Exam Date: May 13th 2015
R001 Introduction to Computer
Systems – A Student’s Guide
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Cambridge Nationals ICT
2015
Contents
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified
business needs
3. Learning Outcome 3: Know how ICT can be
used to support business working practices
4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how legal,
ethical, safety and security issues affect how
computers should be used.
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
1. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:- Desktop Computer
- Portable Devices
- Laptop
- Netbook
- Tablet
- Smartphone
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
-
Mouse
Keyboard
Microphone
Sensor
PAD
Specialist Keyboards
Touch Pad
Remote Controls
Scanners
Digital Cameras
Web Cams
Touch Screens
Barcode Readers
Magnetic Stripes
Chip and Pin
MIDI Instruments
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Output Devices
-
Monitor/Screen
Printers
Speakers
Headphones
Digital Projectors
Data Projectors
Plotters
Actuators
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Software
-
Operating Systems
Utility Software
Applications Software
Word Processing
Desktop Publishing
Spreadsheets
Database Management Software
Communications Software
Multi-media Software
Slideshow Software
Video- Editing Software
Graphics Manipulation Software
Communications Software (E.g. Social Networking,chat, instant messaging, file transfer and
email clients)
Presentation Software
Gaming Software
Web Browsers
Apps
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
4.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
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Storage and Connectivity Devices i.e.
Optical Disks (E.g. CD and DVD for data storage)
Magnetic Media (e.g. internal and external hard disk drives (HDD), tape)
Solid State Drives (SSD)
Memory Cards i.e. Flash memory devices
Network Devices (e.g. routers, modems)
Cloud Storage
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
5. Explain how systems can be customised to meet
the specific needs of
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
a) People with a physical impairment
- Sight
- Hearing
- Movement
b) People working remotely (e.g. travelling or
from home)
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
6. How might the choice of a computer system be
affected by
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
a)
b)
c)
d)
Cost
Availability
User Needs
Data Security
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
7. Explain the different methods below of
connecting peripherals to a computer system
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
a) Wired Methods (e.g. USB and Firewire)
b) Wireless Methods (WIFI, Bluetooth, Infra –
Red)
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
8. Explain how you would connect a computing
device to an existing wireless network.
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
9. Explain how organisations use the following
technologies to track and monitor employees
a) GPS Location Tracking
b) Monitoring Internet Use
c) Monitoring Communications
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
2.
Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work
with information and data to meet specified
business needs
1) Explain the following ways in which an
organisation can capture (collect) data
a) Online and Paper based forms
b) Automated data capture systems
- Control System Sensors
- Bar Code Readers
- Radio Frequency Identification Device
(RFID)
- Near Field Communication (NFC)
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
2.
Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work
with information and data to meet specified
business needs
2) Explain how the following factors can affect
how data is captured.
a) Cost
b) Availability
c) Ease of Use
d) Data Security
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
3) Explain how data capture forms should be
designed to obtain specific information
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
4) What is meant by coding when capturing data
on a computer? How is this useful?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
5) Explain Data Validation methods. How are these
used to ensure accurate data is collected?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
6) Explain Data Validation methods. How are these
used to ensure accurate data is collected?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
7) Explain what file formats are when storing data
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
8) What is a proprietary file format?
9) Which files use the following formats?
a) .doc
b) .xls
c) .ppt
d). fla
e) .wma
f) .wma
g) .aac
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
10) What is an open format?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
11) Which types of files used the following
format?
a) .rtf
b) . pdf
c) . Csv
d) .exe
e) .txt
f) .mp3
g) .wav
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
12) What is local and removable storage?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
13) What is meant by remote storage?
a) Offsite location
b) Cloud Storage
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
14) Explain relevant network and computer
security measures that should be used when
storing data?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
a) Usernames/Passwords
b) Access Rights/Permissions
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
15) Explain the relevant document security
measures that could be used when storing
documents
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
16) Explain physical security measures that could
be used to prevent data loss
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
17) What is the difference between wired and
wireless technologies for transferring data?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
18) What are the differences between 3g and 4g
data transfers in mobile phone technology?
19) How is data transferred remotely?
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
20) How is data that is being transferred kept
secure?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
21) When thinking about transferring data, how do
the following factors influence your decision?
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
28) Explain how bandwidth and router technology
affect the transfer of data
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
29) Explain how important the following factors
are when backing up data?
a) The choice of media. (e.g. removable devices,
remote storage)
b) Back up frequency
c) Archiving
d) Automated vs manual systems
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
30) Explain how the following factors may well
influence your choice of back up?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
a)
b)
c)
d)
Cost
Availability
Ease of Use
Data Security
3. Learning Outcome 3: Know how ICT can be
used to support business working practices
1) Explain the following remote ways in which
businesses can communicate with employees
and others
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
a) SMS
b) Instant Messaging
c) E-Mail
d) Chat Rooms
e) Forums
f) Bulletin Boards
g) Voice-overoIP (VOIP)
h) Video Conferencing
i) Webcams
j) Blogs
h) Social Networking
3. Learning Outcome 3: Know how ICT can be
used to support business working practices
2) Explain what is meant by appropriate use of
communication tools in an organisation
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
3. Learning Outcome 3: Know how ICT can be
used to support business working practices
3) Explain what is meant by diary management
software
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
4) Explain how documents can be created and
edited collaboratively
4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
1) Explain how laws (legislation) affect computer
users in terms of:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
a)
b)
c)
d)
Health and Safety
Data Protection
Copyright
Computer Misuse
4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
2) Explain how moral and ethical issues affect business
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
computer users
4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
3) What are the implications and consequences for
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
organisations of data loss, corruption
and theft?
a)
b)
c)
d)
Legal implications
Impact on customers
Impact on employees
Impact on the organisation
4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
4) What are the main threats to data security in an
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
organisation?
5) What actions can an organisation take to minimise the
risks of data theft?
ANSWERS
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
1. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:- Desktop Computer
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
A desktop computer is a personal computer that is used at a single
location desk/table due to its size and power requirements. It is not
carried around. It is typically made up of a tower, monitor, keyboard
and mouse. Desktop computers run application software that help
users complete various tasks i.e. Writing a letter, Editing photographs
etc.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
1. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
- Portable Devices
- Laptop
A laptop combines the components and inputs of a
desktop computer, including display, speakers,
keyboard and pointing device (such as a touchpad or
a track pad) into a single device. Most modern-day
laptops also have built in webcam and a microphone.
