Prelims Reviewer for Fundamentals of Information Systems (FIS101)

These flashcards cover key concepts and facts related to the Fundamentals of Information Systems (FIS101) lecture notes.

What is the abacus?

The abacus is an ancient calculating device, the first man-made computing device, still used in some countries.

When was the Pascaline developed and by whom?

The Pascaline was developed in 1642 by Blaise Pascal.

What did punched cards represent in data storage?

Each hole in the punched card represented a single piece of binary.

Who invented the Analytical Engine and when?

The Analytical Engine was invented by Charles Babbage in the 1830s.

What was the primary function of Hollerith's Tabulating Machine?

It was used to tabulate the 1890 US census data.

What could the Mark-I perform and who invented it?

The Mark-I, invented by Dr. Howard Aiken, could perform about 3-5 additions/subtractions per second.

When was the ENIAC introduced and what was its capability?

The ENIAC was introduced in 1946 and could perform about 5,000 additions or 350 multiplications per second.

What is the significance of UNIVAC in computer history?

UNIVAC was the first commercial computer and gained a large amount of public attention in 1951.

Define the IBM-701’s primary design purpose.

IBM-701 was primarily designed for scientific and engineering calculations, as well as military applications.

What was the Apple II notable for?

The Apple II was notable for being the first personal computer with the ability to display color graphics and produce sound.

What is the IBM-PC known for?

The IBM-PC helped popularize personal computing and establish many standards still in use today.

What year did portable computers emerge?

Portable computers emerged in 1987.

What does the computer case do?

The computer case holds internal computer parts and provides protection, cooling, and mounting.

What is a full tower case?

A full tower case is large, supports high-end parts and advanced cooling, and multiple GPUs/storage drives.

Define the mid tower case.

Mid tower cases are the most common, balancing size and expandability, and fit ATX motherboards.

What is a mini tower case?

A mini tower is smaller than a mid-tower and designed for compact builds.

What does SFF stand for and describe it?

SFF stands for Small Form Factor, includes sizes like Mini-ITX and Micro-ATX, ideal for compact setups.

What does the Power Supply Unit (PSU) do?

The PSU converts AC to DC power for components and must match system power needs.

List the types of PSU ratings.

The PSU ratings include 80 Plus, 80 Plus Silver, 80 Plus Gold, 80 Plus Platinum, and 80 Plus Titanium.

What connectors does the Power Supply include?

Includes CPU power connectors (4-pin/8-pin), PCIe power connectors, SATA power connectors, and Molex connectors.

Name the most common cooling system type.

Air Cooling is the most common type, using heatsinks and fans.

What is the function of liquid cooling?

Liquid cooling uses coolant to move heat away from components, providing more efficiency and quieter operation.

Explain Phase-Change Cooling.

Phase-Change Cooling uses refrigeration methods to cool the CPU, utilizing a vapor compression cooler.

What is Read-Only Memory (ROM)?

ROM is permanent memory that keeps data even when powered off, storing firmware and essential system data.

Differentiate between RAM and ROM.

RAM is volatile memory used for temporary storage while active, while ROM is permanent memory.

What are adapter cards?

Adapter cards, also known as expansion or peripheral cards, are inserted into the motherboard to add functions.

List three types of adapter cards.

1. Graphics Cards; 2. Network Interface Cards (NICs); 3. Sound Cards.

What does routine computer maintenance include?

Routine maintenance includes disk cleanup, checking disk errors, and replacing consumables.

Why is file maintenance important?

File maintenance organizes files/folders for easy access and optimizes system performance.

What is chemical safety in computer maintenance?

Chemical safety refers to using only approved cleaners to avoid damage to equipment.

Name a tool used for cleaning computers.

Compressed air duster is used to remove dust from tight spots.

What types of materials should be used for cleaning surfaces?

Use lint-free microfiber cloths to wipe surfaces without causing scratches.

When should you replace printer ink?

Printer ink or toner should be replaced when empty.

Explain the use of antistatic wrist straps.

Antistatic wrist straps prevent static electricity discharge when touching computer internals.

Why is proper technique important in cleaning?

Using proper technique avoids pressure damage and prolongs the lifespan of components.

Describe the term 'Occupational Health and Safety' (OHS).

OHS ensures safety while cleaning computers and prevents damage.

What is the main purpose of dusting computers?

Dusting prevents overheating and damage by keeping internal and external components clean.

When should disk errors be checked?

Disk errors should be checked regularly to avoid data loss.

What is the role of digital data backups?

Backups save important data externally to prevent loss.

How do colder temperatures affect a CPU?

Colder temperatures help maintain optimal performance and longevity of the CPU.

What type of motherboard is an ATX?

An ATX motherboard measures 12” x 9.6” and fits mid/full tower cases.

What size is a Micro-ATX motherboard?

A Micro-ATX motherboard measures 9.6” x 9.6” and fits smaller cases.

What limitations come with Mini-ITX motherboards?

Mini-ITX motherboards are the smallest mainstream boards with limited expansion options.

What is the role of PCIe Power connectors?

PCIe Power connectors are used for GPUs and other cards requiring additional power.

What is the typical function of USB expansion cards?

USB expansion cards add additional USB ports for peripherals.

Name one factor essential for system performance.

Regular maintenance is essential for system security, efficiency, and longevity.

What are the safety precautions when cleaning equipment?

Safety precautions include turning off/unplugging before cleaning to avoid shock.

When is the best time to back up files?

The best time to back up files is regularly, to protect against data loss.

What is phase-change cooling?

Phase-change cooling uses refrigeration cycles to cool components.

What are soft bristle brushes used for in maintenance?

Soft bristle brushes are used to sweep dust off internal components.

What happens if you do not clean your computer regularly?

Failing to clean regularly can lead to overheating and damage of components.

How can you improve cable management?

Using modular PSUs can improve cable management and airflow.

What is the difference between volatile and permanent memory?

Volatile memory loses data when powered off, while permanent memory retains data.

How often should you update antivirus definitions?

Antivirus definitions should be updated regularly for effective protection.

What is necessary to consider when cleaning screens?

A screen cleaning solution is necessary to eliminate smudges.

Why are power supply modularities beneficial?

Modular power supplies allow for improved cable management and airflow.