s main memory                       (1mark)

  • The Computer’s BIOS

b) Explain why having cache memory can improve the performance of the CPU                         (2mks)

  • Frequently used data/instructions are store in the cache; Meaning they don’t have to be fetched from the main memory;
  • Data/instructions stored in the cache memory can be accessed faster (than data/instructions stored in the main memory) MAX 2
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State ways in which an OS secures a computer system

  • Access Controls: Authentication of users in order to access files
  • Performing regular patches of updates
  • creating secure accounts with required privileges
  • scrutinizes all incoming and outgoing packets of data through a firewall
  • encryption of data, during transmission
  • Log files to detect any breach
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State three documents that are used during mail merging in word processing

  • Main document
  • Data source
  • merged document
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(i) Give three advantages and disadvantages of using a touch-sensitive interface.

Advantages

  •  A touch screen is very intuitive
  • Easy to use as the user simply touches what they see on the display
  • Save space as no keyboard or mouse is required.
  • Touch monitors can even be mounted on the wall.
  • Touching a visual display of choices requires little thinking and is a form of direct manipulation that is easy to learn.
  • Touch screens are the fastest pointing devices.
  • Touch screens have easier hand-eye coordination than mice or keyboards.
  • No extra workspace is required as with other pointing devices.
  • Touch screens are durable in public access and in high volume usage

Disadvantages

  • Difficult for people with accessibility issues, e.g no feedback, disability
  • Can be easily damaged/scratched
  • Damaged/scratched screen prevent the interface from functioning as it should
  • Dirty screens difficult to read
  • Users must be within arm’s reach of the display
  • It is difficult to select small items
  • User's hand may obscure the screen
  • Screens need to be installed at a lower position and tilted to reduce arm fatigue
  • Some reduction in image brightness may occur
  • They cost more than alternative devices
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Identify the protocol used to transfer data in networks.

  • TCP/IP
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Your friend wishes to install a wireless network in his office. Explain to him the difference between guided and unguided media

  • Guided media uses cables to connect to computers whereas unguided media uses waves.
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The website has a uniform resource locator (URL).
An example of a URL is given.
https://www.google.co.ke/index.html
Complete the table to identify the name of each section of the URL.

https :  protocol

google.co.ke: domain name

/index.html: webpage/file name

 

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Describe one way developers ensure that their software addresses inclusivity issues.

Incorporate language support features in their software, which allows users to select their preferred language. This can be achieved through multi-language user interfaces and providing translation capabilities. By doing so, developers address language barriers and make the software accessible to a broader audience, demonstrating a commitment to cultural inclusivity.

Gender inclusivity – use gender-neutral language in examples

Cultural/Racial inclusivity – use a variety of ethnicities in photos

Ability inclusivity – represent awareness of disability in some examples

Sexual preference inclusivity – use language that is supportive of LGBTQI+ people

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