Short Q/A Computer Systems - Students Free Notes

What are the advantages of using flowcharts?

Flowcharts offer several advantages: Clarity: They make complex processes easier to understand by visually representing them. Problem-solving: They help in identifying inefficiencies, bottlenecks, or errors in a process. Communication: Flowcharts facilitate clear communication among team members by presenting a common visual understanding. Documentation: They provide a useful record of processes, which can be reviewed or … Read more

What is the role of the Application Layer in the OSI model?

 The Application Layer is the topmost layer in the OSI model and interacts directly with end-user applications. It provides services like email, file transfer, and network management, enabling applications to communicate over the network. Related Questions: What is the function and significance of Napier’s Bone in early computing? How did Charles Babbage’s Difference Engine differ … Read more

Why is mesh topology considered the most reliable but also the most expensive to implement?

Mesh topology provides multiple connections between devices, ensuring redundancy and fault tolerance. However, it is costly to implement because of the extensive wiring and complexity required to connect each device to every other device in the network. Related Questions: What is the function and significance of Napier’s Bone in early computing? How did Charles Babbage’s … Read more

Explain the concept of a peer-to-peer network and its limitations compared to a client/server network.

 A peer-to-peer network allows devices to act as both clients and servers, sharing resources directly with each other. Its limitations include less centralized control, reduced security, and scalability issues compared to a client/server network, where dedicated servers manage resources and security. Related Questions: What is the function and significance of Napier’s Bone in early computing? … Read more

How does asynchronous transmission differ from synchronous transmission, and in what situations are they typically used?

 Asynchronous transmission sends data at irregular intervals, using start and stop bits to mark data boundaries (used in lower-speed devices like keyboards). Synchronous transmission sends data in a continuous stream, synchronized with a clock signal (used in higher-speed communication, like Ethernet). Related Questions: What is the function and significance of Napier’s Bone in early computing? … Read more

How does a switch differ from a hub in a network?

A switch intelligently directs data to the specific device it is intended for, reducing collisions and improving network efficiency. A hub, on the other hand, broadcasts data to all connected devices, leading to more network traffic and potential collisions. Related Questions: What is the function and significance of Napier’s Bone in early computing? How did … Read more

What are start and stop bits, and where are they used in data transmission?

 Start and stop bits are used in serial communication to signal the beginning and end of data transmission. A start bit marks the beginning of data transmission, and stop bits signal the end of the data frame, ensuring that the data is received correctly. Related Questions: What is the function and significance of Napier’s Bone … Read more

Define simplex, half-duplex, and full-duplex modes of communication with one example each.

Simplex: Data flows in one direction only (e.g., keyboard to computer). Half-duplex: Data flows in both directions, but not simultaneously (e.g., walkie-talkies). Full-duplex: Data flows in both directions simultaneously (e.g., telephone conversation). Related Questions: What is the function and significance of Napier’s Bone in early computing? How did Charles Babbage’s Difference Engine differ from the … Read more

Define “protocol” in the context of data communication.

 A protocol is a set of rules that govern the exchange of data between devices in a network. It defines the format, timing, and error-checking mechanisms to ensure successful communication and data integrity. Related Questions: What is the function and significance of Napier’s Bone in early computing? How did Charles Babbage’s Difference Engine differ from … Read more