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Cambridge
International AS & A Level

Compute
r
Scienc
e
 This page intentionally left blank

Cambridge
International
AS & A Level

Computer
Scienc
e

David Watson
Helen Williams
Unless otherwise acknowledged, the questions, example answers and comments that appear in this book
were written by the authors. In examinations, the way marks are awarded may be different. Questions
from the Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer Science papers are reproduced by permission
of Cambridge Assessment International Education. Cambridge Assessment International Education bears
no responsibility for the example answers to questions taken from its past question papers which are
contained in this publication.
The publishers would like to thank the following who have given permission to reproduce the following
material in this book:
Page 181 Extract from IEEE Code of Ethics. Reprinted with permission of IEEE with the copyright notice
© Copyright 2018 IEEE; Pages 181–3 Copyright © 1999 by the Institute for Electrical and Electronics
Engineers, Inc. and the Association for Computing Machinery, Inc.; Page 187 eBay software pirates
stump up $100,000 – https://www. theregister.co.uk/2006/11/24/ebay_pirates_payup/. Reprinted with
permission of Out-Law.com, the news service of international law firm Pinsent Masons; Page 218 Map
data © 2018 Google, Imagery © 2018 Landsat/Copernicus.
Photo credits
Figures 1.1 and 1.2 © David Watson; Figure 1.3 © Sébastien Delaunay/stock.adobe.com; Figure 2.18
© Forgem/ Shutterstock.com; Figure 3.1 tl © studio306fotolia/stock.adobe.com; tr
© Chavim/stock.adobe.com; bl © pozdeevvs/ stock.adobe.com; br © Sergey Yarochkin/stock.adobe.com;
Figure 3.4 © Mau Horng/stock.adobe.com; Figure 3.5 © science photo/stock.adobe.com; Figure 3.9
© Maksym Dykha/Shutterstock.com; Figure 3.10 © Hurst Photo/ Shutterstock.com; Figure 3.11
© philipus/stock.adobe.com; Figure 3.12 © belekekin/ Shutterstock.com; Figure 4.4 l
© cybertrone/stock.adobe.com, c © Tungphoto/Shutterstock.com, r © Luminis/Shutterstock.com; Figure
5.1 l © Stuart Brady (Public Domain) via Wikipedia Commons; r © Jiri Hera/stock.adobe.com; Figure 6.3
© Andrey Burmakin/stock.adobe.com; Figure 6.4 © bkilzer/stock.adobe.com; Figure 7.2 l © Pres
Panayotov/ Shutterstock.com; c © James Balog/Getty Images; r © caluian/stock.adobe.com; Figure 18.19
© seewhatmitchsee/ 123rf.com; Figure 18.21 b © Garmon/stock.adobe.com; t © Christian
Musat/stock.adobe.com; ct © Ammit/stock. adobe.com; cb © Martina Berg/stock.adobe.com; Figure 18.24
Harshal/stock.adobe.com; Figures 18.27 and 18.28 all © David Watson.
l = left, c = centre, b = bottom, t = top, r = right
Every effort has been made to trace and acknowledge ownership of copyright. The publishers will be
glad to make suitable arrangements with any copyright holders whom it has not been possible to
contact. Computer hardware and software brand names mentioned in this book are protected by their
respective trademarks and are acknowledged.
Although every effort has been made to ensure that website addresses are correct at time of going to
press, Hodder Education cannot be held responsible for the content of any website mentioned in this
book.
Hachette UK’s policy is to use papers that are natural, renewable and recyclable products and made from
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© David Watson and Helen Williams 2019
First published 2019 by
Hodder Education,
An Hachette UK Company
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www.hoddereducation.com
Impression number 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Year 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019
All rights reserved. Apart from any use permitted under UK copyright law, no part of this publication may
be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
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Further details of such licences (for reprographic reproduction) may be obtained from the Copyright
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Cover photo © Terrance Emerson – stock.adobe.com
Illustrations by Aptara Inc. and Hodder Education
Typeset by Aptara Inc.
Printed by Bell & Bain Ltd, Glasgow
A catalogue record for this title is available from the British Library.
ISBN: 9781510457591

Contents
Introduction viii AS LEVEL

1 Information representation and multimedia 1

1.1 Data representation 2 1.2 Multimedia 15 1.3 File compression 21

2 Communication 27
2.1 Networking 28 2.2 The internet 54

3 Hardware 68
3.1 Computers and their components 68 3.2 Logic gates and logic
circuits 89

4 Processor fundamentals 107

4.1 Central processing unit (CPU) architecture 107 4.2 Assembly
language 121 4.3 Bit manipulation 130

5 System software 136

5.1 Operating systems 136 5.2 Language translators 149

6 Security, privacy and data integrity 159

 6.1 Data security 159 6.2 Data integrity 169

7 Ethics and ownership 178

7.1 Legal, moral, ethical and cultural implications 179 7.2 Copyright
issues 186 7.3 Artificial intelligence (AI) 189

8 Databases 196
8.1 Database concepts 196 8.2 Database management systems
(DBMSs) 208 8.3 Data definition language (DDL) and data manipulation
language (DML) 211

v
s
Content9 Algorithm design and problem solving 217
9.1 Computational thinking skills 217
9.2 Algorithms 219

10 Data types and structures 238

10.1 Data types and records 238
10.2 Arrays 241
10.3 Files 249
10.4 Abstract data types (ADTs) 250

11 Programming 264
11.1 Programming basics 264
11.2 Programming constructs 271
11.3 Structured programming 275

12 Software development 283

12.1 Program development lifecycle 283
12.2 Program design 287
12.3 Program testing and maintenance 293

A LEVEL

13 Data representation 304

13.1 User-defined data types 304
13.2 File organisation and access 308
13.3 Floating-point numbers, representation and manipulation 312

14 Communication and internet technologies 328

14.1 Protocols 328
14.2 Circuit switching and packet switching 337

15 Hardware 346
15.1 Processors and parallel processing 346
15.2 Boolean algebra and logic circuits 354

16 System software and virtual machines 372

 16.1 Purposes of an operating system (OS) 372
16.2 Virtual machines (VMs) 392
16.3 Translation software 394

vi
Content
s
17 Security 410
17.1 Encryption 410 17.2 Quantum cryptography 414 17.3 Protocols 416
17.4 Digital signatures and digital certificates 418

18 Artificial intelligence (AI) 425

18.1 Shortest path algorithms 425 18.2 Artificial intelligence, machine
learning and deep learning 434

19 Computational thinking and problem solving 450

19.1 Algorithms 450 19.2 Recursion 490

20 Further programming 498

20.1 Programming paradigms 498 20.2 File processing and exception
handling 525
Glossary 541 Index 553
 vii

Introduction
TION

ODUC
This textbook provides the knowledge, understanding and practical skills
R
to support those studying Cambridge International AS & A Level Computer
INT
Science. This textbook is part of a suite of resources which include a
Programming Skills Workbook and an Online Teacher’s Guide.
The syllabus content has been covered comprehensively and is presented in two
sections: Chapters 1 to 12 cover the AS Level, Chapters 13 to 20 cover the extra
content required for the full A Level.

How to use this book

To make your study of Computer Science as rewarding and successful as possible,
this textbook, endorsed by Cambridge Assessment International Education, offers
the following important features.

Organisation
The content is presented in the same order as in the syllabus, and the chapter
titles match those in the syllabus.
 Features to help you learn
Each chapter is broken down into several sections, so that the content is
accessible.

At the start of each chapter, there is a blue box that gives a summary of the
syllabus points to be covered in that chapter, to show you what you are going
to learn.

In this chapter, you will learn about

★ how to estimate the file size for a bit-map
★ binary magnitudes, binary prefixes and
decimal prefixes image ★ image resolution and colour depth ★
encoding of vector graphics
★ binary, denary and hexadecimal number
★ the representation of sound in a computer
systems
★ the effects of changing sampling rate and
★ how to carry out binary addition and
subtraction resolution on sound quality
★ the need for file compression methods (such
★ the use of hexadecimal and binary coded
decimal (BCD) number systems as lossy and lossless formats)
★ how to compress common file formats
★ the representation of character sets (such as
ASCII and Unicode) (such as text files, bit-map images, vector
graphics, sound files and video files).
★ how data for a bit-mapped image is encoded

The grey-blue What you should already know boxes at the beginning
of each chapter or section help you to check you have the right level
of knowledge before you begin. You may have already studied
Computer Science at IGCSE,
O Level or equivalent, or you may not have. These boxes contain
questions to find out how much you remember, or to gauge your previous
learning. If you are unable to answer the questions, you will need to
refresh your memory, or make sure you are familiar with the the relevant
ideas, before continuing.

viii
I
NT
WHAT YOU SHOULD ALREADY KNOW TI
3 What are the column weightings for the ON
Try these four questions before you read this hexadecimal (base 16) number system?
chapter. 4 Carry out these hexadecimal
1 What are the column weightings for the additions. Convert your answers to
binary number system? denary.
R
ODU
C
2 Carry out these binary c) 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 + 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 a) 1 0 7 + 2 5 7 b) 2 0 8 + A 1 7
additions. Convert your answers 0 c) A A A + 7 7 7 d) 1 F F + 7 F 7
to denary. d) 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 + 0 1 1 0 1 1 1 e) 1 4 9 + F 0 F
a) 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 + 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 f) 1 2 5 1 + 2 5 6 7 g) 3 4 A B +
0 e) 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 + 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 C 0 0 A h) A 0 0 1 + D 7 7 F i) 1
b) 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 + 0 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 9 + 9 F F 1 j) 2 7 7 7 + A C F
0 f) 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 + 1 0 1 0 1 0 1
1
0
 Key terms for each chapter or section are listed, with definitions. When
you are reading through the chapter and you come across a term you
don’t understand, go back and see if it has been explained here.

Key terms
the possible binary input combinations
Logic gates – electronic circuits which depending on the number of inputs; for
rely on ‘on/off’ logic; the most common example, two inputs have 22 (4) possible
ones are NOT, AND, OR, NAND, NOR binary combinations, three inputs will
and XOR. Logic circuit – formed from a have 23 (8) possible binary combinations,
combination of logic gates and designed and so on.
to carry out a particular task; the output
Boolean algebra – a form of algebra
from a logic circuit will be 0 or 1. Truth
linked to logic circuits and based on
table – a method of checking the output TRUE and FALSE.
from a logic circuit; they use all

There are Activities throughout, so that you can apply what you have
learned. Some of these take the form of questions, to allow you to test
your knowledge; others aim to give you experience of practical work.
Some of these will also give you opportunities to work collaboratively with
other students.

ACTIVITY 3B
Produce truth tables for each of the following logic circuits. You are advised
to split them up into intermediate parts to help eliminate errors.
a) b) c)
A
A
A
B
X
X
X
C
B
B

d) e)
C C
B B

A A
X X

ix

TIONThere are also some Extension activities. These go beyond the requirements of
the syllabus, but it is good to see if you know the answers. We hope they will
ODUC
be of interest to you.
R
EXTENSION ACTIVITY 3E
INT
 1 Look at this simplified diagram of a keyboard; the letter H has been
pressed. Explain:
a) how pressing the letter H has been recognised by the computer
b) how the computer manages the very slow process of inputting data
from a keyboard.
2 a) Describe how these types of pointing devices work.
i) Mechanical mouse
ii) Optical mouse
b) Connectivity between mouse and computer can be through USB cable
or wireless. Explain these two types of connectivity.
makes contact with
bottom conductive layer
G

H letter H
interpreted
conductive layers

J letter H has been pressed and now

using the two’s complement form. State the
equivalent denary values.
i) 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 [1] ii) 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 [1] iii)Write
the integer −53 in two’s complement form. [1]
iv)Write the maximum possible range of numbers
using the two’s
complement form of an 8-bit binary number.
End of chapter questions
Give your answers in denary. [2] b) i) Write the
by computer insulating layer denary integer 798 in binary-coded decimal
(BCD) format. [1] ii) Write the denary number
that is represented by the following BCD number.
The End of chapter questions are practice
1 0 1 0 1 1
exam-style questions; these provide a more 0
formal way to check your progress. Some
questions from Cambridge International AS &
A Level Computer Science past papers are
included. [2]

c) Give one use of binary-coded decimal system.

1 a) The following bytes represent binary integers[1]

x
I
NT

Assessment
R
ODU
C
If you are following the AS Level course, you will take two examination papers:
T

O
N
» Paper 1 Theory Fundamentals (1 hour 30 minutes)
» Paper 2 Fundamental Problem-solving and Programming Skills (2 hours)
If you are studying the A Level course, you will take four examination
papers, Papers 1 and 2 and also:
» Paper 3 Advanced Theory (1 hour 30 minutes)
» Paper 4 Practical (2 hours 30 minutes)

Note that calculators must not be used in any paper.

