Qualcomm Interview Questions

Qualcomm is US based communication company that has been a pioneer in wireless technologies for the last few decades. The company makes products to connect all types of devices based on wireless technology – no matter the volume of the devices. They make multiple products for watches, vehicles, smartphones, etc., to connect these devices with other devices intelligently.

Qualcomm is an MNC Company with over 190 offices across all major cities worldwide. If you get hired by Qualcomm, you will get the chance to work in the latest communication technologies and work with various people working in multiple locations. When it comes to cracking the Qualcomm interview, it is not a big deal if you have prepared well.

To help candidates crack the Qualcomm interview easily, MindMajix delivers this blog where you can find the Qualcomm interview process, Qualcomm interview questions and answers, tips to crack the Qualcomm interview process, and many more.

Let’s dive in!

Qualcomm Interview Questions - Table of Contents

• Qualcomm Recruitment Process
• Qualcomm Technical Interview Questions
  • Freshers
  • Experienced
• Qualcomm Leadership Principles
• FAQs
• Tips 
• Conclusion

Top 10 Frequently Asked Qualcomm Interview Questions

1. What is a Race Condition?
2. Explain Mutex.
3. State the use of Frame Relay.
4. What do you understand by Clustered Index?
5. Define Empty Class in C++
6. List the benefits of using templates in C++.
7. How does a Firewall work?
8. Differentiate: UDP and TCP
9. Differentiate between Function and Predicate in Java?
10. How will you find the time complexity of an algorithm?

Qualcomm Recruitment Process

To get hired by Qualcomm, candidates must undergo online tests, a few technical rounds, and an HR interview. All the rounds will last for 45 mins to one hour.

Let’s clarify what is expected from candidates in all the rounds one by one.

• Online Test

In this round, you will be asked questions about matrices, arrays, strings, etc. Mainly, you must learn data structures from A to Z to clear this round. You will be asked a few aptitude questions as well. The difficulty level of this round will be medium.

• Online Coding Test

In this round, you need to answer 3 to 4 coding problems online. You must be familiar with modern programming languages such as C, Python, C++, Java, etc.

• Technical Interview

You must go through at least two rounds of technical interviews. Based on your performance, the number of rounds could be increased. This interview will be conducted virtually, on-site, or over the phone.

It is one of the crucial rounds where you must answer in-depth technical questions about data structures and algorithms, memory mapping, programming languages, pointers, Operating Systems, IPC communication, and other computer fundamentals. Besides, you will be asked to code for a few dynamic programming problems.

• HR Interview

This is the final but critical round. In this round, you will be shot with questions from your family and educational background, attitude, career goals, collaboration skills, extra-curricular activities, Qualcomm competitors, willingness to change location, milestones in your career, and much more.

So, if you want to crack the Qualcomm interview, you must clear all the above rounds.

Qualcomm Technical Interview Questions

As mentioned, the MindMajix content team curated this blog's top 25 Qualcomm interview questions and answers. We have split the Q&A into two sections for freshers and experienced. You can jump into the correct section directly based on your expertise level.

• Qualcomm Interview Questions For Freshers
• Qualcomm Interview Questions For Experienced

Qualcomm Interview Questions For Freshers

1. What is a Race Condition?

A Race condition is an issue that mainly occurs in multithreaded applications. It occurs when two or more processes or threads attempt to access a single shared resource. It also appears when the codes of a program are being processed in the wrong order.

Race conditions create deadlock problems while executing programs. Not only that, it makes errors while reading or writing data. Know that there are two types of race conditions: critical and non-critical.

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2. What is the use of Semaphores?

Semaphore is an integer variable that we use to synchronize concurrent processes. As a result, it helps to overcome the issues that occur because of race conditions. We also use Semaphore to solve critical section of codes problem since it acts as the signal to control processes or threads to access the critical section of codes.

Know that there are two types of semaphores: binary and counting.

3. Explain Mutex.

Mutex is the short form of MUTual EXclusion object. It is a locking mechanism as well as a special binary semaphore.

When a thread or process accesses the critical section of codes or a shared resource, it acquires the mutex of the resource and locks it. Once the mutex is locked, no other thread can access the resource, and they will be put in a queue.