Laptops allow the user to carry them around and
work away from the office.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
1. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:- Portable Devices
- Netbook
A netbook is a small, light, low-power notebook computer that
has less processing power than a full-sized laptop but is still
suitable for word processing, running a Web browser and
connecting wirelessly to the Internet. They are cheaper and
smaller than laptops.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
1. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:- Portable Devices
- Tablet
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
A tablet computer is a mobile device with a touchscreen
display, components and battery built into a single unit. Tablets
come equipped with sensors, including cameras, a microphone
and an accelerometer, and the touchscreen display uses finger
or stylus gestures instead of computer mouse and keyboard.
Tablets run different apps or applications that range from
games to business related software.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
1. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:- Portable Devices
- Smartphone
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
A mobile phone that is able to perform many of the
functions of a computer. Typically they have a
larger screen and an operating system capable of
running general-purpose applications (apps). Like
tablets, a smartphone comes with a number of
sensing devices like an accelerometer.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
Mouse
A mouse in an input device that is used to control a pointer on a typical
desktop computer system. Most mice are optical mice. This means
they use a L.E.D underneath to detect movement.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
Keyboard
A keyboard is an input device that is used by the user to type
information into a computer system. A typical keyboard is known as a
QWERTY keyboard because of the layout of the keys. Another type
of keyboard is the concept keyboard. This keyboard uses symbols. The
user can press these to communicate with the system. At McDonald’s
concept keyboards are used to help type in your order.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
Microphone
A microphone is an input device that captures sound waves for a
computer system. More and more systems have built in microphones.
Typically a laptop, smartphone and tablet will feature a built in
microphone so that users can communicate with others.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
Sensor
A sensor is an input device that detects something. There are many
different types of sensor. A movement sensor may be used in a
burglar alarm to detect movement. A light sensor may be used in the
garden to detect a lack of light and turn on the garden lights. Heat
sensors can be used by central heating systems to detected the
temperature in order to turn the heating on or off.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
Input Devices
-
PAD
Pressure pad sensors are input devices that
can be used in burglar alarms or baby
monitoring devices to detect pressure being
applied. If a baby stops breathing in a cot,
the pad can detect this and the system can
alert the parents.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
Specialist Keyboards
A specialist keyboard is an input device that has been designed to
fulfil a particular task. Sometimes keyboards are designed for people
with disabilities to make them easier to use. Alternatively, the keys
may be move to allow the user to use the device in a better manner.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
- Touch Pad
A touch pad is an input device that allows the user to control a
pointer on the screen. Touch pads can often be found on
laptops and netbooks.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
- Remote Controls
A remote control is an input device that beams a infra red light
at a receiver and allows the user to operate a system from a
distance. Ie. On your T.V. you can control it from the comfort
of your settee using a remote control.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
- Scanners
A scanner is an input device that allows you to scan
information onto a computer system. Text that is
scanned onto a system can be read by Optical
Character Recognition (OCR) software which then
allows the user the chance to edit the text or add to
it.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
Input Devices
- Digital Camera
A digital camera is an input device that allows the user to
capture photographs . Photographs can then be uploaded onto a
computer system to be edited and printed. Inside the digital
camera is a sensor that captures data on a matrix. The more
data it captures, the more megapixels the digital camera is
said to have. A 12MP digital camera can capture 12 million
pixels of data.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
- Web Cams
Web cams are used to capture images and videos. These input
devices are useful for video-conferencing sessions. Software
such as Skype (Voice over IP) can be used to connect users
across the world.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
- Touch Screen
A touch screen is an input device that allows the
user to control computer systems like Tablets and
Smartphones. This type of control is easy to use and
very intuitive. The user can point at apps they want
to access and they will open.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
-
Barcode Readers
A barcode reader is an input device that allows the quick
scanning of bar codes. The bar reader shines a dot of light
across the code and picks up the returning signal which it
converts into a digitised signal. The bar code identifies the
item. The system is usually linked to an EPOS or Electronic
Point of Sale system which deducts the product from the
inventory of the store. This allows the store manager to keep
control of his/her stock very easilyt.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
- Magnetic Stripes
A magnetic stripe card is a type of card capable of
storing data by modifying the magnetism of tiny
iron-based magnetic particles on a band of magnetic
material on the card. The magnetic stripe,, is read
by swiping past a magnetic reading head. Magnetic
stripe cards are commonly used in credit cards,
identity cards, and transportation tickets.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
- Chip and Pin
Chip and PIN is the name given to a smart card
payment system for credit, debit, and Automated
Teller Machines (ATM) cards. "Chip" refers to a
computer chip embedded in the smartcard, and
"PIN" refers to a personal identification number
that the customer must supply.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
2. Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:-
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Input Devices
-
MIDI Instruments
The classic MIDI synthesizer is the electronic keyboard,
resembling a small piano. When you press a key on the
keyboard, you hear a tone. Most new keyboards come with
hundreds of different preset instrument sounds and effects
from which to choose.
But when you press a key on a MIDI synthesizer, in addition to
creating an audible tone, you also create MIDI data. If you
connect the keyboard to a computer, you can record that MIDI
data onto a sequencing program.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Output Devices
- Monitor/ TFT Screen
A computer screen or display. The monitor displays the
computer's user interface and open programs, allowing the user
to interact with the computer, typically using the keyboard and
mouse. Monitors display picture elements or pixels. Pixels are
tiny dots that make up the image. The more pixels a monitor
can display, the greater the resolution the monitor has.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
-
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:Output Devices
-
Printers
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
A printer is a device that accepts text and graphic output from a computer and transfers
the information to paper, usually to standard size sheets of paper. The four printer
qualities of most interest to most users are:
• Color: Color is important for users who need to print pages for presentations or maps
and other pages where color is part of the information. Colour ink costs more than
greyscale
• Resolution: Printer resolution (the sharpness of text and images on paper) is usually
measured in dots per inch ( dpi ). Most inexpensive printers provide sufficient
resolution for most purposes at 600 dpi.