Command words
The table below includes command words used in the assessment
for this syllabus. The use of the command word will relate to the
subject context. Make sure you are familiar with these.
Command What it means
word

Analyse examine in detail to show meaning, identify elements

and the relationship between them

Assess make an informed judgement

Calculate work out from given facts, figures or information

Comment give an informed opinion

Compare identify/comment on similarities and/or differences

Complete add information to an incomplete diagram or table

Consider review and respond to given information

Contrast identify/comment on differences

Define give precise meaning

Demonstrat show how or give an example

e

Describe state the points of a topic/give characteristics and main features

Develop take forward to a more advanced stage or build upon given

information

Discuss write about issue(s) or topic(s) in depth in a structured way

Draw draw a line to match a term with a description

Evaluate judge or calculate the quality, importance, amount, or value of

something

Examine investigate closely, in detail

Explain set out purposes or reasons/make the relationships between

things evident/provide why and/or how and support with
relevant evidence

Give produce an answer from a given source or recall/memory

Identify name/select/recognise

Justify support a case with evidence/argument

Outline set out main points

 Predict suggest what may happen based on available information

Sketch make a simple freehand drawing showing the key features,

taking care over proportions

xi

Command What it means

word

State express in clear terms

Suggest apply knowledge and understanding to situations where

there are a range of valid responses in order to make
proposals

Summarise select and present the main points, without detail

Write write an answer in a specific way

TION

ODUC
R

INT

From the authors

We hope you enjoy this book. It encourages you to develop your computational
thinking while broadening your understanding of computer science. This
should prove helpful when you go on to further study, where topics such as
artificial intelligence, quantum cryptography and imperative and declarative
programming will be studied; all of these are covered in the later chapters of
the book. In order to handle such topics confidently, you will need to be a
competent programmer who uses computational thinking to solve problems and
has a good understanding of computer architecture. All chapters are designed
to build on your previous experience in a way that develops essential skills and
at the same time expands the techniques you are able to use.
David Watson
Helen Williams

Notes for teachers

Key concepts
These are the essential ideas that help learners to develop a deep
understanding of the subject and to make links between the different topics.
Although teachers are likely to have these in mind at all times when they are
teaching the syllabus, the following icons are included in the textbook at
 points where the key concepts relate to the text:

Computational thinking
Computational thinking is a set of fundamental skills that help produce
a solution to a problem. Skills such as abstraction, decomposition and
algorithmic thinking are used to study a problem and design a solution that
can be implemented. This may involve using a range of technologies and
programming languages.

Programming paradigms
A programming paradigm is a way of thinking about or approaching problems.
There are many different programming styles that can be used, which are
suited to unique functions, tools and specific situations. An understanding of
programming paradigms is essential to ensure they are used appropriately, when
designing and building programs.

xii
I
NT
Communication
R
ODU
C
Communication is a core requirement of computer systems. It includes the
TI
ability to transfer data from one device or component to another and an ON
understanding of the rules and methods that are used in this data
transfer. Communication could range from the internal transfer of
data within a computer system, to the transfer of a video across the
internet.

Computer architecture and hardware

Computer architecture is the design of the internal operation of a
computer system. It includes the rules that dictate how components and
data are organised, how data are communicated between components, to
allow hardware to function. There is a range of architectures – with
different components and rules – that are appropriate for different
scenarios. All computers comprise a combination of hardware
components, ranging from internal components, such as the central
processing unit (CPU) and main memory, to peripherals. To produce
effective and efficient programs to run on hardware, it is important to
understand how the components work independently and together to
produce a system that can be used. Hardware needs software to be able
to perform a task. Software allows hardware to become functional. This
enables the user to communicate with the hardware to perform tasks.

Data representation and structures

Computers use binary and understanding how a binary number can be
interpreted in many different ways is important. Programming requires an
understanding of how data can be organised for efficient access and/or
transfer.

Additional support
 The Programming Skills Workbook provides practice for the programming
papers and includes exercises designed to give students the necessary
experience of working in one of the three prescribed high-level
programming languages: Java (Console mode), Visual Basic and Python
(Console mode). It is a write-in workbook designed to be used throughout
the course.
Answers to questions are available in the Online Teacher’s Guide.

xiii
This page intentionally left blank

Information representation
1 and
multimedia
1.
1
In this chapter, you will learn about
Data representatio
n
★ binary magnitudes, binary prefixes and decimal prefixes
★ binary, denary and hexadecimal number systems
★ how to carry out binary addition and subtraction
★ the use of hexadecimal and binary coded decimal (BCD) number
systems
★ the representation of character sets (such as ASCII and Unicode)
★ how data for a bit-mapped image is encoded
★ how to estimate the file size for a bit-map image
★ image resolution and colour depth
★ encoding of vector graphics
★ the representation of sound in a computer
★ the effects of changing sampling rate and resolution on sound quality
★ the need for file compression methods (such as lossy and lossless
formats)
★ how to compress common file formats (such as text files, bit-map
 images, vector graphics, sound files and video files).

WHAT YOU SHOULD ALREADY KNOW

system?
Try these four questions before you read this 4 Carry out these hexadecimal additions.
chapter.
Convert your answers to denary. a) 1 0
1 What are the column weightings for the 7+257
binary number system?
b) 2 0 8 + A 1 7
2 Carry out these binary additions. Convert
c) A A A + 7 7 7
your answers to denary.
d) 1 F F + 7 F 7
a) 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 + 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0
e) 1 4 9 + F 0 F
b) 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 + 0 1 1 0 1 1 1 0
f) 1 2 5 1 + 2 5 6 7
c) 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 + 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0
g) 3 4 A B + C 0 0 A
d) 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 + 0 1 1 0 1 1 1 1
h) A 0 0 1 + D 7 7 F
e) 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 + 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 1
i) 1 0 0 9 + 9 F F 1
f) 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 + 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0
j) 2 7 7 7 + A C F 1
3 What are the column weightings for the
hexadecimal (base 16) number

1.1 Data representation

1
Key terms
based on the value 16 (uses the denary digits 0 to 9
Binary – base two number system based on the and the letters A to F).
values 0 and 1 only. Memory dump – contents of a computer memory output
Bit – abbreviation for binary digit. to screen or printer.
One’s complement – each binary digit in a number Binary-coded decimal (BCD) – number system
is 1 Information representation and multimedia that uses 4bits to represent each denary digit.
ASCII code – coding system for all the characters on a
reversed to allow both negative and positive numbers
to be represented. keyboard and control codes.
Two’s complement – each binary digit is reversed Character set – a list of characters that have been
and 1 is added in right-most position to produce defined by computer hardware and software. It is
another method of representing positive and negative necessary to have a method of coding, so that the
numbers. Sign and magnitude – binary number computer can understand human characters.
system where left-most bit is used to represent the Unicode – coding system which represents all the
sign (0 = + and 1 = –); the remaining bits represent languages of the world (first 128 characters are the
the binary value. Hexadecimal – a number system same as ASCII code).

1.1.1 Number systems

Every one of us is used to the decimal or denary (base 10) number
system. This uses the digits 0 to 9 which are placed in ‘weighted’
 columns.
10000 1000 100 10 units

3 1 4 2 1

The denary number represented above is thirty-one thousand, four

hundred and twenty-one.
(Note that dealing with decimal fractions is covered in Chapter 13 since
this is slightly more complex.)
Designers of computer systems adopted the binary (base 2) number
system since this allows only two values, 0 and 1. No matter how
complex the system, the basic building block in all computers is the
binary number system. Since computers contain millions and millions of
tiny ‘switches’, which must be in the ON or OFF position, this lends itself
logically to the binary system. A switch in the ON position can be
represented by 1; a switch in the OFF position can be represented by 0.
Each of the binary digits are known as bits.

1.1.2 Binary number system

The binary system uses 1s and 0s only which gives these corresponding weightings:
128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
(2 ) (2 ) (2 ) (24) (23) (22) (21) (20)
7 6 5

A typical binary number would be:

11101110
Converting from binary to denary and from denary to binary It is fairly
straightforward to change a binary number into a denary number. Each
time a 1 appears in a column, the column value is added to the total. For
example, the binary number above is:
128 + 64 + 32 + 8 + 4 + 2 = 238 (denary)
2

ACTIVITY 1A Method 1
This method involves placing 1s in the appropriate
Convert these position so that the total equates to 107.
binary numbers into denary.
a) 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 b) 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 c) 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 d)
0 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 e) 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 f) 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 g) 1 0
0 0 1 1 1 1 h) 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 i) 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0
The 0 values are simply ignored when calculating
the total.

1 1.
1
128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
The reverse operation – converting from denary to
binary – is slightly more complex. There are two
basic ways of doing this.
Consider the conversion of the denary number,
107, into binary …
 01101011
Method 2
This method involves successive division by 2; the
remainders are then written from bottom to top to
give the binary value.

Data representatio
n

j) 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 3
2
1
107
0
53
0
26

13

ACTIVITY 1B 2 remainder: 0
2 remainder: 1
Binary addition and
Convert these subtraction
2 remainder: 1
denary numbers into binary
(using either method).
a) 4 1 Write the remainder from
b) 6 7 bottom to top to get the binary
number:
c) 8 6
2 remainder: 1 01101011
2 remainder: 1
2 remainder: 0
2 remainder: 1 remainder: 0
(denary value 90) becomes:
10100101
+1
d) 1 0 0 e) 1 1 1 f) 1 2 7 g) 1 4 4 h) 1 8 9 i) 2 0 0 j) 2 = 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 (since 1 + 1 = 0, a carry of 1) =
55 denary value −90
Up until now we have assumed all binary Throughout the remainder of this chapter, we will
numbers have positive values. There are a use the two’s complement method to avoid
number of methods to represent both positive confusion. Also, two’s complement makes binary
and negative numbers. We will consider: » one’s addition and subtraction more straightforward.
complement The reader is left to investigate one’s
» two’s complement. complement and the sign and magnitude
method in binary arithmetic.
In one’s complement, each digit in the binary
number is inverted (in other words, 0 becomes Now that we are introducing negative numbers,
1 and 1 becomes 0). For example, 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 we need a way to represent these in binary. The
0 (denary value 90) becomes 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 two’s complement uses these weightings for an
(denary value −90). 8-bit number representation:
In two’s complement, each digit in the binary −128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
number is inverted and a ‘1’ is added to the
right-most bit. For example, 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0
 3

1 1 Information representation and

multimedia

EXTENSION ACTIVITY 1A
invert the digits: 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 1
Show the column headings for a (+104 in denary) add 1: 1
system that uses 16 bits to represent
which gives: 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 =
a binary number.
−104)
This means:
ACTIVITY 1C
−128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
Convert these denary numbers into
11011010 8-bit binary numbers using two’s
00100110 complement where necessary. Use
these binary column weightings:
The first example is: −128 + 64 +
16 + 8 + 2 = −38 −128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
The second example is: 32 + 4 + 2 a) +114
= 38 b) +61
The easiest way to convert a c) +96
number into its negative equivalent d) −14
is to use two’s complement. For e) −116
example, 104 in binary is 0 1 1 0 1
0 0 0.
Binary addition
To find the binary value for −104
Consider Examples 1.1 and 1.2.
using two’s complement:

Add 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 (37 in denary) and 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 (58 in denary). Example 1.1

Solution
−128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
00100101
+
00111010
=
01011111

This gives us 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 1, which is 95 in denary; the correct answer.

4
Add 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 (82 in denary) and 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 (69 in denary). Example 1.2 1
Solution
−128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
01010010
+
1.
1
01000101
=
Data representatio
n
10010111

This gives us 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 1, which is –105 in denary (which is clearly nonsense).

When adding two positive numbers, the result should always be positive
(likewise, when adding two negative numbers, the result should always be
negative). Here, the addition of two positive numbers has resulted in a negative
answer. This is due to the result of the addition producing a number which is
outside the range of values which can be represented by the 8 bits being used (in
this case +127 is the largest value which can be represented, and the calculation
produces the value 151, which is larger than 127 and, therefore, out of range).
This causes overflow; it is considered in more detail in Chapter 13.

Binary subtraction
To carry out subtraction in binary, we convert the number being subtracted into
its negative equivalent using two’s complement, and then add the two numbers.

Carry out the subtraction 95 – 68 in binary. Example 1.3

Solution
1 Convert the two numbers into binary:
95 = 0 1 0 1 1 1 1 1
68 = 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0
2 Find the two’s complement of 68:

invert the digits: 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 1

add 1: 1
which gives: 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 = −68

3 Add 95 and −68:

−128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
01011111
+
10111100
=
100011011
The additional ninth bit is simply ignored leaving the binary number
0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 (denary equivalent of 27, which is the correct result of the
subtraction).

5
 Carry out the subtraction 49 – 80 in binary. Example 1.4

1
Solution
1 Convert the two numbers into binary:
49 = 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1
80 = 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0
2 Find the two’s complement of 80:

1 Information representation and multimedia

invert the digits: 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 1
add 1: 1
which gives: 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 = −80
3 Add 49 and −80:

−128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
00110001
+
10110000
=
11100001
This gives us 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1, which is −31 in denary; the correct answer.

ACTIVITY 1D
Carry out these binary additions and subtractions using these 8-bit column
weightings:

−128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
a) 0 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 + 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1
b) 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 + 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1
c) 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 + 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0
d) 0 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 + 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 0
e) 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 + 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 0
f) 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 − 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0
g) 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 − 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 0
h) 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 − 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0
i) 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 − 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0
j) 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 − 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1

Measurement of the size of computer memories

The byte is the smallest unit of memory in a computer. Some computers use
larger bytes, such as 16-bit systems and 32-bit systems, but they are always
multiples of 8. 1 byte of memory wouldn’t allow you to store very much
information; so memory size is measured in these multiples. See Table 1.1.

