Chapter 6E

Question 1

• What is a magnetic disk? What is meant by speed and size and how does this affect performance?

Answer 1

• Magnetic disk provides long-term, nonvolatile storage. The data is recorded in concentric circles and disk spins inside disk unit.
• The larger the size of your magnetic disk the more you can store. If you need to store huge downloads from your organization’s server computers, then you need a large disk. However, if you just need it for saving documents then just purchase a smaller disk.
• Fast disk can compensate for too little memory. If you have too little memory, your computer will be swapping files in and out; a fast disk will speed this process.

Question 2

• What is a NIC device? When does a computer need this? When does a printer need this? (Explain all parts clearly.)

Answer 2

• NIC is a computer circuit board or card that is installed in a computer so that it can be connected to a network. It supports either wired or wireless connections, and the decision about which to choose will be dedicated by the type of network your department has.
• NIC is needed to connect to the internet. Network interface cards provide a dedicated, full-time connection to a network.
• If you want your printer to be used by the public or other people, you need to equip the printer with its own NIC. Printer needs NIC so you could access it directly. By equipping NIC to a printer, it frees up the computer.

Question 3

• Provide an example of where you might see firmware used. What is it?

Answer 3

Firmware is a computer software that is installed into devices such as printers, print servers, and various types of communication devices. The software is coded just like other software, but it is installed into RAM of the printer or other device. Firmware can be changed and upgraded.

Question 4

• What is the difference between horizontal market software and vertical market software? Who would use each? Provide specific examples of each.

Answer 4

• A horizontal market is one that supplies goods to a variety of industries instead of just one. A vertical market is one that supplies goods to a specific industry.
• Horizontal market software is software that can be used by several different types of industries. Vertical market is software developed for niche applications or for a specific clientele.
• Horizontal market software is used by most organizations and the general public. An example of horizontal software is Microsoft Office. Vertical market software on the other hand is used by specific people like for example engineers use AutoCad software. Another example are contact managers such Goldmine and Act!

Question 5

• In addition to the stereotypical roles of help desk, repairing hardware, and loading software, what other roles does the IT Dept play? Provide and explain the importance of 3 more roles.

Answer 5

• Plans IT
• Develops and installs new system
• Provides secure computing environment
• Sets standards