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1.1 Data Representation

AS Level · 26 questions found

  • Binary prefixes vs decimal prefixes: kibi/kilo, mebi/mega, gibi/giga, tebi/tera
  • Number systems: binary, denary, hex, BCD; one’s & two’s complement
  • Convert between number bases and representations
  • Binary addition & subtraction; understand overflow
  • Practical applications of BCD and hexadecimal
  • Character data: ASCII, extended ASCII, Unicode
Q1
Oct/Nov 2025 Paper 1 v1

(a) (i) Convert the binary number into hexadecimal. 1 mark

101100111010

(ii) Convert the denary number into Binary Coded Decimal (BCD). 1 mark

108

(iii) Convert the 12-bit two’s complement binary integer into denary. 2 marks

Show your working.

111110111100

Working

Denary value

(b) (i) The following binary addition is performed using 8-bit registers.

Complete the calculation using binary addition.

1 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 + 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 mark

(ii) Name and describe the error that can occur when binary addition is performed. 2 marks

### (a) (i) Convert the binary number into hexadecimal. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> 101100111010 #### (ii) Convert the denary number into Binary Coded Decimal (BCD). <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> 108 #### (iii) Convert the 12-bit two’s complement binary integer into denary. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Show your working. 111110111100 Working Denary value ### (b) (i) The following binary addition is performed using 8-bit registers. Complete the calculation using binary addition. ## 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 + 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> #### (ii) Name and describe the error that can occur when binary addition is performed. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span>
Show mark scheme

1(a)(i) [1 mark]

B3A

1(a)(ii) [1 mark]

0001 0000 1000

1(a)(iii) [2 marks]

1 mark for the working 1 mark for the correct denary value Working: Method 1: 1111 1011 1100 Flip the bits 0000 0100 0011 Add 1 0000 0000 0001 + 0000 0100 0100 Method 2: -2048 + 1024 + 512 + 256 + 128 + 32 + 16 + 8 + 4 // -128 + 32 + 16 + 8 + 4 Denary value: -68

1(b)(i) [1 mark]

(1) 00101011

1(b)(ii) [2 marks]

1 mark per bullet point, max 2 marks • An overflow error occurs • The answer cannot be represented in the number of bits available // The answer is larger than the maximum positive number that can be stored in the register // The answer is smaller than the most negative number that can be stored in the register

Q7
Oct/Nov 2025 Paper 1 v2

(a) The following binary addition is performed using 8‑bit registers.

Complete the calculation using binary addition.

1 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 + 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 mark

(b) A computer uses the Unicode character set. 1 mark

State the number of bits used to store one character from the Unicode character set.

(c) ASCII is another character set. The ASCII value for the character ‘h’ has the denary value 104.

(i) Write the Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) value for the ASCII character ‘h’. 1 mark

(ii) Write the hexadecimal value for the ASCII character ‘h’. 1 mark

### (a) The following binary addition is performed using 8‑bit registers. Complete the calculation using binary addition. ## 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 + 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> ### (b) A computer uses the Unicode character set. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> State the number of bits used to store one character from the Unicode character set. ### (c) ASCII is another character set. The ASCII value for the character ‘h’ has the denary value 104. #### (i) Write the Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) value for the ASCII character ‘h’. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> #### (ii) Write the hexadecimal value for the ASCII character ‘h’. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span>
Show mark scheme

7(a) [1 mark]

1 mark for the correct answer 1100 0000

7(b) [1 mark]

1 mark for the correct answer 8 // 16 // 32 // 64

7(c)(i) [1 mark]

1 mark for the correct answer 0001 0000 0100

7(c)(ii) [1 mark]

1 mark for the correct answer 68

Q2
Oct/Nov 2025 Paper 1 v3

(a) Data in a computer system is represented in binary. 3 marks

Put one tick (3) in each row to identify the minimum number of bits used to store each example of data.

Example of data Number of bits
Example of data 4 8 16 24 32 64 128
the hexadecimal value F139
16 000 000 unique amplitude values
an IPv4 address
256 unique colours
an IPv6 address
the denary value 65 000

(b) Convert the denary number –108 into a 12‑bit two’s complement binary number. 1 mark

(c) A three‑place arithmetic shift to the right is performed on the following two’s complement negative integer. 1 mark

Show the result of this arithmetic shift.

10010011

(d) Convert the following positive binary integer into hexadecimal. 1 mark

1110001100111011

### (a) Data in a computer system is represented in binary. <span class="part-marks">3 marks</span> Put one tick (3) in each row to identify the minimum number of bits used to store each example of data. |Example of data|Number of bits||||||| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---| |Example of data|4|8|16|24|32|64|128| |the hexadecimal value F139|||||||| |16 000 000 unique amplitude values|||||||| |an IPv4 address|||||||| |256 unique colours|||||||| |an IPv6 address|||||||| |the denary value 65 000|||||||| ### (b) Convert the denary number –108 into a 12‑bit two’s complement binary number. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> ### (c) A three‑place arithmetic shift to the right is performed on the following two’s complement negative integer. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> Show the result of this arithmetic shift. 10010011 ### (d) Convert the following positive binary integer into hexadecimal. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> 1110001100111011
Show mark scheme

2(a) [3 marks]

3 marks for 6 correct ticks 2 mark for 4 or 5 correct ticks 1 mark for 2 or 3 correct ticks Example of data Number of bits 4 8 16 24 32 64 128 ✓ the hexadecimal value F139 16 000 000 unique ✓ amplitude values ✓ an IPv4 address 256 unique colours ✓ ✓ an IPv6 address the denary value ✓ 65 000

2(b) [1 mark]

1 mark 1111 1001 0100

2(c) [1 mark]

1 mark 1111 0010

2(d) [1 mark]

