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Q&A-KCSE Computer Studies Paper 1

Give a reason why HMTL is not regarded as a programming language

  •  It does not have declaration part
  • It does not  have control structures
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The Unicode character set is used to represent text that is typed into a computer.
(a) Describe what is meant by a character set.

(b) One disadvantage of using the Unicode character set, instead of the ASCII character set, is
that the text stored takes up more storage space.

  • All the characters and symbols that can be represented by a computer system.
  • Each character and symbol is assigned a unique value.

(b) One disadvantage of using the Unicode character set, instead of the ASCII character set, is

that the text stored takes up more storage space

  • Each character is encoded using more bits

 

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What precaution would you take in a computer lab if humidity falls below normal for prolonged periods due to weather changes?

  1. Use a humidifier: Using a humidifier can help maintain a consistent level of humidity in the computer lab, which can prevent the negative effects of low humidity.

  2. Avoid dry air: Avoid creating a dry environment in the computer lab by opening windows or using fans to increase air circulation.

  3. Regular maintenance: Ensure that all computer components are properly maintained and cleaned to prevent damage due to static electricity.

  4. Backup data: Regularly backup all important data to avoid data loss in case of hardware failure caused by low humidity.

  5. Monitor humidity levels: Use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels in the computer lab and take corrective measures if the levels fall below a safe range.

  6. Use anti-static materials: Use anti-static mats or wristbands when handling computer components to prevent static electricity buildup.

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(ii) The organisation has chosen wireless connectivity over wired connectivity for its new office building. There is no significant difference in the cost of installing either.
Give three reasons why the organisation might prefer wireless connectivity.

May not have space for cables to be installed

Employees and visitors can move around the building without disconnecting

Adding new users just means giving out the SSID and password

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Explain how an SSD stores data

Uses transistors( resistors and capacitors) . It can be implemented by the use of NAND or NOR gates. Data is stored on the chip as a charge

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Apart from the user interface, name three other components that make up a typical expert system.

– knowledge base
– rule(s) base
– inference engine
– explanation system
– (expert system) shell

A family has purchased a computer system with the following specification:

Processor speed 2200 MHz
RAM 512 Megabyte
Hard disk drive 120 Gigabytes
CD ROM
DVD writer
Modem 56k
Monitor 17"

(a) The computer has been purchased for buying goods and services over the Internet. Explain how each of these items of hardware would be used for this purpose.

Hard disk drive

RAM

DVD writer
Modem

Hard disk drive

  • to hold the operating system/communication and applications software/ISP software
  • for storing files/information/cookies on backing store

RAM

  • for data, computer programs and operating instructions which are moved into it/downloaded for data currently in use

DVD writer

  • Films/videos/pictures/music/multimedia data downloaded/purchased

Modem

  • link/dial up/establish communication with the Internet
  • Convert digital signals to analogue/audio tones (and vice versa) Which can travel across the telephone system
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The following are software classified according to the end user licence agreement. Briefly describe each of them:

open source software, freeware, shareware, and proprietary software

Open source : refers to software provided freely with its source code. The user can modify and redistribute the software.

Freeware: these are software that can be downloaded for free and distributed, buta  the source code is hidden and cannot be altered.

Shareware: is software that is available for free within a given trial period, after which it must be bought.

Proprietary: software made for commercial purposes. The source code is hidden, and it can only be used after paying for a licence.

 

State two places where robots are used.

  • car factories/factories
  • chemical/nuclear factories
  • production lines
  • warehouses
  • deep in the ocean/down mines
  • on other planets/in space
  • road junctions

What is data encryption?

  • Refers to the scrambling of data into unreadable form before transmission over a telecommunication media  OR
  • transformation of data from plaintext to ciphertext
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What is the difference between a logical file and a physical file?

  • A physical file contains the original data whereas a logical file does not contain any data
  • A physical file contains one record format while a logical file can contain up to 32 record formats
  • A physical file can exist without a logical file while a logical file cannot exist without a physical file
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Differentiate between action query and select query

An action query is used to modify, add, or delete data in a database whereas a select query is used to retrieve data from a database based on specified criteria but does not make any changes to the data.

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Suggest one disadvantage to the programmer of using a high-level language instead of a low-level language.

  • not able to directly manipulate the hardware
  • may need to wait for translation before running
  • the program may be less efficient.

 

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Define the term multimedia

  • Is an integration of sound, text, graphics, and video to convey information
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Describe two features you would expect to see in the expert system’s interactive user interface.