• Speed: If you do much printing, the speed of the printer becomes important.
Inexpensive printers print only about 3 to 6 sheets per minute. Color printing is slower.
More expensive printers are much faster.
• Memory: Most printers come with a small amount of memory (for example, one
megabyte ) that can be expanded by the user. Having more than the minimum amount of
memory is helpful and faster when printing out pages with large images or tables with
lines around them (which the printer treats as a large image).
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Output Devices
- Speakers
A speaker is an output device that lets the computer system
communicate with the user via sounds and noises.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
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Output Devices
- Headphones
Headphones are similar to speakers in that they are an output
device but they are worn by a single user. They come in
different sizes and shapes. Some are worn in the ear whilst
overs are worn over the ears
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Output Devices
- Digital Projectors
A digital projector is an output device that projects an image
onto a wall or screen. These projectors allow large displays to
be used. A business may use a digital projector in a boardroom
or conference room so that many people can watch a
presentation at once.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Output Devices
- Data Projectors
A data projector is an electronic device that collects video
data from a computer or other media player and projects the
incoming images onto a projection screen. These devices are
generally thought of as updated models of the basic overhead
projector
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Output Devices
- Plotters
The plotter is a computer printer for printing vector graphics.
In the past, plotters were used in applications such as
computer-aided design, though they have generally been
replaced with wide-format conventional printers. A plotter
gives a hard copy of the output. It draws pictures on paper
using a pen
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Output Devices
- Actuators
An actuator is an output device and a type of motor that is
responsible for moving or controlling a mechanism or system. In
your playstation controller, actuators are used to vibrate the
handset when you are hit by a bullet or taking a penalty in a
football game.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
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Software
- Operating Systems
An operating system (OS) is software that manages computer
hardware and software resources and provides common
services for computer programs. The operating system is an
essential component of the system software in a computer
system. Application programs usually require an operating
system to function.. Common operating systems include
Windows, MacOS, Linux and Android OS. The operating system
is the first thing that is loaded into a systems memory when
the system is turned on.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
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Software
- Utility Software
Utility software is system software designed to help analyze,
configure, optimize or maintain a computer.
Utility software usually focuses on how the computer
infrastructure (including the computer hardware, operating
system, software and data storage) operates. Utility software,
along with operating system software, is a type of system
software, distinguishing it from application software. Examples
of utility software might be anti – virus software or back up
software
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
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Software
-
Applications Software
- Word Processing
A computer program that allows the user to compose,
edit, format and sometimes print any sort of text. A
common example is Microsoft Word.
Go Back
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
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Software
-
Applications Software
Desktop Publishing
DTP or Desktop Publishing s the creation of documents
using page layout skills on a personal computer. These
documents usually contain a mixture of text and graphics.
Examples of documents produced using DTP might be a
newsletter or a magazine front cover.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Software
-
Applications Software
Spreadsheets
An electronic document in which data is arranged in the
rows and columns of a grid and can be manipulated and used
in calculations. A spreadsheet allows you to make graphs
and charts too.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Software
-
Applications Software
Database Management Software
A database is an organised collection of data. Databases
can be used to sort, find and manipulate data very quickly
which saves businesses time and money. A good example of
a database is Microsoft Access.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Software
-
Applications Software
Communications Software
Communication software is used to provide remote access to
computer systems and exchange files and messages in text, audio
and/or video formats between different computers or users.
Examples of communication software include Voice over IP (VOIP)
software like skype, instant messager software, email and File
Transfer Protocol software (FTP)
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Software
-
Applications Software
Multi-media Software
Multimedia software is software that can play and view all sorts
of media, such as Music, Videos, Pictures, etc. Examples: VLC
Media Player, Windows Media Player. This software enables the
creation and editing of multimedia documents.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Software
-
Applications Software
Slideshow Software
Slideshow software is used to produce presentations for
different audiences. Slideshows can be set up with themes
and contain text, graphics and other forms of multi-media.
A good example of slideshow software is Microsoft
Powerpoint.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Software
-
Applications Software
Video- Editing Software
Video – editing software allows for the editing of video
files such as .AVIs, and MPGs. Videos can be cut, digital
effects can be added and digital audio can be inserted to
create professional looking video files. Typically, video
editing software requires a powerful computer as the
manipulation of large video files is resource intensive.An
example of this type of software might be Windows Movie
Maker or iMovie on an Apple Mac.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Software
-
Applications Software
Graphics Manipulation Software
In computer graphics, graphics software or image editing
software is a program or collection of programs that enable
a person to manipulate visual images on a computer. An
example of this type of software would be Adobe
Photoshop
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Software
-
Applications Software
Gaming Software
Gaming software allows the user to play games on a
computer system. Computer games are big business and the
most popular games can make more money for the
developer than Hollywood blockbuster films.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Software
Applications Software
- Web Browsers
A web browser allows a user to access pages on the
internet. The most common web browsers are Microsoft
Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox and Google Chrome.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
3.
-
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:Software
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Applications Software
- Apps
Apps is short for applications. Apps are downloadable
programs that run on smartphones and tablets. Apps can be
games or other types of programs. On Apple devices, the
apps are downloaded from the Apple Store. On Android
devices, the apps are downloaded from Google Play.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
4.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Storage and Connectivity Devices i.e.
Optical Disks (E.g. CD and DVD for data storage)
Optical Disks are circular disks that are red by a laser. CDROM stands for Compact disk – read only memory. A CD-ROM
can only be read. The user cannot write to a CD-ROM. The
storage capacity of a CD is around 700MB.
DVD stands for digital versatile disk. A DVD hold around 4+GB
of information. Again DVD-ROMs can only be read. The user
cannot write to them. The larger storage capacity makes DVDs
more useful for storing games and movies.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
4.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Storage and Connectivity Devices i.e.
-
Magnetic Media (e.g. internal and external hard disk drives
(HDD), tape).
Magnetic media uses different patterns of magnetisation in a
magnetisable material to store data and is a form of non-volatile
memory. The information is accessed using one or more read/write
heads. Examples of magnetic media are Hard Drives and Magnetic
Tape. These devices can typically store lots of information with
capacities of 500GB or more being quite typical.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
4.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Storage and Connectivity Devices i.e.
