Here’s a detailed explanation and labeled diagram of the various components of a complete
computer system, including both hardware and software components.
1. Diagram: Components of a Complete Computer System
+-----------------------------+
| USER (Input/Output) |
+-----------------------------+
↓
+-----------------------------+
| INPUT DEVICES |
| (Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner) |
+-----------------------------+
↓
+-----------------------------+
| CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT |
| +---------------------+ |
| | CONTROL UNIT (CU) | |
| +---------------------+ |
| | ARITHMETIC LOGIC | |
| | UNIT (ALU) | |
| +---------------------+ |
| | REGISTERS | |
| +---------------------+ |
+-----------------------------+
↓
+-----------------------------+
| MEMORY UNIT |
| +-----------------------+ |
| | Primary Memory | |
| | (RAM & ROM - Volatile)| |
| +-----------------------+ |
| | Secondary Memory | |
| | (HDD, SSD - Permanent)| |
| +-----------------------+ |
+-----------------------------+
↓
+-----------------------------+
| OUTPUT DEVICES |
| (Monitor, Printer, Speaker)|
+-----------------------------+
↓
+-----------------------------+
| SOFTWARE SYSTEM |
| +-----------------------+ |
| | Operating System (OS) | |
| | (Windows, Linux) | |
| +-----------------------+ |
| | Application Software | |
| | (MS Word, Browsers) | |
| +-----------------------+ |
+-----------------------------+
2. Explanation of Components
A. Input Devices
Devices that allow the user to enter data into the system.
Examples: Keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone.
B. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The "brain" of the computer that processes all instructions.
1. Control Unit (CU):
Directs operations of the processor, telling the memory, ALU, and I/O devices
how to respond.
2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):
Performs arithmetic and logical operations.
3. Registers:
Small, fast storage locations within the CPU used for immediate data
manipulation.
C. Memory Unit
1. Primary Memory (Main Memory):
o Temporary storage used while programs are running.
o Examples: RAM (volatile), ROM (non-volatile for startup instructions).
2. Secondary Memory:
o Long-term data storage.
o Examples: Hard disks, solid-state drives, USB drives.
D. Output Devices
Devices that display or output the processed data.
Examples: Monitor, printer, speakers.
E. Software System
1. Operating System (OS):
o Manages hardware and software resources (e.g., Windows, Linux).
2. Application Software:
o Programs used by users for tasks (e.g., MS Office, web browsers).
Would you like this turned into a printable PDF or presentation format for study purposes?
Here are model answers to all the questions from the exam image you uploaded:
QUESTION A (30 Marks)
i. Define the following computing terms:
a. RAM (Random Access Memory):
A type of volatile memory used by the computer to temporarily store data and instructions that
are currently in use.
b. Optical Disc:
A flat, circular disc used to store data using laser technology (e.g., CD, DVD, Blu-ray).
c. Information Security:
The practice of protecting information systems from unauthorized access, data breaches, and
damage.
d. DBMS (Database Management System):
Software that allows users to define, create, maintain, and control access to databases (e.g.,
MySQL, Oracle).
e. Fiber Optic Cable:
A high-speed data transmission medium that uses light to carry data through glass or plastic
fibers.
ii. Explain any five characteristics of computers. (5 Marks)
1. Speed – Processes data quickly.
2. Accuracy – Produces error-free results if correctly programmed.
3. Automation – Can run operations without human intervention.
4. Storage – Can store large amounts of data.
5. Versatility – Can perform a wide range of tasks.
iii. What are the functions of the operating system in the computer? (5 Marks)
1. Manages hardware resources.
2. Provides user interface (GUI or CLI).
3. Controls peripheral devices (printers, drives).
4. Manages files and directories.
5. Allocates memory and processing time.
iv. State any five advantages of using computer systems. (5 Marks)
1. Fast processing of data.
2. Accurate calculations and results.
3. Easy data storage and retrieval.
4. Automation of tasks.
5. Connectivity through internet and networks.
v. Outline five formatting features in MS Word Application. (5 Marks)
1. Bold, Italic, Underline – For text emphasis.
2. Font size and style – Customize text appearance.
3. Text alignment – Left, center, right, justify.
4. Bullets and numbering – Organize lists.
5. Line spacing – Adjust space between lines or paragraphs.
QUESTION B (20 Marks)
i. What is a LAN? (2 Marks)
A Local Area Network (LAN) is a network that connects computers and devices within a small
geographical area such as a home, school, or office building.
ii. State and explain the difference between a twisted pair cable and a coaxial
cable. (8 Marks)
Feature Twisted Pair Cable Coaxial Cable
Two insulated wires twisted Central conductor surrounded by insulation and
Structure
together shielding
Cost Cheaper More expensive
Usage LAN, telephone systems Cable TV, broadband internet
Data
Lower bandwidth Higher bandwidth
transmission
iii. Outline the various categories of computers based on usage. (10 Marks)
1. Supercomputers – Very powerful; used for complex calculations (e.g., weather
forecasting).
2. Mainframe Computers – Large systems used by banks and governments.
3. Minicomputers (Midrange) – Used by small to medium businesses.
4. Microcomputers (Personal computers) – Desktops and laptops for individual use.
5. Embedded Systems – Built into devices (e.g., washing machines, ATMs).
QUESTION C (20 Marks)
i. Using clear examples, explain the different categories of computer software. (10
Marks)
See previous answer already given [scroll up], which you can reuse here.
ii. The system unit is the brain of the computer. Clearly describe the functions of
the following components inside the system unit. (10 Marks)
Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU): Performs mathematical and logical operations.
Address Bus: Carries memory addresses from processor to other components.
Control Unit: Directs all computer operations, instructs memory and I/O devices.
RAM: Temporary storage for active data and programs.
Registers: Small, high-speed memory locations in the CPU used for quick data access.
QUESTION D (20 Marks)
i. What is volatile memory, and how is the problem of volatility solved? (5
Marks)
Volatile memory loses its contents when power is turned off (e.g., RAM).
Solution: Use non-volatile storage like hard drives, SSDs, or backup systems to store
data permanently.
ii. Using a well-detailed diagram, describe the various components of a complete
computer system. (15 Marks)
Diagram includes:
Input devices – Keyboard, mouse
System Unit – CPU, RAM, motherboard, hard disk
Output devices – Monitor, printer
Storage – HDD, SSD, USB
Communication devices – Network card, modem
Refer to the earlier diagram I generated or request another for inclusion in your answer script.
Let me know if you'd like this compiled into a printable revision booklet.
