ICT IGCSE Theory

Revision Questions

Chapter 1: Types & Components of a Computer System

Chapter 2: Input & Output Devices
Chapter 3: Storage Devices and Media
Chapter 4: Networks
Chapter 5: The Effects of Using ICT

Name: Aldemar Felipe Infante Torres

Chapter 1: Types & Components of a Computer System

What is the difference between Hardware and software?

Hardware is a general term for the physical components that make up a computer
system, while software is a general term for the programs that control the computer
system.

Briefly describe the purpose of the following hardware components:

Central Processing Is the part of the computer that interprets and executes
Unit (CPU): the commands from the computer hardware and
software.
Motherboard: It allows the processor and other computer hardware to
function and communicate with each other.

Internal Hard Disk: Are one of the main methods for storing data, files
(text, photos and music) and most of the system and
application software
Sound Card: Provides a computer with the ability to produce sounds.

Graphics Card: Allows the computer to send graphical information to a

video display device such as a monitor, television or
projector.
What are the differences between ROM & RAM?
ROM: RAM:
Is a memory used to store information Is an internal chip where data is
that needs to be permanent. temporarily stored when running
applications.

What are the differences between Application & System Software?

Application: System:
Programs that allow the user to do Programs that allow the hardware to run
specific tasks. properly and allow the user to
communicate with the computer.
Examples with use: Examples with use:
Word Processing - Used to prepare Compiler - translates a program written in a
reports, school essays high-level language (HLL) into machine
used to code
spreadsheet - organise and manipulate linkers - takes one or more object files
numerical produced by a compiler and combines them
data into a single program
Database - used to organise, manipulate
and analyse data

What is measure and control software used for?

Is designed to allow a computer or microprocessor to interface with sensors.

What are the main functions of an operating System?

Is essentially software running in the background of a computer system.
What are the differences between the CLI & GUI interfaces?
CLI: GUI:

Advantages: Advantages:

Disadvantages: Disadvantages:

Describe the four main features of the graphical user interface?

W
I
M
P

What are the differences between Main Memory and Backing Storage? (4)
Main Memory (ROM/RAM/Cache): Backing Storage:

Type of computer and use: Advantages Disadvantages

Personal Computer:

Laptop:

Tablet:

Smart Phone:
Chapter 2: Input & Output Devices
Describe the role of an Input Device? (1) List 2 Examples:



Describe the role of an Output Device? (1) List 2 Examples:




Describe the role of a Sensor? (1) List 3 Examples:





Why does a computer not understand Physical Variables (real world) read from
Sensors? (3)

Describe the role of an Actuator? (1) List 3 Examples:





Input Device USE: Advantage Disadvantage

Numeric Key
Pad

Mouse

Touch Pad

Web Camera

Microphone

Light Pen
 OMR: Use: Advantage:

OCR: Use: Advantage:

MICR: Use: Advantage:

Keyboard: Disadvantage of Using a Keyboard to input data over the direct data
input devices?

Magnetic Strip Advantages Disadvantages

Readers

Use:

Chip and Pin Readers Advantages Disadvantages

Use:

Contactless Cards Advantages Disadvantages

Use:

RFID (Radio Advantages Disadvantages

Frequency
Identification)
Use:

Type of Printer: Use Advantages Disadvantages

Dot Matrix:

Inkjet Printer:

Laser Printer:

3D Printer

Wide Format
Printer/Plotter

Compare the use of Magnetic Strip Reader, Chip and Pin Reader, Contactless Cards
Point, barcode scanner and number pad at the POS (Point of Sale)?