Solid State Drives (SSD)
A solid state hard drive (also known as a solid-state disk though it
contains no actual disk, nor a drive motor to spin a disk) is a data
storage device that uses integrated circuit assemblies as memory to
store data persistently. SSD drives have begun to replace traditional
magnetic hard drives because they are more reliable and don’t need to
spin a platter or use a head reader.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
4.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Storage and Connectivity Devices i.e.
Memory Cards i.e. Flash memory devices.
Memory cards are portable storage devices. This means they
can be carried around easily. Lots of portable devices such as
mobile phones and cameras rely on this type of storage device.
Memory cards come in different formats. The one below is an
SD format. Compact flash is another one.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
4.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Storage and Connectivity Devices i.e.
-
Network Devices
A network is a collection of 2 or more computers linked together. In order to
allow computers to talk to one another, the following devices are needed.
Router - This device forwards data packets between computer networks. A
router is connected to two or more data lines from different networks When a
data packet comes in one of the lines, the router reads the address
information in the packet to determine its ultimate destination
Modem – Modem stands for modulator/demodulator. This device converts
signals to encode digital information and demodulates signals to decode the
transmitted information.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
4.
Explain the features and purposes of the
following devices:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
-
Storage and Connectivity Devices i.e.
- Cloud Storage
Cloud storage is the idea of storing information online in a
remote location rather than on individual storage devices. Cloud
storage means that provided you have internet access and have
logged into your account, you are able to access your files and
documents wherever you are in the world.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
- Movement
Puff-sip switch. This kind of switch is excellent for someone
with limited physically mobility. The puff-sip switch tube is
Oldhamor
Road,
Royton, Oldham,
OL1 8NN
placed in the mouth, as the person123sips
blows,
a switch
connected at the other end goes off or on. The switch itself is
then connected to the computer. Specific software running on
the computer can take this input and act on it in any number of
ways.
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
- Movement
A foot mouse / control can be used by a person who has
limited or no use of their hands or arms. The foot mouse can
123 Oldham
Road, Royton, Oldham,
OL1 8NN
be used to navigate through software
programs
and select
things in much the same way as a conventional mouse. The link
below is set to search on Amazon so you can see the kind of
products there are available HERE. Most foot mice consist of
two segments. One segment will be used to control the cursor,
the second segment is used to click the mouse or to select
shortcuts. Most foot mice include straps that help to hold the
device in place on the foot during use. A long cable runs from
the mouse and plugs into the computer via a USB port.
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
- Movement
The Eye Typer. This can be used by people who cannot use a hand or
foot operated mouse and a conventional keyboard. A camera is
mounted onto the computer and it is set
to focus
on the
user's
123 Oldham
Road, Royton,
Oldham,
OL1 8NNeye.
The camera determines where the user is looking and monitors
movements made by the eye .Mouse clicks are done with a slow eye
blink.
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
- Movement
Predictive text and sticky keys
Predictive text (software)
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
This is an input technology which is most commonly found on mobile phones and tablet
computers. The technology allows words to be entered by a single or a few key presses.
Instead of having to type out the whole word, the software tries to predict the most
likely word that you want.
Predictive text allows you to type faster and also to reduce the number of keystrokes
or key presses that you make, thus helping people who have difficulties typing. It can be
very frustrating though when it keeps predicting the wrong word, so it is useful to know
how to switch it off on the device you are using.
Sticky Keys (software)
Sticky keys is a feature available with most computers.
It is an accessibility feature to aid users who have physical disabilities.
Sticky keys allows the user to press a 'modifier' key such as Shift, Ctrl, Alt and have it
remain active until another key is pressed.
When sticky keys is activated in Windows, a beep is sounded whenever the Shift, Ctrl or
Alt keys are pressed.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
- Sight
Braille is a writing system for blind and visually impaired people. It is
made up of raised dots that can be 'read' by touch.
A Braille keyboard is a specialist input
device
that
allows
user to
123 Oldham
Road,
Royton,
Oldham, the
OL1 8NN
type and enter text or instructions for the computer in Braille.
The image shows a Bluetooth powered Braille keyboard that can
connect to a computer, smartphone or tablet (if they are Bluetooth
enabled).
A braille display is a piece of equipment that connects to the
computer. It reads the screen text and presents it to the user via a
refreshable Braille display.
A Braille printer operates by embossing raised braille dots onto
braille paper. Pins are pressed into one side of the paper in order to
create raised dots on the other side of the paper.
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
- Sight
Speakers can be useful for visually impaired people in terms of text-to-speech
systems. The text-to-speech system takes in text as input and then outputs
speech to a set of speakers. There are a number
of text
to speech
software
123 Oldham
Road, Royton,
Oldham, OL1
8NN
programs that enable any text on the screen to be selected with the keyboard
or mouse. It is then spoken back to the user in a computer generated voice.
The computer generated voice can sound disjointed and sometimes
pronunciation can make the output difficult to understand. The new e-book
devices such as the Kindle can also speak out the book being read.
Microphone
A microphone can be useful for people who find it difficult to use a keyboard
or mouse. The person speaks their input clearly and specialist software is then
used to convert the speech or commands into text or other actions.
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
- Sight.
Zoom tool (software)
123 Oldham
Road,
Royton,
Many software applications have the facility to allow
you to
zoom
in Oldham,
closerOL1
on8NN
the work
being displayed on the screen. Typically, you can choose to zoom in at different
magnifications from 100% to around 500%. This can be useful for people with poor
eyesight. There are also specific commercial applications that are designed to help with
visual impairment.
Tablet computers also allow you to magnify part of the screen with a certain gesture of
the fingers (the specific gesture needed varies on the tablet computer brand).
Screen magnifier (hardware)
Another option that can be used to help people with visual impairment is a hardware
screen magnifier. The one shown above can magnify the video feed from a standard
display and can also magnify paper documents placed below the video camera input.
Sheet Music display
This device and software application can display music notation in a size that is useful
for partially signted musicians. The background / foreground colours can be selected
for maximum contrast
1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
Modern operating system allow many adjustments to be made to make the
computer a bit simpler to use given some specific difficulties. For example,
see the options provided in Windows opposite.
