ADVANCED NABTEB GCE 2023 COMPUTER CRAFT ANSWERS

(1a)
A pixel is the smallest unit of a digital image or display. It is a tiny square or dot that represents a single point in an image.

(1b)
(PICK TWO ONLY)

(i) Efficiency and Productivity: AutoCAD allows users to create, modify, and document 2D and 3D designs with precision and speed. The software’s tools and features streamline the design process, resulting in increased efficiency and productivity.

(ii) Accuracy and Precision: AutoCAD ensures high levels of accuracy and precision in design. The software allows for precise measurements, accurate scaling, and the ability to snap objects to specific points, grids, or reference lines.

(iii) Collaboration and Workflow: With AutoCAD, designers can easily collaborate and share their work with others. The software supports file sharing, version control, and real-time collaboration, enabling multiple designers to work on the same project simultaneously.

(iv) Visualization and Presentation: AutoCAD offers advanced visualization tools, enabling designers to present their ideas and designs effectively. Users can create realistic 3D renderings and walkthroughs, helping clients or stakeholders better understand the design concepts.

(v) Customization and Automation: AutoCAD allows users to customize and automate repetitive tasks. Through programming languages like AutoLISP and Visual Basic for Applications (VBA), users can create custom commands, scripts, and macros to automate tasks, improving efficiency and reducing errors.

(vi) Industry Standard: AutoCAD is widely used in various industries, making it an industry-standard software for design and drafting. This means that professionals trained in AutoCAD can seamlessly collaborate and exchange files with others, regardless of their geographic location or organization.
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(3)
(PICK TWO ONLY)

(i) Accuracy: Internal check ensures accuracy in financial and accounting records. It helps identify errors, discrepancies, and fraudulent activities, reducing the risk of incorrect financial statements.

(ii) Prevents Fraud: Internal check acts as a deterrent to fraud by creating a system of checks and balances. It ensures that no single person has complete control over financial transactions, reducing the opportunities for fraudulent activities.

(iii) Timely Detection: Internal check helps in the timely detection of errors and irregularities. It allows for regular and periodic checking of transactions, ensuring prompt identification of any discrepancies or fraudulent activities.

(iv) Operational Efficiency: Internal check enhances operational efficiency by streamlining processes and minimizing errors. It helps identify bottlenecks, inefficient systems, and areas of improvement, leading to improved efficiency in business operations.

(v) Compliance with Regulations: Internal check ensures compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards. It helps businesses stay in line with legal requirements, reducing the risk of penalties, fines, and legal disputes.

(vi) Reliable Financial Reporting: Internal check enhances the reliability of financial reporting. It assures that financial information accurately represents the business’s financial position, performance, and results of operations. This, in turn, promotes transparency and trust among shareholders, investors, and stakeholders.
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(4a)
Schema refers to the overall structure or blueprint that defines the organization, design, and relationships of a database system. It provides a logical representation of the database, outlining the tables, fields, constraints, and other elements that make up the data model.

(4b)
(PICK TWO ONLY)

(i) Data: This component includes the raw facts and figures that are collected, processed, and stored within the system.

(ii) Hardware: It refers to the physical devices and equipment used to process and store data, such as computers, servers, networks, and storage devices.

(iii) Software: These are the programs and applications used to manage, process, and analyze data. It includes operating systems, database management systems, and various software applications.

(iv) Procedures: These are the established protocols, guidelines, and rules that govern the data collection, processing, storage, and retrieval processes within the system.

(v) People: This component refers to the individuals who interact with the system and are responsible for managing and utilizing the information generated by the MIS. It includes system administrators, data analysts, and end-users.

(vi) Communication Networks: These networks enable the flow of data and information between different components of the MIS. They include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and other communication infrastructure.
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(5)
(PICK FOUR ONLY)

(i) Access control measures:
Implement measures like secure entry and exit points, strong authentication protocols, and visitor registration to restrict unauthorized access to the computer laboratory.

(ii) User authentication:
Require users to authenticate themselves using individual usernames and passwords before accessing the computer systems in the laboratory. This helps ensure accountability and prevent unauthorized use.

(iii) Data backup and recovery:
Implement regular and secure data backup procedures to protect critical data from loss or damage. Additionally, establish protocols for data recovery in case of system failures or cybersecurity incidents.

