2014


Time: 3 Hours

Max Marks: 50


PART – A


Answer the following questions in one sentence each. (10 x 1 = 10)


Q1. Name any two popular operating systems.

Ans. Windows, MacOS.


Q2. Define check box in MS-Windows.

Ans. Check boxes are small square boxes, each containing an option. Users can select any option by just clicking in the box. A right (þ) sign will appear when we click a box.


Q3. What is Cache Memory?

Ans. Cache memory is a small, high-speed memory that stores frequently used data and instructions to speed up a computer's performance by acting as a buffer between the CPU and the main memory (RAM). When the CPU needs information, it checks the cache first. If the data is there (a "cache hit"), it's retrieved much faster than from RAM, significantly improving system speed.


Q4. What is Animation?

Ans. An animation effect is a pre-set visual effect that can be applied to the text or objects in a slide. During the slide show, the slide appears on the screen one after the other.

Various animation styles available in PowerPoint are Fly In, Float In, Wipe, None etc.


Q5. What is data type in MS-Excel?

Ans. In Excel, a data type defines the kind of information that a cell can hold and how Excel stores and processes it, which includes text, number, logical, and error values. These types determine how you can use data with formulas and functions.


Q6. Define Protocols used in free email services.

Ans. Free email services primarily use SMTP for sending emails and either POP3 or IMAP for receiving them. SMTP is the standard for sending mail between servers, while POP3 downloads mail to a single device and IMAP synchronizes it across multiple devices. These protocols are essential for enabling seamless communication between email clients and servers. 


Q7. Define the Tag used in HTML to insert an image.

Ans. The HTML tag used to insert an image is the <img> tag. This tag is an empty element, meaning it does not require a closing tag. It is used to embed an image into an HTML document, linking to the image file rather than directly inserting it.

The <img> tag requires the src attribute, which specifies the URL or path to the image file. Additionally, it is highly recommended to include the alt attribute, which provides alternative text for the image, important for accessibility and when the image cannot be displayed.


Q8. What is Template?

Ans. Templates refer to pre-designed documents or files that serve as a starting point for a new document. They include formatting, styles etc. Templates can save time and ensure consistency in document design.


Q9. What is router?

Ans. Routers are networking devices operating at layer 3 or a network layer of the OSI model. They are responsible for receiving, analysing, and forwarding data packets among the connected computer networks. When a data packet arrives, the router inspects the destination address, consults its routing tables to decide the optimal route and then transfers the packet along this route.


Q10. Name any two popular word processors.

Ans. Microsoft Word and Google Docs.


PART – B


Answer the following questions in 4-5 lines each. Each question carries 4 marks. (4 x 4 = 16)


Q11. Describe the various elements of Data Transmission.

Ans. The process of data transmission relies on several essential elements working together to ensure the successful movement of information from one point to another. 


The five fundamental components of any data communication system are:


  1. Message (Data): This is the information that is being communicated. It can be in various forms, such as text, numbers, images, audio, or video. The message is the core asset of the transmission.


  1. Sender (Source): The device that originates and transmits the data message. Examples include a computer, a mobile phone, a workstation, or a video camera.


  1. Receiver (Destination): The device that receives the message. Like the sender, it can be a computer, a phone, a printer, or any other device capable of accepting the data.


  1. Transmission Medium (Channel): This is the physical path through which the message travels from the sender to the receiver. It acts as the link or bridge between the two devices. Media can be guided (wired), such as twisted-pair cable, coaxial cable, or fiber-optic cable, or unguided (wireless), such as radio waves, microwaves, or infrared signals.


  1. Protocol (Rules): A set of rules that govern the communication process. Protocols define the format, timing, sequencing, and error-control procedures for the data exchange. They are essential for ensuring that the sender and receiver can understand each other. A common example is the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP).


Q12. Describe any four topologies with suitable diagram.

Ans. A Network Topology is the arrangement with which computer systems or network devices are connected to each other. Topologies may define both physical and logical aspect of the network. Both logical and physical topologies could be same or different in a same network.


Four types of topologies are as follows:


1. Point-to-Point Topology – Point-to-point networks contains exactly two hosts such as computer, switches or routers, servers connected back to back using a single piece of cable. Often, the receiving end of one host is connected to sending end of the other and vice-versa. If the hosts are connected point-to-point logically, then may have multiple intermediate devices. But the end hosts are unaware of underlying network and see each other as if they are connected directly.