123 Oldham Road, 'Ease
Royton, Oldham,
OL1 8NN
You will find these under Control Panel Personalisation,
of Access
Center'' option.
The operating system helps with
Visual assistance
For poor eyesight - by making text larger and optimising the clarity of the
text or for complete blindness allow for using the computer without a display.
Hearing assistance
You can choose to use text or visual warnings instead of the usual alarm
sounds.
Motor assistance
You can select the sensitivity of the mouse or use a different pointing device.
For typing, the behaviour of the keyboard can be adjusted.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
6. How might the choice of a computer system be
affected by
a) Cost
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Faster computer processors and more memory cost more money. The faster they are the
quicker the computer system will run. Many people will have a budget for a computer
system and they will have to choose the system parts based on this budget.
b) Availability
Sometimes the parts you need in a computer system might be in short supply or have
sold out. Therefore, you will need to consider this when buying a computer system.
c) User Needs
The computer system you purchase will depend on your needs as a user. If you wish to
play 3D games that rely on graphics, a faster processor, more memory and a dedicated
graphics card will be needed or the system will run very slowly.
d) Data Security
The need to consider data security may be important when selecting a computer system.
If you are using the system to store customers’ details, security will be a high concern
and you will need to ensure the system is secure enough.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
7. Explain the different methods below of
connecting peripherals to a computer system
a) Wired Methods (e.g. USB and Firewire)
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Peripherals (such as printers, mice, keyboards etc) can be connected to a
computer system using wires. These connections usually take the form of a
USB connector or sometimes a firewire connector. The connectors are used on
many devices as standard .
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
7. Explain the different methods below of
connecting peripherals to a computer system
b) Wireless Methods (WIFI, Bluetooth, Infra –
Red)
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Peripherals can connect to systems without wires. Bluetooth is a type of radio communication and
networking protocol combined. It was developed so devices close to one another could exchange data,
without any need for a physical connection. By close, we mean within about 10 metres of one another
even if there is a wall in-between. This means it is possible to have 'hands-free' phone conversations
in the car whilst driving because the car is fitted with bluetooth technology. A great boon to safety,
as there were many road accidents caused by distracted drivers before the law on mobile phones
changed and the introduction of Bluetooth into new cars.
Wi-Fi is a communication technology that makes use of radio waves in order to connect to a local area
network. It is also widely used to connect to the internet from a laptop or smart phone whilst out
and about. The word Wi-Fi is actually a trade name owned by the Wi-Fi alliance. The alliance is a
group of about 300 companies from around the world. They work together to make sure that all 'WiFi' enabled devices are compatible with one another. All laptops have Wi-Fi built in.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
7. Explain the different methods below of
connecting peripherals to a computer system
b) Wireless Methods (WIFI, Bluetooth, Infra –
Red)
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
An IR remote control (the transmitter) sends out pulses of infrared light that represent
specific binary codes. These binary codes correspond to commands, such as Power
On/Off and Volume Up. The IR receiver in the TV, stereo or other device decodes the
pulses of light into the binary data (ones and zeroes) that the device's microprocessor
can understand. The microprocessor then carries out the corresponding command.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
8. Explain how you would connect a
computing device to an existing wireless
network.
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
In order to get onto a network wirelessly, you will need to know the
name of the network. The network name is sometimes referred to as
the Service Set Identifier(SSID). On your computer/device you
would then need to make sure that WiFi is enabled and search for
networks in your location. Once you have scanned for networks, look
for the SSID of the network you want to connect to and click on
this. You will then be asked for a security key. This might be known
as a WEP or WPA wireless key. Type the key in and click connect. If
your computer system is using a firewall, you will need to configure
this to allow you to connect to the internet without being blocked.
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1. Learning Outcome 1: Understand how ICT can
be used to meet business needs
9. Explain how organisations use the following
technologies to track and monitor employees
Organisations can keep track of employees in a number of ways using technology. The first
is through the use of Global Positioning System or GPS. GPS is a space-based satellite
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
navigation system that provides location and time information in all weather conditions,
anywhere on or near the Earth where there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more
GPS satellites by a GPS device. Employees maybe given mobile phones or tablets that
contain GPS trackers. The employer can then quickly look up the whereabouts of the
employee and know how far they are from work/customers etc. Delivery companies are using
this technology to allow their drivers to be tracked by customers too.
Some organisations will use IT to check the usage of the internet. A workers browsing
history can be logged and the number of hours used can be monitored. Some workers are
given key cards to sign into and out of buildings. The key card can show when you arrived
to work and when you left work. Lastly, some workers have their communication monitored.
For example, in a call centre phone calls are recorded to check that employees are giving
customers the correct advice.. Email can be monitored too through IT software to ensure
communications are not being sent with swearwords.
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2.
Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work
with information and data to meet specified
business needs
1) Explain the following ways in which an
organisation can capture (collect) data
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Organisations can collect data in a number of different
ways. The first is by
use of a form. The form could be online or paper based. The form should ask
relevant questions and allow users to fill it in without wasting time. Use of drop
down menus or radio buttons make an online form easier to fill in. Paper forms
should provide individual boxes per letter so that the information can be easily
read.
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2.
Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work
with information and data to meet specified
business needs
1) Explain the following ways in which an
organisation can capture (collect) data
Sometimes organisations use automated data capture systems to
collect data. One such system involves the use of sensors to collect
data. Control System sensors will monitor certain physical properties
(i.e. heat /movement etc) and then react accordingly.
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2.
Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work
with information and data to meet specified
business needs
1) Explain the following ways in which an
organisation can capture (collect) data
Bar code readers are used in supermarket readers to collect data about the
product being sold. This information is looked up on the Supermarket’s
database and information about product can be found (such as price, amount in
stock, description etc) The system can then monitor stock being held by the
supermarket and place orders automatically when stock gets low.
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2.
Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work
with information and data to meet specified
business needs
1) Explain the following ways in which an
organisation can capture (collect) data
Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID)
RFID is coming into increasing use in industry as an
alternative to the bar code. The advantage of RFID is that
it does not require direct contact or line-of-sight scanning.