(iv) Network security:
Implement robust firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and antivirus software to secure the computer laboratory’s network from unauthorized access, malware, or cyberattacks.

(v) Physical security measures:
Ensure that the computer laboratory is equipped with physical security measures like security cameras, door locks, and alarm systems to prevent theft or unauthorized access to the lab.

(vi) Safe electrical infrastructure:
Ensure that the computer laboratory has a safe and well-maintained electrical infrastructure with proper grounding, surge protectors, and regular inspections to avoid electrical hazards or accidents.

(vii) Equipment maintenance and inspection:
Regularly inspect and maintain computer hardware and software to identify and resolve any potential security vulnerabilities or technical issues that may compromise the safety of the computer laboratory.

(viii) User education and awareness:
Provide training sessions or workshops for users to educate them about safe computing practices, emphasizing the importance of password security, safe browsing habits, and avoiding suspicious emails or downloads.

(ix) Secure storage and disposal:
Implement secure storage procedures for sensitive information, such as using lockable cabinets or encrypted storage devices. Ensure proper disposal of obsolete or sensitive data through secure data wiping or physical destruction methods to prevent unauthorized access.

(x) Incident response plan:
Develop and regularly update an incident response plan, including steps to address security incidents, breaches, or emergencies promptly. This will help minimize damage and ensure a quick and effective response.
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(6)
A primary key is a unique identifier for each record in a database table. It ensures that each row in the table is uniquely identifiable and serves as the primary means of accessing data.

A foreign key is a field or a set of fields in a database table that refers to the primary key of another table. It establishes a relationship between two tables, allowing data to be linked and referenced across multiple tables in a database system.
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(7)
(PICK TWO ONLY)

(i) A file is a collection of records, while a record represents a single unit of data within a file.

(ii) Files are organized to store related data together, while records store specific information within a file.

(iii) Files provide a way to access multiple records efficiently, while a record is accessed individually.

(iv) Files can store a large amount of data, while records represent smaller portions of that data.

(v) Files can be modified by adding, deleting, or updating records, while a record is an atomic unit that can be individually modified.

(vi) Files may contain metadata such as file attributes and file information, while records typically do not have metadata associated with them.
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(8)
(i) Encryption: Encryption refers to the process of encoding information or data in such a way that it becomes unintelligible to unauthorized individuals. It involves transforming plaintext into ciphertext using an encryption algorithm and a unique key.

(ii) Backup: Backup, in the context of data security, refers to creating and storing copies of important data or information to prevent loss in the event of system failures, hardware malfunctions, accidental deletions, or other unforeseen incidents. It involves duplicating and preserving data in a separate storage location, usually on external devices or remote servers.
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(9)
Data processing standards refer to a set of guidelines, protocols, and best practices that are used to ensure the accuracy, integrity, and security of data during its processing stages.

(9b)
(PICK TWO ONLY)
(i) ISO (International Organization for Standardization)
(ii) IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission)
(iii) IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)
(iv) ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials)
(v) ANSI (American National Standards Institute)
(vi) BSI (British Standards Institution)
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(10)
The uninterrupted power supply in a computer room is crucial to ensure continuous operation and prevent data loss, system crashes, and equipment damage in case of power outages or fluctuation .
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SECTION B

(11a)
(i) Hatching: Hatching refers to the process of filling a closed area or region with a pattern of lines or gradients to represent different materials or textures. It is commonly used to represent concrete, brickwork, or other materials in architectural or engineering drawings.

(ii) Scale: Scale refers to the proportional relationship between the dimensions of objects in the drawing and their real-world counterparts. It determines how large or small objects appear on the drawing relative to their actual size. By setting the appropriate scale, users can ensure accurate representation and measurement of objects in the drawing.

(iii) Hatching Pattern: A hatching pattern represents the specific arrangement or design of lines or gradients used for hatching. AutoCAD offers a variety of pre-defined hatching patterns, such as solid, diagonal, cross-hatched, bricks, or dots. Users can also create custom hatching patterns to suit their specific needs.