Once the use of the resource is over, the thread unlocks the mutex and makes it available to other threads in the queue. In other words, the mutex is passed to other threads.

4. What do you mean by IPC Communication?

IPC stands for Inter-Process Communication. Essentially, it is a mechanism that supports processes to communicate effectively with each other. Along with that, the processes synchronize their activities in many ways. However, shared memory and message-passing methods are vital in IPC communication.

In the shared memory IPC method, processes share some variables. Any number of processes can access the variables. In the message-passing IPC method, there are no shared variables between processes.

5. State the use of Frame Relay.

It is the packet-switching data transfer method with which we can transfer data between devices in LANs as well as WANs. Frame relays avoid retransmission as well as error correction in data transfer altogether. As a result, it performs high-speed data transmission. It is essential to note that frame relays use the datalink layer of the OSI model.

6. Describe the ACID Properties of Databases.

ACID refers to Atomicity, Isolation, Consistency, and Durability.

Atomicity is the property that ensures whether a transaction is entirely executed or not. It ensures that a transaction is completed as a single unit – not in parts.

Consistency is the property that ensures data integrity in databases. If we change data in a database, it must be reflected in all the associated places. Simply put, there shouldn’t be any mismatches or errors among database data.

Isolation is the property that ensures all transactions must be performed without interruptions.

Durability is the property that ensures data is kept in databases for a long duration securely. There shouldn't be any data loss because of system malfunctions, crashes, etc.

7. What do you understand by Clustered Index?

It specifies the physical arrangement of data stored in databases. Every table in a database has a single index value. We can use one or more columns in a table for indexing. Clustered indexes support fragmentation as well as crucial lookup functionality.

8. What do you mean by Virtual Function in C++?

A virtual function is essentially a member function in a base class. We can derive virtual functions in the base class using the virtual keywords. We redefine a virtual function in a derived class to achieve runtime polymorphism.

Further, we can access virtual functions using object pointers. We use virtual functions to ensure that the proper function is called.

9. Define Empty Class in C++

An empty class is a class that has no data members. And the size of an empty class is always 1 byte. This is because an empty class requires only a minimum memory space as it has no data members. We can use an empty class as a placeholder for verifying purposes. Not just that, we can use it as an enabler for special functionalities.

10. Brief Callback Function in JavaScript?

It is the function that passes an argument into another or parent function. A callback function is executed only after the parent function is executed.

We use callback functions to ensure some functions must be executed only after a specific task is completed. Not just that, we use a callback function to prevent errors due to the non-availability of data. The non-availability condition arises when the data is being used by another function, sometimes.

11. What do you understand by HARQ?

HARQ is the short form of Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request. It is a combination of ARQ and FEC. ARQ refers to Automatic Repeat Request, whereas FEC refers to Forward Error Correction.

In this data transfer technique, if the receiver doesn’t receive the data packet within the specified time, the data will be buffered instead of discarded. This delay happens because of the corrupted data packets. The receiver sends the NACK signal to the receiver. Then, a new packet arrives for the same data. The buffered, as well as newly-arrived data, are combined together to form a fresh data packet by removing errors in the previously received packets.

12. What do you mean by Handover Procedure in Data Transfer?

This procedure is significantly helpful when a user moves from location to location. It transfers data from a base station/sender to a destination/receiver without disconnecting the session. So this procedure ensures the session is not disconnected because of the changing base stations.

Know that there are two types of handovers: soft and hard. Soft handover provides instantaneous connections to users without any sense of interruption. Hard handover is hugely used for providing parallel connections between multiple channels.

13. List the benefits of using templates in C++.

Following are the benefits of using templates in C++.

• We can eliminate code duplication
• We can create powerful libraries
• We can perform generic callbacks
• We can use templates instead of operator overloading
• On top of all, it boosts performance to greater heights.

[Related Article: C++ Interview Questions and Answers]

Qualcomm Interview Questions For Experienced

14. How does a Firewall work?

A firewall comprises many protective filters that prevent harmful data from entering computers or networks. It decides which data must be passed and which one must be denied. So we can protect our private computers and networks from malicious activities. Also, firewalls prevent unauthorized persons from accessing computers and networks. A robust firewall can prevent cyber-attacks such as Denial of Service (DoS), macros, backdoors, spam, remote logins, and viruses.