2. Bus Topology – In case of Bus topology, all devices share single communication line or cable. Bus topology may have problem while multiple hosts sending data at the same time. Therefore, Bus topology either uses CSMA/CD technology or recognizes one host as Bus Master to solve the issue. It is one of the simple forms of networking where a failure of a device does not affect the other devices. But failure of the shared communication line can make all other devices stop functioning. Both ends of the shared channel have line terminator. The data is sent in only one direction and as soon as it reaches the extreme end, the terminator removes the data from the line.


3. Star Topology – All hosts in Star topology are connected to a central device, known as hub device, using a point to-point connection. That is, there exists a point to point connection between hosts and hub. The hub device can be any of the following:

  1. Layer-1 device such as hub or repeater
  2. Layer-2 device such as switch or bridge
  3. Layer-3 device such as router or gateway


As in Bus topology, hub acts as single point of failure. If hub fails, connectivity of all hosts to all other hosts fails. Every communication between hosts, takes place through only the hub. Star topology is not expensive as to connect one more host, only one cable is required and configuration is simple.


4. Ring Topology – In ring topology, each host machine connects to exactly two other machines, creating a circular network structure. When one host tries to communicate or send message to a host which is not adjacent to it, the data travels through all intermediate hosts. To connect one more host in the existing structure, the administrator may need only one more extra cable. Failure of any host results in failure of the whole ring. Thus, every connection in the ring is a point of failure. There are methods which employ one more backup ring.


Q13. What is chart? How to insert a chart in MS Excel Worksheet?

Ans. In MS Excel, charts are visual representation of data.

Steps to create/insert a chart are as follows: -

  1. Make sure the cell range containing the data and labels you want to chart are selected.
  2. Click the Insert tab on the Ribbon. In the Charts group, there are several chart types to choose from. Each of the chart types then has several charts to choose from.
  3. Click a chart type button in the Charts group. A list of charts for the selected chart type appears.
  4. Select the chart you want to use from the list. The chart appears in the worksheet and the Chart Tools appear on the Ribbon. The Chart Tools include three new tabs (Design, Layout and Format) that help you modify and format the chart.


Q14. What is placeholder? How to insert an audio clip in MS-PowerPoint?

Ans. Every slide has one or more areas called “Placeholder”, where we can insert text.

Placeholders are hard to miss since they are labelled “Click to Add Title” or “Click to Add Subtitle” and are extremely easy to work with. Placeholders grow and shrink to accommodate any text that the user enters.


Steps to insert an audio clip in MS-PowerPoint:

  1. To use audio files saved on your computer, following are the steps: -
  2. Click on Insert Tab.
  3. Click the Audio button list arrow in the media group.
  4. A list of option appears.
  5. Select Audio from File option.
  6. The Insert Audio Dialog Box appears.
  7. Navigate to the file you want to insert.
  8. Select the file and click inset.
  9. An audio icon appears in the middle of the slide. You can move the icon to a less noticeable location.


PART – C


Answer the following questions in 400 words each. Attempt any three. Each question carries 8 marks. (3 x 8 = 24)


Q15. Describe the anatomy of computer with suitable diagram.

Ans. The anatomy of a computer system is based on the functional interaction of four major components: Input Unit, Central Processing Unit (CPU), Memory Unit, and Output Unit.


1. Input Unit (I/P)

The Input Unit is the gateway for data and instructions from the user to the computer.

  1. Function: It converts human-readable data (text, clicks, audio) into the binary machine language (0s and 1s) that the computer can process.
  2. Devices: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone etc.


2. Central Processing Unit (CPU)

After receiving data and commands from users, a computer system now has to process it according to the instructions provided, which is done by the CPU.

CPU consists of: -

i. Arithmetic and Logic nit (ALU) –

  1. This part performs arithmetic operations.
  2. It performs basic mathematical calculations like addition, subtraction, division, multiplication etc.
  3. It can also perform logical calculations like comparison.
  4. Actual computation take place through ALU.


ii. Control Unit (CU) –

  1. This unit is the backbone of a computer.
  2. It is responsible for coordinating tasks between all components of a computer system.
  3. It collects data from input units and sends it to processing units, depending on its nature.
  4. Finally, it transmits processed data to output units for users.


iii. Registers –

These are a small, high-speed storage locations within the CPU used to temporarily hold data and instructions that the CPU is actively working on.


3. Memory Unit (MU)

The Memory Unit stores the data and instructions that the computer is currently using or needs to retain for later.

