COSC Final Exam Study Guide

Reviewed by Editorial Team
The ProProfs editorial team is comprised of experienced subject matter experts. They've collectively created over 10,000 quizzes and lessons, serving over 100 million users. Our team includes in-house content moderators and subject matter experts, as well as a global network of rigorously trained contributors. All adhere to our comprehensive editorial guidelines, ensuring the delivery of high-quality content.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By Dyneshalyles
D
Dyneshalyles
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 2 | Total Attempts: 224
| Attempts: 150
SettingsSettings
Please wait...
  • 1/25 Questions

    A ________ enables your computer to connect to other computers or to the Internet

    • Video card
    • Network interface card (NIC)
    • Sound card
    • Controller card
Please wait...
About This Quiz

This COSC Final Exam Study Guide assesses knowledge on core computer science concepts, including Linux systems, mainframe computers, virtual memory, binary language, and networking. It is designed to prepare students for advanced understanding and practical applications in computer science.

COSC Final Exam Study Guide - Quiz

Quiz Preview

  • 2. 

    You can download a version of Linux from the Internet for free.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Linux is an open-source operating system, which means it is freely available for anyone to download and use. There are various distributions of Linux that can be downloaded from the internet for free, such as Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian. These distributions offer different features and cater to different user preferences. Therefore, it is true that a version of Linux can be downloaded from the internet for free.

    Rate this question:

  • 3. 

    Installing a device driver can sometimes cause system instability.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Installing a device driver can sometimes cause system instability because device drivers are software programs that allow the operating system to communicate with hardware devices. If a device driver is not compatible with the operating system or other installed drivers, it can lead to conflicts and errors, resulting in system instability. Additionally, if the device driver is outdated or contains bugs, it can also cause instability issues. Therefore, it is important to ensure that device drivers are properly installed and up to date to avoid system instability.

    Rate this question:

  • 4. 

    Gadgets are easy-to-use mini desktop programs that give you information at a glance orquick access to frequently used tools including weather information, calendar items, orgames.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The statement accurately describes gadgets as easy-to-use mini desktop programs that provide quick access to information or tools. Gadgets are designed to give users information at a glance, such as weather updates, calendar events, or games. Therefore, the answer "True" is correct.

    Rate this question:

  • 5. 

    What enables your computer to connect with other computers ?

    • Expansion card

    • Adapter card

    • Video card

    • Network interface card

    Correct Answer
    A. Network interface card
    Explanation
    A network interface card (NIC) enables a computer to connect with other computers. It is a hardware component that allows the computer to communicate over a network by providing a physical connection to the network. The NIC is responsible for sending and receiving data packets between the computer and other devices on the network. It acts as a bridge between the computer and the network, allowing for the transmission and reception of data, enabling the computer to communicate and share resources with other computers.

    Rate this question:

  • 6. 

    __________ is the set of computer programs that enables the hardware to perform different tasks

    • Hardware

    • Data

    • Software

    • Binary data

    Correct Answer
    A. Software
    Explanation
    Software is the correct answer because it refers to the set of computer programs that enable the hardware to perform different tasks. Hardware alone cannot perform tasks without the necessary software instructions. Data refers to the information processed by the computer, and binary data refers to data represented in binary form. However, neither of these options directly enables the hardware to perform tasks.

    Rate this question:

  • 7. 

    The __________ language consists of just two digits: 0 and 1

    • base 10

    • Data processing

    • binary

    • application

    Correct Answer
    A. binary
    Explanation
    Binary language consists of only two digits, 0 and 1. This is because binary is a base-2 numeral system, meaning it only uses two symbols to represent numbers. In binary, each digit is a bit, and the value of each bit is either 0 or 1. This language is commonly used in computer systems and digital communication as it can easily represent and process information using electronic devices that work with binary logic.

    Rate this question:

  • 8. 

    Eight bits equal one byte

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    In computing, a bit is the basic unit of information and can have two possible values: 0 or 1. A byte, on the other hand, is a unit of digital information that consists of 8 bits. Therefore, it is correct to say that eight bits equal one byte.

    Rate this question:

  • 9. 

    The combination of operating system and processor in a computer is referred to as acomputer's ________.

    • specifications

    • Platform

    • minimum requirements

    • Firmware

    Correct Answer
    A. Platform
    Explanation
    The combination of operating system and processor in a computer is referred to as a computer's platform. The platform represents the hardware and software components that work together to provide a computing environment. It includes the specific operating system and processor architecture that determine how software applications can run on the computer. The platform also encompasses other factors such as memory, storage, and networking capabilities.

