1500+ System Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

OOP concepts are the building blocks of Object Oriented Programming. The four pillars of OOP are Abstraction, Encapsulation, Inheritance, and Polymorphism.

• Abstraction: Hiding implementation details and showing only necessary information to the user.

• Encapsulation: Binding data and functions together to protect data from outside interference.

• Inheritance: Creating new classes from existing ones, inheriting properties and methods.

• Polymorphism: Ability of objects to take on multip...read more

SDLC stands for Software Development Life Cycle.

• SDLC is a process used by software development teams to design, develop, and test high-quality software.

• It consists of several phases including planning, analysis, design, implementation, testing, and maintenance.

• Each phase has its own set of activities and deliverables that must be completed before moving on to the next phase.

• SDLC helps ensure that software is developed efficiently, on time, and within budget.

• Examples of SDLC m...read more

The S7 controller has limited scalability and flexibility compared to other controllers.

• Limited number of I/O points

• Limited memory capacity

• Limited processing power

• Limited communication options

• Limited support for advanced programming languages

• Limited compatibility with third-party devices

• Limited ability to handle complex control algorithms

• Limited fault diagnostics capabilities

Early binding is resolved at compile time while late binding is resolved at runtime in C++.

• Early binding is also known as static binding, where the function call is resolved at compile time based on the type of the object.

• Late binding is also known as dynamic binding, where the function call is resolved at runtime based on the actual type of the object.

• Early binding is faster as the function call is directly linked during compilation.

• Late binding allows for more flexibility a...read more

IPSEC VPN is a secure network connection that uses encryption and authentication protocols. Phase 1 establishes a secure channel, while Phase 2 sets up the actual VPN tunnel.

• IPSEC VPN provides secure communication over an untrusted network.

• Phase 1 negotiates the security parameters and establishes a secure channel.

• Phase 2 sets up the actual VPN tunnel for data transmission.

• Phase 1 uses the Internet Key Exchange (IKE) protocol for authentication and key exchange.

• Phase 2 uses t...read more

Different languages used in DBMS include SQL, PL/SQL, T-SQL, and NoSQL.

• SQL (Structured Query Language) is the standard language for relational database management systems.

• PL/SQL (Procedural Language/SQL) is Oracle Corporation's procedural extension for SQL.

• T-SQL (Transact-SQL) is Microsoft's proprietary extension to SQL.

• NoSQL encompasses a wide range of database technologies that can store unstructured, semi-structured, or structured data.

Modeling an upsetting operation involves understanding process parameters and their relationships.

• Upsetting is a metal forming process that involves compressing a metal workpiece to reduce its length and increase its diameter.

• Process parameters include temperature, pressure, and deformation rate.

• Temperature affects the material's flow stress and ductility, while pressure and deformation rate affect the material's strain hardening behavior.

• The relationship between these parame...read more

Protocols are a set of rules that govern the communication between devices or systems.

• Protocols define the format, timing, sequencing, and error checking of messages exchanged between devices.

• Different types of protocols include network protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP), communication protocols (RS-232, USB, Bluetooth), and application protocols (SMTP, POP3, IMAP).

• Network protocols govern the communication between devices on a network, while communication protocols govern the com...read more

Interview questions for System Engineer position

• Constructor is a special method that is used to initialize an object

• Method overriding is when a subclass provides its own implementation of a method that is already present in the parent class, while method overloading is when multiple methods have the same name but different parameters

• Program to print prime numbers between two given ranges can be achieved using nested loops and checking for prime numbers using modulus operator

• A...read more

Questions related to networking and security protocols, Bitlocker and Outlook configuration.

• HTTP is unsecured while HTTPS is secured with SSL/TLS encryption

• TCP is a connection-oriented protocol while UDP is connectionless

• Common port numbers include 80 for HTTP, 443 for HTTPS, 25 for SMTP, and 110 for POP3

• Bitlocker is a full disk encryption feature in Windows

• Outlook configuration involves setting up email accounts, server settings, and security options

Yes, we can automate the process of coordinating timing of different busses for a particular route.

• We can use GPS tracking to monitor the location of busses in real-time.

• We can develop a software that can analyze the data and suggest the best route and timing for the passenger.

• We can also use machine learning algorithms to predict the traffic and suggest the best route and timing for the passenger.

