COMPUTER MAINTENANCE AND SUPPORT
November 2021
Time: 3 hours
THE KENYA NATIONAL EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL
CRAFT CERTIFICATE IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
MODULE III
COMPUTER MAINTENANCE AND SUPPORT
3 hours
INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES:
This paper consists of TWO sections: A and B.
Answer ALL the questions in section A and any FOUR from section B in the answer booklet provided.
Candidates should answer the questions in English.
SECTION A (40 marks)
Answer ALL the questions in this section.
1. Explain two roles of a system clock as used in computers.
ANSWER:
- Synchronizes the operations of different components of the computer.
- Ensures the execution of instructions in a proper sequence.
2. Differentiate between an analog computer and a digital computer.
ANSWER:
- Analog computers measure continuous data (e.g., temperature), while digital computers process data in binary form (0s and 1s).
3. Explain two circumstances under which a serial upgrade to the computer processor is preferred.
ANSWER:
- When the motherboard cannot support a higher version of the processor.
- When the cost of upgrading to a new processor is prohibitive.
4. Paul had recommended the use of cloud printing technology to his employers in his organization. Explain the challenges the employers would experience while using this technology.
ANSWER:
- Requires stable internet connectivity for remote access to printers.
- Potential security risks due to the involvement of third-party services.
5. Outline four factors to be considered when selecting a computer’s power supply unit (PSU).
ANSWER:
- Wattage requirements of the system.
- Efficiency rating of the power supply.
- Compatibility with the motherboard.
- Form factor of the power supply (size).
6. AABC Company Ltd. had outsourced department training to employ an expert in network installation. Outline four qualities of the proposed personnel that the company would consider.
ANSWER:
- Certification in network installation.
- Experience in installing similar systems.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Knowledge of the latest industry standards.
7. Explain two types of expansion slots that could be found on computers.
ANSWER:
- PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) slot: Used for adding internal components like sound cards.
- AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) slot: Used for connecting a graphics card.
8. Computer sound cards perform different functions. Outline four functions of sound cards.
ANSWER:
- Converts digital audio data to analog for output through speakers.
- Provides ports for audio input/output devices.
- Enhances the quality of sound in gaming and multimedia applications.
- Enables the computer to record sound.
9. Joanne intends to dispose of a number of obsolete computers from her organization. Explain three ways she could use to dispose of these computers.
ANSWER:
- Donate the computers to charitable organizations.
- Recycle the components through authorized electronic waste recyclers.
- Sell the computers as scrap for parts.
10. Highlight any two of the following terms as used in computer support:
(a) warranty
(b) upgrade
(c) wizard
ANSWER:
- Warranty: A guarantee provided by the manufacturer covering repairs or replacements within a certain period.
- Upgrade: The process of replacing hardware or software components to improve performance.
SECTION B (60 marks)
Answer any FOUR questions from this section.
11.
(a) Outline four types of computer buses.
ANSWER:
- Data bus: Transfers data between components.
- Address bus: Carries the addresses of data in memory.
- Control bus: Sends control signals to synchronize devices.
- Expansion bus: Connects external devices and peripherals.
(b) Outline three signs of computer hardware failure that would be experienced by users.
ANSWER:
- Frequent crashes or system freeze.
- Unusual sounds coming from internal components.
- Overheating or the failure of components to power up.
12. The manufacturers of computer motherboards design them with different form factors.
(a) List two advantages of form factors that need to be considered.
ANSWER:
- Ensures compatibility with other hardware components.
- Provides flexibility in the arrangement and size of components.
(b) Outline four applications that could be used in the replacement of defective mechanical components.
ANSWER:
- Diagnostic software to identify faults.
- Spare parts from certified manufacturers.
- Hardware emulation software to temporarily replicate functions.
- Firmware updates to address component failures.
(c) A customer approached the BIOS technician for advice in a client’s computer. Outline five preventive measures the technician should observe during the process.
ANSWER:
- Use antistatic wristbands to prevent static damage.
- Ensure proper ventilation to avoid overheating.
- Regularly clean the hardware to prevent dust accumulation.
- Update BIOS firmware carefully following manufacturer guidelines.
- Backup system data before performing critical updates.