GCSE IT Revision

Question 1

What are Input Devices?

Answer 1

Input devices send data and control signals to the computer e.g. keyboard, mouse, game controllers and microphones.

Question 2

What is Central Processing Unit (CPU)?

Answer 2

The CPU runs computer programs and processes input data into a readable format understood by humans.

Question 3

What are Output Devices?

Answer 3

Output devices communicate and display the results of processed data e.g. monoitors, projectors, speakers and headphones.

Question 4

What are storage devices?

Answer 4

Storage devices can be used to record and store data e.g. a hard disk, CD, DVD, blue-ray, memory cards and USB drives.

Question 5

What is ROM?

Answer 5

ROM (Read Only Memory) stores the instructions that tell the computer how to start working.

Question 6

What is RAM?

Answer 6

RAM (Random Access Memory) stores data while the computer is running but loses it when it is switched of.

Question 7

What is a Port?

Answer 7

A slot or plug, usually on the rear of a PC unit, that allows you to plug in external devices such as printers, scanners, cameras etc. to the PC.

Question 8

What is a Peripheral Device?

Answer 8

Describes any item that can be attached to a PC but is not essential, such as a printers, scanners, cameras etc. to the PC.

Question 9

What is the VDU?

Answer 9

The VDU (Visual Display Unit) is the screen on which information and images can be viewed.

Question 10

What is a Virus?

Answer 10

A virus is a harmful program that spreads over a network or via email. Viruses are created deliberately to hack or destroy data.

Question 11

What is Network?

Answer 11

A network links computers together so they can exchange information. A user can send information such as text or graphics to another computer on the same network.

Question 12

What is a hard disk?

Answer 12

The hard disk is a computer’s main internal backing store. All computer programs and files are stored here. They can store large amounts of data. However they are delicate and can be easily damaged or destroyed.

Question 13

What is an Optical Disk?

Answer 13

Optical disks are flat, usually circular disks, that store data e.g. CDs (Compact Discs), DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs) and blu-ray discs.

Question 14

What is cloud storage?

Answer 14

Cloud storage involves uploading date to a remote server or computer via an internet connection. Online data storage is secure as long as passwords are kept private and ensures protection against physical damage.

Question 15

What is RSI (Repetetive Strain Injury) and how can it be solved?

Answer 15

RSI results from performing repetetive tasks such as typing or clicking. It generaly cause muscle and joint aches and pains.

It can be solved using ergonomically designed products and keeping forearms horizontal.

Question 16

What can cause muscle and joint problems and how can they be solved?

Answer 16

Poorly designed chairs and bad posture can lead to back problems. Sitting still for long periods can lead to muscle strain and aches.
This can be solved by walking around to strerch your legs, taking breaks regularly and using an ergonomically designed chair.

Question 17

How are visual problems caused and how can they be solved?

Answer 17

Spending to long looking at a monitor can cause eye strain, headaches and discomfort. Poor lighting can make reading difficult which can then result in eye strain.
This can be solved by keeping eyes level with the top of the monitor, ensure lighting is good and take regular breaks from looking at the screen.

Question 18

What is data logging?

Answer 18

Data logging is the process of capturing data using sensors. The data is then stored on a computer for analysis.

Question 19

How can computers be used in Schools?

Answer 19

Computers are used to:

• Communicate.
• Manage and analyse data.
• Present information.
• Educational purposes.

Question 20

How can computers be used at Work?

Answer 20

Computers are used to:

• Communicate.
• Create business documents.
• Store and share information.
• Perform research.

Question 21

How can computers be used in Banks?

Answer 21

Computers are used to:

• Process and track transactions.
• Process customer information.
• Run ATMs.
• Provide internet banking services.

Question 22

How can computers be used in Retail?

Answer 22

Computers are used to:

• Manage stock.
• Process payments.
• Offer products online.
• Manage loyalty schemes.

Question 23

What are the advantages of Internet?

Answer 23

• Always available.
• It is vast. (Has alot of information)
• Communication.
• Up to Date.

Question 24

What are the disadvantages of Internet?

Answer 24

• Information overload. (Hard to find things)
• Undesirable content. (Inappropriate content)
• Unreliable information.
• Security.

Question 25

What is Malware?

Answer 25

Malware is malicious software designed to damage computer systems.

Question 26

What is a worm?

Answer 26

A self replicating progran that can run itself.

Question 27

What is a Trojan Horse?

Answer 27

A Trojan Horse is a software which appears to perform on task but actually performs another.

Question 28

What is hacking?

Answer 28

Accessing a computer system without authorisation from the owner.

Question 29

What is anti-virus software?

Answer 29

Anti-virus software is a computer program that recognises and deletes viruses that may infect a computer system.

Question 30

What is Encryption?

Answer 30

Encryption is when data is converted into code to prevent unauthorised access.

Question 31

What makes a strong Password?

Answer 31

• Passwords should be kept secret.
• Changed regularly.
• Contain a mixture of upper and lower case.
• Contain a mixture of letters and numbers.