  1. Primary Memory (Main Memory):
  2. RAM (Random Access Memory):Volatile (data is lost when power is off). It's used for temporary storage of data and programs currently being executed, allowing the CPU fast access.
  3. ROM (Read-Only Memory):Non-volatile (data is retained when power is off). It stores the permanent startup instructions (BIOS/UEFI) required to boot the computer.
  4. Secondary Memory (Storage):
  5. Function: Provides permanent, long-term storage for the Operating System, applications, and user files (e.g., Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Solid State Drive (SSD)). It is non-volatile.


4. Output Unit (O/P)

The Output Unit is responsible for presenting the processed results (information) from the CPU back to the user in a human-readable format.

  1. Function: Converts the binary machine code result back into a format that a human can understand (text, image, audio).
  2. Devices: Monitor, Printer, Speakers, Projector etc.


Q16. Explain the process of mail merge in MS Word.

Ans. Mail Merging is the process of combining a main document (template) with a data source to generate personalised documents such as letters, envelopes, or labels.

Mail merge letters are used to send the same or similar documents to many different people. Since they contain the recipient’s name, address, and other information, mail merge letters feel more personal than letters that aren’t specifically addressed to anyone.


Setting Up Main Document:

All mail merges in Word require two files: a main document and a data source. The main document contains the text that is the same in all of the merged documents.

Steps to set up main document include: -

  1. Open MS Word and create a new document.
  2. Go to the ‘Mailings’ Tab.
  3. Choose “Start Mail Merge”. A list of document types appears (letter, envelope, label etc.).
  4. Select the type of main document you wish to use for the mail merge.

You’ve successfully set up the main document.


Creating Data Source:

The data source provides the information that is unique in mail merge. It provides the information that is unique to each recipient, such as their name and address.

Steps to create Data Source include: -

  1. In the “Mailings Tab”, click on “Select Recipients”.
  2. Choose “Use an existing list” or “Type a new list”.
  3. Enter or import data for your recipients.

You’ve successfully created the data source.


Merging a Document:

  1. In the “Mailings Tab”, select “Insert Merge Field” to insert fields from your data source into the main document.


Q17. Describe the various media of data communication with suitable diagram.

Ans. Communication medium refers to the physical channel through which data is sent and received. The speed of data transmission or data rate depends upon the type of medium being used in the network.


Mediums of data communication can be classified as Wired and Wireless: -


1. Wired – it is the transmission used in which signals are confined to a specific path using wires or cables. It is also referred to as Guided or Bounded Transmission media. Its features include:

  1. High Speed
  2. Secure
  3. Used for comparatively shorter distances


Types of Wired Media are as follows: -


a. Twisted Pair Cable – It consists of 2 separately insulated conductor wires wound about each other. Generally, several such pairs are bundled together in a protective sheath. They are the most widely used Transmission Media.


Twisted pair is of two types:


i. Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) – This type of cable has the ability to block interference and does not depend on a physical shield for this purpose. It is used for telephonic applications.


Its advantages include:

  1. Cheap
  2. Easy to install
  3. High speed capacity


Its disadvantages include:

  1. Susceptible to external interference
  2. Lower capacity and performance in comparison to STP
  3. Short distance transmission due to attenuation


ii. Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) – This type of cable consists of a special jacket to block external interference. It is used in fast-data-rate Ethernet and in voice and data channels of telephone lines.


Its advantages include:

  1. Better performance at a higher data rate in comparison to UTP
  2. Eliminates crosstalk
  3. Comparatively faster


Its disadvantages include:

  1. Comparatively difficult to install and manufacture
  2. More expensive
  3. Bulky


b. Coaxial Cable – it is called coaxial as it contains two conductors that are parallel to each other. It is surrounded by PVC installations.

There are two types of coaxial cables: Baseband (dedicated cable bandwidth) and Broadband (cable bandwidth is split into several ranges). Cable TVs and analogue television networks widely use Coaxial cables.


Advantages of Coaxial Cable include:

  1. Bandwidth is high.
  2. Much higher noise immunity.
  3. Data transmission without distortion.
  4. Inexpensive.


Disadvantages of Coaxial Cable include:

  1. Difficult to install.
  2. Single cable failure can fail entire network.


c. Optical Fibre – these are similar to coaxial cable. It uses electric signals to transmit data. It has bandwidth more than 2 GBPS. It is used for transmission of large volumes of data.


Advantages of Optical Fibre include:

  1. High Quality Transmission
  2. High Speed
  3. Used for both analogue and digital signals
  4. No electromagnetic interference


Disadvantages of Optical Fibre include:

  1. It is expensive.
  2. Difficult to install.
  3. Maintenance is expensive.
  4. Unidirectional, i.e., will need another fibre, if we need bidirectional communication.