1 mark E33B

Q2
May/Jun 2025 Paper 1 v2

(a) Convert the denary integer 558 into 12-bit binary and hexadecimal. 2 marks

Binary

Hexadecimal

(b) (i) Convert the two’s complement binary integer 11100010 into denary. 1 mark

(ii) Write the smallest and the largest two’s complement binary integers that can be represented in 8 bits. 2 marks

Smallest

Largest

(c) Give one application where Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) is used and justify its use. 2 marks

Application

Justification

### (a) Convert the denary integer 558 into 12-bit binary and hexadecimal. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Binary Hexadecimal ### (b) (i) Convert the two’s complement binary integer 11100010 into denary. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> #### (ii) Write the smallest and the largest two’s complement binary integers that can be represented in 8 bits. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Smallest Largest ### (c) Give one application where Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) is used and justify its use. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Application Justification
Show mark scheme

2(a) [2 marks]

1 mark for: 0010 0010 1110 1 mark for: 22E

2(b)(i) [1 mark]

1 mark for: -30

2(b)(ii) [2 marks]

1 mark for smallest, 1 mark for largest Smallest: 1000 0000 Largest: 0111 1111

2(c) [2 marks]

1 mark for application and 1 mark for corresponding justification e.g. • an application that performs financial / banking calculations • because financial transactions use only two decimal places and must be accurate, no accumulating / rounding errors and it is difficult to represent decimal values exactly in normal binary. Or • electronic displays • because visual displays only need to show individual digits • because conversion between denary and BCD is straightforward Or • The storage of the date and time in the BIOS of a PC • because conversion between denary and BCD is more straightforward Or • Barcode systems • because conversion between denary and BCD can be accurately completed

Q7
May/Jun 2025 Paper 1 v3

(a) A computer can perform logical and arithmetic shifts.

(i) Show the result of a logical left shift of 2 places on the two’s complement binary integer 11001010 1 mark

(ii) Show the result of an arithmetic right shift of 3 places on the two’s complement binary integer 10011110 1 mark

(b) Complete the following binary addition. Show your working. Include any overflow bit(s).

1 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 + 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 mark

(c) Subtract the binary number 00011110 from the binary number 01100100 using binary subtraction. Show your working. 2 marks

### (a) A computer can perform logical and arithmetic shifts. #### (i) Show the result of a logical left shift of 2 places on the two’s complement binary integer 11001010 <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> #### (ii) Show the result of an arithmetic right shift of 3 places on the two’s complement binary integer 10011110 <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> ### (b) Complete the following binary addition. Show your working. Include any overflow bit(s). ## 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 + 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> ### (c) Subtract the binary number 00011110 from the binary number 01100100 using binary subtraction. Show your working. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span>
Show mark scheme

7(a)(i) [1 mark]

1 mark for 0010 1000

7(a)(ii) [1 mark]

1 mark for 1111 0011

7(b) [1 mark]

1 mark for 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 + 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 (1) 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 Answer: (1) 1010 0110

7(c) [2 marks]

1 mark for showing binary subtraction (any method) Direct subtraction: 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 -0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 Adding the two’s complement: 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 + 1 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 (1) 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 mark for answer 0100 0110

Q1
Oct/Nov 2024 Paper 1 v1

(a) State one difference between a tebibyte and a gigabyte. 1 mark

(b) (i) Convert the unsigned binary integer into hexadecimal.

110001100111

Answer [1]

(ii) Convert the two’s complement binary number into denary.

100110010111

Answer [1]

(iii) Convert the Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) into denary.

010101110011

Answer [1]

(c) Subtract the denary number 23 from the two’s complement binary number 01001010 Perform this calculation using binary subtraction. 2 marks

Show your working.

Working

Answer

### (a) State one difference between a tebibyte and a gigabyte. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> ### (b) (i) Convert the unsigned binary integer into hexadecimal. 110001100111 Answer [1] #### (ii) Convert the two’s complement binary number into denary. 100110010111 Answer [1] #### (iii) Convert the Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) into denary. 010101110011 Answer [1] ### (c) Subtract the denary number 23 from the two’s complement binary number 01001010 Perform this calculation using binary subtraction. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Show your working. Working Answer
Show mark scheme

1(a) [1 mark]

1 mark for: • A tebibyte = 1024 gibibytes / 1 048 576 kibibytes / 2 bytes whereas a 40 gigabyte = 1000 megabytes / 1 000 000 kilobytes / 10 bytes 9 • Tebi is binary prefix giga is denary prefix

1(b)(i) [1 mark]

1 mark for: C67

1(b)(ii) [1 mark]

1 mark for: −1641

1(b)(iii) [1 mark]

1 mark for: 573

1(c) [2 marks]

1 mark for working 1 mark for answer. Working Using the two’s complement and adding: 23 in binary = 00010111 so minus 23 is 11101001 0100 1010

  • 1110 1001 (1)0011 0011 Direct subtraction: 0100 1010 – 0001 0111 0011 0011 Answer: 0011 0011

1(d) [1 mark]

1 mark from: • The answer cannot be represented in the number of bits available • The answer is larger than the maximum positive number that can be stored in the register • The answer is smaller than the most negative number that can be stored in the register

Q6
Oct/Nov 2024 Paper 1 v3

A computer system stores text, images and sound.

(a) A character set is used to represent characters in a computer. 2 marks

Identify and describe one character set.

Character set

Description

(b) The colour of each pixel in a bitmapped image is represented by 8 bits.

(i) State the largest number of different colours that can be represented by 8 bits. 1 mark

(ii) State one drawback of increasing the number of bits that represents each pixel in the bitmap image. 1 mark

(iii) A bitmap image can be compressed using lossy compression. 2 marks

Explain the reasons why lossy compression is often suitable for a bitmap image.