6
 Name of memory size Equivalent denary value
(bytes)

1 kilobyte (1KB) 1 000

1 megabyte (1MB) 1000000

1 gigabyte (1GB) 1 000000000

1 terabyte (1 TB) 1000000000000

1 petabyte (1 PB) 1000000000000000

▲ Table 1.1 Memory size and denary values

1.
1
Data
The system of numbering shown in Table 1.1 only refers to some storage
r

nt

at

io

n
devices, but is technically inaccurate. It is based on the SI (base 10)
system of units where 1 kilo is equal to 1000. A 1 TB hard disk drive
would allow the storage of 1 × 1012 bytes according to this system.
However, since memory size is actually measured in terms of powers of
2, another system has been proposed by the International
Electrotechnical Commission (IEC); it is based on the binary system. See
Table 1.2.
Name of memory Number of Equivalent denary value
size bytes (bytes)

1 kibibyte (1KiB) 210 1024

1 mebibyte (1MiB) 220 1048576

1 gibibyte (1GiB) 230 1 073741824

1 tebibyte (1TiB) 240 1099 511 627776

 1 pebibyte (1 PiB) 250 1125899906 842624

▲ Table 1.2 IEC memory size system

This system is more accurate. Internal memories (such as RAM)

should be measured using the IEC system. A 64GiB RAM could,
therefore, store 64 × 230 bytes of data (68719 476 736 bytes).
See Section 1.2 for examples of how to calculate the size of a file.

1.1.3 Hexadecimal number system

The hexadecimal system is very closely related to the binary system.
Hexadecimal (sometimes referred to as simply hex) is a base 16 system
with the weightings:

1048 576 65 536 4096 256 16 1 (165) (164) (163) (162) (161) (160)

Because it is a system based on 16 different digits, the numbers 0 to 9

and the letters A to F are used to represent hexadecimal digits.
A = 10, B = 11, C = 12, D = 13, E = 14 and F = 15.
Since 16 = 24, four binary digits are equivalent to each hexadecimal digit.
Table 1.3 summarises the link between binary, hexadecimal and denary.

0000 0

1 0001 1

0010 2

0011 3

0100 4
1 Information representation and multimedia
Example 1.5 0101 5

0110 6

0111 7

1000 8

1001 9

1010 A

1011 B
Example 1.6
1100 C
Binary value Hexad
 1101 First split it into groups of 4 bits:
1110 101111100001
Then find the equivalent hexadecimal digits:
1111 BE1

▲ Table 1.3 The link between binary, hexadecimal and denary

Convert 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 from binary to
Converting from binary to hexadecimal and from hexadecimal.
hexadecimal to binary Converting from binary to
hexadecimal is a fairly easy process. Starting from Solution
the right and moving left, split the binary number
into groups of 4 bits. If the last group has less than First split it into groups of 4 bits:
4bits, then simply fill in with 0s from the left. Take 10000111111101
each group of 4 bits and convert it into the The left group only contains 2 bits, so add in two 0s to
equivalent hexadecimal digit using Table 1.3. the left:
Examples 1.5 and 1.6 show you how this works. 0010000111111101
Now find the equivalent hexadecimal digits:
Convert 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 from binary to 21FD
hexadecimal.

Solution

8
ACTIVITY 1E

1
Convert these binary numbers into hexadecimal.
a) 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 h) 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 0
b) 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 i) 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 0 1
c) 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 d) 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 1.1
0 e) 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 j) 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 0
f) 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 0
g) 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0
Converting from hexadecimal to binary is also
straightforward. Using the data from Table 1.3,
simply take each hexadecimal digit and write
down the 4bit code which corresponds to the
digit.

Example 1.7 Example 1.8

Convert this hexadecimal number to its binary
equivalent.
45A

Solution
Using Table 1.3, find the 4-bit code for each digit:
010001011010
Put the groups together to form the binary number:
010001011010
Data representatio
n
 This section reviews two uses of the hexadecimal
system.
Convert this hexadecimal number to its binary
Memory dumps
equivalent.
It is much easier to work with:
BF08
B5A41AFC
Solution than it is to work with:
Using Table 1.3: 10110101101001000001101011
1011111100001000 111100
Then put all the digits together: So, hexadecimal is often used when developing
new software or when trying to trace errors in
1011111100001000 programs. When the memory contents are output
to a printer or monitor, this is known as a
memory dump.
Use of the hexadecimal system
9
c) A A 78 20 20

1 00
65
00 00 00

ACTIVITY 1F 20
63
Convert these 73
hexadecimal
65
numbers into binary. a) 6 C
00
b) 5 9

1 Information representation and multimedia ▲ Table 1.4 Memory dump

d) A 0 0 e) 4 0 E f) B A 6 g) 9 C C h) 4 0 A A a 4-bit code to represent each denary digit:
i) D A 4 7 j) 1 A B 0 0000=00101=5
A program developer can look at each of the
0001=10110=6
hexadecimal codes (as shown in Table 1.4) and
determine where the error lies. The value on the 0 0 1 0 = 2 0 1 1 1 = 7
far left shows the memory location, so it is 0011=31000=8
possible to find out exactly where in memory
the fault occurs. Using hexadecimal is more 0100=41001=9
manageable than binary. It is a powerful Therefore, the denary number 3 1 6 5 would be
fault-tracing tool, but requires considerable 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 in BCD format.
knowledge of computer architecture to be able
The 4-bit code can be stored in the computer
to interpret the results.
either as half a byte or two 4-bit codes stored
1.1.4 Binary-coded decimal (BCD) together to form one byte. For example, using 3
1 6 5 again …
system
The binary-coded decimal (BCD) system uses Method 1: four single bytes

0 0
0 0 0 Method 2: two
bytes
0 0
0 0
0 0 0
0 1 1 0 0 1
0 0
0 0
0 0 0
1 1 0 1 0 1
0 0
0 0 0
 ACTIVITY 1G
3
1 3165
6
5

1 Convert these denary numbers into BCD format. a) 2 7 1 b) 5

0 0 6 c) 7 9 9 0 2 Convert these BCD numbers into denary
numbers. a) 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 1
b) 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 0
10
Uses of BCD

1
The most obvious use of BCD is in the representation of digits on a
calculator or clock display.

1.
Each denary digit will have a BCD equivalent value which makes it easy to 1
convert from computer output to denary display.
Data representatio
n
As you will learn in Chapter 13, it is nearly impossible to represent
decimal values exactly in computer memories which use the binary
number system. Normally this doesn’t cause a major issue since the
differences can be dealt
with. However, when it comes to accounting and representing monetary
values in computers, exact values need to be stored to prevent
significant errors from accumulating. Monetary values use a fixed-point
notation, for example $1.31, so one solution is to represent each denary
digit as a BCD value.
Consider adding $0.37 and $0.94 together using fixed-point decimals.
Expected result =
$0.3 000000 $1.31
7 00000
+
$0.9
4

Using binary addition, this sum will produce:

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 . 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 which produces 1 1 0 0 (denary 12) and
1 0 1 1 (denary 11), which is clearly incorrect. The problem was caused
by 3 + 9 = 12 and 7 + 4 = 11, as neither 12 nor 11 are single denary
digits. The solution to this problem, enabling the computer to store
monetary values accurately, is to add 0 1 1 0 (denary 6) whenever such
a problem arises. The
computer can be programmed to recognise this issue and add 0 1 1 0 at
 each appropriate point.
If we look at the example again, we can add .07 and .04 (the two digits in
the second decimal place) first.
0
1 1 1

+
0
1 0 0

=
This produces 1 0 1 1
1 which isn’t a denary
0 1 1 digit; this will flag an
error and the computer
needs to add

0 1 1 0. This now
produces a 0
fifth bit which 1 1 0
is
carried to the
next decimal
digit position. =

1 1
0 1 1 0 0 0 1

+
11
Now we will add .3 and .9 together (the two digits in the first decimal place)

1
remembering the carry bit from the addition above:
0
0 1 1

1 Information representation and multimedia

1
0 0 1

+
1
 =
1
1 0 1

This produces 1 1 0 1 which isn’t a denary digit; this will flag an error and the
computer again needs to add 0 1 1 0.
1
1 0 1

This again produces

a fifth bit which is
carried to the next =
decimal digit
1
position. 0 0 1 1
+
0
1 1 0

ACTIVITY 1H 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1

Carry out these BCD additions.

a) 0.45 + 0.21
Adding 1 to 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Final answer:
produces:
b) 0.66 + 0.51 c) 0.88 + 0.75
.
0 0
0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1

which is 1.31 in denary – the correct answer.

1.1.5 ASCII codes and Unicodes

The ASCII code system (American Standard Code for Information
Interchange) was set up in 1963 for use in communication systems and
computer systems. The newer version of the code was published in
1986. The standard ASCII code character set consists of 7-bit codes (0
to 127 denary or 0 to 7F in hexadecimal); this represents the letters,
numbers and characters found on a standard keyboard together with 32
control codes (which use up codes 0 to 31 (denary) or 0 to 19
(hexadecimal)).
Table 1.5 shows part of the standard ASCII code table (only the control
codes have been removed from the table).

12

Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char

32 20 <SPAC 64 40 @ 96 60 `
E>
33 21 ! 65 41 A 97 61 a

34 22 “ 66 42 B 98 62 b

35 23 # 67 43 C 99 63 c

36 24 $ 68 44 D 100 64 d

37 25 % 69 45 E 101 65 e

38 26 & 70 46 F 102 66 f

39 27 ‘ 71 47 G 103 67 g

40 28 ( 72 48 H 104 68 h

41 29 ) 73 49 I 105 69 i

42 2A * 74 4A J 106 6A j

43 2B + 75 4B K 107 6B k

44 2C , 76 4C L 108 6C l

45 2D - 77 4D M 109 6D m

46 2E . 78 4E N 110 6E n

47 2F / 79 4F O 111 6F o

48 30 0 80 50 P 112 70 p

49 31 1 81 51 Q 113 71 q

50 32 2 82 52 R 114 72 r

51 33 3 83 53 S 115 73 s

52 34 4 84 54 T 116 74 t

53 35 5 85 55 U 117 75 u

54 36 6 86 56 V 118 76 v

55 37 7 87 57 W 119 77 w

56 38 8 88 58 X 120 78 x

57 39 9 89 59 Y 121 79 y

58 3A : 90 5A Z 122 7A z

59 3B ; 91 5B [ 123 7B {

60 3C < 92 5C \ 124 7C |

61 3D = 93 5D ] 125 7D }

62 3E > 94 5E ^ 126 7E ~

63 3F ? 95 5F _ 127 7F <DELE
TE>
 1

1.
1
Data representatio
n

▲ Table 1.5 Part of the ASCII code table

Notice the storage of characters with uppercase and lowercase. For

example: a 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 hex 61 (lower case)
A 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 hex 41 (upper case)
y 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 hex 79 (lower case)
Y 1 0 1 1 0 0 1 hex 59 (uppercase)
Notice the sixth bit changes from 1 to 0 when comparing lower and
uppercase characters. This makes the conversion between the two an
easy operation. It is also noticeable that the character sets (such as a to
z, 0 to 9, and so on) are grouped together in sequence, which speeds up
usability.
Extended ASCII uses 8-bit codes (128 to 255 in denary or 80 to FF in
hex). This allows for non-English characters and for drawing characters
to be included.
13
Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char Dec Hex Char

1
 A

94 ö 17 «
A

1 Information representation and multimedia 95 ò 17 »

A
80 Ç 15
4 96 û 17 B ░
6 0
81 ü 1
9 97 ù 17 B ▒
7 1
82 é 15
9 98 ӱ 17 B ▓
8 2
83 â 15
7

84 ä 15 Φ
8 128
85 à 15 129
9
Θ
86 å 16130
A

87 ç 16
Ω
A
131
88 ê 16
A

89 ë 16δ
A132

8 è 16
A A

8 ï 16
B A∞
133
8 î 16
C A

8 ì 16
D A

8 Ä 16ø
E A134

8 Å 16
F A

90 É 1
A

91 æ 17
ε
A
135
92 Æ 17
A

93 ô 17
∩
136

⌠
141

≡
137

⌡
± 142
138

≥
139

÷
143

≤
140
≈
144

▪
147

°
145

√
148

▪▪
146
³
149
■
151

²
150

□
152
99│τ
153
179 B3205 CD231 E7 Ö
═

▲ Table 1.6 Extended ASCII code table

Since ASCII code has a number of disadvantages and is unsuitable for

some purposes, different methods of coding have been developed over
 the years. One coding system is called Unicode. Unicode allows
characters in a code form to represent all languages of the world, thus
supporting many operating systems, search engines and internet
browsers used globally. There is overlap with standard ASCII code, since
the first 128 (English) characters are the same, but Unicode can support
several thousand different characters in total. As can be seen in Tables
1.5 and 1.6, ASCII uses one byte to represent a character, whereas
Unicode will support up to four bytes per character.
The Unicode consortium was set up in 1991. Version 1.0 was published
with five goals, these were to
» create a universal standard that covered all languages and all writing
systems » produce a more efficient coding system than ASCII
» adopt uniform encoding where each character is encoded as 16-bit or
32-bit code » create unambiguous encoding where each 16-bit or 32-bit
value always represents the same character (it is worth pointing out here
that the ASCII code tables are not standardised and versions other than
the ones shown in tables 1.5 and 1.6 exist)
» reserve part of the code for private use to enable a user to assign codes
for their own characters and symbols (useful for Chinese and Japanese
character sets). A sample of Unicode characters are shown in Table 1.7.
As can be seen from the table, characters used in languages such as
Russian, Greek, Romanian and Croatian can now be represented in a
computer).
14

