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Computer Trivia Quiz: 1999

By Richard Morochove

First published January 7, 1999

Test your knowledge of last year's computer events with my annual computer triva quiz. All answers at the end.

1. Some Microsoft officials are concerned about the growing popularity of Linux because:

a) It's a better word processor than Microsoft Word.
b) It could offer stiff competition to the Windows NT operating system.
c) They prefer Dilbert to the Peanuts comic strip.
d) It provides faster Internet service than The Microsoft Network.

2. The first version of Intel's Celeron processor, introduced last spring, wasn't as popular as expected because:

a) It lacked a level 2 cache, so performance was slower than expected.
b) It wasn't compatible with Windows 98.
c) There was a bug in its mathematical calculations.
d) It sounds like a vegetable you'd leave on your plate. 

3. Microsoft would like to put Sun Microsystems' Jini back in the bottle because:

a) It's a better web browser than MS Internet Explorer.
b) Microsoft has already used its three wishes.
c) Jini devices aren't compatible with Windows 98.
d) Jini devices would operate over a network without Windows. 

4. According to a Microsoft VP, last summer's launch of Windows 98 was lower-key than the introduction of Window 95 three years ago because:

a) It might antagonize the U.S. Justice Department.
b) Tonight Show host Jay Leno demanded too much money to preside over the software launch.
c) It didn't deserve the same kind of incredible euphoric celebration.
d) There were insufficient funds in the marketing budget. 

5. The Recording Industry Association of America announced a plan to let music lovers download hits from the Internet by Christmas 1999 because:

a) It doesn't like the popular MP3 format for compressed digital audio.
b) It plans to phase out music CDs over the next year.
c) The plan will eliminate high packaging costs and allow songs to be sold for 10 cents apiece.
d) It fears competition from Microsoft's WinMusic 2000.  

6. Palm III is the current top-of-the-line handheld organizer from 3Com, but the company recently announced a new wireless model available in 1999 named:

a) Palm IV
b) Palm VII
c) Razor
d) Palm Trek 9: Insurrection.

7. Sun Microsystems' Java programming language was first used in a device that:

a) Brewed delicious coffee.
b) Operated as a handheld remote control.
c) Connected a toaster to the Internet.
d) Calculated spreadsheets in a palmtop computer.

8. Apache Software is:

a) The largest software developer owned by native Americans.
b) A leading developer of Java applications.
c) A website that holds auctions for concert tickets.
d) The most popular web server application. 

9. Videotaped testimony of Bill Gates recently played in Washington, D.C.:

a) May lead to impeachment hearings.
b) Are featured in a top-selling videocassette.
c) May lead to changes in Microsoft's business practices.
d) Can be purchased on Microsoft's website.

10. Katmai is:

a) The Japanese word for "pirated software."
b) Powerful editing software for digital photographs.
c) Code-name for a processor scheduled for release by Intel in 1999.
d) A computer-controlled cat litter cleaner. CW

Answers

1. b).

2. a).

3. d).

4. c).

5. a).

6. b).

7. b).

8. d).

9. c).

10. c).

Richard Morochove, FCA, is a Toronto-based computer consultant.

Copyright ©1999 by Morochove & Associates Inc. All rights reserved. This work may not be copied or distributed by any means without our prior written permission.

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