• We can integrate this system with a mobile app that can provide real-time infor...read more

DELETE removes specific rows from a table, while TRUNCATE removes all rows from a table.

• DELETE is a DML command, while TRUNCATE is a DDL command.

• DELETE can be rolled back, while TRUNCATE cannot be rolled back.

• DELETE triggers the delete trigger for each row, while TRUNCATE does not trigger any delete triggers.

• DELETE is slower as it maintains logs, while TRUNCATE is faster as it does not maintain logs.

• Example: DELETE FROM table_name WHERE condition; TRUNCATE table_name;

Yes, Infosys has already diversified into product development with offerings like Finacle and EdgeVerve.

• Infosys has already developed products like Finacle, a banking software, and EdgeVerve, an AI-powered automation platform.

• The company has also acquired product-based companies like Panaya and Skava.

• Infosys has a dedicated Product Engineering Services unit that focuses on developing and maintaining software products.

• However, services still remain the primary focus of Infosys...read more

DDL is used to define the structure of database objects, while DML is used to manipulate data within those objects.

• DDL includes commands like CREATE, ALTER, DROP to define database objects like tables, indexes, etc.

• DML includes commands like INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE to manipulate data within tables.

• Example of DDL: CREATE TABLE employees (id INT, name VARCHAR(50));

• Example of DML: INSERT INTO employees VALUES (1, 'John Doe');

Permutations of a string with fixed characters.

• For 1st character fixed: Generate permutations for the remaining characters.

• For 1st and 2nd characters fixed: Generate permutations for the remaining characters.

• For 1st, 2nd, and 3rd characters fixed: Generate permutations for the remaining characters.

Garbage collector in Java is a built-in mechanism that automatically manages memory by reclaiming unused objects.

• Garbage collector runs in the background to identify and delete objects that are no longer needed.

• It helps in preventing memory leaks and optimizing memory usage.

• Examples of garbage collectors in Java include Serial, Parallel, CMS, and G1.

I want to switch to system engineering as it aligns with my interests and skills.

• I have always been interested in technology and how systems work

• I have gained experience in programming and software development

• I believe my skills in problem-solving and critical thinking will be valuable in system engineering

• I am excited about the opportunity to work on complex systems and contribute to their design and development

Java is a popular programming language known for its platform independence, object-oriented approach, and robustness.

• Java is platform independent, meaning it can run on any platform that has a Java Virtual Machine (JVM).

• It is object-oriented, allowing for modular and reusable code.

• Java is known for its robustness and reliability, with features like automatic memory management and exception handling.

• Java has a rich set of APIs and libraries, making it versatile for various app...read more

The Diamond Problem in C++ occurs when a class inherits from two classes that have a common base class, leading to ambiguity in method resolution.

• Diamond Problem arises in multiple inheritance in C++ when a class inherits from two classes that have a common base class.

• Ambiguity occurs when the derived class tries to access a method or attribute from the common base class.

• To resolve the Diamond Problem, virtual inheritance can be used to ensure that only one instance of the co...read more

Call by Value passes a copy of the actual parameter, while Call by Reference passes the address of the actual parameter.

• Call by Value: Changes made to the formal parameter inside the function do not affect the actual parameter.

• Call by Reference: Changes made to the formal parameter inside the function affect the actual parameter.

• Example: void swap(int a, int b) vs void swap(int &a, int &b)

Java is a versatile programming language known for its platform independence and rich set of features.

• Platform independence: Java programs can run on any operating system or device with a Java Virtual Machine (JVM)

• Object-oriented: Java supports the principles of object-oriented programming, allowing for modular and reusable code

• Garbage collection: Java automatically manages memory allocation and deallocation, reducing the risk of memory leaks

• Exception handling: Java provides ...read more

A program to check if a given string is a palindrome or not.

• A palindrome is a word, phrase, number, or other sequence of characters that reads the same forward and backward.

• To check if a string is a palindrome, we can compare the characters from the beginning and end of the string.

• If the characters match at each position, the string is a palindrome.

• We can use two pointers, one starting from the beginning and the other from the end, and compare the characters at each position....read more

I chose myself in the programming language at a small scale and gradually increased it.