ɀ ɂ ɇ Ɉ
01A0 01B0 01C0 01D0 01E0 01F0 0200 Ɂ Ƀ Ʉ Ʌ Ɇ
0210 0220 0230 0240 0250 0260 0270 0280
0290 02A0 02B0 ɐ ɓ ɔ ɕ ɖ ɗ ɘ
ɑ ɒ
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ɠ ɡ ɢ ɣ ɤ ɥ ɦ ɧ ɨ

Ơ ƥ
ơ Ƣ ƣ Ƥ Ʀ Ƨ ɰ ɳ ɴ ɵ
ɱ ɲ ɶ ɷ ɸ
ư ƴ ƶ
Ʊ Ʋ Ƴ Ƶ Ʒ ʀ ʁ ʂ ʃ ʄ ʆ ʇ ʈ
ʅ
ǀ ǁ ǂ ǃ DŽ LJLj
ʐ ʑ ʒ ʓ ʔ ʕ ʖ ʗ
ʘ
ǐ Ǒ ǒ Ǔ ǔ Ǖ ǖ Ǘ
ʠ ʡ ʢ ʧ
Ǡ ǡ ǥ Ǧ ǧ ʣ ʤ ʥ ʦ ʨ
Ǣ ǣ Ǥ
ʰ ʱ ʲ ʳ ʴ ʵ ʶ ʷ ʸ
ǰ DZ Ǵ ǵ
dz Ƕ Ƿ

Ȁ ȁ Ȃ ȃ Ȅ ȅ Ȇ ȇ F

Ȑ ȑ Ȓ ȓ Ȕ ȕ Ȗ ȗ
1
Ư
Ƞ ȡ ȣ ȥ Ȧ ȧ ƿ
Ȣ Ȥ
Ǐ
Ȱ ȱ ȳ ȴ ȵ ȶ ȷ ǟ
Ȳ ǯ
ǿ
 1. ɟ
2
ȏ ɯ
ȟ ɿ
Multimedi ʏ
a
ȯ ʟ
ȿ ʯ
ɏ ʿ

▲ Table 1.7 Sample of Unicode characters

1.2 Multimedia
Key terms
screen
Bit-map image – system that uses pixels to make up an resolution is smaller than the image resolution, the
image. whole image cannot be shown on the screen, or
Pixel – smallest picture element that makes up an the original image will become lower quality.
image. Colour depth – number of bits used to represent Resolution – number of pixels per column and per row
the colours in a pixel, e.g. 8 bit colour depth can on a monitor or television screen.
represent 28 = 256 colours. Pixel density – number of pixels per square centimetre.
Bit depth – number of bits used to represent the Vector graphics – images that use 2D points to
smallest unit in, for example, a sound or image file – describe lines and curves and their properties that are
the larger the bit depth, the better the quality of the grouped to form geometric shapes.
sound or colour image. Sampling resolution – number of bits used to represent
Image resolution – number of pixels that make up an sound amplitude (also known as bit depth). Sampling
image, for example, an image could contain 4096 × rate – number of sound samples taken per second.
3192 pixels (12738656 pixels in total). Frame rate – number of video frames that make up a
Screen resolution – number of horizontal and video per second.
vertical pixels that make up a screen display. If the

Images can be stored in a computer in two common formats: bit-map

image and vector graphic.

1.2.1 Bit-map images

Bit-map images are made up of pixels (picture elements); the image is
stored in a two-dimensional matrix of pixels.
Pixels can take different shapes, such as or or
or

15
the colour of each
pixel on a screen.
1 1 Information representation and
How is HTML used in the design
stage of a web page screen layout?

multimedia

EXTENSION
ACTIVITY 1B
Find out how HTML is used to control
 than one million colours could contain 4096 × 3192 pixels
» the number of bits used to (12738 656 pixels in total).
represent a pixel is called the » Screen resolution refers to the
colour depth. number of horizontal pixels and the
In terms of images, we need to number of vertical pixels that
distinguish between bit depth and make up a screen display (for
colour depth; for example, the example, if the screen resolution
number of bits that are used to is smaller than the image
represent a single pixel (bit depth) resolution then the whole image
will determine the colour depth of cannot be shown on the screen or
that pixel. As the bit the original image will now be a
depth increases, the number of lower quality).
possible colours which can be We will try to clarify the difference
represented also increases. For
by using an example.
example, a bit depth of 8bits per
pixel allows 256 (28) different Figure 1.1 has been taken by a
colours (the colour depth) to be digital camera using an image
represented, whereas using a bit resolution of 4096 × 3192 pixels:
depth of 32bits per pixel results in
4 294967296 (232) different
colours. The impact of bit depth
and colour depth is considered
later.
We will now consider the actual
image itself and how it can be
displayed on a screen. There are
two important definitions here:

▲ Figure 1.1 Image taken by a digital

camera
▲ Figure 1.2 Suppose we wish to display Figure
Image cropped and rotated through 90° 1.1 on a screen with screen
When storing images as pixels, we resolution of 1920 × 1080. To
have to consider display this image the web browser
(or other software) would need to
» at least 8bits (1 byte) per pixel re-size Figure 1.1 so that it now fits
are needed to code a coloured the screen. This could be done by
image (this gives 256 possible removing pixels so that it could
colours by varying the intensity of now be displayed, or part of the
the blue, green and red elements) image could be cropped (and, in
» Image resolution refers to the
» true colour requires 3bytes per this case, rotated through 90°) as
number of pixels that make up an
pixel (24bits), which gives more shown in Figure 1.2.
image; for example, an image
16
However, a lower resolution copy of Figure 1.1 (for example, 1024 × 798) would

1
now fit on the screen without any modification to the image. We could simply
zoom in to enlarge it to full screen size; however, the image could now become
pixelated (in other words, the number of pixels per square inch (known as the
 pixel density) is smaller, causing deterioration in the image quality).
We will now consider a calculation which shows how pixel density can be
calculated for a given screen. Imagine we are using an Apple iPhone 8 which
has 5.5-inch screen size and screen resolution of 1920 pixels × 1080 pixels:
1.
2
1 add together the squares of the resolution size ((19202 + 10802) = (3 686 400
+ 16 640) = 4 852800)
Multimedi
a
2 find the square root ( ) 4852800 2202.907 =
3 divide by screen size (2202.907 ÷ 5.5 = 401)
This gives us the pixel density of 401 pixels per square inch (ppi) (which is the
same as the published figure from the manufacturer).
A pixel-generated image can be scaled up or scaled down; it is important
to understand that this can be done when deciding on the resolution. The
resolution can be varied on many cameras before taking, for example, a digital
photograph. When magnifying an image, the number of pixels that makes up
the image remains the same but the area they cover is now increased. This
means some of the sharpness could be lost. This is known as the pixel density
and is key when scaling up photographs. For example, look at Figure 1.3.

A B C D E ▲ Figure 1.3 Five images of the same car wheel

Image A is the original. By the time it has been scaled up to make image E it
has become pixelated (‘fuzzy’). This is because images A and E have different
pixel densities.
The main drawback of using high resolution images is the increase in file size. As
the number of pixels used to represent the image is increased, the size of the file
will also increase. This impacts on how many images can be stored on, for example,
a hard drive. It also impacts on the time to download an image from the internet or
the time to transfer images from device to device. Bit-map images rely on certain
properties of the human eye and, up to a point, the amount of file compression
used (see Section 1.3 File compression). The eye can tolerate a certain amount of
resolution reduction before the loss of quality becomes significant.

Calculating bit-map image file sizes

1920 × 1080 pixels and a bit depth of 24
EXTENSION ACTIVITY 1C
requires 1920 × 1080 × 24bits = 49766400bits
Calculate the file size needed to store the screen for the full screen image.
image on a UHD television. Dividing by 8 gives us 6 220 800bytes
It is possible to estimate the file size needed to (equivalent to 6.222MB using the SI units or
store a bit-map image. The file size will need to 5.933MiB using IEE units). An image which does
take into account the image resolution and bit not occupy the full screen will obviously result in
depth. a smaller file size.
For example, a full screen with a resolution of
17
 result in no loss of quality.

1 1 Information representation and

When printing out vector graphics
it is usually necessary to first
convert it into a bit-map image to
match the format of most printers.

Comparison between vector

graphics and bit-map images
multimedia Ve

ma
▲ Figure 1.4 Drawing of a robot made up wh
of a number of geometric shapes def
Note: when saving a bit-map
to a
image, it is important to include a
nec
file header; this will contain items geo
such as file type (.bmp or .jpeg),
file size, image resolution, bit the
depth (usually 1, 8, 16, 24 or 32), sin
any type of data compression geo
employed and so on.
be
sha
1.2.2 Vector graphics are
Vector graphics are images that
file
use 2D points to describe lines and
.od
curves and their properties that
are grouped to form geometric
shapes. Vector graphics can be
designed using computer aided ▲ Table 1.8 Comparison between vector
design (CAD) software or using an graphics and bit-map images
application which uses a drawing It is now worth considering
canvas on the screen. See Figure whether a vector graphic or a
1.4. bit-map image would be the best
A vector graphic will contain a choice for a given application.
drawing list (included in a file When deciding which is the better
header) that is made up of method, we should consider the
following:
» the command used for each
object that makes up the graphic
image » the attributes that define
the properties that make up each
» Does the image need to be
object (for example consider the
resized? If so, a vector graphic
ellipse of the robot’s mouth – this
could be the best option.
will need the position of the two
» Does the image need to be
centres, the radius from centres,
the thickness and style of each drawn to scale? Again, a vector
line, the line colour and any fill graphic is probably the best
colour used) option.
» the relative position of each » Does the image need to look
object will also need to be included real? Usually bit-map images look
» the dimensions of each object more realistic than vector
are not defined, but the relative graphics.
positions of objects to each other » Are there file restrictions? If so, it
in the final graphic need to be is important to consider whether
defined; this means that scaling vector graphic images can be
up the vector graphic image will used; if not, it would be necessary
to consider the image resolution ofa bit-map image to ensure the file size is not too large.

18
For example, when designing a logo for a company or composing an ‘exploded

1
diagram’ of a car engine, vector graphics are the best choice.
However, when modifying photographs using photo software, the best
method is to use bit-map images.

1.2.3 Sound files

Sound requires a medium in which to travel through (it cannot travel in
a vacuum). This is because it is transmitted by causing oscillations of
particles
1.
2
within the medium. The human ear picks up these oscillations (changes
in air pressure) and interprets them as sound. Each sound wave has a
frequency and
Multimedi
a
wavelength; the amplitude specifies the loudness of the sound.
high frequency wave

Time Time

Pressure Pressure low frequency wave

period

period

▲ Figure 1.5 High and low frequency wave signals

Sound is an analogue value; this needs to be digitised in order to store
sound in a computer. This is done using an analogue to digital converter
(ADC). If the sound is to be used as a music file, it is often filtered first to
remove higher frequencies and lower frequencies which are outside the
range of human hearing. To convert the analogue data to digital, the
sound waves are sampled at a given time rate. The amplitude of the
sound cannot be measured precisely, so approximate values are stored.

10

Sound amplitude
9
 6
5
4
3
2
1
8
7
0
10 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Time intervals

▲ Figure 1.6 A sound wave

19
Figure 1.6 shows a sound wave. The x-axis shows the time intervals when

1
the sound was sampled (0 to 20), and the y-axis shows the amplitude of the
sampled sound (the amplitudes above 10 and below 0 are filtered out in this
example).
At time interval 1, the approximate amplitude is 9; at time interval 2, the
approximate amplitude is 4, and so on for all 20 time intervals. Because the
amplitude range in Figure 1.6 is 0 to 10, then 4 binary bits can be used to
represent each amplitude value (for example, 9 would be represented by the
1 Information representation and multimedia
binary value 1001). Increasing the number of possible values used to represent
sound amplitude also increases the accuracy of the sampled sound (for
example, using a range of 0 to 127 gives a much more accurate representation
of the sound sample than using a range of, for example, 0 to 10). This is known
as the sampling resolution (also known as the bit depth).
Sampling rate is the number of sound samples taken per second. The higher
the sampling rate and/or sampling resolution, the greater the file size. For
example, a 16-bit sampling resolution is used when recording CDs to give better
sound quality.
So, how is sampling used to record a sound clip?
» The amplitude of the sound wave is first determined at set time intervals
(the sampling rate).
» This gives an approximate representation of the sound wave.
» The sound wave is then encoded as a series of binary digits.
Using a higher sampling rate or larger resolution will result in a more faithful
representation of the original sound source.
Pros Cons

larger dynamic range produces larger file size

better sound quality takes longer to transmit/download sound files

less sound distortion requires greater processing power

▲ Table 1.9 The pros and cons of using a larger sampling resolution when recording sound

Recorded sound is often edited using software. Common features of such

software include the ability to
» edit the start/stop times and duration of a sample
» extract and save (or delete) part of a sample
» alter the frequency and amplitude of a sample
 » fade in and fade out
» mix and/or merge multiple sound tracks or sources
» combine various sound sources together and alter their properties
» remove ‘noise’ to enhance one sound wave in a multiple of waves (for
example, to identify and extract one person’s voice out of a group of people)
» convert between different audio formats.