(c) (i) Explain how an analogue sound wave is converted into digital data. 2 marks

(ii) Describe one method of compressing a sound file using lossy compression. 2 marks

A computer system stores text, images and sound. ### (a) A character set is used to represent characters in a computer. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Identify and describe one character set. Character set Description ### (b) The colour of each pixel in a bitmapped image is represented by 8 bits. #### (i) State the largest number of different colours that can be represented by 8 bits. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> #### (ii) State one drawback of increasing the number of bits that represents each pixel in the bitmap image. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> #### (iii) A bitmap image can be compressed using lossy compression. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Explain the reasons why lossy compression is often suitable for a bitmap image. ### (c) (i) Explain how an analogue sound wave is converted into digital data. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> #### (ii) Describe one method of compressing a sound file using lossy compression. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span>
Show mark scheme

6(a) [2 marks]

1 mark for identification 1 mark for matching description e.g. • ASCII • 7/8 bits per character // represents 128/256 characters // represents all characters from Latin alphabet • UNICODE • 8/16/32 bits per character // represents 256/65536+ characters // represents all characters in all languages

6(b)(i) [1 mark]

1 mark for: 256 // 2 8

6(b)(ii) [1 mark]

1 mark for: Increased file size

6(b)(iii) [2 marks]

1 mark for each bullet point ( max 2 ) e.g. • The change may not be noticeable // Data removed is usually not noticed by the human eye • … for example, changes in shade/detail • It produces a larger decrease in file size compared to lossless // Lossy decreases file size considerably

6(c)(i) [2 marks]

1 mark for each bullet point ( max 2 ) • Value magnitude/size of the analogue sound wave is measured a set / number of times each second/time / at set intervals • Each sample/reading/measurement is given the binary number and stored in sequence

6(c)(ii) [2 marks]

1 mark for each correct point and 1 mark for matching expansion e.g. • Decrease sample rate • … fewer samples/readings/measurements stored per second // fewer bits per second stored • Decrease sample resolution • … fewer bits per sample/reading/measurement // each sample has fewer bits • Sound outside of set/human hearing range is removed • … fewer measurements are stored / decreases the number of possible binary values so fewer bits are stored

Q8
Oct/Nov 2024 Paper 1 v3

(a) Convert the hexadecimal number 1FAB into denary.

Working

Denary value [1]

(b) Explain how to convert the two’s complement integer 10011111 into denary. Give the denary value after conversion. 3 marks

Explanation

Denary value

(c) Describe the difference between a right logical binary shift and a right arithmetic binary shift. 2 marks

### (a) Convert the hexadecimal number 1FAB into denary. Working Denary value [1] ### (b) Explain how to convert the two’s complement integer 10011111 into denary. Give the denary value after conversion. <span class="part-marks">3 marks</span> Explanation Denary value ### (c) Describe the difference between a right logical binary shift and a right arithmetic binary shift. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span>
Show mark scheme

8(a) [1 mark]

1 mark for: Denary value: 8107

8(b) [3 marks]

1 mark for each bullet point for the method ( max 2 ) e.g. • Flip each bit then add 1 … • … method of converting the new binary number into denary • Most significant 1 bit is treated as the corresponding negative denary value … • … add the other positive corresponding denary values 1 mark for correct conversion Denary value: −97

8(c) [2 marks]

1 mark each: • A logical shift moves all bits to the right and inserts zeros in the appropriate leftmost bits • An arithmetic shift moves all bits to the right but copies the sign bit into the Most Significant Bit (MSB)

Q7
May/Jun 2024 Paper 1 v1

Complete the binary addition. Show your working.

1 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 + 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1

3 marks

Complete the binary addition. Show your working. # 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 + 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 <span class="part-marks">3 marks</span>
Show mark scheme

7 [3 marks]

1 mark each:  Working – carried values clearly indicted  Correct answer 0001 1000  Overflow clearly indicated as overflow Example: 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1

  • 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1

(1) 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1........................(carries)

Q7
May/Jun 2024 Paper 1 v2

A computer stores binary data.

(a) Tick (3) one box only to identify the largest file size. 1 mark

3300 kibibytes

0.3 megabytes

3 mebibytes

3300 kilobytes

(b) Subtract the denary number 10 from the denary number 100 using binary subtraction. 3 marks

Show your working.

Working

Answer

(c) Convert the hexadecimal number C0F into denary. 2 marks

Show your working.

Working

Answer

A computer stores binary data. ### (a) Tick (3) **one** box only to identify the **largest** file size. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> 3300 kibibytes 0.3 megabytes 3 mebibytes 3300 kilobytes ### (b) Subtract the denary number 10 from the denary number 100 using binary subtraction. <span class="part-marks">3 marks</span> Show your working. Working Answer ### (c) Convert the hexadecimal number C0F into denary. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Show your working. Working Answer
Show mark scheme

7(a)

1 mark for: 3300 kibibytes

7(b) [2 marks]

1 mark each:  Converting 100 to binary 0110 0100 and 10 to binary 0000 1010  Subtraction method - converting 10 to – 10 and adding // direct subtraction …  … correct answer 0101 1010 Method 1: Converting to -10 and adding: Binary for +10 is 0000 1010 Binary for –10 is 1111 0110 Binary for 100 is 0110 0100 100 + (-10): 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 +1 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 (1) 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 Carries: 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 Method 2: Direct Subtraction Borrows: 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 – 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0

7(c)

1 mark for working: 1100 0000 1111 // 2048 + 1024 + 8 + 4 + 2 + 1 // (12 * 16 ) + 15 // (12 * 16

      • 15 // 3072 + 15 2 1 mark for correct answer: 3087
Q1
May/Jun 2024 Paper 1 v3

(a) Complete the following description.