15. Why does Stack Corruption occur?

Stack corruption occurs because of many reasons, as follows:

• When memory locations at the stack are unnecessarily accessed. It happens because of the wrong coding.
• Also, it appears when an undefined pointer stores a garbage stack address.
• It also occurs when all the memory locations of a stack are entirely occupied.

16. Differentiate: UDP and TCP

UDP	TCP
UDP stands for User Datagram Protocol	TCP stands for Transmission Control Protocol
It is a connection-less protocol	It is a connection-oriented protocol
It is the best protocol for speed and efficient data transfer	It is the best protocol for highly reliable data transfers
No specific ordering is followed in UDP. Data packets in UDP are independent of each other.	TCP transfers data in a particular order
The header size of UDP is 8 bytes.	The header size of TCP is 20 bytes.

[Related Article: Socket Programming in Java - What is TCP]

17. Write an algorithm to inverse a Singly Linked List.

18. Compare: Heap Memory and Stack Memory

Heap Memory	Stack Memory
Heap memory stores dynamic variables	Stack memory stores static variables
All the threads can access the data in a stack. So it is not a secure memory.	It is a secured memory since the thread storing data in a stack can only access it.
It is challenging to access heap frames.	It is easy to access stack frames
The time to access heap memory is slower than the stack memory	The time to access stack memory is faster than the heap memory
We can resize variables in heap memory	We can’t resize variables in stack memory

19. Mention the different stages a thread goes through in its lifecycle.

The following are the stages a thread goes through in its lifecycle.

It is a simple but essential note that we cannot restart a thread that has reached the dead state.

20. Differentiate between Function and Predicate in Java?

Function	Predicate
It takes one type of parameter, like the argument type	It takes two types of parameters, such as argument as well as return type
It returns objects	It returns Boolean values
It is used for transformation	It is used to implement conditional checks
It uses apply( ) method	It uses test( ) method

21. Write a code to implement the quick sort algorithm in C language.

22. List the rules that you should follow while creating immutable objects.

Here are the rules that we need to follow while creating immutable objects.

• We shouldn’t allow any methods that change states
• We must declare all members private and final
• We must declare all fields and classes as final
• We should allow subclasses to override methods
• We need to set all the members in a static block

23. How will you find the time complexity of an algorithm?

Big O Notation is a method used to find the time complexity of an algorithm. It is essentially a mathematical property used to analyze and compare algorithms. Big O Notation tracks the asymptotic behavior of functions. This method can easily track the degree of growth and declination of a function.

Big O Notation measures the work a CPU can perform when the input size increases. Note that when the time complexity is low, the performance of the CPU is better.

24. Write a program to arrange a vector in non-increasing order.

25. What is the difference between the equals ( ) method and the == operator in Java?

Equals( ) is a method used to compare the content of objects. == is the operator used to compare the memory locations of objects. We cannot override the == operator, whereas we can override the equals ( ) method. Moreover, the == operator works with primitives, but the equals ( ) method doesn't work with primitives.

Qualcomm FAQs

1. How should I prepare to clear the Qualcomm interview?

You should be strong in computer fundamentals such as operating systems, DBNS, data structures and algorithms, and networks. You must be proficient in programming languages like Java, C++, and Python. Above all, you must sharpen your presentation, problem-solving, analytical thinking, etc.

2. What are the rounds of Qualcomm interviews?

There are totally four rounds – online test, online coding test, technical round, and HR round.

3. What questions would be asked in the Qualcomm interview?

In the online round, you will be asked questions with verbal, aptitude, communication, and computer fundamentals. You will be asked in-depth technical questions and coding problems in the technical round. In the HR interview, you will be asked about your family background, interests, education details, goals, and a few challenging questions to test your attitude.

4. Will Qualcomm interviews be tough?

Not at all. If you have prepared well, cracking the Qualcomm interview is very easy.

5. What are the top three mistakes that candidates make?

• They are not confident enough to present precisely what they know
• They don’t learn technical concepts in-depth
• They provide either too many or fewer details in the resume and need to be more accurate with the resume details.