– multiple choice/yes-no answers
– easy to understand interface e.g. use of icons/drop down menus etc.
– output shown as % probabilities of fault

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State three functions of  a network  operating system

  • Allows creation and management of user accounts
  • Helps in troubleshooting of the network
  • controls access to network resources
  • Provides communication services
  • configures network resources
  •  

 

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There are four change-over methods used in the implementation stage of the system development life cycle (SDLC): direct change-over, phased, parallel and pilot.

Direct Change-Over

  • A date is chosen for the shutdown of the old system, then at that time, the old system
    is turned off and the new system is implemented

Phased

  • Parts of the new system are implemented in stages or for a period of time, both the old and the new system are running together until all parts of the system are implemented.
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KCSE 2002 COMPUTER STUDIES PAPER 1

SECTION A (40 MARKS)

1.Describe the purpose of each of the following computer functional units:    (2mks)

    a) Control

    b) Storage

2.Explain how each of the following would affect the suitability of a room for use as a computer room: (2mks)

a) Burglar proofed door

b)Availability of taps and sinks in the room

3.State three data representation codes used in computers       (3mks)

4.State two types of documentation in program development and give the purpose of each.     (4mks)

5.Suppose a 5 element array A contains the values 9, 12, 17, 7 and 20.  Find the value in A after executing the loop below:

            Repeat for k = 1 to 4

            Set A [k +1]: = A [k]

                        [End of loop]            (3mks)

6.State any three activities that occur in a program compilation process  (3mks)

7.The formula = k20 + P$ 18 was typed in cell L21 and then copied to cell M24 of a spreadsheet. Write the formula as it appears in cell M24.(2mks)

8.State two ways in which a computer may be used in the efficient running of a hospital (2mks)

9.List three disadvantages of using the traditional file management method          (3mks)

10.Give one disadvantage of a single processor multi-user system    (1mk)

11. List three differences between a micro-computer and a super-computer.         (3mks)

12.State and explain two reasons why word processing is one of the most common applications of many computer users.   (2mks)

13. write- 1 in twos complement notation in byte form                                        (4mks)

14.Explain the following input/output terms as used in computer systems. Give an example for each        (4mks)

  a) Read

  b) Write

15.State two disadvantages of networking.

SECTION B (60 MKS)

Answer question 16 and any other three questions from this section.

16.The following flowchart can be used to list the odd numbers between 0 and 100

 

 

a)Write a program segment for the flowchart using a high level language.  (7mks)

b)What would be the output from the flowchart if the statement in the decision box is changed to:  (3 mks)

i)          Odd = 100

ii)         Odd< 100

iii)        Odd> 100

c)  Modify the flowchart so that it prints only the sum of the odd number between 0 and 100  (5mks)

17.a)  List five precautions that can be taken to protect data stored in diskettes   (5mks)

b)State and explain two precautions that can be taken to help recover data lost through accidental erasure. (4mks)

   c) Describe each of the following data processing methods:    (6mks)

   i) Batch processing

   ii) Distributed processing

   iii) Multiprogramming

18. a)  i)  What is a computer keyboard?      (1 mk)

           ii)  ist four types of keys found on a computer keyboard.  Give an example of each(4mks)

     b) Give four differences between present day’s computers and the older generation of computers   (4mks)

     c)   i) State three advantages and one disadvantage of using a laser printer.  (4mks)

           ii) Distinguish between a line printer and a page printer             (2mks)

19  a) Identity three public Universities and three National Polytechnics in Kenya where further computer training is offered. In case, state the highest level of qualification that can be acquired in computer training. (6 mks)

b) Distinguish between “Job replacement” and “Job displacement” in reference to computerization.  (2mks)

c) Give four reasons why a firm may decide to computerize its operations.   (4mks)

d) An individual has a right to demand a guarantee of privacy of personal information stored on a computer.Give three such types of information.  (3mks)

20. a)  Give three comparisons of the traditional file management method of typing a document on a typewriter against using a word processor.     (6mks)

      b)  i) Define the term spreadsheet (1 mk)

            ii) Give two examples of spreadsheet packages available in the market today        (2mks)

      c) Explain the following terms as used in a spreadsheet:

             i)  What if …analysis         (2 mks)

             ii) Cell                (1 mk)

             iii) Formula  (1mk)

             iv)  Pie chart                                                                      (2 mks)

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Describe the function of a web browser

Convert the HTML into a webpage which is rendered on the screen

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What is social engineering?
The act of soliciting for sensitive information from unsuspecting users. According to study.com, it is the use of various forms of technology to deceive people into divulging private information:study.com
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