Computer - II : Previous Year Questions (2015)

PART – A

Q1. Name any two external DOS commands.

Ans. Two external DOS Commands:

1. DELTREE - Deletes a directory and all the files and subdirectories in it.
2. DISKCOPY - Copies the contents of one floppy disk to another.

Q2. What is Host?

Ans. A host in computer networking is any hardware device (computer, server, smartphone, IoT device) connected to a network that has a unique IP address and can send or receive data. It acts as a node that provides or consumes resources (e.g., website files, email) to other devices, acting as either a server or a client.

Q3. What is TCL?

Ans.  Tool Command Language (TCL) refers to a high-level, interpreted, and dynamic programming language used for scripting, testing, and rapid prototyping. It is known for its simplicity and is frequently embedded into C/C++ applications.

Q4. What is attribute?

Ans. An attribute in computing is a metadata specification, characteristic, or property assigned to an object, element, or file to define its behaviour, state, or appearance.

Q5. Define Adobe PageMaker.

Ans. Adobe PageMaker 7.0 is a sophisticated page layout software used to design and produce documents for printing. It is versatile enough to create anything from a simple business card to a complex, multi-page book. It allows users to:

• Position text and graphics with precision.
• Create professional newsletters, brochures, and reports.
• Integrate elements from other software (like MS Word or Excel) into a single layout.

Q6. Name any two UNIX operating systems.

Ans. MacOS and Oracle Solaris.

Q7. Which command is used to make a new directory in DOS?

Ans. MD Command, mkdir Command.

Q8. What are the components of multimedia?

Ans. Text, Audio, Graphics, Video, Animation.

Q9. Define Chart in MS Excel.

Ans. Charts in Microsoft Excel are visual tools that turn numerical data into easy-to-understand graphics. They help users quickly spot patterns, compare values, and track changes over time without reading long tables. Excel offers different chart types, such as column, line, pie, and bar charts, so data can be presented in the most suitable way. Using charts makes data analysis clearer, faster, and more effective.

Q10. What is the role of Repeater?

Ans. A repeater is a dynamic network device used to reproduce the signals when they transmit over a greater distance so that the signal’s strength remains equal. It can be used to create an Ethernet network. A repeater that occurs as the first layer of the OSI layer is the physical layer.

PART – B

Q11. Explain the differences between absolute and relative addresses regarding MS-Excel.

Ans. Absolute and Relative Reference in MS Excel:

1. Absolute Reference: Indicated by a dollar sign ($) before the column letter and row number (e.g., $A$1). This type of reference does not change when the formula is copied.

Example: If you copy =$B$4*$C$4 from D4 to D5, the formula stays exactly the same, =$B$4*$C$4.

2. Relative Reference: This is the default type. When a formula with a relative reference is copied to another cell, the reference automatically adjusts to the new location.

Example: If you copy =B4*C4 from cell D4 to D5, the formula becomes =B5*C5.

Q12. Compare the important characteristics of UTP and coaxial cable.

Ans. Coaxial Cable is a category of guided media that is used to perform the transmission of large frequency signals. Coaxial cable constitutes a solid conductor, three coats of insulation, and a grounding conductor. In coaxial cables, the inner solid conductor helps in transmitting the signals in the form of electrical signals. Coaxial cables are commonly used in internet connections, television signal distribution, and radio transmissions.

UTP (twisted pair cable) Twisted Pair Cable is a category of guided media in which a circuit is made by twisting two wires to perform transmission. Twisted pair cable constitutes a combination of insulated copper wires. In twisted pair cable, metallic copper wire helps in transmitting the signals in the form of electrical signals. Twisted Pair Cables are mostly used in telephone networks and cable shielding.

Q13. Describe the features of UNIX operating system.

Ans. UNIX is a powerful, multi-user, and multi-tasking operating system that has served as the blueprint for much of modern computing (including Linux and macOS).

Features of UNIX operating system:

1. Multi-user and Multi-tasking - UNIX allows multiple users to access system resources simultaneously while keeping their data and processes isolated. Furthermore, it supports multi-tasking, meaning a single user can run several programs at once in the background while continuing to work in the foreground.

