1.1/2 Binary Systems & Hexadecimal

Question 1

Computer

Answer 1

An electronic machine for processing data

Question 2

Why are computers useful?

Answer 2

They process data to make useful information.

Question 3

Why must data be converted into binary form when it is input to a computer?

Answer 3

The processor inside a computer stores data using electrical switches that can be either on or off.

Question 4

2 factors that increase the speed of a computer

Answer 4

1. Adding more RAM to a computer. If there isn’t enough room in RAM, some of the data are stored outside of it and it is slower for the processor to access this data. Then the computer will go more slowly.
2. Using larger registers. Computers with large registers can work on more data than those with small registers, so they usually work more quickly.

Question 5

Why is the hexadecimal notation used to represent numbers?

Answer 5

1. It is very easy to convert hexadecimal into binary and vice versa.
2. Hexadecimal is much easier to read than binary.
3. Hexadecimal numbers take up much less space than binary numbers.
4. Mistakes are less likely to be made.
5. It is easier to debug (find errors).

Question 6

Uses of hexadecimal - MAC addresses

Answer 6

A MAC address is a UNIQUE address used to identify a device. It is a static address (it does not change). It is set by the manufacturer. It consists of 12 hexadecimal numbers. The first 6 digits represent the manufacturer’s identity, and the last 6 digits represent the serial number of the device.

Question 7

Uses of hexadecimal - Memory dumps

Answer 7

Hexadecimal is often used when developing new software or when trying to trace errors in programs. Hexadecimal codes show the memory locations so that it is possible to find out exactly where in memory the fault occurs.

Question 8

Uses of hexadecimal - Colour codes in HTML

Answer 8

HTML code is often used to represent colours of text on a computer screen. The values change to represent different colours.
eg. #FF0000 represents primary colour red