1415-IGCSE Computer Science

Additional concepts to cover for the external exam

3D Scanners: It is a device that analyses a real-world solid object or environment to collect data
on its shape and possibly its appearance (e.g. color). The collected data can then be used to
construct digital three-dimensional models on a 3D printer.
Several technologies are used in 3D scanners; for example: lasers, white light, x-rays, and MRI
(Magnetic Resonance Imaging).
Recall: A 2D scanners is the most common type that is used to input a hard-copy document that
is converted to an electronic form saved on the computer. Example: OCR (scanners used at
airports to read passports).
Interactive White board (IWB)
An IWB is a large interactive display that connects to a computer. A projector projects the
computer's desktop onto the board's surface where users control the computer using a pen,
finger the user can write on the IWB. Everything written on the IWB can be saved so nothing
is lost (for example a lesson or points during a meeting). Any application that runs on a
computer can be used on an IWB (for example: surf the net, open a spreadsheet)
Light Emitting Diodes (LED):
Light Emitting Diodes (LED) gives the image better contrast and brightness when compared to
LCD. LEDs are just tiny light bulbs that fit easily into an electrical circuit. LED has several
advantages:2

They reach their maximum brightness immediately.

They produce a brighter light which improves the color definition.
They consume very little power so they produce less heat as well as using less energy.

Liquid Crystal Display/Diode (LCD) projectors

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display/Diode) projectors project light onto mirrors which split it up into
its three primary colors: red, green and blue. The colors then pass through three separate glass
panels (actually prisms), which is why this technology is referred to as 3LCD. When light is
projected through the LCD panels, individual pixels are opened or closed to allow light through
or block it. The separate colors are then joined using another prism and projected onto the screen.
Note: LCD/LED screens are used on many hand-held devices with touchscreens.

Refer to the top 50 Q #1 part (m)

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