2. Hierarchical File System - UNIX organizes data in a logical, tree-like structure. It starts at a single point called the root (represented by /), and everything from documents to hardware devices, is treated as a file within this hierarchy. This consistency makes it much easier for the system to manage diverse types of data.

3. The Kernel and the Shell - The system is split into two primary layers. Kernel is the "brain" of the OS that interacts directly with the hardware to manage memory, files, and CPU time.

And Shell is The command-line interface that acts as an intermediary between the user and the kernel. It interprets your commands and passes them to the system to be executed.

4. Portability - Unlike many early operating systems written in assembly language for specific machines, UNIX was rewritten in the C programming language. This makes it highly portable, allowing it to be moved (ported) to different hardware architectures with minimal changes to the code.

5. Pipes and Filters - UNIX encourages a "modular" approach to computing. Using pipes (represented by the | symbol), users can take the output of one small, specialized program and feed it directly as input into another. This allows users to build complex tools out of simple, reliable building blocks.

Q14. Differentiate between Ring and Mesh Topology.

Ans. In computer networking, the choice of topology determines how stable, expensive, and fast your connection will be. While a Ring Topology focuses on a simple, circular flow, a Mesh Topology is built for maximum reliability through interconnected paths.

PART – C

Q15. Describe Adobe PageMaker and its functionalities. Explain all its components.

Ans. Adobe PageMaker 7.0 is a sophisticated page layout software used to design and produce documents for printing. It is versatile enough to create anything from a simple business card to a complex, multi-page book. It allows users to:

• Position text and graphics with precision.
• Create professional newsletters, brochures, and reports.
• Integrate elements from other software (like MS Word or Excel) into a single layout.

Functionalities of Adobe PageMaker:

Creating a New Publication

To start a new document in PageMaker, follow these steps:

1. Open Adobe PageMaker (Start > All Programs > Adobe > PageMaker 7.0).
2. Choose File > New in the menu bar (or press Ctrl + N).
3. The Document Setup dialog box will appear.
4. Enter the appropriate settings for your new document in the Document Setup dialog box.
5. Click on OK.

Now a new document called Untitled - 1 opens on the screen.

A document page is displayed within a dark border. The area outside of the dark border is referred to as the pasteboard. Anything that is placed completely in the pasteboard is not visible when you print the document. You can use the pasteboard to temporarily hold elements while designing your document.

Setting up a New Publication (Document Setup)

The Document Setup dialog box is where you define the physical characteristics of your project:

• Page Size: Choose from standard sizes like A4, Letter, Legal, or enter a custom size.
• Dimensions: Shows the width and height of the selected page size.
• Orientation:

• Tall: This is the vertical (Portrait) orientation.
• Wide: This is the horizontal (Landscape) orientation.

• Options:
  • Double-sided: Select this if you want to print on both sides of the paper (like a book).
  • Facing Pages: If checked, PageMaker displays two pages side-by-side (Left and Right pages).
• Margins: Set the Inside, Outside, Top, and Bottom margins to define the printable area.
• Target Output Resolution: Usually set to 300 dpi for standard printing or higher for professional presses.

Opening and Editing an Existing Publication

To work on a previously saved file:

• Opening: Choose File > Open (Ctrl + O), navigate to your file, and click Open.
• Editing: Once open, you can use the Pointer Tool to select and move objects or the Text Tool to modify the content within text blocks.

Typing Text and Working with Text Blocks

In PageMaker, text doesn't just "exist" on the page; it resides inside a Text Block.

Select the Text Tool (T) from the toolbox. Click anywhere on the page or pasteboard and start typing. You can also click and drag to define the width of the text block before typing.

A text block is a container for text. It has "window shades" at the top and bottom with handles (small loops). If a bottom handle contains a red triangle, it indicates "overset text" (more text than the block can show).

Moving a Text Block

To move a text block to a different location:

1. Select the Pointer Tool from the toolbox.
2. Click on the text block you wish to move.
3. Click and drag the block to the desired position.
4. If you want to move it in a perfectly straight line (horizontally or vertically), hold the Shift key while dragging.

Applying a Font and Formatting Characters

Formatting involves changing the appearance of text to make it more readable or visually appealing. This can be done via the Type menu or the Control Palette.