1.2.4 Video
This section considers the use of video and extends beyond the syllabus. While
this is not specifically mentioned in the syllabus, it has been included here
for completeness. Many specialist video cameras exist. However, most digital
cameras, smart phones and tablets are also capable of taking moving images by
‘stitching’ a number of still photos (frames) together. They are often referred to
as DV (digital video) cameras; they store compressed photo frames at a speed
of 25MB per second – this is known as motion JPEG.
20
In both single frame and video versions, the camera picks up the light from

1
the image and turns it into an electronic signal using light-sensitive sensors.
In the case of the DV cameras, these signals are automatically converted into a
compressed digital file format.
When recording video, the frame rate refers to the number of frames recorded
per second.

1.3 File compression

1.
3
File compressio
n
Key terms
Audio compression – method used to reduce the size
Lossless file compression – file compression of a sound file using perceptual music shaping.
method where the original file can be restored Perceptual music shaping – method where sounds
following decompression. outside the normal range of hearing of humans, for
Lossy file compression – file compression method example, are eliminated from the music file during
where parts of the original file cannot be recovered compression.
during decompression, so some of the original detail
Bit rate – number of bits per second that can be
is lost.
transmitted over a network. It is a measure of the data
JPEG – Joint Photographic Expert Group – a form of
transfer rate over a digital telecoms network. Run
lossy file compression based on the inability of the eye
length encoding (RLE) – a lossless file compression
to spot certain colour changes and hues.
technique used to reduce text and photo files in
MP3/MP4 files – file compression method used for
particular.
music and multimedia files.

It is often necessary to reduce the file size of a file to either save storage
space or to reduce the time taken to stream or transmit data from one
device to another (see Chapter 2). The two most common forms of file
compression are lossless file compression and lossy file
compression.

Lossless file compression

With this technique, all the data from the original file can be
reconstructed when the file is uncompressed again. This is particularly
important for files where loss of any data would be disastrous (such
as a spreadsheet file of important results).
 Lossy file compression
With this technique, the file compression algorithm eliminates
unnecessary data (as with MP3 and JPEG formats, for example).
Lossless file compression is designed to lose none of the original detail
from the file (such as Run-Length Encoding (RLE) which is covered
later in this chapter). Lossy file compression usually results in some loss
of detail when compared to the original; it is usually impossible to
reconstruct the original file. The algorithms used in the lossy technique
have to decide which parts of the file are important (and need to be
kept) and which parts can be discarded.
We will now consider file compression techniques applied to

multimedia files. 1.3.1 File compression applications

MPEG-3 (MP3) and MPEG-4 (MP4)
MPEG-3 (MP3) uses technology known as audio compression to convert
music and other sounds into an MP3 file format. Essentially, this
compression technology will reduce the size of a normal music file by
about 90%. For example, an 80MB music file on a CD can be reduced to
8MB using MP3 technology.
21
compression algorithms that use depends on the bit rate – this

1
perceptual music shaping. refers to the number of bits per
second used when creating the
1 Information representation and Perceptual music shaping removes
file. Bit rates are between 80 and
certain sounds. For example
320 kilobits per second; usually
» frequencies that are outside the 200 kilobits or higher gives a
human hearing range sound quality close to a normal
CD.
multimedia MPEG-4 (MP4) files are slightly
different to MP3 files. This format
allows the storage of multimedia
files rather than just sound. Music,
EXTENSION ACTIVITY 1D videos, photos and animation can
Find out how file compression can be all be stored in the MP4 format.
applied to a Videos, for example, could be
photograph without noticeably streamed over the internet using
reducing its quality. Compare the MP4 format without losing any
this to run-length encoding (RLE), » if two sounds are played at the real discernible quality (see
described below. same time, only the louder one canChapter 2 for notes on video
MP3 files are used in MP3 players, be heard by the ear, so the softer streaming).
computers or mobile phones. sound is eliminated.
Music files can be downloaded or Photographic (bit-map) images
streamed from the internet in a This means that certain parts of When a photographic file is
compressed format, or CD files the music can be removed without compressed, both the file size and
can be converted to MP3 format. affecting the quality too much. quality of image are reduced. A
While streamed or MP3 music MP3 files use what is known as a common file format for images is
quality can never match the ‘full’ lossy format, since part of the JPEG, which uses lossy file
version found on a CD, the quality original file is lost following the compression. Once the image is
is satisfactory for most purposes. compression algorithm. This subjected to the JPEG
But how can the original music file means that the original file cannot compression algorithm, a new file
be reduced by 90% while still be put back together again. is formed and the original file can
retaining most of the music However, even the quality of MP3 no longer be constructed. A JPEG
quality? This is done using file files can be different, since it will reduce the raw bit-map image
by a factor of between 5 and 15, Run-length encoding (RLE) can The first value represents the
depending on the quality of the be used to compress a number of number of identical data items
original. different file formats. (such as characters) in the run.
Vector graphics can also undergo It is a form of lossless/reversible The second value represents the
some form of file compression. file compression that reduces the code of the data item (such as
Scalable vector graphics (.svg) size of a string of adjacent, ASCII code if it is a keyboard
are defined in XML text files which, identical data (such as repeated character).
therefore, allows them to be colours in an image). RLE is only effective where there
compressed.
A repeating string is encoded into is a long run of repeated units/bits.
Run-length encoding (RLE) two values.

22
Using RLE on text data

1
Consider the text string ‘aaaaabbbbccddddd’.
Assuming each character requires 1byte, then this string needs 16 bytes.
If we assume ASCII code is being used, then the string can be coded as
follows:
a a a a a b b b b c c d d d d d

05 97 04 98 02 99 05 100

1.
3
This means we have five characters with ASCII code 97, four
characters with ASCII code 98, two characters with ASCII code 99,
and five characters with
File compressio
n
ASCII code 100. Assuming each number in the second row requires
1byte of memory, the RLE code will need 8 bytes. This is half the
original file size.
One issue occurs with a string such as ‘cdcdcdcdcd’, where compression
is not very effective. To cope with this we use a flag. A flag preceding
data indicates that what follows are the number of repeating units (for
example, 255 05 97 where 255 is the flag and the other two numbers
indicate that there are five items with ASCII code 97). When a flag is not
used, the next byte(s) are taken with their face value and a run of 1 (for
example, 01 99 means one character with ASCII code 99 follows).
Consider this example:
Strin aaaaaa bbbbbbbb c d c d c d eeeeee
g aa bb ee

Cod 08 97 10 98 01 01 01 01 01 01 08 101
e 99 100 99 100 99 100

The original string contains 32 characters and would occupy 32

bytes of storage.
The coded version contains 18 values and would require 18bytes of
 storage. Introducing a flag (255 in this case) produces:
255 08 97 255 10 98 99 100 99 100 99 100 255 08 101
This has 15 values and would, therefore, require 15bytes of storage.
This is a reduction in file size of about 53%.
Using RLE with images
Black and white images
Figure 1.7 shows the letter F in a grid where each square requires
1byte of storage. A white square has a value 1 and a black square a
value of 0.

11111111
In compressed RLE format this
becomes:

9W 6B 2W 1B 7W 1B 7W 5B 3W 1B 7W
1B 7W 1B 6W

Using W = 1 and B = 0 we get:

1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 91 60 21 10 71 10 71 50 31 10 71 10 71
1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 10 61
11111110111111

▲ Figure 1.7 Using RLE with a black and white image

The 8 × 8 grid would need 64 bytes; the compressed RLE format has 30
values, and therefore needs only 30 bytes to store the image.
23
Coloured images

1
Figure 1.8 shows an object in four colours. Each colour is made up of red, green
and blue (RGB) according to the code on the right.
representation and

multimedia Square colour

Red Green Blue Components

0 0 0 255 255 2 5 5 0 2 5 5 0 255

1 Information 00

▲ Figure 1.8 Using RLE with a coloured image

This produces the following data:

2 0 0 0 4 0 255 0 3 0 0 0 6 255 255 255 1 0 0 0 2 0 255 0 4 255 0 0 4 0
255 0 1 255 255 255 2 255 0 0 1 255 255 255 4 0 255 0 4 255 0 0 4 0
255 0 4 255 255 255 2 0 255 0 1 0 0 0 2 255 255 255 2 255 0 0 2 255
255 255 3 0 0 0 4 0 255 0 2 0 0 0
The original image (8 × 8 square) would need 3 bytes per square (to
include all three RGB values). Therefore, the uncompressed file for this
image is 8 × 8 × 3 = 192 bytes.
The RLE code has 92 values, which means the compressed file will be
92 bytes in size. This gives a file reduction of about 52%. It should be
noted that the file reductions in reality will not be as large as this due to
other data which needs to be stored with the compressed file (such as a
file header).
 1.3.2 General methods of compressing files
All the above file compression techniques are excellent for very specific
types of file. However, it is also worth considering some general
methods to reduce the size of a file without the need to use lossy or
lossless file compression:

reduce the sampling rate used

reduce the frame rate

movie files image files

crop the image

decrease the colour/bit depth

reduce the image resolution

reduce the sampling resolution

▲ Figure 1.9 General methods of compressing files

24

b) Explain why it is often necessary to compress stored

1.
music files. 3

Describe how the music quality is essentially retained.

End of chapter questions

ACTIVITY 1I
File compressio
n
1 3 a) What is meant by run length encoding?
b) Describe how RLE compresses a file. Give an
1 a) What is meant by lossless and lossy file
example in your
compression?
description.
b) Give an example of a lossless file format and an
4 a) Describe the differences between bit-map images
example of a lossy file format.
and vector graphics. b) A software designer needs to
2 a) Describe how music picked up by a microphone is incorporate images into her software to add realism.
turned into a digitised music file in a computer.
Explain what she needs to consider when deciding
between using bit-map images and vector graphics in
her software.
 1 a) The following bytes represent binary integers
using the two’s complement form. State the
equivalent denary values.
i) 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 [1] ii) 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 [1] iii)Write the
integer −53 in two’s complement form. [1] iv)Write
the maximum possible range of numbers using the
two’s
complement form of an 8-bit binary number.
Give your answers in denary. [2] b) i) Write the
denary integer 798 in binary-coded decimal (BCD)
format. [1] ii) Write the denary number that is
represented by the following BCD number.
1 0 1 0
0

[2]

c) Give one use of binary-coded decimal system. [1]

2 A software developer is using a microphone and a
sound editing app to collect and edit sounds for his
new game.
When collecting sounds, the software developer can
decide on the sampling resolution he wishes to use.
a) i) State what is meant by sampling resolution. [1]
ii) Describe how sampling resolution will affect how
accurate the
stored digitised sound will be. [2] b) The software
developer will include images in his new game.
i) Explain the term image resolution. [1] ii) The
software developer is using 16-colour bit-map
images.
State the number of bits required to encode data for
one pixel of his
image. [1] iii)One of the images is 16 384 pixels
wide and 512 pixels high.
The developer decides to save it as a 256-colour
bit-map image.

Calculate the size of the image file in gibibytes. [3]

➔
25
iv)The bit-map image will contain a header.

1
 State two items you would expect to see in the header. [2]
v) Give three features you would expect to see in the sound editing app. [3]
3 The editor of a movie is finalising the music score. They will send the final
version of the score to the movie producer by email attachment.
a) Describe how sampling is used to record the music sound clips. [3]
b) The music sound clips need to undergo some form of data compression
before the music editor can send them via email.
1 Information representation and multimedia
Identify the type of compression, lossy or lossless, they should use.
Give a justification for your answer. [3]
c) One method of data compression is known as run length encoding (RLE).
i) Explain what is meant by RLE. [3]
ii) Show how RLE would be used to produce a compressed file for
the image below.
Write down the data you would expect to see in the RLE compressed
format (you may assume that the grey squares have a code value of 85
and the white squares have a code value of 255). [4]

4 a) Write the denary numbers 60, 27 and −27 in 8-bit binary two’s
complement form. [3]
b) Show the result of the addition 60 + 27 using 8-bit binary two’s
complement form. Show all of your working. [2]
c) Show the result of the subtraction 60 − 27 using 8-bit binary two’s
complement form. [2]
d) Give the result of the following addition.
01011001
+
01100001
Explain why the expected result is not obtained. [2]
5 a) Carry out 0.52 + 0.83 using binary-coded decimal (BCD). Show all
of your working. [4]
b) i) Define the term hexadecimal. [1]
ii) Give two uses of the hexadecimal system. [2]
iii)Convert the following binary number into hexadecimal. [2]
0111111011110010
6 a) Convert the denary number 95 into binary coded decimal (BCD). [1]
b) Using two’s complement, carry out the binary subtraction:
00100011–01000100
and convert your answer into denary. [3]
c) Convert the denary number 506 into hexadecimal. [1]

26
2 Communication
2.
1
In this chapter, you will learn about
Networkin
g
★ the benefits of networking devices
★ the characteristics of a local area network (LAN) and a wide area
network (WAN)
★ client-server and peer-to-peer models in networking
★ the differences between thin client and thick client
★ bus, star, mesh and hybrid networking topologies
★ public and private cloud computing
★ the differences between wired and wireless networks
(including types of cable and wireless technologies)
★ the hardware required to support a LAN
★ the function of routers
★ Ethernet and how data collisions are detected and avoided
★ bit streaming (including differences between real-time and
on-demand streaming of data)
★ the differences between the internet and the World Wide Web (WWW)
★ the hardware needed to support the internet
★ IP addresses (including IPv4, IPv6, public IP addresses and private IP
addresses)
★ the use of the uniform resource locator (URL) to locate a resource on
the world wide web
★ the role of the domain name service (DNS).