### (a) Complete the following description.
Show mark scheme

1(a) [4 marks]

1 mark for each correct answer:  binary  3072  denary/decimal  2000 A kibibyte has a binary prefix. Three kibibytes is the same as 3072 bytes. A megabyte has a decimal/denary prefix. Two terabytes is the same as 2000 gigabytes.

1(b) [1 mark]

1 mark for correct answer: F1

1(c)

1 mark for a correct answer: The answer is too long to be represented in the same number of bits as the binary numbers being added

1(d)(i) [2 marks]

1 mark for all 3 answers correct: Character set Number of bits ASCII 7 extended ASCII 8 Unicode 16 / 32

1(d)(ii)

1 mark each:  Each character has a unique binary code  The binary code for each character is stored in sequence

Q1
Oct/Nov 2023 Paper 1 v1

(a) Draw one line from each vector graphic term to its most appropriate description. 2 marks

Term

drawing list

Description

a component created using a formula

defines one characteristic drawing object of a component

data required to create all property components in the graphic

(b) State what is meant by the bit depth of a bitmap image and explain how changing the bit depth affects the image. 3 marks

Definition

Explanation

(c) Explain why a bitmap image is often compressed before it is attached to an email. 2 marks

### (a) Draw **one** line from each vector graphic term to its most appropriate description. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> **Term** drawing list **Description** a component created using a formula defines one characteristic drawing object of a component data required to create all property components in the graphic ### (b) State what is meant by the **bit depth** of a bitmap image **and** explain how changing the bit depth affects the image. <span class="part-marks">3 marks</span> Definition Explanation ### (c) Explain why a bitmap image is often compressed before it is attached to an email. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span>
Show mark scheme

1(a) [2 marks]

2 marks for all 3 lines correct 1 mark for 1 line correct Description Term a component created drawing list using a formula defines one characteristic drawing object of a component data required to create all property components in the graphic

1(b) [3 marks]

1 mark for the definition • The number of bits used to represent each colour 1 mark for each bullet point for the explanation • Increase in bit depth means the image has a greater range of colours // Decrease in bit depth means the image has a smaller range of colours • Increase in bit depth makes the image closer to the original / more realistic // Decrease in bit depth makes the image less like the original / less realistic

1(c) [2 marks]

1 mark for each bullet point ( max 2 ) • Reduced bandwidth usage when transmitting the message • Reduced transmission time from email client to email server • Reduced storage space on the email • Email accounts often have a maximum size for an attachment

Q3
Oct/Nov 2023 Paper 1 v2

(a) State one difference between a kibibyte and a megabyte. 1 mark

(b) (i) Convert the denary value into a 12-bit two’s complement binary integer.

−196 Answer [1]

(ii) Convert the Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) into denary.

100001100101

Answer [1]

(iii) Convert the unsigned binary integer into denary.

000111010110

Answer [1]

(c) Identify one practical application of BCD and justify why BCD is used in this application. 2 marks

Application

Justification

### (a) State **one** difference between a kibibyte and a megabyte. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> **(b) (i)** Convert the denary value into a 12-bit two’s complement binary integer. ## −196 Answer [1] #### (ii) Convert the Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) into denary. 100001100101 Answer [1] #### (iii) Convert the unsigned binary integer into denary. 000111010110 Answer [1] ### (c) Identify **one** practical application of BCD **and** justify why BCD is used in this application. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Application Justification
Show mark scheme

3(a) [1 mark]

1 mark for: Either • 10 kibibyte = 1,024 bytes // 2 bytes and 3 6 megabyte = 1000 kilobytes //1 000 000 bytes // 10 kilobytes // 10 bytes Or • kibi is binary prefix and mega is denary prefix

3(b)(i) [1 mark]

1111 0011 1100

3(b)(ii) [1 mark]

865

3(b)(iii) [1 mark]

470

3(c) [2 marks]

1 mark for a correct application 1 mark for a corresponding justification • An application that performs financial / banking calculations • ... because it is difficult to represent decimal values exactly in normal binary and financial transactions use only two decimal places and must be accurate, no accumulating errors Or • Electronic displays, e.g. calculators, digital clocks • ... because visual displays only need to show individual digits • ... because conversion between denary and BCD is easier Or • The storage of the date and time in the BIOS of a PC • ... because conversion with denary is easier

Q2
Oct/Nov 2023 Paper 1 v3

(a) Describe the impact of increasing the image resolution on the quality of a bitmap graphic. 2 marks

(b) Calculate the file size of a bitmap image using the following information: 2 marks

  • image resolution of 2048 pixels wide and 1024 pixels high

  • bit depth of 16 bits.

Give your answer in kibibytes. Show your working.

Working

Answer in kibibytes

### (a) Describe the impact of increasing the image resolution on the quality of a bitmap graphic. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> ### (b) Calculate the file size of a bitmap image using the following information: <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> - image resolution of 2048 pixels wide and 1024 pixels high - bit depth of 16 bits. Give your answer in kibibytes. Show your working. Working Answer in kibibytes
Show mark scheme

2(a) [2 marks]

1 mark for each bullet point: • more pixels can be stored / are available • the image is sharper / less pixelated

2(b) [2 marks]

1 mark for answer. 1 mark for working Answer: 4096 kibibytes Working:    File size = (2048 1024 16) / (8 1024)

Q3
May/Jun 2023 Paper 1 v1

A computer has an Operating System (OS).

(a) Describe how the Operating System manages the peripheral hardware devices of the computer. 4 marks

(b) Hardware management is one key management task carried out by the Operating System. 2 marks

Identify two other key management tasks carried out by the Operating System.

1

2

(c) The Operating System has utility software including defragmentation software. 3 marks

Explain how defragmentation can improve the performance of the computer.

(d) The computer stores data in binary form.