    Rate this question:

  • 10. 

    Devices such as monitors and printers that are connected to the computer are called ____

    • Processing devices

    • System devices

    • Peripheral devices

    • input devices

    Correct Answer
    A. Peripheral devices
    Explanation
    Devices such as monitors and printers that are connected to the computer are called peripheral devices. These devices are external to the computer and provide input or output functions, expanding the capabilities of the computer system. They include devices like keyboards, mice, scanners, and speakers, which enhance the user's interaction with the computer. Peripheral devices are not involved in the processing of data but rather support and complement the main processing functions of the computer.

    Rate this question:

  • 11. 

    Boot Camp is a utility that allows you to run Windows and Mac OS X at the same time

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Boot Camp is a utility that allows users to run Windows and Mac OS X on a Mac computer. It provides a way to partition the hard drive and install Windows alongside Mac OS X, enabling users to switch between the two operating systems. This allows for increased flexibility and the ability to use software and applications from both Windows and Mac platforms simultaneously. Therefore, the statement that Boot Camp allows you to run Windows and Mac OS X at the same time is true.

    Rate this question:

  • 12. 

    In Windows, which character is used as a path separator? 

    • forward slash (/)

    • Colon (:)

    • backslash (\)

    • hyphen (-)

    Correct Answer
    A. backslash (\)
    Explanation
    In Windows, the backslash character (\) is used as a path separator. This character is used to separate directories and subdirectories in a file path. For example, C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\Word.exe is a file path in Windows, where the backslash is used to separate the different folders in the path.

    Rate this question:

  • 13. 

    Which of the following is NOT a step in the boot process?

    • The BIOS is activated by powering on the CPU.

    • The antivirus program checks all files for viruses.

    • Configuration and customization settings are checked.

    • The operating system is loaded into RAM.

    Correct Answer
    A. The antivirus program checks all files for viruses.
    Explanation
    The antivirus program checking all files for viruses is not a step in the boot process. The boot process involves activating the BIOS by powering on the CPU, checking configuration and customization settings, and loading the operating system into RAM. The antivirus program typically runs after the boot process is complete, during regular system operation, to scan files for viruses and other malware.

    Rate this question:

  • 14. 

    __________ is a form of permanent memory that holds all the instructions the computer needs to start up

    • RAM

    • ROM

    • The NIC

    • The CPU

    Correct Answer
    A. ROM
    Explanation
    ROM, or Read-Only Memory, is a type of permanent memory that contains all the instructions necessary for a computer to start up. Unlike RAM (Random Access Memory), which is volatile and loses its data when the computer is powered off, ROM retains its data even when the computer is turned off. This makes ROM an essential component in the boot process of a computer, as it holds the initial instructions that allow the computer to initialize its hardware and load the operating system.

    Rate this question:

  • 15. 

    When virtual memory is in use, the condition of excessive paging is referred to asthrashing

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    When virtual memory is in use, excessive paging occurs when the system spends a significant amount of time constantly swapping pages between the RAM and the disk. This constant swapping leads to a decrease in overall system performance, as the CPU is occupied with managing the paging instead of executing actual tasks. This condition is known as thrashing. Therefore, the given statement is true.

    Rate this question:

  • 16. 

    During the virtual memory process, the operating system moves data to a temporarystorage area on the hard drive called the ROM file.  

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    During the virtual memory process, the operating system moves data to a temporary storage area on the hard drive called the swap file, not the ROM file. The swap file is used as a supplement to physical memory when it becomes full, allowing the operating system to free up space by temporarily storing data that is not currently being used. The ROM file, on the other hand, stands for Read-Only Memory and refers to a type of non-volatile memory that stores firmware or software that is permanently programmed and cannot be modified.

    Rate this question:

  • 17. 

    Which is TRUE about mainframe computer 

    • They perform complex calculations rapidly.

    • They support hundreds of users simultaneously

    • They execute many programs at a first pace.

    • They excel at running a few programs quickly.

    Correct Answer
    A. They support hundreds of users simultaneously
    Explanation
    Mainframe computers are designed to support multiple users simultaneously. They have the capability to handle a large number of users and provide them with access to resources and applications concurrently. This is one of the key features of mainframe computers that sets them apart from other types of computers. They are specifically built to handle high-volume and high-performance computing tasks, making them ideal for large organizations and industries where multiple users need to access the system concurrently.

    Rate this question:

  • 18. 

