Chapter One: Fundamental of Computer Systems. Flashcards
Explain the importance of computer systems.
Firstly, improved quality means that robotic machinery is more accurate than humans. Secondly, cheaper manufacturing means that automation reduces wage cost and allows for 24/7 working. Thirdly, there is faster access to information so many jobs can be done more quickly. Fourthly, better decision making that decisions can be better informed when lots of data and facts are involved. Fifthly, there are new ways of doing business. Because there is more buying online and more choice and cheaper goods, facilities such as the internet and ATM’s would not be possible without computer systems. Finally, there are new ways of communicating. The creation of emails, SMS and cell phones are continually being developed all of the time.
Define the term ‘embedded system’
Embedded systems are computer systems that are part of a larger system. They are usually also control systems.
Give two examples of an expert system.
Choosing complex products, such as mortgages and insurance policies.
Finding faults in machinery.
State the three main component parts of an expert system.
A knowledge base ( A database full of facts).
An inference engine (software that makes deductions using the knowledge base).
An interface (to allow a human user access to the system).
What is a Dedicated system?
Dedicated systems are specially produced to perform a single functions or a set of functions.
What is a control system?
Control systems are computer systems that control machinery rather than produce output for humans to read and to respond to.
What is the purpose of a management information system?
Management information systems bring together information from all parts of an organisation so that managers can make sensible decisions.
Give two examples of management information systems and say what they do.
Decision Support Systems are used by middle management to support day-to-day decision making.
Executive information systems produce reports using data from throughout an organisation and support decisions about the organisation’s strategy.
Give three ways in which data integrity can be comprised.
A human error when the data is entered.
Errors that occur when data is transmitted from one computer to another.
Hardware malfunctions.
Define the term ‘data integrity’.
Data integrity is when the data is accurate and consistent throughout its life. Data integrity also means that the stored data reflects real-world reality.
Explain why standards are important in the computer industry.
Firstly, they enable equipment from different manufacturers to work together. Secondly, they make learning new systems easier, because they have similar characteristics. Finally, they help ensure fair play and access to markets.
Explain how de jure standards have an impact on learning a new piece of software (2 marks).
They are de facto standards that have become so universally accepted that they have to be adhered to or communications is impossible.
State two examples of de jure standards.
TCP/IP
ASCII
Explain what proprietary standards are. (2 marks).
Proprietary standards are owned by an organisations. They ensure compatibility between the company’s products.
Explain what open standards are.
Open Standards are standards made available to the general public and are developed (or approved) and maintained via a collaborative and consensus driven process