(i) State the difference between a kibibyte and a kilobyte. 1 mark

(ii) Convert the denary number 964 into Binary Coded Decimal (BCD). 1 mark

(iii) Convert the positive binary integer 11110010 into hexadecimal. 1 mark

(iv) Give the smallest and largest two’s complement binary number that can be represented using 8 bits. 2 marks

Smallest

Largest

(v) Add the following two binary integers using binary addition. Show your working. 2 marks

1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 + 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1

(vi) Show the result of a 3‑place right logical shift on the binary number: 1 mark

11001100

A computer has an Operating System (OS). ### (a) Describe how the Operating System manages the peripheral hardware devices of the computer. <span class="part-marks">4 marks</span> ### (b) Hardware management is one key management task carried out by the Operating System. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Identify **two other** key management tasks carried out by the Operating System. 1 2 ### (c) The Operating System has utility software including defragmentation software. <span class="part-marks">3 marks</span> Explain how defragmentation can improve the performance of the computer. ### (d) The computer stores data in binary form. #### (i) State the difference between a kibibyte and a kilobyte. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> #### (ii) Convert the denary number 964 into Binary Coded Decimal (BCD). <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> #### (iii) Convert the positive binary integer 11110010 into hexadecimal. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> #### (iv) Give the smallest **and** largest two’s complement binary number that can be represented using 8 bits. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Smallest Largest #### (v) Add the following two binary integers using binary addition. Show your working. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> # 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 + 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 #### (vi) Show the result of a 3‑place right logical shift on the binary number: <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> # 11001100
Show mark scheme

3(a) [4 marks]

1 mark each to max 4 Examples:  Installs device drivers  … to allow communication between peripherals and computer  Sends data and receives data to and from peripherals  … such as to an output device and from an input device/by example  Handles buffers for transfer of data  … to ensure smooth transfer between devices that transmit and receive at different speeds  Manages interrupts / signals from the device

3(b) [2 marks]

1 mark each to max 2  Memory management  File management  Security management  Process management  Error checking and recovery

3(c) [1 mark]

1 mark each to max 3  Rearranges blocks of individual files (on the HDD) so they are contiguous // moves the free space together  Accessing each file is faster  …because there is no need to search for the next fragment / block of the file  …so less head movement is needed

3(d)(i)

1 mark from  Kibibyte is 1024 bytes and kilobyte is 1000 bytes  Kibibyte is binary prefix and kilobyte is denary prefix

3(d)(ii) [1 mark]

1001 0110 0100

3(d)(iii) [1 mark]

F2

3(d)(iv) [2 marks]

Smallest: 10000000 Largest: 01111111

3(d)(v)

1 mark for working 1 mark for answer 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0

  • 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 1

3(d)(vi) [2 marks]

00011001

Q4
May/Jun 2023 Paper 1 v2

Data in a computer is stored in binary form.

(a) State the number of unique binary values that can be represented in 16 bits. 1 mark

(b) Give the 8‑bit one’s complement representation of the denary number −120. 2 marks

Show your working.

Working

Answer

(c) Convert the hexadecimal number A04 into denary. 2 marks

Show your working.

Working

Answer

(d) Show the result of a 2‑place left logical shift on the binary number: 1 mark

01001111

Data in a computer is stored in binary form. ### (a) State the number of unique binary values that can be represented in 16 bits. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> ### (b) Give the 8‑bit one’s complement representation of the denary number −120. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Show your working. Working Answer ### (c) Convert the hexadecimal number A04 into denary. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Show your working. Working Answer ### (d) Show the result of a 2‑place left logical shift on the binary number: <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> 01001111
Show mark scheme

4(a) [2 marks]

2 // 65536 16

4(b)

1 mark for working; 1 mark for answer  Working: +120 = 0111 1000  Answer: 1000 0111

4(c) [2 marks]

1 mark for working; 1 mark for answer  ) + 4 Working: A04 = (10 * 16 2 // A04 = (10 * 256) + 4 // A04 = 1010 0000 0100  Answer: 2564

4(d) [1 mark]

0011 1100

Q7
May/Jun 2023 Paper 1 v3

A computer stores data in binary form.

(a) Draw one line from each description to its matching denary value.

Description Denary value

  • 127

The smallest integer that can be represented in 8-bit two’s complement.

The largest integer that can be represented in 8-bit two’s complement.

The largest unsigned integer that can be represented in 8 bits.

(b) The computer has a Control Unit (CU), system clock and control bus. 3 marks 4 marks 2 marks

127

  • 255

  • 128

  • 256

256

128

255 Explain how the CU, system clock and control bus operate to transfer data between the components of the computer system.

Complete the table by writing the regist Fetch-Execute (F-E) cycle given in the table. ter transfer notation for each stage of the
Stage description Register transfer notation
The Program Counter (PC) is incremented ______
The data in the address stored in the
Memory Address Register (MAR) is copied
to the Memory Data Register (MDR)
______
A computer stores data in binary form. ### (a) Draw **one** line from each description to its matching denary value. **Description** **Denary value** - 127 The smallest integer that can be represented in 8-bit two’s complement. The largest integer that can be represented in 8-bit two’s complement. The largest unsigned integer that can be represented in 8 bits. ### (b) The computer has a Control Unit (CU), system clock and control bus. <span class="part-marks">3 marks</span> <span class="part-marks">4 marks</span> <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> 127 - 255 - 128 - 256 256 128 255 Explain how the CU, system clock and control bus operate to transfer data between the components of the computer system. |Complete the table by writing the regist Fetch-Execute (F-E) cycle given in the table.|ter transfer notation for each stage of the| |---|---| |**Stage description**|**Register transfer notation**| |The Program Counter (PC) is incremented|______| |The data in the address stored in the<br>Memory Address Register (MAR) is copied<br>to the Memory Data Register (MDR)|______|
Show mark scheme

7(a) [4 marks]

1 mark for each correct line Description Denary value  The smallest integer that can 127 be represented in 8-bit two's complement. 127  255  128 The largest integer that can be represented in 8-bit two's  256 complement. 256 128 The largest unsigned integer that can be represented in 8 255 bits.

