Topic 7: Using ICT systems Flashcards
How should you shut down the computer properly?
You should always shut your computer down properly otherwise the following can happen:
You can lose data.
Programs can be corrupted (i.e. damaged).
To exit the computer properly you should follow these instructions:
Click on the start button (bottom left of your screen).
From the menu that appears click on the arrow pointing to the right (bottom right menuitem).
Click on shutdown.
The computer has now been correctly ishutdown.
How do you start the computer?
To start the computer you turn it on and then tell the computer which user you are from the list that has been created by the person who initially set up the computer. You are then asked for a password, which you then enter. On entering the correct password you are given access to the computer. You can only use a computer as a standalone computer as you will need to supply more details to logon to a network.
What are the three main types of user interface?
Command line/driven interface: this is where you have to type in precise instructions to get things done. These instructions or commands have to be issued very precisely and this can make it hard to use.
Menu-driven interface: here you are given a choice of things any select the one you want, usually by typing a letter or number.
Graphical user interface (GUI): the user interface used by Windows is a graphical user interface. It use of Windows, icons, menus, pointers and makes use of a mouse. It is usually regarded as the easiest interface to use.
How could you alter a user interface?
You can alter the size of the icons.
You can alter the way the mouse works.
You can alter resolution, brightness and contrast on the computer screen.
What are the reasons for organising folders and files?
So you can find them easily, it would take you less time to find files, especially if it is a long time since you last used them.
So they can be copied, for example, it is easy to copy a whole group of files in a single folder than files scattered in different places.
So they are easily transferred, you may want to send them to others as a file attachment using the Internet.
What is a network?
A network is two or more computers that are linked together so that they are able to share resources. These resources could be a printer, scanner, software or even a connection to the Internet. You can also share data using a network. For example, a pupil database in school can be accessed from any of the computers connected to the network.
What is a peer-to-peer network?
Here are the main features of peer-to-peer networks:
Each computer on the network has an equal status.
All computers can share each other resources (e.g., data, an Internet connection, printers, scanners, etc.)
They are only suitable for small networks with fewer than 10 users.
Only very basic knowledge is needed to set one up and use it.
As more people use the network, the whole network slows considerably.
What is a client-server network?
Here are the main features of client-server networks:
One more powerful computer, called server, is used to store the data and the programs needed by the whole network. The server is in control of the network.
Software and data is stored on the server, so they can be assessed by all the computers on the network.
The network is totally dependent on the server. If this ever breaks down, the network cannot be used.
They are a popular choice for networks that need lots of computers.
What are the differences between LAN and WAN?
There are two types of network: a local area network (LAN) and a wide area network (WAN). Basically a WAN is a much bigger than a LAN and spread over a much wider area.
Features of a LAN:
Confined to a small area.
Usually located in a single building.
Uses cable, wireless, infrared and microwave links that are usually owned by the organisation.
Cheap to build.
Cheap to run.
Features WAN network:
Have a wide geographical area (e.g. between cities, countries and even continents).
In lots of different buildings, cities, countries, etc.
Uses more expensive telecommunication links that are supplied by the telecommunication companies.
Expensive to build.
Expensive to run.
What is data transfer media?
Data transfer media are the material through which data travels from one computer to another in a network. For small, simple networks this is usually wire, but many networks work wirelessly. Wires add considerably to the cost of a network, especially the cost of installing them. The main forms of the data transfer media are:
Metal wires.
Fibre optic cable.
Wireless.
What are network cards?
Before a computer can be connected to the network, it will need to have a network card. Most modern computers have one already installed when you buy the computer.
What are hubs?
They are simple devices used to join computers in a network so they are able to share files and an Internet connection.
What are switches?
They are like hubs in that they are used to join computers in a network but they are more intelligent. Switches look at each packet of data and then send it to the computer it was intended for. This reduces the amount of data travelling around the network and makes it work faster.
What are routers?
They are devices that join several wired or wireless networks together. They are often used in the home to enable several computers to access the Internet using a single connection.
What does network software do?
It keeps track of the software being run on each computer and keeps all the applications software up-to-date. It also checks that all computers have and are kept up-to-date with the latest virus checker. It also checks that the user has not loaded software illegally on to their computer and it checks what hardware each computer has (e.g. processor, memory, size of hard drive, etc.)