6. What would be the most challenging questions in a Qualcomm interview?

The questions of the technical round would be the hardest. You must be ready to solve critical coding problems. If you prepare well, there is no such thing as the most complex questions. You will have answers to all questions.    

7. How to impress interviewers?

If you answer questions confidently and precisely, interviewers will be impressed quickly. Another main thing is that your attitude must be pleasing and polite. In addition to exhibiting your technical expertise, if you follow the pointers mentioned above, you will undoubtedly ace your interview.

Qualcomm Leadership Principles

Qualcomm is one of the great places to work because of its highly-valued leadership principles.

Let’s discuss the leadership principles in detail below:

• Guiding in the right way

Leaders of Qualcomm are always interested in showing their employees in the right direction. Every employee feels free to speak up and raise their concerns without hesitation. Leaders encourage this attitude of employees to remove speed breakers in the path and foster growth. Qualcomm opened up many channels, such as the human resources dept, office of compliance, HR Club, business conduct hotline, etc., for employees to take guidance and support from managers and directors. So it allows them to move forward in the right direction.

• Demonstrating Collaboration

No one will deny that open communication and trust are the lubricants to running businesses smoothly. That's why Qualcomm leaders are encouraging collaboration and demonstrating it. Qualcomm is a workplace where mutual respect and open communication are highly valued. Though the Qualcomm workforce is hugely diversified, they are encouraged to work with collaboration making the workplace more productive and conducive.

• Establishing a Productive and Secure Work Environment

Qualcomm leadership always tries to establish a productive work environment. Because of this, employees can work in a safe, positive, and productive work environment. And they always feel secure and inspired and deliver their best in every task they do. Above all, the values such as equality and inclusion are highly celebrated at Qualcomm, ensuring a secure work environment.

• Motivating Inventions

In a way, Qualcomm is an invention company that works intending to resolve everyday communication problems. The leaders of Qualcomm encourage employees to make inventions to solve day-to-day problems, mainly in communication systems, by properly mentoring them. They use various modern technologies like Artificial Intelligence and many more to achieve this.

Tips to Crack Qualcomm Interview

Here, we outline some tips to ace the Qualcomm interview smoothly.

• Spontaneity

You must answer the questions of interviewers spontaneously. This is highly expected in Qualcomm interviews. Answering questions in no time shows you are strong in technical knowledge. Not only that, it will prove your clarity of mind. So, you must thoroughly learn data structures and algorithms, computer programming, and other vital computer topics.

• Mock Interview

Before attending the interview, practice mock interviews online. Mock interviews will help to form a solid base to raise your confidence level and perform in interviews effectively. You can also take the help of your family members, mentors, friends, and colleagues.

• Learn about Qualcomm

More importantly, you must do in-depth research about Qualcomm. You must accurately know Qualcomm's range of products and services, technologies, business principles, competitors, values, vision, etc. The degree of interest that you show in Qualcomm during the interview will undoubtedly increase your chances of getting hired.

• Problem-solving

While attending the interview, you must show interviewers you are a good problem-solver. You must make one thing clear you are ready to face challenges and solve them with the support of teams and seniors. So, it impresses interviewers whenever you get the chance to brief how you have solved issues in previous companies or projects.

• Ask Questions

The important thing is that you need to ask questions at the end of the interview. You can ask about your career growth opportunities, work culture, relocation, products, services, etc. The main thing is that the questions should arise out of curiosity about the company and related to your career and excite the interviewers to answer.

If you follow the above pointers, that will support you to nail the interview effortlessly.

Conclusion

It's a wrap! If we are on the same page, we hope this blog might have helped you learn Qualcomm interview questions and answers, the Qualcomm interview process, leadership principles, and much more. As you know, success does not come overnight. It demands unwavering focus, adequate preparation, and hard work from us. So, you need to make a solid preparation to ace the Qualcomm interview.

Furthermore, if you are looking for good training to enhance your computer fundamentals and programming knowledge, you can take a course in "Core Java Training" and get certified. It will be a good choice and help to nail your Qualcomm interview in the best way.