Character Specifications Dialog:

By navigating to Type > Character (Ctrl + T), you can modify:

• Font: Choose the typeface (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman).
• Size: Change the point size of the text.
• Leading: The vertical space between lines of text.
• Color: Apply different colors to the selected text.
• Type Style: Apply Bold, Italic, Underline, Strikethrough, or Reverse (white text on a dark background).

Formatting and Word Processing

While PageMaker is a layout tool, it includes basic word processing features. You can select text by clicking and dragging the Text Tool over it. Once selected, you can change the alignment (Left, Right, Centre, Justified) via the Type > Alignment menu.

Changing Borders and Applying Fills

PageMaker allows you to draw shapes (rectangles, ellipses, polygons) and format them:

• Borders (Stroke): Select the object with the Pointer tool, then go to Element > Stroke. Here you can choose the line thickness (0.5pt to 12pt) and the line style (dashed, dotted, double line).
• Fills: Go to Element > Fill. You can choose patterns like "Solid," "Paper," or various hatched patterns.
• Combined: Use Element > Fill and Stroke to set both properties simultaneously in one dialog box.

Graphics and Text Blocks

You can bring external images into PageMaker using File > Place.

• Graphics: Once placed, a graphic can be resized or cropped using the Cropping Tool.
• Interaction: Graphics can sit behind text, in front of text, or have text flow around them.

Wrapping Text Around Graphics

This feature is used to make text automatically "flow" around the edges of an image or shape.

1. Select the graphic with the Pointer Tool.
2. Choose Element > Text Wrap.
3. Wrap Option:

• None: Text flows over the graphic.
• Square: Text flows around a rectangular boundary.
• Irregular: Text flows around the specific contours of the shape.

4. Flow Option: Determines if the text stays above the graphic, flows through it, or jumps to the next column/page.
5. Standoff: You can define the exact distance (in inches or millimetres) between the graphic and the surrounding text.

Drop-Down Menus

PageMaker’s interface relies heavily on the Menu Bar, which contains several drop-down menus:

• File: New, Open, Save, Place (for importing), and Print.
• Edit: Cut, Copy, Paste, and Undo.
• Layout: Commands for inserting/deleting pages and navigating the document.
• Type: All font, size, and paragraph formatting options.
• Element: Controls for lines, fills, shapes, and text wrapping.
• Utilities: Includes Spell Check, Find/Change, and Plugins.
• View: Zooming and showing/hiding rulers and guides.

Components of Adobe PageMaker

The main components of a window PageMaker are Title Bar, Menu Bar, Toolbar, Ruler, Scroll Bars and Text Area.

1. Title Bar – it is the topmost part of the window. It shows the name of the software and the name of the document at the left, and the control buttons (Minimize, Maximize and Close) at the right.
2. Menu Bar – it contains the following menus: File, Edit, Layout, Type, Element, Utilities, View, Window, Help. When you click on a menu item, a pulldown menu appears. There may be sub-menus under certain options in pull-down menus.
3. Toolbar – if you place the mouse pointer on a button in the Toolbar, a short text will appear as its description called “Tool Tip”.
4. Ruler – there are two ruler bars. One is at the top and other is at the left side.
5. Scroll Bars – scrolling is the process of moving up and down or left and right through the document window. There are two scrollbars namely Vertical and Horizontal scroll bars for scrolling the document vertically or horizontally.

Q16. What is DBMS? Explain various components and features of RDBMS.

Ans. A Database Management System (DBMS) is software that acts as an interface between a user and a database. It allows users to store, retrieve, update, and manage data efficiently while ensuring security and consistency. Think of it as a digital filing cabinet where the software manages how files are tucked away and found.

A Relational Database Management System (RDBMS) is a more advanced type of DBMS based on the "Relational Model" introduced by E.F. Codd. It organizes data into structured tables that can be linked to one another based on common data.

Components of RDBMS:

1. Tables (Relations): The basic unit of storage. Data is stored in a grid format with horizontal rows and vertical columns.
2. Records (Rows/Tuples): A single entry in a table representing a complete set of information (e.g., one specific student's details).
3. Fields (Columns/Attributes): The smallest unit of data in a table, representing a specific property (e.g., "Student Name" or "Date of Birth").
4. Schema: The logical design or structure of the entire database. It defines how tables are organized and how they relate to each other.
5. Keys:
   • Primary Key: A unique identifier for every record in a table (e.g., Employee ID).
   • Foreign Key: A field in one table that links to the Primary Key of another table, creating a "relationship."