WHAT YOU SHOULD ALREADY KNOW

d) Explain the function of an internet browser.
Try these three questions before you read this In what ways is this different to an ISP? 2 A
chapter.
college is about to form a network from 20
1 a) Explain the following terms associated stand-alone computers. Describe the hardware
with devices connected to a network/ and software that might be needed to produce
internet. this simple computer network. 3 a) Mobile
i) MAC address phones and tablets can be configured to access
ii) IP address the internet from any location. Describe the
b) Explain the main differences between a software required to allow this to happen.
MAC address and an IP address and why it b) Describe some of the benefits and
is necessary to have both associated with a drawbacks (when compared to a desktop
device connected to the internet. PC) of accessing website pages from a
c) What is the purpose of an internet service mobile phone.
provider (ISP)?

27
 Key terms Networking
2 2.1
cable in which all devices are connected to this cable
so data can only travel in one direction and only one
device is allowed to transmit at a time.
Packet – message/data sent over a network from node
ARPAnet – Advanced Research Projects Agency
to node (packets include the address of the node
Network. WAN – wide area network (network covering sending the packet, the address of the packet recipient
a very large geographical area). and the actual
LAN – local area network (network covering a small data – this is covered in greater depth in Chapter 14).
Star network topology – a network that uses a central
cation hub/switch with all devices connected to this central
area such as a single building). hub/switch so all data packets are directed through this
MAN – metropolitan area network (network which is central hub/switch.
Mesh network topology – interlinked computers/
larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN, which 2
devices, which use routing logic so data packets are
sent from sending stations to receiving stations only by
Communi the shortest route.
can cover several buildings in a single city, such as a Hybrid network – network made up of a combination of
university campus). other network topologies.
File server – a server on a network where central files Cloud storage – method of data storage where data is
and other data are stored. They can be accessed by a stored on off-site servers.
user logged onto the network.
Data redundancy – situation in which the same data is
Hub – hardware used to connect together a number stored on several servers in case of maintenance or
of devices to form a LAN that directs incoming data repair. Wi-Fi – wireless connectivity that uses radio
packets to all devices on the network (LAN).
waves, microwaves. Implements IEEE 802.11 protocols.
Switch – hardware used to connect together a Bluetooth – wireless connectivity that uses radio waves
number of devices to form a LAN that directs in the 2.45GHz frequency band.
incoming data packets to a specific destination
Spread spectrum frequency hopping – a method of
address only.
transmitting radio signals in which a device picks one of
Router – device which enables data packets to be 79 channels at random. If the chosen channel is already
routed between different networks (for example, can in use, it randomly chooses another channel. It has a
join LANs to form a WAN). range up to 100 metres.
Modem – modulator demodulator. A device that WPAN – wireless personal area network. A local wireless
converts digital data to analogue data (to be sent network which connects together devices in very close
down a telephone wire); conversely it also converts proximity (such as in a user’s house); typical devices
analogue data to digital data (which a computer can would be a laptop, smartphone, tablet and printer.
process). WLAN – wireless LAN. Twisted pair cable – type of cable in which two wires of
(W)AP – (wireless) access point which allows a device a single circuit are twisted together. Several twisted pairs
to access a LAN without a wired connection. make up a single cable.
PAN – network that is centred around a person or their Coaxial cable – cable made up of central copper core,
workspace. insulation, copper mesh and outer insulation. Fibre
Client-server – network that uses separate dedicated optic cable – cable made up of glass fibre wires which
servers and specific client workstations. All client use pulses of light (rather than electricity) to transmit
computers are connected to the dedicated servers. data.
Spread spectrum technology – wideband radio Gateway – device that connects LANs which use
frequency with a range of 30 to 50 metres. different protocols.
Node – device connected to a network (it can be a Repeater – device used to boost a signal on both wired
computer, storage device or peripheral device). and wireless networks.
Peer-to-peer – network in which each node can share Repeating hubs – network devices which are a hybrid of
its files with all the other nodes. Each node has its own hub and repeater unit.
data and there is no central server. Bridge – device that connects LANs which use the
Thin client – device that needs access to the internet same protocols.
for it to work and depends on a more powerful Softmodem – abbreviation for software modem; a
computer for processing. software-based modem that uses minimal hardware.
Thick client – device which can work both off line and NIC – network interface card. These cards allow
on line and is able to do some processing even if not devices to connect to a network/internet (usually
connected to a network/internet. associated with a MAC address set at the factory).
Bus network topology – network using single central

28
WNIC – wireless network interface resolve the issue. (and microphone) connected to a
cards/controllers. Ethernet – protocol Bit streaming – contiguous sequence of computer and sent to a server where the
IEEE 802.3 used by many wired LANs. digital bits sent over a network/internet. data is encoded. The user can access
Buffering – store which holds data the data ‘as it happens’ live.
Conflict – situation in which two devices
temporarily. Bit rate – number of bits per

2
have the same IP address.
second that can be transmitted over a
Broadcast – communication where network. It is a measure of the data
pieces of data are sent from sender to
transfer rate over a digital telecoms
receiver.
network. On demand (bit streaming) –
Collision – situation in which two system that allows users to stream video
messages/data from different sources or music files from a central server as
are trying to transmit along the same and when required without having to
data channel.
save the files on their own computer/ 2.
CSMA/CD – carrier sense multiple 1
tablet/phone.
access with collision detection – a Networkin
Real-time (bit streaming) – system in g
method used to detect collisions and
which an event is captured by camera

2.1.1 Networking devices

One of the earliest forms of networking, circa 1970 in the USA, was the
Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPAnet). This was
an early form of packet switching wide area network (WAN) connecting
a number of large computers in the Department of Defense. It later
expanded to include university computers. It is generally agreed that
ARPAnet developed the technical platform for what we now call the
internet. Figure 2.1 shows the vast area this network covered.

LINCOLN
MIT-IPC
MIT-MAC
LBL T
SRI UTAH CARNEGIE
AMES LLL T T GWC T
T T XEROX
AMES
CASE HARVARD
CCA STANFORD BBN
RADC BBN TYMSHARE
UCLA ABERDEEN
FNWC T T BELVOIR NBS
UCSD T DOCB ILLINOS SDAC
T
T UCSB NORSAR T
MITRE T T
HAWAI SDC T T
T
T LONDON
RAND ARPA ETAC

USC USC–ISI

RML
T

▲ Figure 2.1 ARPAnet coverage, 1973

As personal computers developed through the 1980s, a local network

began to appear. This became known as a local area network (LAN).
LANs tended to be much smaller networks (usually inside one building)
connecting a number of computers and shared devices, such as printers.
WANs typically consist of a number of LANs connected via public
communications networks (such as telephone lines or satellites).
Because a WAN consists of LANs joined together, it may be a private
network, and passwords and user IDs are required to access it. This is in
contrast to the internet which is a vast number of decentralised networks
and computers which have a common point of access, so that anyone
with access to the internet can connect to the computers on these
networks. This makes it intrinsically different to a WAN.
29
 In recent years, another type of network – a metropolitan area network

2
(MAN) – has emerged. MANs are larger than LANs as they can connect together
many small computer networks (e.g LANs) housed in different buildings within
a city (for example, a university campus). MANs are restricted in their size
geographically to, for example, a single city.
In contrast, WANs can cover a much larger geographical area, such as a country
or a continent. For example, a multi-national company may connect a number
of smaller networks together (e.g. LANs or MANs) to form a world-wide WAN.
This is covered in more detail later.
cation
Here are some of the main benefits of networking computers and devices
(rather than using a number of stand-alone computers):
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» Devices, such as printers, can be shared (thus reducing costs).
» Licences to run software on networks are often far cheaper than buying
licences for an equivalent number of stand-alone computers.
» Users can share files and data.
» Access to reliable data that comes from a central source, such as a file
server.
» Data and files can be backed up centrally at the end of each day.
» Users can communicate using email and instant messaging.
» A network manager can oversee the network and, for example, apply access
rights to certain files, or restrict access to external networks, such as the
internet.

There are also a number of drawbacks:

» Cabling and servers can be an expensive initial outlay.
» Managing a large network can be a complex and difficult task.
» A breakdown of devices, such as the file servers, can affect the whole network.
» Malware and hacking can affect entire networks (particularly if a LAN is part
of a much larger WAN), although firewalls do afford some protection in this
respect.

Networked computers
Networked computers form an infrastructure which enables internal and external
communications to take place. The infrastructure includes the following:

Hardware
» LAN cards
» routers
» switches
» wireless routers
» cabling

Software
» operation and management of the network
» operation of firewalls
» security applications/utilities

Services
» DSL
» satellite communication channels
 » wireless protocols
» IP addressing.
30
Networks can be categorised as private or public.

2
Private networks are owned by a single company or organisation (they
are often LANs or intranets with restricted user access, for example,
passwords and user ids are required to join the network); the companies
are responsible for the purchase of their own equipment and software,
maintenance of the network and the hiring and training of staff.
Public networks are owned by a communications carrier company
(such as a telecoms company); many organisations will use the
network and there are
2.
1
usually no specific password requirements to enter the network –
but sub networks may be under security management.
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WANs and LANs
Local area networks (LANs)
LANs are usually contained within one building, or within a small
geographical area. A typical LAN consists of a number of computers and
devices (such as printers) connected to hubs or switches. One of the
hubs or switches is usually connected to a router and/or modem to allow
the LAN to connect to the internet or become part of a wide area network
(WAN).
Wireless LANs (WLANs)
Wireless LANs (WLANs) are similar to LANs but there are no wires or
cables. In other words, they provide wireless network communications
over fairly short distances (up to 100 metres) using radio or infrared
signals instead of using cables.
Devices, known as wireless access points (WAPs), are connected into
the wired network at fixed locations. Because of the limited range, most
commercial LANs (such as those on a college campus or at an airport)
need several WAPs to permit uninterrupted wireless communications.
The WAPs use either spread spectrum technology (which is a
wideband radio frequency with a range from a few metres to 100 metres)
or infrared (which has a very short range of about 1 to 2 metres and is
easily blocked, and therefore has limited use; see Section 2.1.5 Wired
and wireless networking).
The WAP receives and transmits data between the WLAN and the wired
network structure. End users access the WLAN through wireless LAN
adapters which are built into the devices or as a plug in module.

WAP
 ▲ Figure 2.2 Wireless local
area networks (WLAN)
WAP WAP

31
Wide area networks (WANs)

2
Wide area networks (WANs) are used when computers or networks are situated
a long distance from each other (for example, they may be in different cities or
on different continents). If a number of LANs are joined together using a router
or modem, they can form a WAN. The network of automated teller machines
(ATMs) used by banks is one of the most common examples of the use of a WAN.
Because of the long distances between devices, WANs usually make use of a
public communications network (such as telephone lines or satellites), but they
can use dedicated or leased communication lines which can be less expensive
cation
and more secure (less risk of hacking, for example).

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A typical WAN will consist of end systems and intermediate systems, as shown
in Figure 2.3. 1, 3, 7 and 10 are known as end systems, and the remainder are
known as intermediate systems. The distance between each system can be
considerable, especially if the WAN is run by a multi-national company.

123

456

7 8 9 10

▲ Figure 2.3 A typical WAN

The following is used as a guide for deciding the ‘size’ of a network:

WAN: 100km to over 1000 km
MAN: 1 km to 100 km
LAN: 10m to 1000m
PAN: 1m to 10m (this is not a commonly used term – it means personal area
network; in other words, a home system)

2.1.2 Client-server and peer-to-peer networking models

We will consider two types of networking models, client-server and peer-to-peer.

Client-server model
 sends it back to the client.

▲ Figure 2.4 Client-server model

internet

clients server

A system administrator manages

the whole network; clients are
connected through a network;
Client sends a request to the
server and the server finds allows data access even
the requested data and over large distances.

32

» The client-server model uses separate dedicated servers and specific 2

client workstations; client computers will be connected to the
server computer(s).
» Users are able to access most of the files, which are stored on
dedicated servers.
» The server dictates which users are able to access which files. (Note:
sharing of data is the most important part of the client-server model;
with peer-to peer, connectivity is the most important aspect.)
2.
» The client-server model allows the installation of software onto a client’s 1

computer.
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» The model uses central security databases which control access to the
shared resources. (Note: passwords and user IDs are required to log
into the network.)
» Once a user is logged into the system, they will have access to only
those resources (such as a printer) and files assigned to them by the
network administrator, so offers greater security than peer-to-peer
networks.
» Client-server networks can be as large as you want them to be and
they are much easier to scale up than peer-to-peer networks.
» A central server looks after the storing, delivery and sending of
emails. » This model offers the most stable system, for example, if
someone deletes a shared resource from the server, the nightly
back-up would restore the deleted resource (this is different in
peer-to-peer – see later).
» Client-server networks can become bottlenecked if there are several
client requests at the same time.
» In the client-server model, a file server is used and is responsible
for – central storage and management of data files, thus
enabling other network users to access files
– allowing users to share information without the need for offline
devices (such as a memory stick)
– allowing any computer to be configured as the host machine and
act as the file server (note that the server could be a storage
device (such as SSD or HDD) that could also serve as a remote
storage device for other computers, thus allowing them to access
this device as if it were a local storage device attached to their
 computer).

