GCSE Computer Science: Computer Systems

GCSE Computer Science: Computer Systems

1. Computer = An electronic, programmable data processing machine

2. System = Collection of parts that work together for some defined purpose

3. Computer System = Collection of hardware and software that works together to achieve some data processing task

4. Importance of Computer Systems

   • Improved quality in manufactoring
   • Cheaper manufactoring
   • Faster access to information
   • Better decision making
   • More buying online
   • New way of communicating

5. Types of Computer Systems

   • General-Purpose Systems
     • Desktops
     • Laptops
     • Notebooks
     • Tablets
     • Smart Phones
     • Variety of apps can be downloaded so they can be used for different purposes
   • Dedicated Systems
     • Produced to perform a single function or set of functions
   • Control Systems
     • Control machinery
   • Embedded Systems
     • Part of a larger system
     • Examples
       • Digital Watches
       • Satnavs
       • Cameras
       • MP3 Players
       • Traffic Lights
   • Expert Systems
     • Designed to behave like a human
     • Used for:
       • Diagnosing diseases
       • Finding faults in machinery
       • Suggesting purposes to customers
   • Management Information Systems
     • Bring together information from all parts of an organisation

6. Reliability

   • Mistakes in the design and production can lead to:
     • Down time
     • Expensive errors
     • Data loss
     • Compromised Privacy
   • Data Integrity
     • Data being accurate and consistant throughout it's life
     • Can be compromised (damaged) by:
       • Human Errors
       • Software bugs
       • Viruses and other malware
       • Hardware malfunctions
       • Natural disasters
     • Ways to reduce risks:
       • Back up data regulary
       • Controlling access to data via security mechanisms
       • Using validation rules
       • Error detection

7. Data Protection

   • Allowed to view data about them
   • Correct information when requested
   • Not use data in a way that can cause damage
   • Allow people to state whether their data can be used for marketing or not
   • Only collect data for a specified purpose

8. Environmental Issues

   • Can contain and release toxic materials when being disposed
     • Lead
     • Cadmium
     • Beryllium
     • Flame retardants
   • Computers use enery