Computer Fundamentals MCQs

Computer

Computer Fundamentals MCQs

Practice Computer Fundamentals MCQs with answers and detailed explanations covering computer basics, characteristics, types of computers, generations of computers and fundamental concepts frequently asked in SSC, Railway, Banking, UPSC, JKSSB and other competitive exams.

326
Total Questions

Practice Questions

Page 9 of 17
Question #161
Which of the following is a characteristic of first-generation computers?
A. Used machine language
B. Used microprocessors
C. Used magnetic cores
D. Used high-level languages

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
First-generation computers were programmed in machine language (binary) and used vacuum tubes.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #162
What does BIOS provide?
A. Low-level control of peripherals
B. Internet connectivity
C. File management
D. Graphical user interface

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
BIOS provides low-level control over hardware, such as keyboard and display, during boot process.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #163
Which device is used to input data from a printed paper?
A. Webcam
B. Microphone
C. Touchscreen
D. Scanner

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
A scanner converts printed text and images into digital data.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #164
What is the full form of EBCDIC?
A. Extended Binary Code Decimal Interchange Code
B. Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code
C. External Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code
D. Efficient Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
EBCDIC stands for Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code, used in IBM mainframes.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #165
Which type of computer is used in scientific research requiring high-speed calculations?
A. Mainframe
B. Minicomputer
C. Microcomputer
D. Supercomputer

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Supercomputers are built for high-speed, large-scale scientific computations.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #166
What is the primary advantage of a digital computer over an analog computer?
A. More accuracy
B. Higher speed
C. Lower cost
D. Continuous data processing

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
Digital computers offer higher precision and accuracy because they process discrete values, while analog computers are continuous and less exact.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #167
Which of the following is an example of an analog computer?
A. Thermometer
B. Tablet
C. Desktop PC
D. Smartphone

Correct Answer: Option A


Explanation:
A thermometer is an analog device that measures continuous temperature changes, unlike digital computers that use discrete signals.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #168
What is the hexadecimal equivalent of decimal 15?
A. 15
B. F
C. E
D. 10

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
In hexadecimal, decimal 15 is represented as F.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #169
Which generation introduced high-level languages like FORTRAN and COBOL?
A. Fourth
B. Third
C. First
D. Second

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Second-generation computers (1950s-60s) saw the development of early high-level languages such as FORTRAN and COBOL.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #170
What is the function of a compiler?
A. Translates line by line
B. Optimizes storage
C. Executes code without translation
D. Translates high-level code to machine code all at once

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
A compiler translates the entire source code of a program into machine code before execution.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #171
Which type of memory is used as cache memory?
A. EEPROM
B. SRAM
C. EPROM
D. DRAM

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
Cache memory typically uses Static RAM (SRAM), which is faster but more expensive than DRAM.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #172
What is the main difference between a mainframe and a supercomputer?
A. Mainframes are faster
B. Mainframes are optimized for transaction processing, supercomputers for number crunching
C. Supercomputers handle multiple users better
D. No difference

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
Mainframes excel at handling many transactions (e.g., banking), while supercomputers excel at complex mathematical computations.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #173
Which of the following is a type of volatile memory?
A. ROM
B. Cache memory
C. Flash memory
D. Magnetic tape

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
Cache memory (SRAM) is volatile; it loses data when power is off. ROM and flash are non-volatile.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #174
What does the acronym 'CPU' stand for?
A. Control Processing Unit
B. Central Program Unit
C. Computer Personal Unit
D. Central Processing Unit

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
CPU stands for Central Processing Unit, the primary component that executes instructions.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #175
Which number system is used internally by computers?
A. Hexadecimal
B. Decimal
C. Octal
D. Binary

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Computers use binary (base-2) because electronic switches can represent two states: on/off.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #176
What is the role of the operating system in memory management?
A. Defragments hard disk
B. Allocates memory to running processes
C. Permanently stores files
D. Connects to peripherals

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
The OS manages memory allocation for programs and ensures efficient use of RAM.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #177
Which of the following is an example of a microcomputer?
A. Cray supercomputer
B. IBM z/OS mainframe
C. PDP-11 minicomputer
D. Apple MacBook

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Microcomputers include personal computers like laptops, desktops, and tablets.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #178
What is the binary equivalent of decimal 10?
A. 1110
B. 1100
C. 1010
D. 1001

Correct Answer: Option C


Explanation:
10 in binary is 1010 (8+2).

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #179
Which generation of computers is associated with artificial intelligence?
A. Sixth
B. Fourth
C. Third
D. Fifth

Correct Answer: Option D


Explanation:
Fifth-generation computers (1980s-present) focus on AI, parallel processing, and natural language understanding.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals
Question #180
What does VLSI stand for?
A. Very Low Scale Integration
B. Very Large Scale Integration
C. Variable Large Scale Integration
D. Virtual Large Scale Integration

Correct Answer: Option B


Explanation:
VLSI refers to the process of creating integrated circuits by combining thousands of transistors on a single chip, used in fourth-generation computers.

This question belongs to: Computer Computer Fundamentals