An RFID system consists of three components: an antenna
and transceiver (often combined into one reader) and a
transponder (the tag). The antenna uses radio frequency
waves to transmit a signal that activates the transponder.
When activated, the tag transmits data back to the
antenna. The data is used to notify a programmable logic
controller that an action should occur
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2.
Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work
with information and data to meet specified
business needs
1) Explain the following ways in which an
organisation can capture (collect) data
Near field communication (NFC) is a set of ideas and technology that
enables smartphones and other devices to establish radio
communication with each other by touching them together or bringing
them into proximity, typically a distance of 10 cm (3.9 in) or less
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2.
Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work
with information and data to meet specified
business needs
2) Explain how the following factors can affect
how data is captured.
a) Cost.
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Some technologies are more expensive than other technologies to install and run. A bar
code reader and the E.P.O.S system requires an organisation to buy the technology in the
first place. This might be too expensive for some organisations even though it would save
money in the long term
b) Availability
Some technologies may not be readily available in certain industries. For example, If you
are working underwater, it may not be possible to find waterproof RFID tags that work.
c) Ease of Use
Some technologies are easier to use than others. Sometimes staff may need to be
trained to use the new technology which might be expensive or not always possible.
d) Data Security
If a business is using sensitive data it is important that the technology doesn’t allow
others to read the data
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
3) Explain how data capture forms should be
designed to obtain specific information
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Data capture forms should aim to capture data quickly, efficiently and
accurately as possible. Using individual boxes for letters will help eliminate data
inputting errors. Care should be take to include enough boxes for each field.
Clear instructions should also be given to help the user fill out the form. Do not
ask irrelevant questions in your form.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
4) What is meant by coding when capturing data
on a computer? How is this useful?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Some data can be coded or shortened when entering into a database. For
example in a database collecting information about people’s favourite films,
coding could be used to shorten film types.
e.g.
Comedy  Co
Sports -> Sp
Coding helps prevent data being entered inaccurately as there are less chances
to type errors if there are fewer letters.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
5) Explain Data Validation methods. How are these
used to ensure accurate data is collected?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Validation is an automatic computer check to ensure that the data
entered is sensible and reasonable. It does not check the accuracy of
data. Validation takes place when data is being entered into a database.
There are 3 basic types of validation you need to be aware of:Format Check
The data is checked to see if it conforms to a certain format. E.g. Is it
a date? dd/mm/yyyy
Presence Check
Data is checked to see if it has been entered (or is present)
Range Check
Data is checked to see if it falls between a certain range. (0-100 for
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example)
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
7) Explain what file formats are when storing
data.
File formats are the different types of file that exist on a computer system.
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Different programs create different types of files and their endings (or
suffixes) tell us about the program that created that file
8) What is a proprietary file format?
A file format which is used by a single organisation or entity, and which is not
compatible with other formats. For example, files ending in .doc are
proprietary Microsoft Word documents.
9) Which files use the following formats?
a) .doc
b) .xls
c) .ppt
d). Fla
e) .wma
g) .aac
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Powerpoint
- Flash file
- Windows Media Player
- Apple iTunes
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
10) What is an open format?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Open file formats are also called free file formats
and are not limited by any
copyrights, patents, trademarks. Anyone can use them and they can be opened
by different software packages.
11) Which types of files used the following
format?
a) .rtf
b) . Pdf
c) . Csv
d) .exe
e) .txt
f) .mp3
g) .wav
-rich text file
- portable document format
- comma separated values
- executable file
- text file
- music file (compressed)
- music file
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
12) What is local and removable storage?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Local storage is storage that is built into the computer
system and cannot be
easily removed and taken with you. An example might be the built in hard drive
in your computer. Removable storage can be plugged in and taken away. It is
portable. An example might be a USB Flash Drive.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
13) What is meant by remote storage?
a) Offsite location
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Storing information away from your geographical location. Some companies will
store information locally (ie. On site) and also offsite at another location or
series of locations. If anything happened to the local building, information
would be ok as it is stored offsite.
b) Cloud Storage
Cloud storage is the idea of storing information and data online, using the
internet. Microsoft Office 365 now allows you to save your work on Microsoft
Servers rather than on your own computer.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
14) Explain relevant network and computer
security measures that should be used when
storing data?
a) Usernames/Passwords
Networks can be protected by using logins. Each user is given a login name and
password which they must enter before gaining access to the network.
Password should be at least 8 characters long, contain text and numbers, upper
and lowercase characters and should never be written down.
a) Access Rights/Permissions
Another way of protecting networks is to ensure that different people in the
organisation have different levels of access. If all you are doing is entering
data onto a system, there is no need for you to be able to install and remove
programs for example. Systems can be set up to ensure that each user has
only the permissions they need to do their job and nothing more.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
15) Explain the relevant document security
measures that could be used when storing
documents
a) Passwords
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Documents can have passwords placed on them so that other users can’t access
the document without knowing the password.
b) Other ways to restrict access to editing of
content
Documents can be saved as read only. Other others are able to read these
documents by are not able to edit them without a password.
c) How and why data is encrypted.
Data can be encrypted when it is saved. This means that the data is turned
into a code that cannot be read unless the reader decrypts the document. In
order to do this, an encryption key is required.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
16) Explain physical security measures that could
be used to prevent data loss
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
a) Locks
Putting locks on the door into an office can prevent theft or unauthorised
entry into the computer area.
b) Bars on windows
Putting bars on the windows of an office will make theft more difficult
for potential burglars.
c) Site computer suites on higher floors
If computers are placed on higher floors, theft becomes much more difficult
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
17) What is the difference between wired and
wireless technologies for transferring data?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Wired technologies typically use an ethernet cable
to transfer data. Wireless
technology relies on a WiFi card and Router to pass information.
18) What are the differences between 3g and 4g
data transfers in mobile phone technology?
3g and 4g stand for 3rd generation and 4th generation and relate to the speed
at which data is transferred on mobile phone networks. Generally speaking 4g
is a lot faster than 3g and is better for transferring larger video files. 4g
networks are being rolled out in the UK and this technology costs more money
than the 3g equivalent.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
19) How is data transferred remotely?
- email
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
People use email to send messages and files from one location to
another. Email is easy to set up and quick to use.