• Started with basic syntax and gradually moved to more complex concepts

• Practiced on small projects before moving to larger ones

• Learned from online resources and collaborated with peers

• Continuously updated skills and learned new languages as needed

Charging protocol in EVs and purpose of charging pin at inlet

• Charging protocol determines how the battery is charged and how much power is delivered

• Charging pin is used to connect the charging cable to the vehicle's charging inlet

• Charging protocols include AC charging, DC charging, and wireless charging

• Charging protocols also include different charging levels such as Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3

• Purpose of charging pin is to ensure safe and reliable transfer of power from the...read more

I would create designated parking areas, implement a parking management system, and utilize efficient parking strategies.

• Create designated parking areas based on the capacity and layout of the campus.

• Implement a parking management system to track and manage the parking spaces.

• Utilize efficient parking strategies such as valet parking, shuttle services, and carpooling.

• Ensure proper signage and directions to guide the drivers to available parking spaces.

• Coordinate with event or...read more

Assignment is assigning a value to a variable, while initialization is declaring and assigning a value to a variable.

• Assignment changes the value of an existing variable, while initialization creates a new variable and assigns a value to it.

• Initialization is done only once, while assignment can be done multiple times.

• Example of initialization: int x = 5; Example of assignment: x = 10;

• Initialization can also be done using constructors in object-oriented programming.

• In C++, uni...read more

Types of inheritance in OOP include single, multiple, multilevel, hierarchical, hybrid, and multipath inheritance.

• Single inheritance: A class inherits from only one base class.

• Multiple inheritance: A class inherits from more than one base class.

• Multilevel inheritance: A class inherits from a class which in turn inherits from another class.

• Hierarchical inheritance: Multiple classes inherit from a single base class.

• Hybrid inheritance: Combination of multiple and multilevel inhe...read more

Abstract class can have both abstract and non-abstract methods, while interface can only have abstract methods.

• Abstract class can have constructors, member variables, and methods with implementation.

• Interface can only have abstract methods and constants.

• A class can implement multiple interfaces but can only extend one abstract class.

• Example: abstract class Animal { abstract void sound(); void eat() { // implementation } }

• Example: interface Shape { void draw(); }

Yes, static methods can be used in interfaces in Java.

• Static methods in interfaces were introduced in Java 8.

• Static methods can be called using the interface name.

• Static methods in interfaces are used for providing utility methods.

• Example: interface MyInterface { static void myMethod() { System.out.println("Static method in interface"); }}

Thrashing in operating systems occurs when a system is spending more time swapping data between memory and disk than actually executing tasks.

• Occurs when the system is overwhelmed with too many processes competing for limited resources

• Results in a decrease in system performance as the CPU is constantly switching between processes

• Can be alleviated by optimizing resource allocation and reducing the number of active processes

• Example: A system running multiple memory-intensive ap...read more

Experience certainty refers to the level of confidence and assurance gained through repeated exposure to a particular task or situation.

• Experience certainty is achieved through repetition and familiarity.

• It allows individuals to perform tasks with greater ease and efficiency.

• For example, a pilot who has flown the same route multiple times will have a higher level of experience certainty compared to a pilot who is flying the route for the first time.

• Experience certainty can al...read more

A normal function is called directly in the code, while a stored procedure is invoked using a database query.

• Normal function calling is done within the program code, while stored procedure invocation is done through a database query.

• Normal functions are defined and called within the same programming language, while stored procedures are defined and invoked within a database management system.

• Normal function calling is synchronous, while stored procedure invocation can be asyn...read more

Python manages data structures and variables using dynamic memory allocation.

• Python uses a heap to manage memory allocation for data structures and variables.

• Variables are created dynamically and stored in memory as objects.

• Python uses reference counting to keep track of the number of references to an object.

• Garbage collection is used to reclaim memory for objects that are no longer referenced.

• Examples of data structures in Python include lists, tuples, dictionaries, and sets...read more

C++ has three types of loops: for, while, and do-while.

• For loop is used when the number of iterations is known beforehand.

• While loop is used when the number of iterations is not known beforehand.

• Do-while loop is similar to while loop, but it executes at least once before checking the condition.

PLCs are used to control machinery and automate processes in industrial settings.

• Monitoring inputs from sensors

• Executing control algorithms

• Communicating with other devices

• Logging data for analysis

• Implementing safety functions

• Examples: controlling a conveyor belt, regulating temperature in a furnace

A machine is a device that performs a specific task using power and mechanisms.

