2.7 Software Systems Flashcards
Describe why these systems need to be powerful.
Describe elements of disaster planning which could allow this organisation to recover quickly following a disaster
Weather Forecasting, computer aided design, robotics and the use of computer generated graphics and animation
Weather forecasting:
- Inputs from thousands of weather stations e.g. satellites, balloons, ships, etc
- Requires the processing of a huge amount of data
- Requires very complex calculations/processing
- Processing has to be done very quickly as weather forecasts are no use if out-of-date / may risk human lives
- May require very good graphics for visual representation
Disaster Recovery:
- Backups should be made regularly
- Files should be archived off-site / in fireproof / waterproof safes
-There should be an alternative computer system with the ability to replace hardware quickly
-There should be a back-up power supply
Staff trained in recovery procedures
why is ROM most suitable type of language for this application
size of code - needs to be small to be stored in ROM on embedded chip in freezer
control over the hardware - embedded systems like controlling a freezer require control over the hardware
run fast - real time systems like controlling a freezer require immediate response so has to run fast
Explain the concept of open source software.
Built using community co-operation
Code is available for all to view, debug, rewrite, etc.
Free from commercial pressures
Free licence / General Public licence
Describe the benefits to an organisation of using an expert system
Can store more knowledge than one person.
Can easily be kept up to date.
Helps to give a more accurate decision.
Does not get ill, retire, go on holiday, etc.
Gives a second opinion.
Available 24/7.
Allows access to an expert where not available locally.
Provide significant clerical time and labour savings.
Explain that some computer applications are safety related and require a high level of dependability
A system like this will be safety critical as human life is at risk if the software sales. It is also likely to be highly complex as there will be multiple inputs and has to work in real time and has to fail safe
Possible drawbacks for customers using online shopping
Cannot see the item or try on Lacks the social aspect of shopping Need access to a credit card There is often a delivery charge You cannot get the item immediately
Use of search engines on the Internet and comment contemporary applications
Search engine is an application to accessed over the Internet which can be used to search for websites on a particular topic
Could be used for instance by English people are searching for poems by a certain awesome
Scope of computer control Robot and its main components
A robot is a computer controlled device which can carry out a variety of complex tasks for example in a car factory a robot could be used for painting, removing of all materials et cetera
Main components include sensors, microprocessor, actuator
Benefits of Automation
Perform the required task more consistently then human Worker
Perform the required task more accurately
Work 24 hours per day, seven days a week
Cheaper to run as there is no salary costs
Less chance of employees developing computer related ailments such as RSI
Drawbacks of automation
Staff remaining would have to be highly skilled I need significant training
Robots may not notice repeated errors in process and cannot adapt to changes
They may be expensive to repair and maintain
Expensive to buy set up and install
