IGCSE ICT Theory

• Internal hardware components


  • Actuator
  • Processor
  • Sound card
• RAM (Random Access Memory)


  • It is a component of the internal memory of a computer
  • It has two characteristics
• RAM characteristics
• Devices that produce solid objects

  • 3D printer
• Direct data entry devices


  • Contactless credit cards
  • Multiple choice answers in an examination paper
  • Computerised till
• Sensors that could be used in a computer-controlled glasshouse


  • Temperature sensor
  • Humidity sensor
  • Light sensor
• Reasons why data from sensors needs to be converted for use by a computer


  • 1. Sensors output data in a format that is not directly usable by a computer
  • 2. Computers require data in a specific digital format
• Other uses of a smartphone


  • Making and receiving telephone calls
  • Accessing the internet
  • Using apps
  • Taking photos
• Normal test data


  Test data that represents typical, expected inputs and outputs
• Abnormal test data


  Test data that represents unexpected or erroneous inputs and outputs
• Extreme test data


  Test data that represents the limits of the system's capabilities
• Advantages of using cloud storage over SSD


  • Lower hardware costs
  • Easier to scale storage capacity
  • Automatic backups
  • Accessible from anywhere
• Disadvantages of using cloud storage over SSD


  • Reliance on internet connection
  • Potential security and privacy concerns
  • Ongoing subscription costs
• Using a mouse for a long period of time

  Can cause hand/wrist pain
• Sitting for too long in one position

  Can cause back pain
• Possible solutions


  Take regular breaks, use ergonomic mouse, use standing desk
• Extranet


  A private network that uses internet technology and the public telecommunication system to securely share part of a business's information or operations with suppliers, vendors, partners, customers, or other businesses
• How a GPS tracking system for a taxi company works


  1. Taxi cars have GPS receivers

  2. GPS receivers send location data to central system

  3. Central system displays routes and locations on a map
• Additional hardware needed for video-conferencing


  • Webcam
  • Microphone
  • Speakers
• Tasks to set up video-conferencing hardware


  1. Connect webcam, microphone and speakers to computers

  2. Install and configure video-conferencing software

  3. Test the setup to ensure it is working correctly
• Positive effects of using microprocessor-controlled devices in the home


  • Automated cooking
  • Automated heating/cooling
  • Automated lighting
  • Remote control of home devices
• Advantages of offering internet shopping for Tawara Retail


  • Reach a wider customer base
  • Lower overhead costs
  • Easier to update product information
  • Collect customer data for marketing
• Error messages when unable to save work on a CFast memory card


  • Card is full
  • Card is write-protected
• Similarities between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi


  Both are wireless communication technologies
• Differences between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi


  Bluetooth has shorter range, lower power consumption, and is used for personal area networks, while Wi-Fi has longer range, higher bandwidth, and is used for local area networks
• Advantages of internet banking over visiting a bank


  • Convenience, 24/7 access
  • Faster transactions
  • Lower costs
  • Easier to manage finances
  • Reduced risk of fraud
• Disadvantages of internet banking over visiting a bank


  • Reliance on internet connection
  • Security and privacy concerns
  • Lack of personal interaction
• Examples of sensitive personal data


  • Health information
  • Financial information
  • Biometric data
• Strategies for staying safe on social media


  • Use privacy settings
  • Be cautious about sharing personal information
  • Avoid interacting with strangers
  • Report any concerning behavior
• Advantages of an online appointment booking system for patients


  • Convenience, 24/7 access
  • Reduced waiting times
  • Ability to manage appointments easily
• Advantages of an online appointment booking system for medical staff


  • Reduced administrative workload
  • Better scheduling and resource management
  • Improved patient engagement
• Disadvantages of an online appointment booking system


  • Potential technical issues
  • Concerns about data privacy and security
  • Resistance to change from some patients and staff
• Components of an expert system


  • Knowledge base
  • Inference engine
  • User interface
• Network devices


  • DVD
  • Bridge
  • Printer
  • Hub
• Small application performing one or two simple functions

  an applet
• Input device used in measurement applications


  a sensor
• Devices used in control systems


  • Actuator
  • Sensor
• Advantages of using a memory stick rather than the cloud to store data


  • Portability
  • Offline access
• Advantages of using contactless bank cards

  • Faster transactions
  • Convenience
• Disadvantages of using contactless bank cards


  • Security concerns
  • Potential for accidental payments