- internet/cloud
Data can be transferred by making use of the cloud. For example a
photographer may take wedding pictures and upload these online for his/her
clients to view.
- peer to peer file sharing
Peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing is a method of networked file transfer
that relies upon multiple peers (computers). This differs from
traditional networks which use a central server to maintain and serve
files. Each peer hosts all or part of a file and shares in the transfer
load when a new peer connects to download it.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
20) How is data that is being transferred kept
secure?
Data that is being transferred is often encrypted.
This
means
that OL1
it is
123 Oldham
Road,
Royton, Oldham,
8NN
changed into a code and then decrypted at the other end using an encryption
key. If anyone intercepts the data, it is useless without the encryption key.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
21) When thinking about transferring data, how
do the following factors influence your decision?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
a) File Size
Larger file sizes will take longer to transfer than smaller files sizes.
Therefore, you must think about that when transferring data. Some email
systems have limits at to the file size they will send also, so email may well not
be an option.
b) Transfer Speed
The speed of your internet connection maybe an issue when
transferring data. If your internet connection is slow, the transfer
speed could take too long to be useful.
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
21) When thinking about transferring data, how
do the following factors influence your decision?
c)Future – Proofing
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Technologies can become obsolete (or no longer used or needed) Before
thinking about how you will transfer data, you might need to think about
whether the technology will still be being used in the next 1,2,5 years.
b) Data Security
Data security is important when considering transferring data as
organisations won’t want unauthorised individuals intercepting data. This could
be embarrassing or cost the organisation a lot of money.
c) User Needs
You will also need to consider how the user needs the information you are
sending them. For example, a photographer’s clients would not want individual
photographs sent to them by email as this would take a long time to view them
opening emails one at a time. The cloud would be a better way of sharing this
data so the clients could watch a slideshow of photographs.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
28) Explain how bandwidth and router technology
affect the transfer of data
Data transfer is affected by the speed of your
Routers
123 hardware.
Oldham Road, Royton,
Oldham, have
OL1 8NNa
maximum transfer speed as does the bandwidth provided by your Internet
Service Provider (ISP). The smaller the bandwidth, the slower the connection
to the internet when transferring data.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
29) Explain how important the following factors
are when backing up data?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
a) The choice of media. (e.g. removable devices,
remote storage)
When backing up data a decision needs to be made as to what media you will
use to do this. Will the media be kept off-site? What is the capacity of the
media? Do you have enough capacity in your choice of media to regularly back
up files?
b) Back up frequency
You will also need to consider how often you back up files. This will depend on
the work your business does and how much data it generates on a daily,weekly
or monthly basis.
2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
29) Explain how important the following factors
are when backing up data?
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
c)Archiving
Data archiving is the process of moving data that is no longer actively used to
a separate data storage device to keep for the long term. Businesses often
have to decide how often they will archive their data. Some industries require
you to keep records going back so many years even if you are not using them
currently.
d) Automated vs manual systems
Some companies automate their systems of backing up data. For example, data
back up maybe run once a week automatically. This might slow the computer
systems down and may not suit the business so a manual system might be used
instead.
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2. Learning Outcome 2: Know how to work with
information and data to meet specified business
needs
30) Explain how the following factors may well
influence your choice of back up?
a) Cost
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Different backup systems cost different amounts of money. A business needs to
consider the cost of each one and the benefits it would receive from using each
one.
b) Availability
Some back up systems are not applicable to all businesses. A business might wish
to automate its back up systems but this might not be possible because of the
type of work the business does.
c) Ease of Use
A business needs to consider how easy it will be to back up data. Some users may
require training or assistance. This would need to be carefully considered.
d) Data Security
When backing up information a business needs to sure that data will not end up
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being seen by unauthorised people.
3. Learning Outcome 3: Know how ICT can be
used to support business working practices
1) Explain the following remote ways in which
businesses can communicate with employees
and others
a) SMS- Short Messaging Service (Text message) Employees can text
information to managers using this service.
b) Instant Messaging – Some organisations may use instant messaging
software to allow employees to communicate with one another across
different locations.
c) E-Mail – Most organisations use e-mail as a fast way of
communicating between employees.
d) Chat Rooms – A chat room allows employees to meet virtually and
discuss issues and solutions.
e) Forums – A forum is a place where employees can post problems and
questions and other employees can post replies.
f) Bulletin Boards – A bulletin board is similar to a forum.
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3. Learning Outcome 3: Know how ICT can be
used to support business working practices
1) Explain the following remote ways in which
businesses can communicate with employees
and others
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
h) Voice-over IP (VOIP) – A service like Skype where users can talk to
one another via a computer network
i)
Video Conferencing – Using computer technology to link up with
other users online. Usually a webcam and microphone are used.
j) Webcams- See above.
k) Blogs – Some organisation use blogs to help sell their products and
services to customers online.
l) Social Networking – Twitter, Facebook, Youtube and other social
networks allow organisations to keep in contact with their customers
and sell them new products/services.
3. Learning Outcome 3: Know how ICT can be
used to support business working practices
2) Explain what is meant by appropriate use of
communication tools in an organisation
Employees working for an organisation may well be asked to keep to the
Oldham Road,means
Royton, Oldham,
8NN must
organisation’s acceptable user ICT policy. This123generally
thatOL1
they
use the internet (and other communication tools) for work related business
only. Users must also use appropriate etiquette when using tools. Therefore
emails must be completed in the appropriate manner with the subject,cc,bcc
fields filled in.
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3. Learning Outcome 3: Know how ICT can be
used to support business working practices
3) Explain what is meant by diary management softwar
Diary management software is used by organisations to help organise staff.
software often runs across different devices (PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tab
and allows users to:123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
 Create appointments/meetings
 Invite other colleagues to meetings
 Create Tasks
 Create To-Do lists
 Set Reminders
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3. Learning Outcome 3: Know how ICT can be
used to support business working practices
4) Explain how documents can be created and
edited collaboratively
Within organisations, people often work together to
complete projects and tasks. Documents can be
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
created and edited collaboratively in the following
ways:•
Documents can be placed in shared locations so
that everyone can access them. This might be a
cloud based service or a network shared area
•
Some software allows documents to have
comments inserted. This is useful for a manager
to make comments on work done by a team
•
Track changes can be used to show the various
versions of a document as various people have
added their parts.
