Cambridge IGCSE · Computer Science (0478)

Methods of error detection: Practice Questions

5 multiple-choice questions marked as you go, and 5 written questions with worked solutions. All on Methods of error detection.

10 questions26 marksFree, no account

Question 1

1 mark

Which method of error detection involves the receiving computer sending the entire set of data back to the sender to be compared with the original copy?

Question 2

1 mark

A data transmission uses even parity. A parity block check is used for the following four bytes of data:

Byte 1: 10110010
Byte 2: 11100111
Byte 3: 10101010
Byte 4: 11001100

What should the calculated parity byte (the vertical parity check) be for these four bytes?

Question 3

1 mark

Which of the following best explains why an ARQ system uses a timeout mechanism?

Question 4

1 mark

Which of the following is a specific reason why errors might occur during the transmission of data between two devices?

Question 5

1 mark

A system uses even parity. If the following byte is received: 10110011, what can be concluded about the transmission?

Question 6

3 marks

Explain how a single parity bit is used in even parity checking to detect a single bit error during data transmission.

Write your answer out first, then check it against the worked solution.

Question 7

6 marks

Compare checksum and parity check as methods of error detection, specifically explaining why a checksum is more effective at detecting multiple-bit errors in a large block of data.

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Question 8

3 marks

In the context of Automatic Repeat Request (ARQ), explain the function of a timeout when a sender is waiting for an acknowledgement from the receiver.

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Question 9

4 marks

A byte of data, $$10110010_2$$, is to be transmitted using even parity.

a) State the parity bit that would be added to this byte.

b) Explain how the receiving device uses parity checking to detect a single bit error in the transmitted data.

c) Identify one limitation of using a single parity bit for error detection.

Write your answer out first, then check it against the worked solution.

Question 10

5 marks

Explain how a checksum is calculated and used to detect errors in a block of data during transmission. Your explanation should cover both the sender and receiver operations.

Write your answer out first, then check it against the worked solution.

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