12th HSC CS-2 Most Important Questions 2026: 8085 Microprocessor & Networking
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Scoring full marks in the Maharashtra State Board 12th Computer Science Paper 2 (CS-2) is a dream for many science students. Unlike Paper 1, which focuses heavily on software and C++, Paper 2 is the "Hardware" side of the curriculum. For the year 2026, the board continues to emphasize the internal architecture of computers, the 8085 microprocessor, and the foundational layers of networking.
Understanding the course and stream details is essential before diving into the question bank. The CS-2 paper carries 50 marks for theory and 50 marks for practicals, making it a high-scoring subject if you master the logic of Assembly Language Programming (ALP) and networking protocols.
The Structure of HSC CS-2 Exam 2026
Before looking at the HSC CS-2 Important Questions 2026, students must understand the weightage. The syllabus is divided into five main chapters:
Introduction to Microprocessors and Organization of 8085
Instruction Set and Programming of 8085
Introduction to Intel x86 Family
Introduction to Microcontrollers (8051)
Networking Technology
Pro Tip: Chapters 1 and 2 alone contribute nearly 40% of the theory marks. If you master 8085, you are halfway to a top score.
Chapter 1 & 2: 8085 Microprocessor – The Heart of CS-2
The 8085 microprocessor is the most significant part of the syllabus. For 2026, the board is expected to focus on architecture and the functional pin diagram.
Most Important Theory Questions:
Draw and explain the Functional Block Diagram (Architecture) of 8085: This is a recurring 4-mark or 5-mark question. Ensure you label the ALU, Registers, and Accumulator correctly.
Explain the Pin Diagram of 8085: Focus on signals like ALE (Address Latch Enable), RD, WR, and IO/M.
Addressing Modes of 8085: You must be able to explain Immediate, Direct, Register, Register Indirect, and Implied addressing modes with one example each.
Flag Register of 8085: Explain the 8-bit flag register and the significance of S, Z, AC, P, and CY flags.
Assembly Language Programs (ALP) to Practice:
Programs are the "math" of CS-2. Practice these specific logics:
Addition/Subtraction of two 8-bit numbers (with and without carry).
Finding the largest or smallest number in a given block of memory.
Counting the occurrences of a specific byte in an array.
Transferring a block of data from one memory location to another.
Chapter 3 & 4: Intel x86 and Microcontrollers
While smaller in weightage compared to 8085, these chapters are critical for objective questions and short notes.
Key Areas for 2026:
Features of Intel 8086: List the major attributes like 16-bit data bus, 20-bit address bus, and memory segmentation.
Evolution of x86: A short note on the Pentium processor or the progression from 8086 to Dual Core.
8051 Microcontroller: Difference between a Microprocessor and a Microcontroller (very common question).
8051 Features: List the RAM/ROM size, number of timers, and I/O ports in the 8051.
Chapter 5: Networking Technology
Networking is the most "readable" chapter but requires precise definitions. In 2026, the board will likely focus on modern transmission media and protocols.
High-Weightage Networking Questions:
Network Topologies: Explain Star, Bus, and Ring topologies with their advantages and disadvantages.
Transmission Media: Compare Twisted Pair, Coaxial Cable, and Fiber Optic Cable.
OSI Model vs. TCP/IP Model: You must know the 7 layers of OSI and what each layer does.
Networking Devices: Short notes on Hubs, Switches, Routers, and Repeaters.
Important Note: In 2026, expect a question on IP Addressing (IPv4 vs. IPv6) or the role of DNS (Domain Name System) in internet communication.
HSC CS-2 Important Questions 2026: The Strategy
To score a perfect 50/50 in theory, follow this 2026-specific strategy:
Solve Previous Year Papers: At least 20% of questions are repeated or slightly modified from the last 5 years.
Focus on Diagrams: In CS-2, a neat diagram carries 50% of the marks for that question. Use a pencil and ruler.
Use the Latest Pattern: The 2026 paper will include 25% objective-type questions (MCQs and Fill in the Blanks). Don't ignore the small definitions in the textbook.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the most repeating HSC CS-2 Important Questions 2026?
The most repeated questions include the 8085 Architecture diagram, Addressing Modes, Network Topologies, and Assembly programs for 8-bit addition and data transfer.
2. Is Assembly Language Programming (ALP) compulsory in the exam?
Yes, there is usually a dedicated section for programming. You typically have an "either/or" choice between two programs, but you cannot skip this section if you want to score above 40.
3. How many marks are allotted to the Networking chapter?
In the 2026 HSC Board weightage, Networking Technology usually carries around 10 to 12 marks including options.
4. Can I use a calculator for CS-2 Paper?
No, calculators are strictly prohibited for the Maharashtra HSC Computer Science exams. All calculations in 8085 (Hexadecimal addition/subtraction) must be done manually.
Conclusion
Mastering the HSC CS-2 Important Questions 2026 is all about understanding the "how" and "why" of hardware. Whether it is how the 8085 manages its registers or how a Router directs traffic across the globe, clarity of concept is your best tool.
Start with the 8085 diagrams, move to the Networking definitions, and spend the final weeks practicing code on paper.
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