(iv) Snap Point: A snap point is a reference point on an object or within the drawing grid that allows precise positioning or alignment of other objects. When the snap feature is enabled, the cursor snaps to these points, such as endpoints, centers, intersections, or midpoints, facilitating accurate drawing and editing.

(11b)
(i) Select the area where you want to apply hatching by creating a closed boundary using polyline or other drawing tools.

(ii) Go to the “Draw” tab in the menu bar and select the “Hatch” tool from the “Hatch and Gradient” panel. Alternatively, you can access the hatch tool by typing “HATCH” in the command line.

(iii) In the “Hatch Creation” tab, you can select the desired pattern from the “Pattern Type” drop-down menu. You can choose from predefined patterns or create your custom pattern.

(iv) Specify the scale and angle of the hatch pattern by entering values or by using the mouse to adjust them in the drawing area. You can also select the “Align Hatch” option to align the pattern with a specific object or feature.

(v) After configuring the hatch settings, click inside the closed boundary to apply the hatch. AutoCAD will fill the selected area with the specified pattern.
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(12)
=ADVANTAGES=
(PICK TWO ONLY)

(i) Efficient and Fast Design Process: Computers allow designers to work quickly and efficiently. Design software provides tools and features that streamline the design process, allowing for faster creation, modification, and iteration of designs.

(ii) Increased Design Precision: Computer-aided design (CAD) software enables designers to create accurate, precise, and detailed designs. It allows for accurate measurements, precise positioning, and the ability to work with complex geometries, leading to highly precise designs.

(iii) Improved Visualization: Computers offer advanced visualization capabilities, allowing designers to create realistic 3D visualizations and virtual prototypes. This enables better communication and understanding of design concepts by clients, stakeholders, and other team members.

(iv) Enhanced Collaboration: Computer-based design tools facilitate collaboration among designers, engineers, and other stakeholders. Design files can be easily shared and accessed by multiple team members, allowing for real-time collaboration, feedback exchange, and concurrent design development.

(v) Design Simulation and Analysis: With the help of computers, designers can simulate and analyze the behavior of their designs before manufacturing or construction. This allows them to identify and correct potential flaws or optimize designs for better performance, safety, and functionality.

(vi) Design Documentation and Archiving: Computers enable the efficient creation and storage of design documentation. By using software tools, designers can generate detailed drawings, technical specifications, bills of materials, and other documentation necessary for manufacturing and construction. Furthermore, digital archiving allows easy retrieval and reuse of design data for future projects.

=DISADVANTAGES=
(PICK TWO ONLY)

(i) Limitations in Creativity: Computers can assist designers in executing their creative ideas, but they may not be capable of generating innovative concepts or thinking outside the box. They are primarily programmed to execute tasks based on algorithms and predefined parameters, which limits their ability to come up with unconventional ideas.

(ii) Lack of Intuition: Computers lack intuition and the ability to understand the context, emotions, and subjective aspects of design. Designers often rely on their intuition and instincts to make crucial decisions, which may not be effectively replicated by computers.

(iii) Over-reliance on Software: The extensive reliance on design software can make designers dependent on specific tools and limit their ability to explore alternative approaches. This can lead to a narrow perspective and hinder creative problem-solving.

(iv) Technical Issues and Software Limitations: Computers can encounter technical issues or experience software limitations that can disrupt the design process. Bugs, crashes, compatibility issues, or software updates can cause delays and frustration for designers.

(v) Lack of Physicality: Designers often work with physical mediums, such as sketching, modeling, or prototyping, to effectively explore and communicate their ideas. Computers, being virtual and screen-based, cannot fully replicate the tactile and physical experience of traditional design processes.

(vi) Decreased Human Interaction: The extensive use of computers in the design process can reduce opportunities for face-to-face collaboration and hinder the social dynamics of design teams. Building relationships, exchanging ideas, and receiving instant feedback from colleagues may be compromised, impacting the overall quality of the design process.
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(13)
(PICK FOUR ONLY)

(i) Age of the computer: Older computers generally require more maintenance and repairs, as they tend to experience more hardware failures and software compatibility issues.

(ii) Usage intensity: Computers that are used extensively, such as those in business environments or high-demand scenarios, may require more frequent maintenance and repairs due to the increased wear and tear.

