Test: Computer Hardware - UPSC MCQ

(a) Local area network (LAN) covers a limited geographical area, typically within a single building or a few buildings.

(c) Wide area network (WAN) spans a large geographical area, connecting multiple LANs or other networks across cities, countries, or even continents.

(c) Metropolitan area network (MAN) is in between LAN and WAN in terms of size, covering a larger area than a LAN but smaller than a WAN, typically serving a city or a metropolitan area.

Devices that work with computer systems as soon as they are connected without requiring manual configuration or device driver installations are described as "Plug-N-Play" (PnP). When you plug in a PnP device, the computer automatically detects it and configures it to work with the system without the need for user intervention. This technology simplifies the process of adding new hardware to a computer and makes it more convenient for users.

The control unit is a hardware component and a vital part of the central processing unit (CPU) in a computer. It is responsible for fetching and interpreting instructions from the computer's memory and then executing them by coordinating various components of the CPU. The control unit is involved in the instruction cycle and ensures that data moves correctly between the CPU and other hardware components to perform the desired operations.

Bluetooth technology allows for the establishment of wireless connections between various devices and equipment over short distances, typically within a range of about 10 meters (approximately 33 feet). It is commonly used to connect devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, headphones, speakers, smartwatches, and other peripherals, enabling them to communicate and exchange data without the need for physical cables. Bluetooth is commonly used for tasks like transferring files, streaming audio, and controlling peripherals remotely. However, it is not suitable for sending files over long distances or downloading movies from the Internet.

CD-ROM stands for Compact Disc Read-Only Memory. It is a type of optical storage device used for storing data, typically in the form of computer software, multimedia content, or large amounts of information that can be accessed sequentially. CD-ROMs are read-only, meaning that data can be read from them but not written or modified.

In the context of computer memory, CD-ROM is considered a type of secondary memory. Secondary memory refers to storage devices that can retain data even when the power is turned off and are used for long-term data storage. Other examples of secondary memory include hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), and magnetic tape drives.

Spreadsheets are software applications used for numerical and statistical calculations. They provide a grid-like interface to organize data into rows and columns, enabling users to enter, manipulate, and analyze numerical information. With built-in functions and formulas, they are widely used in finance, accounting, science, and business for data analysis.

SPAM in a system (e-mail) refers to a message that is distributed indiscriminately to a large number of recipients, often unsolicited. These messages are usually commercial in nature and sent in bulk, clogging up users' inboxes and causing annoyance. SPAM emails are generally considered to be a form of unwanted and intrusive communication.

Scan text is not a basic function of a computer. While computers can process and manipulate text data, they do not inherently possess the ability to physically scan text. Scanning text involves using external devices like scanners or optical character recognition (OCR) software, which are not integral to the fundamental operations of a computer. The other options listed, such as accepting and processing data, storing data, and accepting input, are indeed basic functions performed by computers.

WAP stands for Wireless Application Protocol. It is a technical standard used for accessing information and services over a wireless network, typically on mobile devices like smartphones and feature phones. WAP enables the delivery of web content, email, and other internet-based services to mobile devices, making it possible to access the internet on the go.

The term 'WannaCry' is associated with a notorious cyber attack. It is a ransomware attack that occurred in May 2017. The WannaCry ransomware infected hundreds of thousands of computers worldwide, encrypting their data and demanding a ransom in Bitcoin for its release. The attack exploited a vulnerability in the Microsoft Windows operating system, causing significant disruptions and financial losses for many organizations and individuals.