ICT Systems Flashcards
What is a computer?
A programmable machine that follows a set of instructions, and responds to commands entered by a user.
What is a program?
A program is pre-written or recorded set of instructions that a computer follows or executes.
What features do modern computers have?
Modern computers are electronic, and most are digital.
What is the basic structure, or architecture to allow data to flow?
input > processing - (main or internal memory) - (backing storage) > output
What is hardware?
the physical components of the computer system that can be touched.
What are some examples of hardware?
monitor, keyboard, mouse, hard disk.
What is software?
the set of instructions (code or program) that the computer follows.
What are some examples of software?
word processors, operating systems, web-authoring packages.
What are input devices?
components for entering data.
What is a processor?
a component that decides what instructions mean and what to do .
What are output devices?
components to show the results of processing.
What is the main and internal memory?
components to store the data being used.
What is backing storage?
components to store the data and/or instructions when the computer is switched off.
What are advantages of input devices?
Mouses are good for desktop computers.
Reliable for putting in data on a computer.
All users tend to be familiar with using some input devices
What are disadvantages of input devices?
They have to have a flat space near the computer.
Sensitive files could be lost if you loose the input device
What are the advantages of output devices?
Some output devices are relatively cheap and reliable, you can display a range of text and graphics.
Output devices produce high quality black, or colored printing.
Some devices also use a tiny current, so can be powered directly from a computer.
What are the disadvantages of output devices?
Some devices cannot be powered directly from a computer and need a relay to control them.
Some output devices are analogue devices so the digital sound has to be converted, usually by sound card.
What are the 3 main types of computer systems?
personal computers (PCs)
mainframe computers
supercomputers
What is a use for a desktop/laptop computer?
web searching
email
running applications in home and office
What are some advantages of a desktop computer?
more internal memory more hard disk space faster processors better graphics processors larger monitors
What are some disadvantage of a desktop computer?
fixed position
larger physical size/takes up a lot of space
too heavy to carry about
What are some advantages of a laptop computer?
small/lightweight
portable
usually connects to internet via wireless
can be used anywhere
What are some disadvantages of a laptop computer?
easily lost, broken, or stolen
small screen or keyboard can lead to eye strain
costs the same amount as a desktop, even though it does not have a high specification like the desktop
What is a use for an embedded system?
used in domestic and industrial appliances (ie a microwave)
What are some advantages of an embedded system?
perform one task
main instructions cannot and do not need to be altered by user
user can input simple instructions (ie wash temperature)
Why do computers have both main storage and backing storage?
Main memory is usually used to store data temporarily. In the case of RAM, it is volatile.
Backing storage is usually non-volatile, so it is generally used to store data for a long time.
What components make up hardware?
input, output, storage, and communication devices