    Which of the following does NOT occur during the power-on self-test?

    • The video card and video memory are tested.

    • The BIOS is identified.

    • The OS is moved into RAM.

    • Memory is tested.

    Correct Answer
    A. The OS is moved into RAM.
    Explanation
    During the power-on self-test (POST), several checks are performed to ensure that the computer hardware is functioning correctly. The video card and video memory are tested to ensure proper display functionality. The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is identified to establish communication with the hardware components. Memory is tested to ensure its reliability. However, the operating system (OS) is not moved into RAM during the POST. The OS is loaded into RAM later in the boot process, after the POST is completed.

    Rate this question:

  • 19. 

    All of the following can be used in a Windows file name EXCEPT

    • #

    • *

    • %

    • $

    Correct Answer
    A. *
    Explanation
    In Windows, file names can contain special characters such as #, %, and $. However, the asterisk (*) is not allowed in file names because it is considered a wildcard character. Wildcard characters are used in file searches to represent any combination of characters. Therefore, the correct answer is *.

    Rate this question:

  • 20. 

    Which of the following is a single-user, multitask operating system

    • Palm OS

    • MAC OS

    • Symbian OS

    • MS-DOS

    Correct Answer
    A. MAC OS
    Explanation
    MAC OS is a single-user, multitask operating system. It is designed to be used by one user at a time but can handle multiple tasks simultaneously. MAC OS allows users to run multiple applications and switch between them seamlessly, enhancing productivity and efficiency. This operating system is commonly used on Apple computers and provides a user-friendly interface with advanced features and capabilities.

    Rate this question:

  • 21. 

    The ________ manages the flow of data and information through the computer system bycoordinating the hardware, software, user interface, processor, and system memory

    • RAM

    • application software

    • Operating system

    • Motherboard

    Correct Answer
    A. Operating system
    Explanation
    The operating system manages the flow of data and information through the computer system by coordinating various components such as hardware, software, user interface, processor, and system memory. It provides a platform for other software applications to run, manages memory allocation, handles input and output devices, and ensures the overall functionality and performance of the computer system.

    Rate this question:

  • 22. 

    Which of the following statements about a graphical user interface is FALSE?

    • A GUI uses windows, which are rectangular boxes displayed on the screen.

    • Icons represent an object such as a software application, a file, or a folder

    • A GUI uses menus, which are lists of commands that appear on the screen

    • A GUI is a command-driven interface.

    Correct Answer
    A. A GUI is a command-driven interface.
    Explanation
    The given statement that "A GUI is a command-driven interface" is false. A GUI (Graphical User Interface) is a type of user interface that allows users to interact with electronic devices through graphical elements such as windows, icons, and menus. It is not a command-driven interface where users have to input commands through text-based interfaces. Instead, a GUI provides a visual and intuitive way for users to interact with the system by using mouse clicks, touch gestures, and graphical elements.

    Rate this question:

  • 23. 

    The CPU clock speed determines the performance of the CPU.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    The CPU clock speed alone does not determine the performance of the CPU. While it is an important factor, other factors such as the number of cores, cache size, architecture, and efficiency of the CPU also play a significant role in determining its performance. Therefore, it is not accurate to say that the CPU clock speed solely determines the performance of the CPU.

    Rate this question:

  • 24. 

    Which holds the instructions the computer needs to start up ?

    • CPU

    • USB

    • RAM

    • ROM

    Correct Answer
    A. ROM
    Explanation
    ROM stands for Read-Only Memory, which holds the instructions that the computer needs to start up. Unlike RAM, which is volatile and loses its data when the computer is powered off, ROM retains its data even when the computer is turned off. The instructions stored in ROM are essential for the computer's booting process as they provide the initial set of instructions that the CPU executes to start up the computer's operating system.

    Rate this question:

  • 25. 

    Safe Boot is a special diagnostic mode designed for troubleshooting errors that occurduring the boot process

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Safe Boot is not a special diagnostic mode designed for troubleshooting errors that occur during the boot process. Instead, Safe Boot is a mode in which a computer starts up with only the essential system software and drivers, which helps to isolate and identify any software conflicts or issues. It is commonly used to troubleshoot software or driver-related problems, but it does not specifically target errors that occur during the boot process.

    Rate this question:

Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Aug 28, 2023 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Aug 28, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • May 13, 2012
    Quiz Created by
    Dyneshalyles
Back to Top Back to top
Advertisement
×

Wait!
Here's an interesting quiz for you.

We have other quizzes matching your interest.