Features of RDBMS:

1. ACID Properties

To ensure reliability, every transaction in an RDBMS must follow these four rules:

1. Atomicity: The "all or nothing" rule. If one part of a transaction fails, the entire transaction is canceled.
2. Consistency: Data must move from one valid state to another, following all predefined rules.
3. Isolation: Transactions occur independently without interfering with each other.
4. Durability: Once a transaction is committed, it remains saved even in the event of a system failure.

2. Data Integrity

RDBMS enforces rules to keep data accurate and reliable:

1. Entity Integrity: No primary key can be NULL (empty).
2. Referential Integrity: Ensures that relationships between tables remain consistent (you can't delete a record if another table depends on it).
3. Domain Integrity: Ensures that the data entered into a field meets specific criteria (e.g., an "Age" column only accepts numbers).

3. Structured Query Language (SQL)

RDBMS uses SQL as a standard language to interact with the database. This allows users to perform complex searches, updates, and administrative tasks using simple, human-readable commands.

4. Normalisation

This is a technique used to reduce data redundancy (duplication). By dividing large tables into smaller ones and linking them via keys, the RDBMS saves storage space and prevents errors during data updates.

5. Multi-User Access and Security

An RDBMS allows multiple users to access the data simultaneously without corruption. It also provides granular security, allowing administrators to control exactly who can view or edit specific tables.

Q17. What do you mean by functions of MS Excel? Explain various categories of functions.

Ans. In MS Excel, a function is a predefined formula that performs a specific calculation or operation using arguments (inputs) and returns a single output value. Excel offers a vast library of functions categorized by type, such as mathematical, statistical, logical, and text functions, to help automate complex calculations and data manipulation. 

Types of functions in MS Excel:

MS Excel provides a variety of functions. Some relevant categories of functions include: -

1. Text Functions –

• UPPER() – Converts text to uppercase (e.g., case names).
• LOWER() – Converts text to lowercase.
• PROPER() – Capitalizes the first letter of each word.
• CONCAT() or TEXTJOIN() – Combine text from multiple cells.
• LEFT(), RIGHT(), MID() – Extract parts of text (e.g., dates or codes).
• LEN() – Counts characters in a text.
• TRIM() – Removes extra spaces.

2. Date and Time Functions –

• TODAY() – Returns current date (auto-updated).
• NOW() – Returns current date and time.
• DATEDIF() – Calculates difference between two dates (e.g., days until a deadline).
• DAY(), MONTH(), YEAR() – Extracts parts of a date.

3. Lookup and Reference Functions –

• VLOOKUP() – Searches for a value in a table vertically.
• HLOOKUP() – Searches horizontally.
• XLOOKUP() – A modern and flexible lookup tool.
• INDEX() – Returns a value at a given position.
• MATCH() – Finds the position of an item in a range.

4. Mathematical Functions –

• SUM() – Adds numbers.
• AVERAGE() – Finds the mean.
• COUNT() – Counts numeric entries.
• COUNTA() – Counts all non-empty entries.
• ROUND() – Rounds numbers.

5. Logical Functions –

• IF() – Returns values based on a condition.
• AND() / OR() – Combines multiple conditions.
• NOT() – Reverses a logical value.
• IFERROR() – Handles errors in formulas.

6. Information Functions –

• ISBLANK() – Checks if a cell is empty.
• ISNUMBER() – Checks if the value is a number.
• ISTEXT() – Checks if the value is text.

Syntax:

The basic syntax order for a function in Microsoft Excel follows a specific structure: -

1. Equal Sign (=): All formulas and functions in Excel begin with an equal sign. This tells Excel that the following characters constitute a calculation or a function.
2. Function Name: Immediately after the equal sign, the name of the function is entered. For example, SUM, AVERAGE, IF, VLOOKUP, etc.
3. Opening Parenthesis ((): After the function name, an opening parenthesis is required to enclose the arguments of the function.
4. Arguments: Arguments provide the input or information that the function needs to perform its calculation. These can be:

• Cell references: e.g., A1, B5:B10.
• Ranges: e.g., A1:C5.
• Values/Constants: e.g., 10, "Text".

