1 - ICT Systems

Question 1

What are the three types of ICT system?

Answer 1

1. Information systems - manage data, e.g. supermarket stock system
2. Control systems - use input and output processes to control machines, e.g. mechanical arm moving
3. Communication systems - transports data

Question 2

What are the main components of a computing system?

Answer 2

• A Central Processing Unit (CPU), responsible for executing a series of stored instructions
• Internal memory, chips that store programs and data
• Input & output devices
• Secondary storage, used to protect inactive data
• Power supply, converts mains AC to regulated DC

Question 3

What is RAM and ROM?

Answer 3

• RAM are memory chips that hold data while the computer is running and delete it every time the computer is switched off.
• ROM are memory chips that hold data and content that cannot be changed by a program or its user.

Question 4

What is a microprocessor?

Answer 4

Microprocessors are chips that are implemented into a CPU in order to make a computer system run. They perform mathematical & logical functions.

Question 5

What are the two types of software?

Answer 5

1. Operating systems, e.g. Mac OS, Windows, Android. They manage the CPU by providing an interface, encrypting, virus scanning, handling data storage.
2. Application software, for e.g.
   > Utility programs - help to optimise computers by maintaining files, compressing files, installing/uninstalling software etc.
   > Integrated software - software with a set of common commands, e.g. Word, PP & Excel
   > Specific/bespoke software - software written for a particular purpose

Question 6

What are the two types of user interface?

Answer 6

1. Graphical User Interface - A visual environment that displays tiles, icons and menus in order to make it easier for the user to work their computer.
2. Command Line Interface - A text only service that gives feedback through messages. For e.g. Minecraft uses a CLI to allow users to bypass the main interface and alter the game’s mechanics.

Question 7

What are some programming languages?

Answer 7

C++ and Java are examples of high level languages that are easier for humans to understand. Low level languages such as Machine Code or Assembly Language are harder to understand but work quicker with computers.

Question 8

What are some input devices?

Answer 8

Keyboard, mouse, joystick, bar code reader, magnetic stripe reader

Question 9

What are some output devices?

Answer 9

Screens and monitors- Liquid crystal display (LCD) and plasma are used to display temporary info.

Question 10

What are some hardware devices?

Answer 10

Modems - connect computers to the Internet
Router - enables a network of several computers to share the same Internet connection
Hub - Enables computers to share files

Question 11

What is a driver?

Answer 11

Software that supplies instructions to the hardware about how to coordinate with the operating system and application software