ICT - 1.1-2.3 Units Flashcards
Define Hardware
Hardware are the actual components of a computer; each piece of hardware has its own job (task) to do. Internal or external hardware components are used.
Define CPU
the ‘brain’ of the computer, this unit performs calculations to complete software instructions.
Define Memory
Data or instructions that will be executed by the CPU must be stored in main memory.
Define Graphics Video Card
a device that connects to the motherboard and enables the computer to process and display graphics
Define Sound Card
A sound card is a device that connects to the motherboard and allows the PC to process and deliver sound.
Define Internal Hard Disk
It is a device that saves information such as software and files. The hard disk capacity ranges from TB to GB.
Define Network Card
provides a network link to the PC, either via wireless signals or a physical cable connection
Define Optical Disk Drive
a device that allows optical disks to run on a PC.
Define Power Supply
connected to power source to provide power to the computer The power supply connects all of the essential components of the computer so that it can run.
What are some Input Hardware Devices Examples?
Mouse, Keyboard, Microphone
What are some Output Hardware Devices Examples?
Monitor, Printer, Speaker
What are some External Storage devices examples?
USB, SD Card, etc.
What is an Application Software?
It is intended to allow users to perform specified tasks. Writing a letter/presentation, accessing the internet, editing data in a spreadsheet, and altering graphics, video, and sound are all examples of this. Word processing, spreadsheets, and databases are examples of application software.
What is System Software?
The software that enables the PC to function. Examples include operating systems (Windows, Linux, and so on), device drivers, and utility software.
What are some Application software examples?
Word Processor, Spreadsheets, Databases.
What are some System Software Examples?
OS, Device Drivers, Utilities.
What does the CPU do?
The CPU is the PC’s brain; it is responsible for all sorting, calculating, and decision making. The CPU’s speed is measured in gigahertz.
What is the Main Memory for?
Apps are placed in Secondary Storage. Apps’ temporary data is stored in main memory. The CPU will initially look in the cache for the needed data so that it may be processed. If the data is not in cache, the CPU will check the RAM and send the data to the CPU.
What is cache?
The quickest type of memory. It is located between the CPU and RAM and stores frequently used data. The cache will also transport the next set of data from RAM into cache so that it may be processed by the CPU.
What is RAM?
RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It is in charge of temporarily storing instructions for things that are running on the PC while the data is being processed by the CPU. Because RAM is volatile, data is lost every time the computer is shut down.
What is ROM?
ROM stands for Read Only Memory. It has fixed memory that cannot be modified. The boot up instructions for the PC are stored in ROM. Because ROM is non-volatile, the data is retained even if the computer is shut off.
What are Input and Output devices for?
To allow data to be inputted or outputted, devices must be connected. These devices are known as “Peripherals.” They are classified as “input,” “storage,” and “output” devices.
Input devices are devices that allow data to be entered into a computer. Output devices are devices that receive data from the PC.
What are storage devices for?
Secondary storage is used as backup storage. Because it is non-volatile, data is not lost when the computer is turned off. Backing storage is used to store data for an extended period of time. Users may also choose to make backup copies of original files.
What are 3 OS Functions?
- Provides security and prevents unauthorized system access.
- Enables users to execute, load, and save programs.
- Enables user interaction with computers via a user interface.
- Helps in the saving, organizing, finding, and deletion of files.
- Manages devices for input, output, and storage.
- Controls what is loaded and removed from memory.
What is User Interface (GUI)?
It is a graphic-based user interface.
- Windows - information display area
- Menus - a list of options or apps from which users can choose
- Icons - little pictures that symbolize - folders/files or apps
- Pointers are used to select and open files/applications.
What is Post GUI?
Touch screens are enabled by the GUI. It also supports pinching, scrolling, and expanding.
What is CLI (Command Line Interface)?
To interact with the PC, the user must enter commands. Because CLI is more difficult, it is typically utilized by specialists. CLI is also not limited.
What is a Laptop Computer?
It refers to a PC that has all of its components on a single device. The main advantage of a laptop is that it is portable and can connect to network connections wirelessly.
What are Computer Tablets?
Identical to smartphones. They have a wireless internet connection that includes 3G/4G. Touch screen technology is used in tablets to pick options from a menu or icons. Apps are available for download and installation. Speech recognition is one of the sensors.
What are cell phones?
It can make phone calls and send messages via a mobile network using typical ways. They have an operating system that allows them to execute numerous programs at the same time.
What are advantages and disadvantages of a desktop computer?
Advantages:
1) Always connected to a power source
2) It is easily upgradeable.
Disadvantages:
1) Not portable
2) Loose cables that could cause someone to trip and get hurt
What are advantages and disadvantages of laptop computer?
Advantages:
1) Portability
2) Wireless connectivity
Disadvantages:
1) Limited battery life
2) It is possible that it will be stolen or lost.
What are advantages and disadvantages of tablet computer?
Advantages:
1) Anti-glare high-definition display
2) Data can be saved or synced.