7(b)

1 mark each to max 4  The system clock gives out timing signals  … which are sent on the control bus  …to synchronise the other system components  The Control Unit initiates data transfer  …by generating signals that are sent on the control bus to other components

7(c) [2 marks]

1 mark for each Register transfer notation Stage description Register transfer notation  The Program Counter (PC) is PC [PC] + 1 incremented  The data in the address stored in the MDR [[MAR]] Memory Address Register (MAR) is copied to the Memory Data Register (MDR)

Q2
Oct/Nov 2022 Paper 1 v1

Draw one line from each security feature to its most appropriate description.

Security feature Description

converts data to an alternative form

firewall

redirects a user to a fake website

pharming

verifies the authenticity of data

anti-virus software

scans files on the hard drive for malicious software

encryption

accepts or rejects incoming and outgoing packets based on criteria 4 marks

Draw **one** line from each security feature to its most appropriate description. **Security feature** **Description** converts data to an alternative form firewall redirects a user to a fake website pharming verifies the authenticity of data anti-virus software scans files on the hard drive for malicious software encryption accepts or rejects incoming and outgoing packets based on criteria <span class="part-marks">4 marks</span>
Show mark scheme

2 [4 marks]

1 mark for each correct line. Description Security feature converts data to an alternative form firewall redirects a user to a false website pharming verifies the authenticity of data anti-virus software scans files on the hard drive for malicious software encryption accepts or rejects incoming and outgoing packets based on criteria

Q1
Oct/Nov 2022 Paper 1 v2

(a) Draw one line from each utility software to its most appropriate purpose. 5 marks

Utility software

Purpose

virus checker

disk formatter

backup

disk repair

defragmentation

to reorganise files so they are contiguous

to scan for malicious program code

to decrease the file size

to initialise a disk

to create copies of files in case the original is lost

to check for and fix inconsistencies on a disk

(b) Compilers and interpreters translate programs written in a high-level language into a low-level language.

(i) State two drawbacks of using a compiler compared to an interpreter during program development. 2 marks

1

2

(ii) Explain why high-level language programs might be partially compiled and partially interpreted. 2 marks

### (a) Draw **one** line from each utility software to its most appropriate purpose. <span class="part-marks">5 marks</span> **Utility software** **Purpose** virus checker disk formatter backup disk repair defragmentation to reorganise files so they are contiguous to scan for malicious program code to decrease the file size to initialise a disk to create copies of files in case the original is lost to check for and fix inconsistencies on a disk ### (b) Compilers and interpreters translate programs written in a high-level language into a low-level language. #### (i) State **two** drawbacks of using a compiler compared to an interpreter during program development. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> 1 2 #### (ii) Explain why high-level language programs might be partially compiled and partially interpreted. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span>
Show mark scheme

1(a) [5 marks]

1 mark for each correct line. Utility software Purpose to reorganise files so virus checker they are contiguous to scan for malicious program code disk formatter to decrease the file size backup to initialise a disk to create copies of files disk repair in case the original is lost to check for and fix defragmentation inconsistencies on a disk

1(b)(i) [2 marks]

1 mark for each bullet point (max 2) : • larger amounts of source code take time to compile • slower to produce the object code than an interpreter • code cannot be changed without recompilation • the program will not run if there are any errors • errors cannot be corrected in real-time • one error may result in other false errors being reported • cannot easily test specific sections of the source code // cannot easily test unfinished source code

1(b)(ii) [2 marks]

1 mark for each bullet point (max 2) : • partially compiled programs can be used on different platforms as they are interpreted when run • code is optimised for the CPU as machine code is generated at run time

Q1
Oct/Nov 2022 Paper 1 v3

A digital audio message needs to be recorded.

Tick () one box in each row to identify recording. y the effect of ea ach action on th he accuracy of the
Action Accuracy
increases
Accuracy
decreases
Accuracy does
not change
Change the sampling rate from 40 kHz
to 60 kHz.
Change the duration of the recording
from 20 minutes to 40 minutes.
Change the sampling resolution from
24 bits to 16 bits.
2 marks

(b) The audio message is recorded with a sampling rate of 50 kHz and a sampling resolution of 16 bits. 2 marks

The recording is 20 minutes in length.

Calculate the file size of the recording.

Give your answer in megabytes and show your working.

Working

Answer ______ megabytes

(c) A computer uses a buffer when playing the audio message. 3 marks

Explain the purpose of a buffer in a computer system using one other example.

A digital audio message needs to be recorded. |Tick () one box in each row to identify recording.|y the effect of ea|ach action on th|he accuracy of the| |---|---|---|---| |**Action**|**Accuracy**<br>**increases**|**Accuracy**<br>**decreases**|**Accuracy does**<br>**not change**| |Change the sampling rate from 40 kHz<br>to 60 kHz.|||| |Change the duration of the recording<br>from 20 minutes to 40 minutes.|||| |Change the sampling resolution from<br>24 bits to 16 bits.|||| <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> ### (b) The audio message is recorded with a sampling rate of 50 kHz and a sampling resolution of 16 bits. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> The recording is 20 minutes in length. Calculate the file size of the recording. Give your answer in megabytes **and** show your working. Working Answer ______ megabytes ### (c) A computer uses a buffer when playing the audio message. <span class="part-marks">3 marks</span> Explain the purpose of a buffer in a computer system using **one other** example.
Show mark scheme

1(a) [2 marks]

1 mark for one or two correct ticks, 2 marks for three correct ticks. Accuracy Accuracy Accuracy Action increases decreases does not change Change the sampling rate from ✓ 40 kHz to 60 kHz. Change the duration of the ✓ recording from 20 minutes to 40 minutes. Change the sampling resolution ✓ from 24 bits to 16 bits.