(iii) Quality of components: The quality of the computer’s hardware components can affect maintenance costs. Higher-quality components may last longer and have fewer failures, resulting in lower maintenance costs in the long run.

(iv) Environmental conditions: Computers operating in harsh environments, such as extreme temperatures, humidity, or dusty conditions, are more prone to hardware failures. The need for regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent damage can increase maintenance costs.

(v) Software complexity: The complexity of the software installed on a computer can impact maintenance costs. More complex software may require additional updates, patches, and compatibility checks, leading to increased maintenance efforts and associated expenses.

(vi) Security measures: Implementing robust security measures, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption, can help protect computers from cyber threats. However, maintaining these security measures, updating them regularly, and dealing with potential breaches can increase maintenance costs.

(vii) Staff expertise: The skill level and expertise of the IT staff responsible for computer maintenance can affect costs. If the staff requires additional training or if external contractors need to be hired for specific tasks, maintenance costs may be higher.

(viii) Warranty and support: The availability and terms of warranties and support contracts for computer hardware and software can impact maintenance costs. Comprehensive warranties and support agreements can reduce costs by covering repairs and providing technical assistance.
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(14a)
A technical analyst is an individual who specializes in analyzing and interpreting various data related to financial markets and securities. They use charts, patterns, and other technical indicators to predict future market trends and make informed investment decisions.

(14b)
(PICK TWO ONLY)

(i) Chart Analysis: Technical analysts use charts to identify patterns, trends, and support and resistance levels. They analyze historical price movements to make predictions about future price behavior.

(ii) Trend Identification: Technical analysts identify and analyze market trends, such as uptrends, downtrends, and sideways movements. They help investors determine the direction in which a particular security or market is moving.

(iii) Support and Resistance Levels: Technical analysts identify key support and resistance levels in charts. These levels indicate areas where buying or selling pressure could intensify and often provide opportunities for traders to enter or exit positions.

(iv) Indicator Analysis: Technical analysts utilize various technical indicators like moving averages, oscillators, and volume analysis to confirm or validate the signals generated by chart patterns. These indicators help in confirming potential trends or reversals.

(v) Risk Management: Technical analysts assist in determining appropriate entry and exit points for trades based on risk management principles. They aim to minimize potential losses and maximize profits by setting stop-loss orders and take-profit targets.

(vi) Market Timing: Technical analysts help investors make decisions about when to enter or exit the market. They use signals generated by charts and indicators to identify potential opportunities for buying or selling based on market timing strategies.

(14c)
(PICK TWO ONLY)

(i) Analytical Skills: Technical analysts need strong analytical skills to be able to analyze complex data and information related to computer systems and networks.

(ii) Problem-Solving Skills: They should have the ability to identify and resolve technical issues, troubleshoot problems, and come up with effective solutions.

(iii) Technical Knowledge: A technical analyst should have a deep understanding of computer systems, software applications, network protocols, and other relevant technical concepts.

(iv) Communication Skills: Communication is essential for technical analysts to effectively convey technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. They should be able to explain complex technical terms clearly and concisely.

(v) Attention to Detail: Technical analysts need to pay close attention to detail when examining systems, identifying problems, and implementing solutions. They should have a meticulous approach to ensure accuracy.

(vi) Adaptability: Technology is constantly evolving, and a technical analyst should be adaptable to keep up with new trends, tools, and techniques. This includes being open to learning new technologies and staying updated with industry developments.
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(15)
(i) Relational database: A relational database is a type of database system that organizes data into tables or relations. It follows the relational model, which represents data as sets of tables with rows and columns. Relational databases are known for their ability to enforce data integrity through constraints and support complex queries using SQL (Structured Query Language).

(ii) Distributed systems: Distributed systems refer to a network of interconnected computers that work together to achieve a common goal. In a distributed system, tasks are divided among multiple machines, allowing parallel processing and improved performance. This architecture enhances fault tolerance, scalability, and reliability of the overall system.

(iii) Hierarchical database: A hierarchical database is a type of database management system that uses a hierarchical structure to organize data. In this model, data is structured in a tree-like format, with parent-child relationships between data elements. Each parent record can have multiple child records, but each child record can only have one parent.