2. Wireless – wireless media send the data through air, which is available to everyone who has a device capable of receiving them. media. No physical medium is required for the transmission of electromagnetic signals. It is also referred to as Unguided or Unbounded Transmission media.


Its features include:

  1. Signal is broadcasted through air
  2. Less Secure
  3. Used for larger distances


Types of wireless media are as follows: -


a. Microwaves – It is a line of sight transmission i.e. the sending and receiving antennas need to be properly aligned with each other. The distance covered by the signal is directly proportional to the height of the antenna. Frequency Range: 1GHz – 300GHz. These are majorly used for mobile phone communication and television distribution.


b. Radio Waves – These are easy to generate and can penetrate through buildings. The sending and receiving antennas need not be aligned. Frequency Range: 3 KHz – 1GHz. AM and FM radios and cordless phones use Radio waves for transmission. Further Categorized as: Terrestrial and Satellite.


c. Infrared – Infrared waves are used for very short distance communication. They cannot penetrate through obstacles. This prevents interference between systems. Frequency Range: 300GHz – 400THz. It is used in TV remotes, wireless mouse, keyboard, printer, etc.


Q18. What is ESS? Describe various components of MS Excel.

Ans. An Executive Support System (ESS), also often referred to as an Executive Information System (EIS), is a specialized type of management support system designed to facilitate and support the senior executive information and strategic decision-making needs of an organization.

It provides top-level managers (like the CEO, CFO, and other vice presidents) with easy, rapid, and direct access to summarized internal and external information that is critical to achieving organizational goals.


Key Characteristics of ESS:

  1. Customized for Executives: The user interface is highly intuitive, graphical, and tailored to the unique information requirements and decision-making styles of senior management.


  1. Aggregated Data: It aggregates data from various internal systems (Finance, Sales, Production, etc.) and integrates it with external data (market trends, competitor actions, economic forecasts) to provide a holistic, big-picture view.


  1. Drill-Down Capability: While initially presenting highly summarized Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and reports, it typically allows the executive to "drill down" into greater detail to investigate the underlying data and causes.


  1. Focus on Unstructured Decisions: It is primarily used to support non-routine, unstructured or semi-structured decisions and strategic planning (e.g., entering a new market, major investment decisions).


  1. Online Analysis Tools: It often includes sophisticated analytical tools for trend analysis, forecasting, and "what-if" scenario analysis.


Microsoft Excel is a powerful spreadsheet program used for organizing, analysing, and storing data in tabular form. The main components of its user interface are:


1. The Workbook and Worksheet

  1. Workbook: The entire Excel file. It's the primary file format, typically saved with a .xlsx extension.
  2. Worksheet (Spreadsheet):A single page within a Workbook, consisting of a grid of cells. A Workbook can contain multiple worksheets, accessible via Sheet Tabs at the bottom of the window.


2. The Worksheet Grid (Cells, Rows, Columns)

  1. Cell: The intersection of a row and a column. This is the basic unit where data, formulas, or functions are entered.
  2. Active Cell: The currently selected cell, indicated by a thick border. Data is entered into the active cell.
  3. Row Headings: Numbered headings (1, 2, 3, ...) running down the left side, identifying each row horizontally.
  4. Column Headings: Lettered headings (A, B, C, ...) running across the top, identifying each column vertically.


3. Key Navigation and Input Areas

  1. Name Box: Located just to the left of the Formula Bar, it displays the address (reference) of the active cell (e.g., A1, C5). It can also be used to quickly jump to a specific cell or name a cell range.
  2. Formula Bar: Located above the worksheet grid, it displays the content of the active cell. This is where you can enter or edit data, text, or formulas.


4. The Command Centre

  1. Ribbon: The panel at the top of the window that contains a collection of commands and tools. It's organized into logical Tabs (e.g., Home, Insert, Data, Formulas).
  2. Tabs: Each tab on the Ribbon groups related commands (e.g., the Home tab contains formatting tools, while the Insert tab contains commands for adding charts and pictures).
  3. Quick Access Toolbar: A customizable toolbar located above the Ribbon (by default). It provides one-click access to frequently used commands like Save, Undo, and Redo, regardless of which Ribbon tab is currently selected.


5. Other Elements

  1. Title Bar: Located at the very top, it displays the name of the active workbook and the program name ("Microsoft Excel").
  2. Status Bar: Located at the bottom of the window, it displays information such as the current mode (Ready, Enter, etc.), a Zoom Slider, and often shows quick calculations (like Sum, Average, or Count) for selected cells.
  3. Scroll Bars: Used to navigate the worksheet horizontally and vertically.