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4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
1) Explain how laws (legislation) affect computer
users in terms of:-
a) Health and Safety
The Health and Safety at Work Act and the Display Screen Regulations Act
are two laws that affect computer users. The first act dictates that Health
and Safety is the responsibility of the employer and the employee. All workers
should be properly trained and should abide by this training. Employers should
provide a work environment that doesn’t affect the employees health in a
harmful way. If you are working at a computer it is reasonable to expect :




Regular breaks
All wires tired back behind conduit (no tripping hazards)
Adjustable chair
Blinds on windows
Adjustable screen
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4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
1) Explain how laws (legislation) affect computer
users in terms of:-
b) Data Protection
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
The Data Protection Act is a law that protects the rights of data subjects. It
states that for data held by organisations: It should be kept confidential
 It should not be sold or passed on (without permission from the data
subject)
 It should not be held for longer than is necessary
 It should be accurate and up-to-date.
 It should be shared with the data subject (if requested)
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4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
1) Explain how laws (legislation) affect computer
users in terms of:-
c) Copyright
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The Copyright, Designs and Patents Act protect the rights of people who
create digital content (such as videos, photographs, music etc) If a user
wishes to use digital content the user must contact the copyright holder and
ask for permission. The copyright holder could ask for copyright details to be
acknowledged. Lastly, the copyright holder is entitled to be paid for allowing
the image to be used.
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4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
1) Explain how laws (legislation) affect computer
users in terms of:-
d) Computer Misuse Act.
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This was passed by Parliament and made three new offences:
 Accessing computer material without permission, eg looking at someone
else's files.
 Accessing computer material without permission with intent to commit
further criminal offences, eg hacking into the bank's computer and wanting
to increase the amount in your account.
 Altering computer data without permission, eg writing a virus to destroy
someone else's data, or actually changing the money in an account
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4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
2) Explain how moral and ethical issues affect business
computer users
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
a) Use and abuse of personal and private data
If an organisation is keeping data on individuals it would be wrong to abuse this
position of trust and leave the data for others to find and possibly exploit.
b) Cyberbullying – Cyberbullying is becoming more and more of a serious
problem in the workplace. Every employer has a moral duty to ensure that
workers are not being picked on or made to feel bad using company technology.
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4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
2) Explain how moral and ethical issues affect business
computer users
c) Monitoring of individuals by organisations through the
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
use of:a) Worker monitoring/logging
Some organisations monitor workers by issuing them with keycards that they must
use to swipe in and swipe out of the workplace. Secondly, they may also track when
workers login or logout of the system.
b) Cookies
A cookie is a piece of code that is placed on your computer when you visit a website.
It allows you to be tracked and can be used to help websites advertise certain
products to you. Facebook for example tracks your internet habits when you browse
the internet using cookies.
c) Key logging
Key logging software tracks each key press and saves it so that it can be seen later.
Sometimes this software is used in Schools but some organisations are using this to
keep tabs on workers.
4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
2) Explain how moral and ethical issues affect business
computer users
c) Monitoring of individuals by organisations through the
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
use of:d) Worker call monitoring/recording
In call centres, employees are often monitored by a team leader who might listen
into their phone call conversations and give advice as to how to deal with certain
situations.
e) Electronic Consumer Surveillance
More and more shops are tracking customers through the use of CCTV and loyalty
cards. A loyalty card can reveal when you shopped, where you shopped, how much
you spent, what your bought and track your buying habits over weeks or months.
f) Mobile Phone Triangulation
Mobile phones are constantly touching base with the network by sending messages
back and forth to towers around the local area. Using this technology, it is possible
to work out exactly where a worker might be.
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4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
3) What are the implications and consequences for
organisations of data loss, corruption and theft?
a) Legal implications
Under the Data Protection Act, any loss of data could result in action from the
Information Commissioner. This might result in the organisation being taken to court and
heavily fined.
b) Impact on customers
If customers data were to be taken or lost, customers may well lose confidence in the
business. Also, customers may well end up having their identities stolen by fraudsters.
c) Impact on employees
Employees could end up on disciplinary action if they were responsible for losing data.
d) Impact on the organisation
Loss of data might end up costing the company money if customers lose confidence.
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4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
4) What are the main threats to data security in an
organisation?
Computer Viruses – Self replicating code that causes harm to a computer system
123 Oldham Road, Royton, Oldham, OL1 8NN
Trojans - A trojan seems to do an useful task and so the user will use it. But in the background, the trojan is
also carrying out its real purpose which is hidden and unknown to the user.
Worms - A computer worm is a computer program that makes lots of copies of itself, like a computer virus.
The main difference between the two is that a computer virus attaches itself to another computer program, but a
worm works by itself.
Phishing - “Phishing” is a form of Internet fraud where criminals aim to steal valuable
information such as credit cards, social security numbers, user IDs and passwords for bank accounts.
They set up a fake website which looks identical to a legitimate company such as a bank or insurance
company. They then try to trick people into logging into the site and giving their account details and
security codes.
Spyware - Software designed to collect information about what you are doing on the
computer
Adware - It is a type of software application that displays adverts of some kind while it is running
Hacking – Unauthorised access to a computer system
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4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
4) What are the main threats to data security in an
organisation and how can they be dealt with?
Denial Of Service (DOS) attacks - An illegal act, with the intent of disabling
a server.
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A server responds to external requests from its network. For example a web server responds to a
browser calling for a web page to be delivered from its hard drive.
Each request takes a small amount of time and some CPU resources on the server. With a 'Denial of
Service' attack, the server is overwhelmed by millions of rogue requests being sent it, effectively
using up all its resources and denying normal service for legitimate users.
Physical Threats (loss/theft of devices) – Data being stolen or
damaged by an act
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4. Learning Outcome 4: Understand how the Legal,
Ethical, Safety and Security issues affect how
computers should be used
5) What actions can an organisation take to minimise the
risks of data theft?
A business can act online in ways which
reduce the risk of
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identity theft and protect personal security
Use Protection Software such as firewalls or anti-virus
software, anti spam filters and data encryption to store
and transfer data
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