• Machines can be simple or complex, ranging from a simple lever to a complex computer.

• Machines use energy to perform work, such as lifting, moving, or transforming materials.

• Examples of machines include cars, airplanes, washing machines, and robots.

• Machines can be classified into six types: lever, pulley, wheel and axle, inclined plane, wedge, and screw.

I would analyze the requirements and constraints of the parking task and devise a plan accordingly.

• Understand the size and type of vehicles that need to be parked

• Analyze the available space and layout of the parking area

• Consider any regulations or restrictions on parking

• Determine the optimal parking arrangement for maximum efficiency

• Implement a system for monitoring and managing the parking area

Limitations of inheritance in OOP include tight coupling, lack of flexibility, and potential for creating deep class hierarchies.

• Tight coupling: Subclasses are tightly bound to their superclasses, making it difficult to make changes without affecting other classes.

• Lack of flexibility: Subclasses inherit all attributes and methods from their superclasses, limiting the ability to customize behavior.

• Deep class hierarchies: Inheritance can lead to deep class hierarchies with mult...read more

Types of constructors in OOP include default, parameterized, copy, and static constructors.

• Default constructor: Constructor with no parameters.

• Parameterized constructor: Constructor with parameters to initialize object properties.

• Copy constructor: Constructor that creates a new object as a copy of an existing object.

• Static constructor: Constructor used to initialize static data members of a class.

Normalization is the process of organizing data in a database to reduce redundancy and improve data integrity. Denormalization is the opposite process.

• Normalization involves breaking down data into smaller, more manageable tables to reduce redundancy and dependency.

• Denormalization involves combining tables to improve query performance by reducing the number of joins needed.

• Normalization helps maintain data integrity by reducing the risk of anomalies such as update, insert, an...read more

The smallest real-time project in Java could be a simple chat application, while the biggest could be a complex financial trading system.

• Smallest real-time project in Java: Chat application

• Biggest real-time project in Java: Financial trading system

• Big Data refers to large and complex data sets that cannot be easily processed using traditional data processing applications.

• For performing actions on 2 billion entries, technologies like Hadoop, Spark, and languages like Java or S...read more

Procedural programming focuses on procedures and functions while object-oriented programming focuses on objects and classes.

• Procedural programming is based on top-down approach while object-oriented programming is based on bottom-up approach.

• Procedural programming is more suitable for small programs while object-oriented programming is more suitable for large programs.

• Procedural programming is less secure while object-oriented programming is more secure.

• Examples of procedural...read more

I will manage the parking section of the event by implementing a systematic approach and utilizing technology.

• Create a parking plan and layout to efficiently accommodate 500 cars.

• Assign dedicated parking spots for VIPs, disabled individuals, and event staff.

• Implement a ticketing system or RFID technology to track and manage parking spaces.

• Deploy parking attendants to guide drivers and ensure smooth traffic flow.

• Utilize digital signage or mobile apps to provide real-time parki...read more

Basic gating logic includes And, Or, Nand, and Nor gates. Nand gate can be built using other gates.

• And gate outputs true only when all inputs are true.

• Or gate outputs true when at least one input is true.

• Nand gate outputs the negation of the And gate.

• Nor gate outputs the negation of the Or gate.

• Nand gate can be built by combining an And gate followed by a Not gate.

Middleware in web development acts as a bridge between different components of a software application, allowing them to communicate and interact with each other.

• Middleware is software that connects different software applications or components.

• It helps in handling communication between different systems or components.

• Middleware can provide services such as authentication, logging, and caching.

• Examples of middleware include Express.js in Node.js applications and Django middlew...read more

VIP users require special attention for hardware and software issues on both Mac and Windows systems.

• Create a dedicated support team for VIP users

• Establish a priority system for VIP tickets

• Provide personalized support and communication

• Ensure quick response times and resolution

• Implement proactive monitoring and maintenance

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Mac and Windows systems

• Collaborate with vendors and other IT teams for complex issues

Firewall is a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.

• Firewall acts as a barrier between a trusted, secure internal network and another network, such as the Internet.

• It examines each packet of data that passes through it and determines whether to allow or block the traffic based on the set of rules.

• Firewalls can be hardware or software-based and can be configured to block specific types of ...read more