All questions of Fundamentals of Computer for Class 10 Exam

First Generation computers used vacuum tubes:
Vacuum tubes were the primary electronic components used in the first generation of computers. These computers were developed in the late 1940s and 1950s and were characterized by their large size, high power consumption, and limited processing capabilities.

Characteristics of First Generation computers:
- Vacuum tubes were used as the main electronic components for processing and memory.
- These computers were very large and required a lot of space.
- They were very expensive to build and maintain.
- They consumed a lot of power and generated a significant amount of heat.
- They were limited in terms of processing speed and memory capacity.

Advantages and disadvantages of vacuum tubes:
- Vacuum tubes allowed for the creation of the first electronic digital computers.
- They were faster and more reliable than mechanical computers.
- However, they were prone to burning out and had a limited lifespan.
- They also required a lot of maintenance and replacement, which made them expensive to use.

Transition to subsequent generations:
- The development of transistor technology in the late 1950s led to the second generation of computers, which replaced vacuum tubes with transistors.
- Subsequent generations of computers (third and fourth) continued to see advancements in technology, leading to smaller, faster, and more powerful computers.
In conclusion, the first generation of computers used vacuum tubes as the primary electronic components, marking the beginning of the digital computing era.

Portability and Rechargeable Battery in Computers

Notebook computers are known for their portability and use of a rechargeable battery. Here's why:

Portability:
- Notebooks are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry around.
- They are ideal for individuals who need to work on the go or in different locations.

Rechargeable Battery:
- Notebooks are equipped with rechargeable batteries that allow users to use them without being plugged into a power source.
- This feature makes them highly convenient for use in places where power outlets are not readily available.
In contrast:
- Desktop computers are not portable and require a constant power source.
- Mainframe computers are large, powerful machines used by organizations and do not have built-in batteries.
- Supercomputers are extremely powerful and used for complex calculations, but they are not designed for portability or battery use.
Therefore, when it comes to portability and the use of a rechargeable battery, notebook computers stand out as the ideal choice.

Hardware and Software:
Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system, such as the motherboard, CPU, memory, storage devices, and input/output devices. Software, on the other hand, refers to the programs and applications that run on the hardware. Both hardware and software are essential components of a computer system, with hardware providing the platform for software to operate.

Input and Output:
Input devices are used to enter data and instructions into a computer system, such as keyboards, mice, and scanners. Output devices, on the other hand, display or provide the results of processing, such as monitors, printers, and speakers. Input and output devices are crucial for interacting with and receiving information from a computer system.

CPU and Memory:
The central processing unit (CPU) is often referred to as the "brain" of the computer, as it carries out instructions and performs calculations. Memory, also known as RAM (Random Access Memory), stores data and instructions that the CPU needs to access quickly. The CPU and memory work together to process and execute tasks efficiently.

Monitor and Keyboard:
The monitor displays visual output from the computer, allowing users to see information, images, and videos. The keyboard is an input device that allows users to enter text, commands, and other data into the computer system. Both the monitor and keyboard are essential components for interacting with the computer and accessing information.

Main Purpose of the Abacus
The abacus is a time-honored calculating tool used for performing various arithmetic operations. Its design and functionality make it a versatile instrument in mathematics.
Key Functions of the Abacus:
- Basic Arithmetic Operations:
- The primary purpose of the abacus is to facilitate basic arithmetic operations, including:
- Addition
- Subtraction
- Multiplication
- Division
- Addition and Subtraction:
- The abacus allows users to easily perform addition and subtraction by moving beads along rods. Each position of the beads represents a different value, making it intuitive for counting and calculating.
- Multiplication and Division:
- Beyond simple addition and subtraction, the abacus can also be used for multiplication and division. By combining different techniques, users can perform these operations with ease.
- Visual Learning Tool:
- The abacus serves as a visual and tactile learning tool, helping learners understand numerical concepts and improve their arithmetic skills.
Conclusion:
In summary, the abacus is primarily designed for basic arithmetic operations, making it an essential tool for learning and performing calculations. Its ability to handle addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division underscores its significance in both educational and practical applications.

Advantages of Digital Computers Over Analog Computers
Digital computers have several advantages that make them preferred in many applications over analog computers. Below are the key points that highlight these benefits:
Higher Speed
- Digital computers process data in binary format, allowing for rapid calculations and data manipulation.
- They can execute millions of instructions per second, significantly outpacing analog systems.
Higher Accuracy
- Digital computers represent data with discrete values, leading to a lower likelihood of errors due to noise and distortion.
- They can perform complex mathematical operations with great precision, making them ideal for tasks requiring exact results.
Larger Storage Capacity
- Digital computers can store vast amounts of data in various formats, including text, images, and videos.
- Modern storage solutions like SSDs and cloud storage offer capabilities that far exceed those of traditional analog systems.
Conclusion
In summary, the combination of higher speed, greater accuracy, and the ability to store larger volumes of data makes digital computers superior to analog computers in most scenarios. These advantages contribute to their widespread adoption in fields such as finance, science, and technology, thus affirming that the correct answer is indeed option 'D': All of the Above.

Overview of the Tabulating Machine
The correct answer to the question is option 'B', the Tabulating Machine, which played a significant role in the processing of data for the 1890 census.
Background
- The Tabulating Machine was invented by Herman Hollerith, an American inventor and statistician.
- It was designed to automate the process of counting and sorting data, which was essential for the U.S. census.
Functionality
- The machine utilized punched cards to encode data. Each card represented an individual and contained holes that corresponded to specific answers or attributes.
- As the cards were fed into the machine, electric sensors would read the holes, allowing for quick data processing.
Impact on Census
- The 1890 census was the first to use this technology, significantly speeding up data collection and analysis.
- It reduced the time needed to process census data from several years to just months, showcasing the efficiency of mechanical data processing.
Legacy
- Hollerith's invention laid the groundwork for future developments in computing and data processing.
- His company eventually evolved into IBM, a cornerstone of the computing industry.
In summary, the Tabulating Machine, utilizing punched cards, revolutionized the data processing methods of the 19th century and marked a pivotal moment in the history of computing.