General Concepts Of Computing Flashcards
Five basic principles that computers operate on
Input
Processsing
Storage
Output
Communication
What is storage
It is where the computer takes the input and stores it in its memory banks
Storing process in a computer
The CPU writes the data to the computer’s temporary storage, or random access memory (RAM)
The computer waits for the user’s command to move the data from the RAM to more permanent storage. If that command is given, the computer writes the data to the disk drive
Lastly, the computer saves the data in a location on the drive, either the default storage location or a location set by the user. The user can then recall this stored information at any time.
Three types of computers
Non-portable : server, desktop
Portable : laptops, tablets, smartphones
dedicated devices : ATM ,smart fridge
Servers
.Focus on one type of information
. Designed to process huge amounts of data
. High processing power
. Not portable. Since they are connected in a network removing one means that it no longer functions as a server
Desktop
General office and household work
Can be extremely powerful, especially those designed for heavy use.
Processing power ranges from medium to very high
They are not very portable since they are large and heavy. Internal parts can be quite delicate and the PC will need an external power source
Laptops/notebooks
Generally used for office work or personal use
Referred to as mid-range devices, meaning that they are suitable for normal use
They are portable since they contain a battery, so they do not always need an external power source
Tablets
Mainly used for entertainment or web browsing
Processing power is not very high
Portable as they are designed to be mobile
They play an important role in the rise of mobile computing-Which is the idea that you can take your computer anywhere
Smartphones
Designed mainly as a communication device and comes with pre-installed messaging and voice call apps
Not designed to be a high-powered computing device - although some do have quite alot of processing power
Extremely portable since they are a blend of ultra portable computing devices and mobile technology
Dedicated device
Is a device with an embedded computer that is designed to perform very specific functions. It is usually limited in what it can and cannot
Reasons why ICT is used in the workplace
They allow workers to do their work faster, more efficiently and with fewer wasted resources.
Companies no longer need staff to handle physical mail as email is faster and more effective than an employee sorting through post and delivering it to the correct people
Binary code
Binary code is a system of representing data using only two symbols: 0 and 1
How have ICTs impacted workplace organization?
ICTs have enabled more flexible work arrangements by allowing employees to work remotely using mobile or virtual offices.
What are mobile offices typically used for?
Mobile offices are usually built for temporary purposes and are commonly located within movable or temporary structures like old shipping containers.
Why are virtual offices popular with new businesses
Virtual offices are popular because they have lower starting and administrative costs, provide more flexibility, and do not require handling day-to-day administrative tasks.
How has the rise of ICTs affected working hours?
ICTs have led to flexible working schedules, allowing employees to work hours that suit them rather than following rigid timetables.
What is meant by the decentralization of labor?
Decentralization of labor refers to employees being scattered across the globe, working at different times and in different places, instead of being tied to a central location and fixed schedule.
What is the advantage of renting virtual office spaces for businesses?
Renting virtual office spaces gives businesses a physical address and access to office-related services without needing to lease business spaces or hire administrative staff
What is BYOD, and why is it beneficial for businesses
BYOD stands for “Bring Your Own Device.” It allows employees to use their own smartphones, tablets, and computers for work, reducing costs for businesses by avoiding the purchase of new equipment. It is also cost-effective for small to medium-sized businesses.
How does BYOD benefit employees
Employees can tailor their devices to their specific needs and have the convenience of using their own equipment at work and home.
Why have smartphones and tablets become more common in the workplace
Smartphones and tablets have become more cost-effective, making it easier for businesses to adopt BYOD policies.
What impact has automation had on communication within companies?
Automation has improved efficiency by enabling systems to answer calls and provide relevant responses without needing a human operator
How are ICT’s used to improve the way employees are paid
• Employees do not need to be paid with physical cash, they can be paid using online banking
• Paying through online banking makes the payment process easier and quicker and can be done by anyone who has the relevant details
How are ICT’s used to improve the way employees communicate with each other
Employees can communicate from anywhere around the world, since they do not need to all be in one centralized location
Two examples on how ICT’s can be used to improve a school environment
• Teachers can email the learner’s report cards directly to their parents
• The school can email sick learner’s their homework
Compare the functions of input and output devices
• Input devices enter data into a computer. Then it takes the sent input data and converts it into binary code (0s and 1s)
• While ouptut devices take pixels, information or data from the processing stage and displays or converts it to a format that can be used by the user
Flexi time
Not fixed starting and ending time
