Computer Basics

  1. Difference between ROM and RAM – ROM (Read-Only Memory) is nonvolatile and stores firmware, while RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile and temporarily stores data for running programs.

  2. RAM’s impact on performance – More RAM allows a computer to run multiple applications smoothly and improves speed.

  3. Bytes in a Gigabyte and Kilobyte – 1 GB = 1,073,741,824 bytes; 1 KB = 1,024 bytes.

  4. Order from smallest to largest – Bit, Byte, Kilobyte, Megabyte, Gigabyte, Terabyte.

  5. Will Alice’s 4 GB drive fit the data? – Yes, 600MB + 2000MB = 2600MB (or 2.6GB), which is less than 4GB.

  6. Space needed for 200 images (each 600KB) – 200 × 600 KB = 120,000 KB = 120 MB.

  7. How data is represented – In binary (0s and 1s).

  8. Job of OS & 3 examples – Manages hardware, software, and resources; examples: Windows, macOS, Linux.

  9. OS: Hardware or Software? – Software.

  10. Abstract to specific (USB, Byte, Secondary Storage) – Byte → Secondary Storage → USB flash drive.

  11. Abstract to specific (Microsoft Office, Software, Excel) – Software → Microsoft Office → Excel.

  12. MacBook Pro Specifications:

    • 12-core CPU – 8 performance & 4 efficiency cores improve speed and power management.

    • 19-core GPU – Handles graphics processing for visuals and gaming.

    • 16-core Neural Engine – Used for machine learning tasks.

    • 200GB/s memory bandwidth – The speed at which data moves between memory and processor.

    • 16GB unified memory – Combines RAM and VRAM for efficient performance.

    • 32MB L3 cache – Fast-access memory that speeds up processing.

    • 1TB SSD storage – Faster, more durable storage compared to HDDs.

    • Retina display – High-resolution screen for sharp visuals.

    • 3 Thunderbolt 4 ports – High-speed ports for data transfer and external devices.

    • HDMI port – Allows connection to external displays.

    • Touch ID – Biometric authentication for security.

  13. Advantages of multi-core processors – Improved multitasking, faster performance, energy efficiency.

  14. Modem vs. Router – Modem connects to ISP; router distributes the internet to multiple devices.

  15. Device connection order – ISP → Modem → Router → Laptop → Internet.

  16. Measurement units for:

    • RAM – GB; 16GB or more is reasonable for most users.

    • Hard Drive – GB/TB; 512GB SSD or higher is a good choice.

    • Processor Speed – GHz; 3.0 GHz+ is considered good.

  17. HDD vs. SSD – HDDs use spinning disks and are slower; SSDs use flash memory and are faster and more durable.

  18. Deleting files securely – Use permanent deletion tools or encryption to prevent recovery.

Blown to Bits Chapter 2

  1. Privacy trade-off – Convenience and personalized services.

  2. Snowden files – Exposed mass surveillance by governments.

  3. USA Patriot Act – Expanded government surveillance capabilities.

  4. GPS function – Uses satellites to determine location.

  5. EDR (Event Data Recorder) – Collects vehicle data, useful in accidents.

  6. RFID-enabled devices –

    • Advantage – Quick toll payments.

    • Disadvantage – Privacy concerns (tracking).

  7. Deidentified data – Data stripped of personal identifiers but still potentially traceable.

  8. IoT (Internet of Things) – Network of connected devices. Examples: Smart thermostats, fitness trackers, smart speakers.