BMIT1703 IT Fundamentals and Applications – Exercise

1 - Chapter 1
Chapter 1: Introduction to Computers (Week 2 to Week 3)

1. a. What is a computer? (2 marks)

A computer can be defined as an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions
that can accept data, process the data according to specified rules, produce and store the results
or information for future use.

b. Explain TWO (2) advantages and TWO (2) disadvantages of using computers. (8 marks)

Advantages
Storage. Computer store enormous amounts of data and make this data available for processing
anytime it is needed.
Communication. Computer allow users to communicate with one another and most computer
today can communicate with other computers wirelessly.

Disadvantages.
Impact on labour force. Millions of employees have been replaced by computers.
Health risks. Prolonged / improper computer use can lead to disorders of the hands, wrists, neck,
back and eyes.

2. List out FIVE (5) fundamental components of a computer. Provide ONE (1) example for each
component in the computer system. (10
marks)

Input Device. Hardware components that allow you enter data/instruction into the computer.
Examples: keyboard

Output Device. Hardware components that conveys info to one or more people. Examples:
printer.

System Unit. Box-like case that contains the electronic components of the computer that are
used to process data. Example, CPU.

Storage Device. Device that records and/or retrieves items to and from storage media.
Examples, USB flash drives.

Communications Device. Hardware components that enables a computer to send and receive
data, instructions and info to and from another computers. Examples: Modem

3. Explain the use of the computers in the following sectors of the society. (6 marks)

(i) Education
Educators are turning to computers to assist with education. Many schools and
companies equip labs and classrooms with computers. Some schools require students to
have a mobile computer or mobile device to access the school’s network or Internet
wirelessly.

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BMIT1703 IT Fundamentals and Applications – Exercise
1 - Chapter 1
(ii) Publishing
Many publishers make their works available online. Many magazine and newspaper
publisher make the content of their publications available online.

(iii) Traveling
Many Web sites offer travel services to the public. GPS gives users prompted directions
to a destination.

4. Today, online shopping has become increasingly popular. People doing their shopping online
due to convenience, best prices and free shipping. Assume a college student wishes to buy an
external hard disk drive online via lelong.com.my.

a. Apply ONE (1) input device and ONE (1) output device that you think the student needs to
use in order to perform the tasks mentioned above. Describe also the usage of the
devices. (6
marks)
First, we need to use keyboard as an input device for entering the web address
"lelong.com.my" in the browsers search bar. Then, we need to look at monitor because it
is an output device by showing us the websites content. Next, student need to use
wireless modem as a communication device to access internet and reach
"lelong.com.my" to buy product online.

b. Identify THREE (3) examples of input data that needs to be obtained in order to make an
online purchase.
(3 marks)
Website address
User’s account name and password
Credit card number

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