Disadvantages:
1) Poor memory
2) Typing can be challenging.
What are advantages and disadvantages of cell phone?
Advantages:
1) Small size
2) Use of touch screen technologies
Disadvantages:
1) The small screen makes it difficult to read.
2) It is possible that it will be misplaced or stolen.
What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)
It is a computer program that mimics human intelligence.
What are Biometrics?
It is a type of identification that recognizes specific body components. It utilizes distinguishing features that are not shared by others. E.g. fingerprint.
What is Eye Recognition?
For identification, the iris of the eye is scanned. It is convenient since no physical touch is necessary to scan the iris. Airport immigration uses eye recognition to prevent people from traveling with false documents.
What is Vision Enhancement?
It employs video technology, which is projected onto the user via the lens. The system has the ability to bring distant objects closer and into focus.
What is Quantum Cryptography?
It is a technology that permits for the encryption of online communications. It is often used to secure an individual’s data on online shopping and banking websites.
What is Translation Assisted by Computer?
The human can type text or say phrases through into a microphone, and the information will be translated into the language that the user has chosen.
What is 3D and Holographic Imagery?
It is the technology that enables the creation of 3D images. A holographic picture moves in 3D in the same way as the original image.
What is Virtual Reality (VR)?
Virtual reality (VR) is a software-created artificial environment. The user will typically wear a head-mounted display that simulates their actual presence in real or imagined environments.
What are some examples of sensors?
Temperature: Used to measure temperature Eg. Living room for central heating system
Humidity: Used to measure water vapor in air E.g Swimming pool or greenhouse
Infra-red: Used to measure infra red radiation e.g security alarm systems
Light: Used to measure light levels eg. external security lghts
PH: Acid/alkali levels eg. environmental experiments, river pollution
What is an ADC (Analogue to Digital Converter)
- If we try to attach an analogue device to a computer we will need to convert the analogue data to digital before the computer can use it.
- The microphone is used to pass analogue sound waves to the ADC which will convert the sound from analogue to digital.
- The ADC then passes the converted digital data into the computer where the sound can be stored and edited.
What is Binary
All computer data is actually a binary digit number (often shortened to just binary). Binary is represented by the digits 1 and 0, and various combinations of these 1’s and 0’s are used to represent all of the many types of data that may be stored and processed within a digital device.
What is analogue data and what are some analogue devices?
Analogue data use values that change very smoothly e.g. analogue clock.
Analogue devices:
- Microphone
- Headphones
- Loud speaker
- Sensors
What is digital data and what are some digital devices?
Digital data jumps form one value to the next in a step by step sequence e.g. digital clock.
Digital devices:
- Computers/Laptops/IPads
- Mobile Phone
- MP3 Player
- Digital camera
What can you tell me about Magnetic stripe card reader
The strip can contain up to 60 characters of info stored magnetically
What is a chip and pin reader?
A smart card contains a small RAM chip. When the card is put into a machine data can be read from the card or written on it.
What is a Radio Frequency ID reader
RFID tags are a type of tracking system that uses smart barcodes in order to identify items.
What is a Magnetic Ink Character Reader?
MICR is able to read characters printed in a special ink.
What is a Optical Character Reader?
OCR scans text from hard copies and converts it into an editable form which can be used and edited in a range of software including word processors.
What is a Optical Mark Reader?
Optical Mark Reader - OMR is able to read marks written in pen or pencil
What is a Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) Monitor?
Used to be used as primary output display for computers.
Advantage: Less expensive than other monitors and compatible with light pens. Also the resolution is excellent.
Disadvantage: Size and weight are larger and heavier, requiring more desk space. If not properly supported, it could prove dangerous when it heats up.
What is a Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) Monitor?
Used to be used as primary output display for computers.
Advantage: Less expensive than other monitors and compatible with light pens. Also the resolution is excellent.
Disadvantage: Size and weight are larger and heavier, requiring more desk space. If not properly supported, it could prove dangerous when it heats up.
What is a Thin Film Transistor (TRT) Monitor?
Has replaced CRT as the main computer output display.
Advantage: Requires less desk space because it is smaller and lighter. Unlike CRT monitors, it uses less energy and produces less heat.
Resolution could not be as good as on CRT monitors, which is a drawback.
What is a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Monitor?
It is a TFT development. Liquid crystal diodes in the RGB color scheme are used to form the monitor’s front layer.
What is a Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Monitor?
It is an advancement in LCD technology that employs LED backlighting. Due to their brightness, LED monitors are typically used outside in billboards, shop signs, and destination signs.
Advantage: LEDs may be utilized outside in a variety of lighting conditions and produce better light that enhances color definition. LEDs save energy and have a long lifespan.
Disadvantage: Costly compared to other monitors is a drawback.
What is a Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Monitor?
It is an advancement in LCD technology that employs LED backlighting. Due to their brightness, LED monitors are typically used outside in billboards, shop signs, and destination signs.
Advantage: LEDs may be utilized outside in a variety of lighting conditions and produce better light that enhances color definition. LEDs save energy and have a long lifespan.
