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The travel agency has a LAN in the office building - NSC Information Technology - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 2

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The travel agency has a LAN in the office building. All agents will need a computer at their work stations. 2.1 A choice has to be made between purchasing fat- or t... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:The travel agency has a LAN in the office building - NSC Information Technology - Question 2 - 2017 - Paper 2

Step 1

Motivate the use of thin-client computers for the office.

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Answer

Thin-client computers are advantageous for the office due to several reasons.

  1. Lower Hardware Requirements: Thin-clients have reduced hardware specifications as most processing is done on a server, making them cheaper to purchase and maintain. This reduction in hardware power leads to lower costs for the agency.

  2. Reduced Physical Space: These devices are typically smaller and can save physical space in the office environment. This is especially beneficial in areas where space is limited.

  3. Centralized Management: With software loaded and operated from a centralized server, it allows for easier management and updates, reducing IT overhead costs.

  4. Enhanced Security: Thin clients minimize security threats since less data is stored locally, making it harder for unauthorized access or data theft.

Step 2

Where is the BIOS found?

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Answer

The BIOS is found on the ROM chip of the computer motherboard, or it can be located on another type of ROM.

Step 3

State TWO functions of the BIOS.

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Answer

  1. System Check: The BIOS checks that all hardware components are connected and functioning correctly during the Power-On Self Test (POST).

  2. Boot Configuration: It provides a menu for configuring system settings, enabling the selection of the boot device and other fundamental hardware settings.

Step 4

What term is used to describe the technique where more than one CPU core works on separate applications at the same time?

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Answer

The term used is Multiprocessing.

Step 5

What is the main aim of caching, irrespective of where it occurs?

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Answer

The main aim of caching is to prevent a slower medium from slowing down the performance of a faster medium.

Step 6

Explain how disk caching improves the performance of a computer.

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Disk caching enhances performance by using high-speed RAM to store frequently accessed data. This allows for quicker data retrieval from the cache rather than directly from slower storage mediums like hard drives, leading to overall faster operation and a more efficient system.

Step 7

Except for caching, name ONE other factor that can improve the performance of a computer system AND explain how it will improve performance.

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Answer

One factor is Upgrading RAM. Increasing the RAM allows the computer to hold more data and instructions in memory, reducing the need for swapping data to and from the hard drive, and thus enhancing overall speed and efficiency.

Step 8

State the common task that is executed by both an interpreter and a compiler.

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Answer

The common task executed by both an interpreter and a compiler is Converting high-level language code into machine code that can be understood by the CPU.

Step 9

Suggest TWO aspects that need to be considered when deciding to upgrade hardware or software.

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Answer

  1. Compatibility: Ensure that any new hardware or software is compatible with existing systems to prevent functionality issues.

  2. Cost: Assess the financial impact of the upgrades to ensure they align with the agency's budgetary constraints.

Step 10

Besides switching off all computers at night, state TWO other ways in which the electricity usage of computing devices can be decreased.

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Answer

  1. Decrease Brightness: Lowering the screen brightness can significantly reduce energy consumption in monitor displays, saving electricity.

  2. Use Power-Efficient Devices: Investing in energy-efficient hardware can further reduce power usage, leading to overall cost savings.

Step 11

Explain TWO ways in which the use of computers will be financially beneficial for the travel agency.

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Answer

  1. Increased Productivity: Computers enhance productivity by streamlining processes and allowing employees to complete tasks more efficiently, which can lead to higher overall output.

  2. Cost Savings: As electronic communication reduces the need for physical documents, there's a noticeable decrease in printing and paper costs, contributing to significant savings.

Step 12

Describe TWO aspects of an effective backup maintenance program.

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Answer

  1. Backup Schedule: An effective backup program should include a clear schedule for regular backups (daily, weekly, and monthly) to ensure that data is consistently protected.

  2. Incremental Backups: Implementing incremental backups, which only save changes made since the last backup, can optimize storage use and save time during the backup process.

Step 13

Define the term disk fragmentation.

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Answer

Disk fragmentation occurs when files are stored non-contiguously on the hard drive, resulting in slower access and reduced performance as the read/write head must move more to gather all parts of a file.

Step 14

Give TWO reasons why SSDs are more suitable to be used in portable devices.

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Answer

  1. Smaller Physical Dimensions: SSDs are usually more compact compared to traditional hard drives, making them ideal for slim portable devices.

  2. Increased Robustness: SSDs are more robust as they have no moving parts, which reduces the risk of physical damage during transport and enhances data reliability.

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