IGCSE · Computer Science 0478 · Topic

Data Transmission: IGCSE Computer Science questions and answers

4 free IGCSE Computer Science Data Transmission questions written in the style of Cambridge Computer Science papers, each with its answer and mark scheme.

This topic covers Types & methods of data transmission, Error detection, Encryption. Work through the questions below, then generate a full Data Transmission paper with a fresh set every time.

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Data transmission sub-topics

Types & methods of data transmissionError detectionEncryption

Data transmission practice questions

Question 1Structured · 4 marks
(a)

The 7-bit data 0001110 is sent using even parity. The parity bit is the most significant bit. Write the byte that is sent.

[1]
(b)

The byte 10001100 is received using even parity. Explain how the receiver knows an error has occurred.

[2]
(c)

Identify one other method of error detection.

[1]
Show answers and mark scheme
PartAnswer and marking pointsMarks
(a)10001110
10001110 B1
1
(b)It has 3 ones, an odd number, which does not match even parity
Counts the number of 1s B1
Does not match agreed parity B1
2
(c)checksum / echo check / check digit / ARQ
checksum, echo check, check digit or ARQ B1
1
Question 2Structured · 4 marks
(a)

State what is meant by the term automatic repeat request.

[2]
(b)

State what is meant by the term checksum.

[2]
Show answers and mark scheme
PartAnswer and marking pointsMarks
(a)Error detection using acknowledgements and timeouts to request retransmission
Error detection using acknowledgements and timeouts to request retransmission B2
2
(b)A value calculated from a block of data and sent with it so errors can be detected
A value calculated from a block of data and sent with it so errors can be detected B2
2
Question 3Structured · 2 marks
(a)

State what is meant by the term asymmetric encryption.

[1]
(b)

State what is meant by the term symmetric encryption.

[1]
Show answers and mark scheme
PartAnswer and marking pointsMarks
(a)Encryption using a public key to encrypt and a private key to decrypt
Encryption using a public key to encrypt and a private key to decrypt B1
1
(b)Encryption using the same key to encrypt and decrypt
Encryption using the same key to encrypt and decrypt B1
1
Question 4Structured · 3 marks
(a)

State what is meant by the term serial transmission.

[1]
(b)

State what is meant by the term packet switching.

[2]
Show answers and mark scheme
PartAnswer and marking pointsMarks
(a)Data sent one bit at a time along a single wire
Data sent one bit at a time along a single wire B1
1
(b)Data split into packets that may take different routes and are reassembled at the destination
Data split into packets that may take different routes and are reassembled at the destination B2
2

Other IGCSE Computer Science topics

Data representationHardwareSoftware & the internetEmerging technologiesAlgorithms & programmingDatabases & logic

Frequently asked questions

What is in IGCSE Computer Science Data Transmission?

In the 0478 syllabus, Data Transmission covers Types & methods of data transmission, Error detection, Encryption.

Where can I get Data Transmission questions with mark schemes?

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Original Cambridge-style practice questions written for mentorriyaz.in. These are not Cambridge past paper questions, and this site is not affiliated with or endorsed by Cambridge University Press & Assessment. Updated 2026-11-04. Paper generator · mentorriyaz.in