Examples of use of client-server network model

A company/user would choose a client-server network model for the
following reasons.
» The company/user has a large user-base (however, it should be pointed
out that this type of network model may still be used by a small group
of people who are doing independent projects but need to have
sharing of data and access to data outside the group).
» Access to network resources needs to be properly controlled.
» There is a need for good network security.
» The company requires its data to be free from accidental loss (in
other words, data needs to be backed up at a central location).

An example is the company Amazon; it uses the client-server network

model. The user front-end is updated every time a user logs on to the
Amazon website and a large server architecture handles items such as
order processing, billing customers and data security; none of the
Amazon users are

33
aware that other customers are using the website at the same time – there is

2
no interaction between users and server since they are kept entirely separate
at all times.

Peer-to-peer model

cation
node

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▲ Figure 2.5 Peer-to-peer model

On a peer-to-peer network, each node joins the network to allow

» the provision of services to all other network users; the services available
are listed on a nominated ‘look up’ computer – when a node requests a
service, the ‘look up’ computer is contacted to find out which of the other
network nodes can provide the required service
» other users on the network to simply access data from another node
» communication with other peers connected to the network
» peers to be both suppliers and consumers (unlike the client-server
model where consumers and resources are kept entirely separate from
each other)
 » peers to participate as equals on the network (again this is different
to the client-server model where a webserver and client have different
responsibilities).
The peer-to-peer model does not have a central server. Each of the nodes
(workstations) on the network can share its files with all the other nodes, and
each of the nodes will have its own data.
Because there is no central storage, there is no requirement to authenticate
users.
This model is used in scenarios where no more than 10 nodes are required (such
as a small business) where it is relatively easy for users to be in contact with
each other on a regular basis. More than 10 nodes leads to performance and
management issues.

34
Peer-to-peer offers little data security since there is no central security system.

2
This means it is impossible to know who is authorised to share certain
data. Users can create their own network node share point which is the
only real security aspect since this gives them some kind of control.
However, there are no real authentication procedures.

Examples of peer-to-peer network model

A user would choose the peer-to-peer network model for one or
more of following reasons:
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» The network of users is fairly small.
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» There is no need for robust security.
» They require workstation-based applications rather than being server-based.

An example would be a small business where there is frequent user

interaction and there is no need to have the features of a client-server
network (for example, a builder with five associated workers located in
their own homes who only need access to each other’s diaries, previous
jobs, skills-base and so on – when the builder is commissioned to do a
job they need to access each other’s computer to check on who is
available and who has the appropriate skills).

Thin clients and thick clients

The client-server model offers thin clients and thick clients. These can
often refer to both hardware and software.
Thin client
A thin client is heavily dependent on having access to a server to allow
constant access to files and to allow applications to run uninterrupted. A
thin client can either be a device or software which needs to be connected
to a powerful computer or server to allow processing to take place (the
computer or server could be on the internet or could be part of a
LAN/MAN/ WAN network). The thin client will not work unless it is
connected at all times to the computer or server. A software example
would be a web browser which has very limited functions unless it is
connected to a server. Other examples include mobile phone apps which
 need constant access to a server to work. A hardware example is a POS
terminal at a supermarket that needs constant access to a server to find
prices, charge customers and to do any significant processing.
Thick client
A thick client can either be a device or software that can work offline or
online; it is still able to do some processing whether it is connected to a
server or not. A thick client can either be connected to a LAN/MAN/WAN,
virtual network, the internet or a cloud computing server. A hardware
example is a normal PC/laptop/tablet since it would have its own storage
(HDD or SSD), RAM and operating system which means it is capable of
operating effectively online or offline. An example of software is a
computer game which can run independently on a user’s computer, but
can also connect to an online server to allow gamers to play and
communicate with each other.
Table 2.1 highlights some of the pros and cons of using thick client or
thin client hardware.

35

Pros Cons

n more robust (device can carry out n lesssecure (relies on clients to

T processing even when not keep their own data secure)
connected to server) n each client needs to update data
hi
n clients have more control (they and software individually
c can store their own programs n data integrity issues, since
and data/ files) many clients access the same
k data which can lead to
inconsistencies
cl

ie

ts

n less expensive to expand n high reliance on the server; if the

T (low-powered and cheap devices server goes down or there is a
can be used) break in the communication
hi
n all devices are linked to a server link then the devices cannot
n (data updates and new software work
installation done centrally) n despite cheaper hardware, the
cl n server can offer protection start-up costs are generally
against hacking and malware higher than for thick clients
ie

ts

2
cation

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▲ Table 2.1 Summary of pros and cons of thick and thin client hardware

Table 2.2 highlights the differences between thick and thin client software.
Thin client software Thick client software

n alwaysrelies on a connection to a n can run some of the features of

remote server or computer for it to the software even when not
work connected to a server

n requiresvery few local resources n relies heavily on local resources

(such as SSD, RAM memory or
computer processing time)

n relies
on a good, stable and fast n more tolerant of a slow
network connection for it to work network connection

n data is stored on a remote n can store data on local

server or computer resources such as HDD or
SSD

▲ Table 2.2 Differences between thin and thick client software

ACTIVITY 2A
1 A company has 20 employees working on the development of a new type
of battery for use in mobile phones. Decide which type of network model
(client-server or peer-to-peer) would be most suitable. Give reasons for
your choice.
2 Another company is made up of a group of financial consultants who
advise other companies on financial matters, such as taxation and
exporting overseas. Decide which type of network model (client-server or
peer-to-peer) would be most suitable. Give reasons for your choice.

2.1.3 Network topologies

There are many ways to connect computers to make complex networks. Here we
will consider
» bus networks
» star networks
» mesh networks
» hybrid networks.
36
 cable to which all computers and devices are
connected. It is easy to expand and requires little
cabling. Data can only travel in one direction; if data
is being sent between devices then other devices
cannot transmit. Terminators are needed at each
end to prevent signal reflection (bounce). Bus
networks are typically peer-to-peer. The
disadvantages of a bus network include:
» If the main cable fails, the whole network goes
down.

2.
1
» The performance of the network deteriorates
under heavy loading. » The network is not secure
since each packet passes through every node.

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The advantages of a bus network include:
» Even if one node fails, the remainder of the
network continues to function. » It is easy to
increase the size of the network by adding additional
nodes.

hub/switch

▲ Figure 2.6 Bus network topology

In bus network topology, each node looks at each

packet and determines whether or not the address
of the recipient in the package matches the node
▲ Figure 2.7 Star network topology address. If so, the node accepts the packet; if not,
Bus networks the packet is ignored.
These are most suitable for situations with a small

2 number of devices with light traffic occurring. For

example, a small company or an office environment.
A bus network topology uses a single central
Star networks
 A star network topology uses a central hub/switch can be applied to the central node and packets only
and each computer/device is connected to the travel to nodes with the correct address. » It is easy
hub/switch. Data going from host to host is directed to improve by simply installing an upgraded hub.
through the central hub/switch. Each » If one of the connections is broken it only affects
computer/device has its own dedicated connection one of the nodes.
to the central node (hub/switch) – any type of How packets are handled depends on whether the
network cable can be used for the connections (see central node is a switch or a hub. If it is a hub, all
Section 2.1.5 Wired and wireless networking). This the packets will be sent to every device/node on the
type of network is typically a client-server. The star network – if the address in the packet matches
disadvantages of a star network include: that of the node, it will be
» The initial installation costs are high. accepted; otherwise, it is ignored (this is similar to
» If the central hub/switch fails, then the whole the way packets are handled on a bus network). If
the central node is a switch, packets will only be
network goes down. The advantages of a star
sent to nodes where the address matches the
network include: recipient address in the packet. The latter is clearly
» Data collisions are greatly reduced due to the
more secure, since only nodes intended to see the
packet will receive it.
topology.
» It is a more secure network since security methods
37
Star networks are useful for evolving networks where devices are frequently

2
added or removed. They are well suited to applications where there is heavy
data traffic.

Mesh networks
There are two types of mesh network topologies: routing and flooding.
Routing works by giving the nodes routing logic (in other words, they act like
a router) so that data is directed to its destination by the shortest route and
can be re-routed if one of the nodes in the route has failed. Flooding simply
cation
sends the data via all the nodes and uses no routing logic, which can lead to
unnecessary loading on the network. It is a type of peer-to-peer network, but
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is fundamentally different. The disadvantages of a mesh network include:
» A large amount of cabling is needed, which is expensive and time
consuming.
» Set-up and maintenance is difficult and complex.
The advantages of a mesh network include:
» It is easy to identify where faults on the network have occurred.
» Any broken links in the network do not affect the other nodes.
» Good privacy and security, since packets travel along dedicated routes.
» The network is relatively easy to expand.
 ▲ Figure 2.8 Mesh network topology

There are a number of applications worth considering here:

» The internet and WANs/MANs are typical uses of mesh networks.
» Many examples include industrial monitoring and control where sensors are
set up in mesh design and feedback to a control system which is part of the
mesh, for example
– medical monitoring of patients in a hospital
– electronics interconnectivity (for example, systems that link large screen
televisions, DVDs, set top boxes, and so on); each device will be in a
location forming the mesh
– modern vehicles use wireless mesh network technology to enable the
monitoring and control of many of the components in the vehicle.

38
EXTENSION ACTIVITY 2A

2
There appear to be similarities between the peer-to-peer network model
and mesh network model.
Describe the differences between the two models.

Hybrid networks
2.
1
A hybrid network is a mixture of two or more different topologies (bus
and star, bus and mesh, and so on). The main advantages and
disadvantages depend on
Networkin
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which types of network are used to make up the hybrid network, but an
additional disadvantage is that they can be very complex to install,
configure and maintain.
Additional advantages include:
» They can handle large volumes of traffic.
» It is easy to identify where a network fault has occurred.
» They are very well suited to the creation of larger networks.
 ▲ Figure 2.9 Hybrid bus and star network

Note that the handling of packets in hybrid networks will depend on which
of the above topologies are used to make up the hybrid structure.
One of the typical applications of hybrid networks is illustrated by
the following example, involving three hotel chains, A, B and C.
Suppose hotel chain A uses a bus network, hotel chain B uses a star
network and hotel chain C uses a mesh network.
At some point, all three hotel chains are taken over by another
company. By using hybrid network technology, all three hotel chains
can be connected together even though they are each using a
different type of network. The system can also be expanded easily
without affecting any of the existing hotels using the network.
There are many other examples; you might want to explore the
various applications for each type of network topology.

2.1.4 Public and private cloud computing

Cloud storage is a method of data storage where data is stored on
offsite servers – the physical storage covers hundreds of servers in
many locations.
39
The same data is stored on more than one server in case of maintenance or

2
repair, allowing clients to access data at any time. This is known as data
redundancy. The physical environment is owned and managed by a hosting
company.
There are three common systems, public cloud, private cloud and hybrid cloud.
Public cloud is a storage environment where the customer/client and cloud
storage provider are different companies.
Private cloud is storage provided by a dedicated environment behind a
cation
company firewall. Customer/client and cloud storage provider are integrated
and operate as a single entity.
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Hybrid cloud is a combination of private and public clouds. Some data resides
in the private cloud and less sensitive/less commercial data can be accessed
 from a public cloud storage provider.
Instead of saving data on a local hard disk or other storage device, a user can
save their data ‘in the cloud’. The pros and cons of using cloud storage are
shown in Table 2.3.
Pros of using cloud storage Cons of using cloud storage

n customer/client files stored on the cloud can be n ifthe customer/client has a slow or unstable
accessed at any time from any device anywhere internet connection, they would have problems
in the world provided internet access is accessing or downloading their data/files
available n costs can be high if large storage capacity is
n no need for a customer/client to carry an external required n expensive to pay for high
storage device with them, or use the same download/upload data transfer limits with the
computer to store and retrieve information customer/client internet service provider (ISP)
n provides the user with remote back-up of data to n potential failure of the cloud storage company is
aid data loss and disaster recovery possible – this poses a risk of loss of all
n recovers data if a customer/client has a hard back-up data
disk or back-up device failure
n offers almost unlimited storage capacity

▲ Table 2.3 Summary of pros and cons of using cloud storage

Data security when using cloud storage

Companies that transfer vast amounts of confidential data from their own
systems to a cloud service provider are effectively relinquishing control of their
own data security. This raises a number of questions:
» What physical security exists regarding the building where the data is housed?
» How good is the cloud service provider’s resistance to natural disasters or
power cuts?
» What safeguards exist regarding personnel who work for the cloud service
company? Can they use their authorisation codes to access confidential data
for monetary purposes?

