Theory question 105
Computer HardwarePaper 2, Essay questions
Table 1 shows the specification of two laptop computers. Use the table to answer questions 5(a) to 5(e).
(a) Which laptop will likely boot faster? (b) Calculate the maximum number of bytes of data that can be stored in the hard disk of: (i) Laptop A; (ii) Laptop B; (c) State the type of operating system installed in both laptop A and Laptop B. (d) State one function of the Bluetooth in Laptop A. (e) A certain salesperson makes a long trip by road as part of his job and also uses the computer for live communication with his customers. (i) Which of the laptops is more suitable for the salesperson? (ii) Name three features of the laptop chosen in 5(e)(i) that makes it more suitable than the other. (iii) Give one reason for choosing each of the features in 5(e)(ii).
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(a) Laptop A – it has the faster processor (2.6 GHz against 1.8 GHz) and the newer operating system.
(b)(i) 500 GB = 500 × 1024 × 1024 × 1024 = 536 870 912 000 bytes (500 000 000 000 bytes if 1 GB is taken as 10⁹).
(ii) 320 GB = 320 × 1024³ = 343 597 383 680 bytes (320 000 000 000 bytes with 10⁹).
(c) Microsoft Windows – a graphical user interface (GUI), single-user multitasking operating system (Windows 10 Pro on A, Windows 7 Ultimate on B).
(d) Bluetooth lets the laptop connect wirelessly over a short distance to phones, headsets, mice or speakers, e.g. to transfer files.
(e)(i) Laptop B.
(ii) and (iii) Battery life of 6 hours – it can be used for long periods on the road without charging; 1.6 MP webcam – needed for live video communication with customers; wireless capability enabled – to connect to the internet (Wi-Fi/hotspot) while travelling; lighter weight (2.4 kg) and smaller screen – easier to carry.
Pick features that matter on a long road trip with video calls.