Grade 11 Web Design and Development - General Study Notes (Units 1-12)

A complete set of study flashcards covering computer memory, power protection, hardware buses and slots, computer generations, operating systems, licensing, Windows tools, accessibility, troubleshooting, and e-waste management based on Grade 11 study notes.

What is computer memory?

The part of a computer that stores data and instructions, which the computer uses to work with information and perform tasks.

What is RAM, and why is it described as volatile?

RAM (Random Access Memory) is the computer's temporary working memory that holds programs and data currently in use by the CPU; it is volatile because its contents are lost when the computer is turned off.

What is ROM, and what is its role in a computer?

ROM (Read-Only Memory) is non-volatile memory that keeps its contents when turned off and stores important instructions that help the computer start and operate.

Why does a computer require both RAM and ROM?

RAM provides a fast working area for active tasks, while ROM keeps important instructions available even when the power is off.

What is the purpose of an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)?

A UPS provides temporary backup power when the main electricity supply fails so users can save work and shut down safely, while also offering protection against some power disturbances.

What does a surge protector do?

It helps protect electronic equipment from sudden increases in voltage (power surges) by limiting or diverting excess voltage to reduce the risk of damage.

What is the function of a voltage regulator?

It helps maintain a suitable and steady voltage when the incoming electricity rises or falls.

What is a computer bus?

A communication pathway that transfers data and signals between different parts of a computer to help components communicate with one another.

What is PCI Express (PCIe)?

A high-speed expansion interface used to connect devices such as graphics cards, network cards, and storage controllers.

What was Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP), and what replaced it?

An older expansion interface designed mainly for graphics cards that has largely been replaced by PCI Express.

What is a PS/2 port used for?

An older type of port used to connect a keyboard or mouse; it is not a modern graphics-card expansion slot.

What hardware technology was used in first-generation computers?

Vacuum tubes, which made the computers very large, produced much heat, used a lot of electricity, and were expensive to operate.

How did transistors improve second-generation computers compared to vacuum tubes?

Transistors made computers smaller, faster, more reliable, and more energy efficient.

What major innovation characterized third-generation computers?

Integrated circuits (ICs), which placed many electronic components onto small chips, making computers more compact and improving performance.

What was the significance of microprocessors in fourth-generation computers?

They placed central processing functions onto a chip, helping make personal computers smaller and more widely available.

What do automation and versatility mean regarding computer characteristics?

Automation allows a computer to carry out instructions with limited human involvement after being programmed, while versatility means it can perform many different kinds of tasks.

What is an operating system (OS)?

System software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides services that allow application programs to run.

What are Ubuntu and Fedora?

Examples of Linux distributions, which package the open-source Linux operating system with tools and applications.

What two essential preparation steps should be taken before installing an operating system or application?

Check the minimum system requirements and back up important files to a safe location.

What is a device driver?

Software that allows the operating system to communicate with and control a hardware device, such as a printer, graphics card, or sound device.

How does open-source software differ from proprietary software?

Open-source software makes its source code available to study, modify, and redistribute under license terms, whereas proprietary software is controlled by its owner and restricts access to the source code, modification, and redistribution.

Does freeware software automatically mean open-source software?

No; freeware is software that can be used without paying a fee, but free use does not automatically mean users can modify, access source code, or sell it.

What system details and functions can be managed using Windows Task Manager?

It displays running applications and processes, provides performance information (CPU, memory, and disk use), and allows users to review and manage startup applications.

What are the functions of the Windows key + L and Windows key + E keyboard shortcuts?

Windows key + L locks the computer, and Windows key + E opens File Explorer.

How do administrator accounts and standard user accounts differ in Windows?

An administrator account has broad control to make system-wide changes, manage other accounts, and install software, while a standard user account has limited permissions for everyday activities to prevent accidental system changes.

What is the purpose of the Windows Narrator tool?

A screen-reading accessibility tool that reads aloud text and other information displayed on the screen to assist users who have difficulty seeing the display.

What does the On-Screen Keyboard accessibility tool allow users to do?

It displays a keyboard on the computer screen so users can select keys using a mouse or another pointing device.

What is electrostatic discharge (ESD), and how can it be prevented during computer maintenance?

ESD is the sudden flow of electricity between objects due to a difference in static charge; it can be prevented by using an anti-static wrist strap or another suitable grounding method.

What are the first simple checks recommended when troubleshooting a computer issue?

Observing the symptoms and checking simple causes such as power, cables, and settings.

What hazardous materials found in some electronic equipment make e-waste disposal a serious environmental concern?

Lead and mercury.

What critical action should be performed before donating, selling, or recycling a computer or storage device?

Personal and organizational data should be securely erased.