BT-205 Basic Computer Engineering - Dec 2024 Question Paper

Under each question, How to answer lists the points an answer should cover, outlined by CampusPrep from the syllabus. Check the details against your textbook.

1. 7 Marks
   aWhat is application software and how does it differ from system software?
   How to answer

   • Define application software with examples (e.g., word processors, spreadsheets)
   • Define system software with examples (e.g., OS, compilers)
   • Tabular comparison based on function, direct interaction, and system dependency
2. 7 Marks
   bDefine computer memory and differentiate between primary and secondary memory.
   How to answer

   • Definition of computer memory and its role in processing
   • Description of primary memory (RAM/ROM) and secondary memory (HDD, SSD)
   • Comparison table highlighting speed, volatility, storage capacity, and CPU accessibility
3. 7 Marks
   aDiscuss the classification of computer with example.
   How to answer

   • Classification criteria (by size, processing power, and data handling type)
   • Details of Microcomputers, Minicomputers, Mainframe computers, and Supercomputers
   • Suitable real-world examples for each class
4. 7 Marks
   bWhat are the advantages of a computer? Discuss with suitable examples.
   How to answer

   • Key characteristics/advantages: High speed, accuracy, huge storage capacity, diligence, versatility, automation
   • Specific examples illustrating each advantage in real-life applications
5. 7 Marks
   aWhat are limitations do flowcharts have in representing complex algorithms or processes?
   How to answer

   • Definition and purpose of flowcharts
   • Limitations in complex algorithms: cluttering, difficulty in modifications, lack of standardized structure for modern programming constructs (e.g. recursion, concurrency)
   • Scalability issues and loss of readability when algorithm grows
6. 7 Marks
   bExplain how to create a flowchart for a simple algorithm, such as finding the maximum of two numbers.
   How to answer

   • Identify inputs ($A, B$), process/decision ($A > B$), and outputs
   • Standard flowchart symbols: Oval (Start/Stop), Parallelogram (Input/Output), Diamond (Decision)
   • Step-by-step logic and drawn flowchart diagram comparing $A$ and $B$
7. 7 Marks
   aDescribe the key components of a typical DBMS architecture.
   How to answer

   • Overview of DBMS architecture (e.g., 3-tier/ANSI-SPARC or functional components)
   • Key functional components: Query Processor (DDL/DML compilers, query optimizer), Storage Manager (buffer manager, file manager), and Transaction Management
   • Block diagram of internal DBMS components
8. 7 Marks
   bWhat is a class in C++ and how does it differ from an object? Provide an example.
   How to answer

   • Definition of class as a user-defined blueprint/data type
   • Definition of object as an instance of a class occupying physical memory
   • Key differences between class and object
   • Code example showing class definition and object creation in C++
9. 7 Marks
   aExplain the concept of constructors and destructors in C++.
   How to answer

   • Definition and purpose of constructor (automatic initialization upon object creation, same name as class, no return type)
   • Types of constructors (default, parameterized, copy constructor)
   • Definition and purpose of destructor (cleanup/releasing resources, tilde `~` prefix)
   • Brief code example showing constructor and destructor usage
10. 7 Marks
    bWhat is encapsulation and why is it important in OOP?
    How to answer

    • Definition: Binding data members and member functions into a single unit (class)
    • Role in data hiding and security using private/protected access specifiers
    • Importance: Modularity, maintainability, abstraction, preventing unintended external interference
11. 7 Marks
    aWhat are the seven layers of the OSI model and what is the purpose of each layer?
    How to answer

    • List all 7 layers from bottom to top: Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation, Application
    • State primary function/purpose and protocols/PDU for each layer
    • Draw diagram of OSI 7-layer stack
12. 7 Marks
    bWhat is the TCP/IP model and why is it significant in computer networking?
    How to answer

    • Definition of TCP/IP protocol suite as the foundational model of the modern Internet
    • Outline of the 4/5 layers: Network Access/Link, Internet, Transport, Application
    • Significance: Practical implementation, vendor-independence, scalability, and universality
13. 7 Marks
    aExplain the elements required to prove internet fraud under the law.
    How to answer

    • Definition of internet/cyber fraud under cyber law (e.g., IT Act)
    • Key legal elements: False representation/deception, knowledge of falsity, intent to deceive (mens rea), reliance by victim, resulting financial/material injury or damage
    • Role of digital evidence in proving fraud
14. 7 Marks
    bWhat is cloud computing and how does it differ from traditional computing models?
    How to answer

    • Definition of cloud computing (on-demand delivery of IT resources over the internet)
    • Description of on-premise/traditional computing
    • Key differences: Cost structure (CapEx vs OpEx), scalability/elasticity, accessibility, maintenance responsibility
15. 14 Marks
    Write short note: i) Logical operators in C++ ii) Data Independence iii) Service delivery models in cloud computing
    How to answer

    • i) Logical operators (&&, ||, !), truth tables and syntax examples in C++
    • ii) Data Independence: Physical and logical data independence in DBMS architecture
    • iii) Service delivery models in cloud computing: IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service), and SaaS (Software as a Service) with examples