(iv) File inversion database: File inversion is a data structure used in search engines to optimize search queries. In this database model, instead of storing data based on the primary key, it stores inverted lists of data elements associated with specific values. The inverted lists enable fast searching and retrieval of data based on different search criteria.
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(16a)
(i) Planning: This involves assessing the requirements and needs of the organization, considering factors such as the number of servers, networking equipment, storage devices, and future expansion plans.

(ii) Design: Based on the assessment, a suitable layout is designed to ensure proper placement and arrangement of equipment. This includes deciding the locations for racks, cabinets, cable management systems, power sources, cooling systems, and other infrastructure elements.

(iii) Physical Separation: The internal space is divided using physical barriers like walls, partitions, or enclosures. These barriers can be constructed using materials such as drywall, glass panels, or modular cabinets.

(iv) Cable Management: Adequate provisions are made for running and managing the network cables, power cables, and other data connections within the divided areas. Cable trays, conduits, or under-floor cable management systems may be installed for this purpose.

(v) Cooling and Ventilation: The divided areas are equipped with suitable cooling and ventilation systems to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels for the equipment. This may involve installing air conditioning units, air vents, or exhaust fans.

(16b)
(PICK TWO ONLY)

(i) Financial Auditing: This type of auditing involves assessing the financial transactions, accounts, and financial statements of an organization to ensure accuracy, compliance with regulations, and adherence to accounting principles.

(ii) Security Auditing: Security auditing focuses on evaluating the security measures implemented within a computer system or network. It involves identifying vulnerabilities, assessing the effectiveness of access controls, and detecting any unauthorized activities or breaches.

(iii) Compliance Auditing: Compliance auditing involves verifying whether an organization adheres to relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards. This ensures that the organization operates ethically, follows legal requirements, and meets industry-specific guidelines.

(iv) Operational Auditing: Operational auditing examines the operational processes and procedures within an organization. It aims to identify inefficiencies, evaluate resource allocation, and improve overall operational effectiveness.

(v) Performance Auditing: Performance auditing evaluates the performance and efficiency of various areas within an organization. It focuses on analyzing key performance indicators, setting performance benchmarks, and identifying areas for improvement.

(vi) Forensic Auditing: Forensic auditing is conducted to investigate financial irregularities, fraud, or other illegal activities within an organization. It involves collecting and analyzing evidence to support legal proceedings if necessary.
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(17a)
(PICK TWO ONLY)

(i) Verbal communication: This channel involves the direct exchange of information or ideas through spoken words. It includes face-to-face conversations, meetings, phone calls, and video conferences.

(ii) Written communication: This channel involves the transmission of information through written or printed materials. Examples include emails, memos, letters, reports, and documents shared through messaging platforms or shared network drives.

(iii) Non-verbal communication: This channel refers to the exchange of information without the use of written or spoken words. Non-verbal cues such as body language, facial expressions, gestures, and visual representations can convey messages.

(iv) Formal communication: This channel follows a specific chain of command or organizational structure. It includes official communication channels, such as official memos, announcements, policy documents, and reports. The information flows from managers or superiors to subordinates or across departments.

(v) Informal communication: This channel operates outside the formal hierarchy and is more spontaneous and unofficial. Examples include grapevine communication, informal conversations, social gatherings, and informal networks like chat groups or forums.

(vi) Electronic communication: This channel involves the use of technology to exchange information. It includes emails, instant messaging, intranet portals, online collaboration tools, and video conferencing platforms.

(17b)
(PICK TWO ONLY)

(i) Financial reports: MIS can generate reports that provide information on the financial performance of the organization, including profit and loss statements, balance sheets, cash flow reports, and budget variance analysis.

(ii) Sales reports: MIS can generate reports that provide sales-related information, such as sales trends, revenue analysis, sales by product or region, customer purchase history, and sales forecasts.

(iii) Inventory reports: MIS can generate reports that offer insights into inventory management, including stock levels, stock turnover ratios, reordering suggestions, and demand forecasting.

(iv) Human resources reports: MIS can generate reports that provide information on employee-related data, such as employee demographics, attendance records, performance evaluations, training records, and payroll reports.

(v) Marketing reports: MIS can generate reports that analyze marketing efforts, including campaign performance, website analytics, customer feedback, market research data, and social media engagement.