1(b) [2 marks]

1 mark for answer; 1 mark for working. Working:  Size = 50KHz * (20 60) * 16 bits = 50 000 * 1200 * 16 bits // 50 000 *1200 * 2 bytes = 960 000 000 bits = 120 000 000 bytes = 120 000 kilobytes = 120 megabytes Answer = 120 megabytes

1(c) [3 marks]

1 mark for purpose ( max 2 ): Purpose: • to act as temporary storage // to store (downloaded) data • ... before it is used by the receiving device • ... to allow processes / devices to operate at different speeds // independently of each other 1 mark for each example ( max 1 ): Examples: • printer buffer used when data is transferred from a computer to a printer • video buffer when streaming videos • keyboard buffer when performing data entry

Q1
May/Jun 2022 Paper 1 v1

Computers store data in binary form.

(a) State the difference between a tebibyte and a terabyte. 1 mark

(b) Convert the signed denary value –100 into an 8-bit two’s complement binary integer.

Working

Answer [1]

(c) Convert the denary number 251 into hexadecimal. Show your working. 2 marks

Working

Answer

(d) Add the following unsigned binary integers. 1 mark

0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 + 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 0

Computers store data in binary form. ### (a) State the difference between a tebibyte and a terabyte. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> ### (b) Convert the signed denary value –100 into an 8-bit two’s complement binary integer. Working Answer [1] ### (c) Convert the denary number 251 into hexadecimal. Show your working. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Working Answer ### (d) Add the following unsigned binary integers. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> # 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 + 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 0
Show mark scheme

1(a)

1 mark for: one tebibyte is 1024 gibibytes and one terabyte is 1000 gigabytes

1(b) [2 marks]

1001 1100

1(c)

1 mark for working e.g.  Dividing by 16 // converting to binary (11111011) 1 mark for answer FB

1(d) [5 marks]

1000 1110

Q1
May/Jun 2022 Paper 1 v3

Text and numbers are examples of data stored in a computer.

(a) A character set is used to represent characters in a computer.

(i) Describe what is meant by a character set . 2 marks

(ii) Identify two character sets and state one difference between them. 3 marks

Character set 1

Character set 2

Difference

(iii) Describe how lossless compression can be used to reduce the file size of a text file. 2 marks

(iv) Explain why lossy compression should not be used on a text file. 2 marks

Text and numbers are examples of data stored in a computer. ### (a) A character set is used to represent characters in a computer. #### (i) Describe what is meant by a **character set** . <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> #### (ii) Identify **two** character sets and state **one** difference between them. <span class="part-marks">3 marks</span> Character set 1 Character set 2 Difference #### (iii) Describe how lossless compression can be used to reduce the file size of a text file. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> #### (iv) Explain why lossy compression should **not** be used on a text file. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span>
Show mark scheme

1(a)(i)

1 mark per point to max 2  All of the characters/symbols that the computer can use/represent  Each character has a unique number/binary number/hexadecimal number

1(a)(ii) [3 marks]

1 mark for each character set to max 2 , 1 mark for difference  ASCII  Extended ASCII  UNICODE  ASCII has 7 bits whereas UNICODE has 16 bits  Extended ASCII has 8 bits whereas UNICODE has 16 bits  ASCII has 7 bits whereas extended ASCII has 8 bits  Unicode can represent more characters than ASCII/Extended// by example  Extended ASCII can represent more characters than ASCII

1(a)(iii) [2 marks]

1 mark per point to max 2  Can use run-length encoding  Identifies groups of repeated characters ...  ... replaces them with a one copy of the character and the number of times it occurs

1(a)(iv) [2 marks]

1 mark per point to max 2  None of the original data can be lost / deleted  The (text) file would be corrupted // the (text) file cannot be opened

1(b) [5 marks]

1 mark for each correct value Statement The hexadecimal value 11 represented in denary 17 The smallest denary number that be represented by an 0 unsigned 8-bit binary integer The denary number 87 represented in Binary Coded 1000 0111 Decimal (BCD) The denary number 240 represented in hexadecimal F0 The denary number –20 represented in 8-bit two’s 1110 1100 complement binary

Q1
Oct/Nov 2021 Paper 1 v1

(a) Draw one line from each binary value to its equivalent (same) value on the right. 5 marks

Binary value

8 bits

8000 bits

1000 kilobytes

1024 mebibytes

8192 bits

(b) (i) Perform the following binary addition. Show your working. 2 marks

10101010 + 00110111

(ii) State how an overflow can occur when adding two binary integers. 1 mark

1 kibibyte

1 gigabyte

1 byte

1 kilobyte

1 gibibyte

1 megabyte

1 mebibyte

(c) Convert the hexadecimal value F0 into denary. 1 mark

### (a) Draw **one** line from each binary value to its equivalent (same) value on the right. <span class="part-marks">5 marks</span> **Binary value** 8 bits 8000 bits 1000 kilobytes 1024 mebibytes 8192 bits **(b) (i)** Perform the following binary addition. Show your working. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> # 10101010 + 00110111 #### (ii) State how an overflow can occur when adding two binary integers. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> 1 kibibyte 1 gigabyte 1 byte 1 kilobyte 1 gibibyte 1 megabyte 1 mebibyte ### (c) Convert the hexadecimal value F0 into denary. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span>
Show mark scheme

1(a)

1 mark for each correct line 1 kibibyte 8 bits 1 gigabyte 8000 bits 1 byte 1000 kilobytes 1 kilobyte 1024 mebibytes 1 gibibyte 8192 bits 1 megabyte 1 mebibyte

1(b)(i) [2 marks]

1 mark for answer 1 mark for working e.g. 1010 1010 0011 0111 1110 0001 1 1 1 1 1 1

1(b)(ii) [1 mark]

The result is a larger number than can be stored in the given number of bits. // The result is greater than 255

1(c) [1 mark]

240

Q4
Oct/Nov 2021 Paper 1 v2

A register stores the following binary number:

1 1 0 0 1 1 0 1

(a) The binary value in the register represents an unsigned binary integer. 1 mark

Convert the unsigned binary integer into denary.