5. Closing Parenthesis ()): After all arguments have been entered, a closing parenthesis is required to complete the function's syntax.

Example:

To sum the values in cells A1 through A5:

=SUM(A1:A5)

Function Wizard:

Steps to use function wizard include: -

1. Select a cell where you want the result.
2. Click the fx button (next to the formula bar). The Insert Function dialog box will appear.
3. In the Search for a function box, type what you want (e.g., "average", "if", "date") and click Go.
4. Select a function from the list (e.g., SUM, IF, VLOOKUP).
5. Click OK.

Alternatively,

1. Go to the Formulas tab on the Ribbon.
2. Choose a category (e.g., Text, Date & Time, Math & Trig).
3. Click on the function you want (e.g., CONCAT, TODAY, ROUND). A dialog box opens — this is the Function Wizard.
4. Fill in the input fields (Excel gives descriptions for each one).
5. Click OK — Excel inserts the function into the selected cell.

Q18. Describe various multimedia applications. Explain all the components Multimedia.

Ans. The term Multimedia is a linguistic blend of two words: "Multi," meaning many, and "Media," referring to the material or medium through which information is transmitted or sent. It is defined as the integration of various media elements, such as text, graphics, audio, and video, to present information in a more effective, engaging, and attractive manner.

Components of Multimedia

Multimedia is comprised of five primary elements that work in synergy to represent data:

1. Text

The most common medium for representing information It is primarily utilised for titles, headlines, and navigation menus.

Common extensions include .DOC and .TXT.

Software: Microsoft Word, Notepad, and WordPad.

2. Audio

Encompasses speech and music to increase the "understandability" and clarity of concepts. The MP3 format is the industry standard for storing compressed sound and music.

Software: QuickTime, RealPlayer, and Windows Media Player.

3. Graphics

The foundation of every multimedia presentation, making concepts more presentable and professional. Often viewed via Windows Picture viewer or web browsers like Internet Explorer.

Software: Adobe Photoshop is a leading tool for editing graphics to make them more attractive.

4. Video

A combination of moving pictures with synchronized sound. It is considered the most effective way to communicate, as it saves time and enhances presentation. The MPEG (Moving Pictures Experts Group) format is widely used for video files.

5. Animation

The process of altering images in a sequence so they appear as moving pictures to the human eye. It shows a specific number of frames per second to produce the effect of motion.

Applications of Multimedia

Nowadays the applications of Multimedia are observed in various fields such as Education, Entertainment, Business and so on. To communicate the message in the form of picture, sound, video, animation is the primary role of multimedia. Some of the application of multimedia are as follows:

1. Business and Engineering

1. Videoconferencing: Enables real-time audio and video communication between distant locations, saving time and money.
2. Marketing: Used to create dynamic advertisements on television and the internet.
3. Engineering: Tools are used for designing and testing new products and components.

2. Entertainment

1. Movies: Multimedia enables special effects and high-action sequences that were previously impossible.
2. Gaming: Provides immersive experiences through 3-D effects and high-quality sound.

3. Education and "Edutainment"

1. Edutainment: A hybrid of education and entertainment that makes learning engaging for students.
2. Interactive Multimedia: Applications that allow users to actively participate rather than being passive recipients of information.

Multimedia in Foreign Language Learning

Multimedia creates a rich, interactive environment that simulates real-life language use, through features like native speaker conversations, visual context, and interactive exercises, ultimately enhancing comprehension, pronunciation, and fluency. It addresses all four core skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

Key Benefits in Language Acquisition

1. Natural Exposure: Podcasts and online news provide exposure to native accents and colloquialisms.
2. Visual Context: Images and videos provide cues that help learners understand new vocabulary and cultural nuances.
3. Pronunciation Mastery: Audio clips allow learners to mimic native speakers, while speech recognition software provides instant feedback.
4. Adaptive Learning: Digital tools allow students to adjust the pace and difficulty level to suit their individual needs.

Essential Tools

1. Language Apps: Feature gamified elements and flashcards.
2. VR/AR: Immersive environments for practicing speaking in simulated real-world scenarios.
3. Exchange Platforms: Video call services that connect learners directly with native speakers globally.