Disadvantage: Costly compared to other monitors is a drawback.
What is the use, advantages and disadvantages of touch screen?
Use: A touch screen is a display screen for a system that also functions as an input tool.
Users have the option of using their fingers or a dedicated stylus or pen to interact with the screen.
- Terminals at POS/Bank/Station locations - Mobile phones and tablets
Advantages: - No requirement for extra input devices.
- There is no need for additional buttons.
- Most menus and user interfaces are fairly simple to use.
- Rotation and zooming are both options.
Disadvantages:
The screen can get dirty, less clear, or damaged.
- More challenging to input large amounts of data than with a keyboard.
What are Speakers for?
Use speech-generation software to output the audio of the text on the screen, play downloaded audio files, and output sound from multimedia (to help users with disabilities)
What are the advantages and what is a projector?
Projecting images from numerous computer TV devices onto a large screen, such as those seen in classrooms and offices, is what multimedia projectors are used for.
Advantages: Enables more people to view the output because it can be projected onto a large screen. One screen might serve as the focus point for users when they gather in classrooms.
Disadvantages: The output resolution might not be as high-quality as that of other devices. The projection may be restricted or blocked by obstacles. expensive to purchase and challenging to set up.
What is an actuator?
They are all output devices that a computer can instruct to produce movement or carry out a certain action.
Name me some actuators and what they do
Light bulb or LED: Creates Light. It is used for Security lights & control lighting in glasshouses
Heater: Increases temperature, Used in automatic washing machines to heat up the water
Cooling Unit: Decreases temperature. Used in AC Units
What are the advantages, disadvantages and uses of a laser printer?
Laser printers are used when high output volumes are required (Schools and offices)
Ad: High quality printing and very fast.
Dis: More expensive
What are the advantages, disadvantages and uses of an inkjet printer?
When low output volumes are required. (Home use)
Ad: Cheap high quality printing and small in size.
Dis: Ink cartridge runs out quickly and slow printing.
What are the advantages, disadvantages and uses of a dot matrix printer?
Type of printing that uses a print head which presses against an inked ribbon whilst moving back and forth (Used in shop receipts or airline tickets)
Ad: Not affected by harsh environments and can print carbon copies.
Dis: Very slow printing and noisy.
What are the advantages, disadvantages and uses of a wide format printer?
Wide Format printers are generally used when large format printing is required. (Banners, billboards, etc)
Ad: High resolution printing and large printouts.
Dis: Expensive to buy and maintain
What are the advantages, disadvantages and uses of a 3D printer?
3D Printers can produce s olid objects by building layer upon layer (Medical applications, Construction)
Ad: Products can be customised and prototypes can be created quickly.
Dis: Dangerous objects could be printed and very expensive.
What is a network?
A network is 2 or more computers connected together to share files, resources and for communication.
Advantages of a network
- Sharing files, resources, apps, etc.
- Communication
- Sharing resources like printers and saving money
Disadvantages of a network
- Vulnerable to hackers or viruses
- Can be expensive to set up
- Printing queues can be long
What is a router?
- A device that allows a computer or any electronic device to access the internet.
- It can connect a device to the internet through wireless signals or through cables.
- It stores information of each computer that is connected to the router.
What is a web page?
- Stored on web servers.
- It has a unique IP address and domain name so the web page can be identified easily.
What is a switch?
- Smart device.
- It sends specific data packets to specific workstations in a network.
- It is secure but expensive.
- Normally used in larger networks.
What is a hub?
- Dumb device.
- It sends data packets to all workstations in a network, which leads to network traffic.
- It is not secure.
- It is used for smaller networks.
What is a modem?
- A device that converts analogue signals to digital signals which the computer can read.
- It can also convert the digital signals back to analogue for transmission.
What is a Network Interface Card?
- A device that lets you connect to the network.
- It contains the MAC address which will be used to identify your computer on the network.
What are bridges?
- Things that are used to connect 2 LANs to make 1 LAN.
- 2 switches can be connected using this device.
What is WIFI and Bluetooth?
- WIFI allows devices to connect to the internet wirelessly.
- Bluetooth is designed only for short range connections.
What is internet and intranet?
- Internet is public, it has more info than intranet.
- Intranet is private, more secure, it is more managed and is used only for one organisation.
Security issues in networks?
- Data can be deleted, stolen, edited, corrupted, replicated and sold to other people.
- Network can shut down due to a virus.
What is authentication and its disadvantages?
- It is something used to ensure only authorised people can get access to a network/account.
- Disadvantages: passwords can be guessed easily if its too simple, passwords can be seen by others and spyware can be used to log key presses.
What are viruses?
- It is a piece of software that can install and replicate itself on a computer without the users permission.
What is a MAC address?
- A hexadecimal number which uniquely identifies a computer in the internet, it can change and is located in the hardware of the computer.
What is an IP address?
- A series of numbers used to identify the location of a device, the IP can change depending on the location of the device.
