Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for Computers

PC Hardware: Essential Components

Hardware refers to the set of physical elements, machinery, and components (such as the microprocessor, monitor, and keyboard) that constitute a personal computer (PC).

Software, on the other hand, consists of programs or applications, along with the data or information they process and store.

Understanding Data and Information

Data serves as the raw material input that computers transform into information. Processed data, or information, is the result, distinguished by its usefulness.

Key Characteristics of Useful Information:

• Relevant: The information is applicable to the current situation.
• Current: Information is updated and available precisely when needed.
• Accurate: Data entered into a computer and the resulting

Importing Bitmap Images into Fireworks

Defining the Canvas

The first step is defining the work area or canvas (remember to have the negative area visible). Then, select the import option from the File menu.

A window like the one below will open.

Locating and Selecting the Image

In the Look in option, you'll search the folder where your image is saved. In the Files of type menu, the formats that Fireworks recognizes are shown. Once you select the file, click Open.

Placing the Image

The following mark will be displayed on the canvas, which means Fireworks is ready to bring in the selected image.

Simply click with your mouse or try to trace the desired size of the image.

That way, the image will appear on the canvas.

Image Properties

This image's properties... Continue reading "Importing Bitmap Images into Fireworks: Supported Formats" »

Pascal Code Examples

1. String Search in Array

This program searches for a given name within an array of strings.

Program Pzim;
var
  vet1: array[1..10] of string;
  nome: string;
  i, j: integer;
begin
  j := 0;
  for i := 1 to 10 do
  begin
    write('Enter the names: ');
    readln(vet1[i]);
  end;
  write('Enter the name to be searched: ');
  readln(nome);
  for i := 1 to 10 do
  begin
    if (nome = vet1[i]) then
    begin
      writeln('FOUND');
      j := j + 1;
    end;
  end;
  if (j = 0) then
    writeln('NOT FOUND');
end.

2. Merging Two Arrays

This program merges two arrays (vet1 and vet2) into a third array (vetx).

Program Pzim;
var
  vet1: array[1..5] of integer;
  vet2: array[1..10] of integer;
  vetx: array[1..15] of integer;

a) Advantage of Interrupts for Peripheral Devices

Explain the advantage of using interrupts as a technique for handling peripheral devices and relate it to computer performance. (10)

Answer

Interrupts offer a significant advantage because the processor doesn't need to constantly poll peripherals to check for data readiness. Instead, the peripheral alerts the processor when it's ready. This allows the processor to focus on other tasks while waiting for the peripheral, thus increasing overall computer performance.

b) Multiple Choice Questions on Interrupts

With regard to interrupts, check only what is correct in the following statements. (8) Explain why the last statement has been marked as correct. (7) Total 15 points

1.

To be considered an interrupt,... Continue reading "Understanding Interrupts in Computer Systems" »

The Windows Control Panel: Your System's Command Center

The Windows Control Panel is your primary tool for configuring both the software and hardware installed on your computer. It organizes utilities into categories for easy access. Here's a breakdown of some key configuration options:

Add Hardware Wizard

This wizard guides you through installing new devices. Typically, you'll need the installation CD provided by the device manufacturer.

Add/Remove Programs (Programs and Features)

This section displays all programs installed on your computer. Select a program to uninstall it. To install a new program, run the installer file. To add or remove Windows features, click on "Turn Windows features on or off."

Network Connections (Network and Sharing Center)

Image Optimization Process

During image design and transformation, there's complete freedom. Optimization is applied at the end, before exporting the image to a web-compatible format.

Optimization involves three key steps:

1. Selecting the best file format to manage file size.
2. Adjusting format options and colors. Each format has specific compression controls, some limiting color palettes.
3. Defining export options based on image use.

Common Export Formats

• GIF (Graphics Interchange Format): Up to 256 colors, supports transparency, ideal for animations, logos, and images with transparent areas. Often used for vector graphics.
• JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group): Best for photos and textured images, supports many colors, but has fewer image quality options.

Topic 8: Exporting Data from Access

Exportable File Formats

• SharePoint
• Word files
• Excel documents
• Other Access databases
• Text files

Linked Tables and Data Updates

Changes made to the original Excel data will not be reflected in the linked Access table.

Dividing a Database

An Access database can be split into two files:

• Server File: Contains the tables.
• Client File: Contains forms, reports, and other created objects.

Topic 9: Working with Forms in Access

Simple Forms

Access can automatically generate simple forms from active tables, displaying records in an organized layout and allowing for new data entry.

Form Tools

Form tools simplify the creation of forms by allowing you to select the desired data fields.

Split Forms

Split forms offer two views:

• Form View
• Datasheet

Why the 4 + 1 Architecture?

The 4 + 1 architecture model provides different views (logical, process, development, and physical) plus scenarios. This allows for a comprehensive understanding of the system to be built. The 4 + 1 model is also generic.

How Does It Help with Design?

It aids in system design by helping to understand the system's behavior through detailed component design and specifications. This ensures that the functional requirements are met.

Choosing a Construction Methodology

The construction methodology depends on the problem or system being addressed. Therefore, the criterion is paramount when choosing a methodology. Options include:

• Rational Unified Process
• CMMI
• Scrum

Importance of Documentation Standards

Documentation standards facilitate... Continue reading "Software Architecture: Key Concepts and Best Practices" »

Database Management Essentials

Data Recovery

Recovery: Recover data from the sources of error mentioned above. Restoring the database to its normal state is the responsibility of the DBA, who is responsible for implementing the procedures for error detection and recovery.

The DBA is the one with the centralized control of the database. This reduces the number of people who have access to technical and design details for the operation of DBMS.

Concurrency Control

Concurrency: It occurs in a multi-user environment when multiple users try to access the same data object at the same time.

Concurrency occurs when the system is multi-user and does not make adequate controls to synchronize the processes that affect the database. This is commonly referred... Continue reading "Database Management: Recovery, Concurrency, and More" »