(b) The binary value in the register represents a two’s complement binary integer. 1 mark

Convert the two’s complement binary integer into denary.

(c) The binary value in the register represents a hexadecimal number. 1 mark

Convert the binary number into hexadecimal.

(d) State why the value in the register cannot be interpreted as a Binary Coded Decimal (BCD). 1 mark

f two re egister rs are:
0 0 1 1 1 1 0 1
0 0 1 0 1 1 0 1

(i) Add the contents of Register 1 and Register 2 . Show your working. 2 marks

Answer

A register stores the following binary number: ### `1 1 0 0 1 1 0 1` ### (a) The binary value in the register represents an unsigned binary integer. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> Convert the unsigned binary integer into denary. ### (b) The binary value in the register represents a two’s complement binary integer. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> Convert the two’s complement binary integer into denary. ### (c) The binary value in the register represents a hexadecimal number. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> Convert the binary number into hexadecimal. ### (d) State why the value in the register cannot be interpreted as a Binary Coded Decimal (BCD). <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> |f two re|egister|rs are:|||||| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---| |`0`|`0`|`1`|`1`|`1`|`1`|`0`|`1`| |`0`|`0`|`1`|`0`|`1`|`1`|`0`|`1`| #### (i) Add the contents of **Register 1** and **Register 2** . Show your working. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> Answer
Show mark scheme

4(a) [1 mark]

205

4(b) [1 mark]

– 51

4(c) [1 mark]

4(d) [2 marks]

1 mark for: The denary value in each group of 4 bits is greater than 9 // the denary value in each nibble is greater than 9

4(e)(i) [2 marks]

1 mark for working, 1 mark for answer 0011 1101 +0010 1101 0110 1010 111 1 1

4(e)(ii)

1 mark for working, 1 mark for answer 0011 1101 (two’s complement) +1101 0011 0001 0000 1111 111

Q1
Oct/Nov 2021 Paper 1 v3

(a) Draw one line from each binary value to its equivalent (same) value on the right. 5 marks

Binary value

8 bits

8000 bits

1000 kilobytes

1024 mebibytes

8192 bits

(b) (i) Perform the following binary addition. Show your working. 2 marks

10101010 + 00110111

(ii) State how an overflow can occur when adding two binary integers. 1 mark

1 kibibyte

1 gigabyte

1 byte

1 kilobyte

1 gibibyte

1 megabyte

1 mebibyte

(c) Convert the hexadecimal value F0 into denary. 1 mark

### (a) Draw **one** line from each binary value to its equivalent (same) value on the right. <span class="part-marks">5 marks</span> **Binary value** 8 bits 8000 bits 1000 kilobytes 1024 mebibytes 8192 bits **(b) (i)** Perform the following binary addition. Show your working. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> # 10101010 + 00110111 #### (ii) State how an overflow can occur when adding two binary integers. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> 1 kibibyte 1 gigabyte 1 byte 1 kilobyte 1 gibibyte 1 megabyte 1 mebibyte ### (c) Convert the hexadecimal value F0 into denary. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span>
Show mark scheme

1(a)

1 mark for each correct line 1 kibibyte 8 bits 1 gigabyte 8000 bits 1 byte 1000 kilobytes 1 kilobyte 1024 mebibytes 1 gibibyte 8192 bits 1 megabyte 1 mebibyte

1(b)(i) [2 marks]

1 mark for answer 1 mark for working e.g. 1010 1010 0011 0111 1110 0001 1 1 1 1 1 1

1(b)(ii) [1 mark]

The result is a larger number than can be stored in the given number of bits. // The result is greater than 255

1(c) [1 mark]

240

Q6
May/Jun 2021 Paper 1 v2

A computer uses the ASCII character set.

(a) State the number of characters that can be represented by the ASCII character set and the extended ASCII character set. 2 marks

ASCII

Extended ASCII

(b) Explain how a word such as ‘HOUSE’ is represented by the ASCII character set. 2 marks

(c) Unicode is a different character set.

The Unicode value for the character ‘1’ is denary value 49.

(i) Write the hexadecimal value for the Unicode character ‘1’. 1 mark

(ii) Write the denary value for the Unicode character ‘5’. 1 mark

A computer uses the ASCII character set. ### (a) State the number of characters that can be represented by the ASCII character set and the extended ASCII character set. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> ASCII Extended ASCII ### (b) Explain how a word such as ‘HOUSE’ is represented by the ASCII character set. <span class="part-marks">2 marks</span> ### (c) Unicode is a different character set. The Unicode value for the character ‘1’ is denary value 49. #### (i) Write the hexadecimal value for the Unicode character ‘1’. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span> #### (ii) Write the denary value for the Unicode character ‘5’. <span class="part-marks">1 mark</span>
Show mark scheme

6(a) [2 marks]

1 mark for each correct answer ASCII = 128 // 2 7 Extended ASCII = 256 // 2 8

6(b) [2 marks]

1 mark per bullet point to max 2 Each character has its own unique code • Each character in the word is replaced by its code • The codes are stored in the order in the word •

6(c)(i) [1 mark]

31

6(c)(ii) [1 mark]

53