Category Archives: Homework

1. Computer Systems, Computing Higher, Homework

Homework – Topic 4 – Peripherals

Q1 A peripheral device captures colour images and saves them to memory.
a) Describe how the colour is represented using 24 bits (1)
b) The image is saved with a resolution of 600 dpi. How many pixels are required to save an image of 6” x 4”. Give your answer in MB and show your working. (2)
Q2 Explain how a buffer is used with a peripheral. (2)
Q3 Explain the concept of spooling illustrating your answer with an example. (2)
Q4 State the hardware required in terms of peripherals to set up a computer system to produce a catalogue for a garden centre. The finished catalogue will be taken on electronic media to a printers. (2)
Q5 Justify the choice of two of these devices in terms of resolution, capacity, speed, cost and compatibility. (4)
Q6 Describe the features, uses and advantages of a solid state device such as a USB flash drive. (2)
Q7 a) What is the purpose of an interface? (1)
b) State the factors that have to be resolved by an interface. (2)
Q8 Describe the difference between parallel and serial interfaces (2)
Total marks 20
1. Computer Systems, Computing Higher, Homework

Homework Topic 3 – Measuring Performance

Q1 What factors can influence the MIP rate of measuring performance? 2
Q2 Explain what is meant by the cycle time with reference to the clock speed. 2
Q3 Explain why two computers rated at the same clock speed may not have an equivalent performance.2
Q4 Explain what is meant by a benchmark test in measuring a computer’s performance and give an example of one such benchmark. 2
Q5 Explain the effect of the width of the data bus on a computer’s performance. 2
Q6 Why is an interface needed to connect peripherals to the system bus? 2
Q7 Describe the standard functions of an interface. 2
Q8 Explain the difference between serial and parallel transmission. 2
Q9 Explain why the increase in the width of the data bus can improve system performance. 2
Q10 Explain why the increase in the width of the address bus can improve system performance. 2
Total Marks 20
1. Computer Systems, Computing Higher, Homework

Higher Computing – Networking: Protocols, IP addresses and the OSI model

This is more aimed at the Networking optional unit. However, it might be of use though as it will cover the Networking section of the Computer Systems unit.
Presented by: Ian King, SCHOLAR Online Tutor for Computing.
When:              Wednesday 5 March 7.30 – 8.15pm
Theme:            Higher Computing – Networking:  Protocols, IP addresses and the OSI model
Adobe Link (sign in as a guest on the day):   http://heriot-watt.adobeconnect.com/scholarhomework
There will be an opportunity for students to participate in a Q&A session at the end of the presentation.
Computing Higher, Homework, Revision

Past paper check list

I have updated this and I will give you a paper copy on Tuesday. Use it with traffic light stickers/high lighters, to record your progress. The Section 2 questions have not been broken down in part or the spreadsheet would have gotten out of hand. However, feel free to create one yourself and post me a copy 🙂

I have also posted the sample question paper and the Section 1, 2 & 3 PDFs in the past papers page (at top of page). There are no marking schemes on the blog so you will need to look elsewhere for the answers.