Potential data loss when using cloud storage

There is a risk that important and irreplaceable data could be lost from the
cloud storage facilities. Actions from hackers (gaining access to accounts or
pharming attacks, for example) could lead to loss or corruption of data. Users
need to be certain sufficient safeguards exist to overcome these risks.
The following breaches of security involving some of the largest cloud service
providers suggest why some people are nervous of using cloud storage for
important files:
40

» The XEN security threat, which forced several cloud operators to reboot 2
all their cloud servers, was caused by a problem in the XEN
hypervisor (a hypervisor is a piece of computer software, firmware
or hardware that creates and runs virtual machines).
» A large cloud service provider permanently lost data during a
routine back-up procedure.
» The celebrity photos cloud hacking scandal, in which more than 100
private photos of celebrities were leaked. Hackers had gained access
to a number of cloud accounts, which then enabled them to publish
the photos on social
2.
1
 networks and sell them to publishing companies.
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» In 2016, the National Electoral Institute of Mexico suffered a cloud
security breach in which 93 million voter registrations, stored on a
central database, were compromised and became publicly available to
everyone. To make matters worse, much of the information on this
database was also linked to an Amazon cloud server outside Mexico.
Cloud software
Cloud storage is, of course, only one aspect of cloud computing. Other
areas covered by cloud computing include databases, networking,
software and analytical services using the internet.
Here we will consider cloud software – you can research for yourself
how databases and analytical services are provided by cloud
computing services.
Software applications can be delivered to a user’s computer on demand
using cloud computing services. The cloud provider will both host and
manage software applications – this will include maintenance, software
upgrades and security for a monthly fee. A user will simply connect to
the internet (using their web browser on a computer or tablet or mobile
phone) and contact their cloud services supplier. The cloud services
supplier will connect them to the software application they require.
The main advantages are that the software will be fully tested and it does
not need to reside on the user’s device. However, the user can still use
the software even if the internet connection is lost. Data will simply be
stored on the local device and then data will be uploaded or downloaded
once the internet connection is restored.
Cloud-based applications can, therefore, perform tasks on a local device.
This makes them fundamentally different to web-based apps which need
an internet connection at all times.

2.1.5 Wired and wireless networking

Wireless
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth offer wireless communication between
devices. They both use electromagnetic radiation as the carrier of data
transmission.
Bluetooth sends and receives radio waves in a band of 79 different
frequencies (known as channels). These are all centred on a 2.45GHz
frequency. Devices using Bluetooth automatically detect and connect to
each other, but they do not interfere with other devices since each
communicating pair uses a different channel (from the 79 options).
When a device wants to communicate, it picks one of the 79
channels at random. If the channel is already being used, it
randomly picks another
41
channel. This is known as spread spectrum frequency hopping. To further

2
minimise the risks of interference with other devices, the communication pairs
constantly change the frequencies (channels) they are using (several times a
second). Bluetooth creates a secure wireless personal area network (WPAN)
 based on key encryption.
Bluetooth is useful when
» transferring data between two or more devices which are less than 30
metres apart
cation
» the speed of data transmission is not critical
» using low bandwidth applications (for example, sending music files from a
mobile phone to a headset).
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As mentioned earlier in the chapter, Wi-Fi also uses spread spectrum
technology. However, Wi-Fi is best suited to operating full-scale networks,
since it offers much faster data transfer rates, better range and better security
than Bluetooth. A Wi-Fi-enabled device (such as a computer or smart phone)
can access, for example, the internet wirelessly at any wireless access point
(WAP) or ‘hot spot’ up to 100 metres away.
As mentioned, wireless connectivity uses electromagnetic radiation: radio
waves, microwaves or infrared. The scale of frequency and wavelength of
magnetic radiation is shown in Table 2.4.
radio microwav infrared visible ultra X-rays gamma
waves es light violet rays

Wave length 102 10−1 10−3 10−5 10−7 10−9 10−11

(m)

Frequency 3MHz 3GHz 300GHz 30 THz 3PHz 300 PHz 30 EHz

(Hz)

▲ Table 2.4 Frequency and wavelength of magnetic radiation

EXTENSION ACTIVITY 2B
Frequency and wavelength are linked by the equation:
c
f= λ
where f = frequency (m), λ = wavelength (Hz), and
c = velocity of light (3 × 108m/s).
Confirm the frequency values in Table 2.3 using the wavelengths given.

Table 2.5 compares radio waves, microwaves and infrared. (Please note: the
‘>’ symbol in the table means ‘better than’).
Bandwidth infrared > microwaves > radio waves
(infrared has the largest bandwidth)

Penetration radio waves > microwaves > infrared

(radio waves have the best penetration)

Attenuation radio waves > microwaves > infrared

(radio waves have the best attenuation)
 ▲ Table 2.5 Comparison of radio waves, microwaves and infrared
42

Penetration measures the ability of the electromagnetic radiation to pass 2

through different media. Attenuation is the reduction in amplitude of a
signal (infrared has low attenuation because it can be affected by, for
example, rain or internal walls). Thus, we would expect infrared to be
suitable for indoor use only; the fact that it can be stopped by walls is
seen as an advantage since this stops the signal causing interference
elsewhere. Microwaves seem to offer the best compromise, since
they support reasonable bandwidth, and have reasonable
penetration and attenuation.
2.
1
Additional notes on the use of satellites
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The use of microwaves and radio waves was previously mentioned as a
method for allowing Wi-Fi connectivity in networks. These methods are
perfectly satisfactory for short distances – the electromagnetic waves
carry the signals – but the curvature of the Earth prevents such methods
transmitting data globally.

The electromagnetic radiation from antenna

A is transmitted but is unable to reach
A B ▲ Figure 2.10
antenna B due to the Earth’s curvature.

To overcome this problem, we need to adopt satellite technology:

The signal is boosted by the satellite
orbiting Earth and is then beamed back
The signal is beamed from antenna A to
to Earth and picked up by antenna B.
a satellite orbiting Earth.

AB

▲ Figure 2.11

The communication between antennae and satellite is carried out by

radio waves or microwave frequencies. Different frequency bands are
used to prevent signal interference and to allow networks spread
across the Earth to communicate through use of satellites (many
satellites orbit the Earth – refer to Section 2.2.2 for more information on
 use of satellite technology with networks).

Wired
There are three main types of cable used in wired networks (see Figure 2.12).

43
1 water blocking binders

2 23
conductor insulator outside insulation insulation
ripcord
Aramid strength yarns

optical fibres

pairs flexible buffer tube

4 copper mesh copper wire

cable jacket

cation
jacket

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▲ Figure 2.12 (left to right) Twisted pair cable, coaxial cable, fibre optic cable

Twisted pair cables

Twisted pair cables are the most common cable type used in LANs.
However, of the three types of cable, it has the lowest data transfer rate
and suffers the most from external interference (such as
electromagnetic radiation). However, it is the cheapest option. There
are two types of twisted pair cable: unshielded and shielded.
Unshielded is used by residential users. Shielded is used commercially
(the cable contains a thin metal foil jacket which cancels out some of
the external interference).
Coaxial cables
Coaxial cables are the most commonly used cables in MANs and by
cable television companies. The cost of coaxial cables is higher than
twisted pair cables but they offer a better data transfer rate and are
affected less by external interference. Coaxial cables also have about 80
times the transmission capacity of twisted pair. Coaxial suffers from the
greatest signal attenuation, but offers the best anti-jamming capabilities.
Fibre optic cables
Fibre optic cables are most commonly used to send data over long
distances, because they offer the best data transfer rate, the smallest
signal attenuation and have a very high resistance to external
interference. The main drawback is
the high cost. Unlike the other two types of cable, fibre optics use pulses
of light rather than pulses of electricity to transmit data. They have about
26000 times the transmission capacity of twisted pair cables.
Fibre optic cables can be single- or multi-mode.
Single-mode uses a single mode light source and has a smaller central
core, which results in less light reflection along the cable. This allows
the data to travel faster and further, making them a good choice for
CATV and telecommunications.
Multi core allows for a multi-mode light source; the construction causes
 higher light reflections in the core, so they work best over shorter
distances (in a LAN, for example).

Wired versus wireless

Numerous factors should be considered when deciding if a network
should use wired or wireless connectivity, as listed below.

44
Wireless networking

2
» It is easier to expand networks and is not necessary to connect
devices using cables.
» Devices have increased mobility, provided they are within range of the
WAPs. » Increased chance of interference from external sources.
» Data is less secure than with wired systems; it is easier to intercept
radio waves and microwaves than cables so it is essential to protect
data transmissions using encryption (such as WEP, WPA2).
2.
1
» Data transmission rate is slower than wired networks (although it is
improving). » Signals can be stopped by thick walls (in old houses, for example)
Networkin
and signal g
strength can vary, or ‘drop out’.

Wired networking
» More reliable and stable network (wireless connectivity is often
subjected to interference).
» Data transfer rates tend to be faster with no ‘dead spots’.
» Tends to be cheaper overall, in spite of the need to buy and install
cable. » Devices are not mobile; they must be close enough to allow
for cable connections.
» Lots of wires can lead to tripping hazards, overheating of connections
(potential fire risk) and disconnection of cables during routine office
cleaning.

Other considerations
» If mobile phones and tablets are connected to the network, it will need
to offer Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capability.
» There may be regulations in some countries regarding which
wireless transmission frequencies can be used legally.
» Permission from authorities and land owners may be required before
laying cables underground.
» There are numerous competing signals in the air around us; it is
important to consider this when deciding whether to go for wired or
wireless connectivity.

2.1.6 Hardware requirements of networks

In this section we will consider a number of hardware items needed to
form a LAN network and the hardware needed to form a WAN. Please
note
» the concept of the WLAN and the hardware needed to support it have
been covered in earlier sections
» the hardware items hub and gateway have been included in this section
to complete the picture; however, knowledge of these two items is not
 required by the syllabus.

Hub
Hubs are hardware devices that can have a number of devices or
computers connected to them.
computer

computer
data packet sent to network
data sent out to all computers on
▲ Figure 2.13 Hub flow the network
diagram
computer
HUB
computer

45
They are often used to connect a number of devices to form a local area

2
network (LAN), for example a star network (see Section 2.1.3). A hub’s
main task is to take any data packet (a group of data being transmitted)
received at one of its ports and then send the data to every computer
in the network. Using hubs is not a very secure method of data distribution
and is also wasteful of bandwidth. Note that hubs can be wired or
wireless devices.

Switch
cation
Switches are similar to hubs, but are more efficient in the way they distribute
the data packet. As with hubs, they connect a number of devices or computers
2 Communi
together to form a LAN (for example, a star network).
However, unlike a hub, the switch checks the data packet received and works
out its destination address (or addresses) and sends the data to the appropriate
computer(s) only. This makes using a switch a more secure and efficient way of
distributing data.

computer

computer
data packet sent to network
data sent out only to the
▲ Figure 2.14 Switch flow appropriate
diagram computers on the network
SWITCH computer

computer

Each device or computer on a network has a media access control (MAC)

address which identifies it uniquely. Data packets sent to switches will
have a MAC address identifying the source of the data and additional
addresses identifying each device which should receive the data. Note
that switches can be wired or wireless devices.
 Repeater
When signals are sent over long distances, they suffer attenuation or
signal loss. Repeaters are devices which are added to transmission
systems to boost the signal so it can travel greater distances. They
amplify signals on both analogue (copper cable) and digital (fibre optic
cable) communication links.
Repeaters can also be used on wireless systems. These are used to
boost signals to prevent any ‘dead spots’ in the Wi-Fi zone. These
devices plug into electric wall sockets and send out booster signals. They
are termed non-logical devices because they will boost all signals which
have been detected; they are not selective.
Sometimes, hubs contain repeaters and are known as repeating
hubs. All signals fed to the hub are boosted before being sent to all
devices in the network, thus increasing the operational range.
There are two main drawbacks of repeating hubs:
1 They have only one collision domain. When the signals are boosted
and then broadcast to devices, any collisions which might occur are
not resolved there and then. One way to deal with this problem is to
make use of

46

jamming signals – while this manages the collisions, it also reduces 2

network performance since it involves repeated broadcasts
as the collisions are resolved.
2 The devices are referred to as unmanaged since they are unable to
manage delivery paths and also security in the network.

Bridge
Bridges are devices that connect one LAN to another LAN that uses
the same protocol (communication rules). They are often used to
connect together
2.
1
Networkin
different parts of a LAN so that they can function as a single LAN. g
LAN server
server
computer LAN
computer
SWITCH
computer computer

computer computer

SWITCH

BRIDGE
 ▲ Figure 2.15 Bridge flow diagram

Bridges are used to interconnect LANs (or parts of LANs), since sending
out every data packet to all possible destinations would quickly flood
larger networks with unnecessary traffic. For this reason, a router is
used to communicate with other networks, such as the internet. Note
that bridges can be wired or wireless devices.

Router
Routers enable data packets to be routed between the different networks
for example, to join a LAN to a WAN. The router takes data transmitted in
one format from a network (which is using a particular protocol) and
converts the data to a protocol and format understood by another
network, thereby allowing them to communicate via the router. We can,
therefore, summarise the role of routers as follows. Routers
» restrict broadcasts to a LAN
» act as a default gateway
» can perform protocol translation; for example, allowing a wired network
to communicate with a wireless (Wi-Fi) network – the router can take
an Ethernet data packet, remove the Ethernet part and put the IP
address into a frame recognised by the wireless protocol (in other
words, it is performing a protocol conversion)
» can move data between networks
» can calculate the best route to a network destination address.

47

2 cation
computer computer computer
SWITCH

LAN or WAN
server
LAN ROUTER

internet

▲ Figure 2.16 Router flow diagram

2 Communi
Broadband routers sit behind a firewall. The firewall protects the computers
on a network. The router’s main function is to transmit internet and
transmission protocols between two networks and allow private networks to
be connected.
The router inspects the data package sent to it from any computer on any
of the networks connected to it. Since every computer on the same network
has the same part of an internet protocol (IP) address, the router is able to
send the data packet to the appropriate switch and it will then be delivered
using the MAC destination address (see next section). If the MAC address
doesn’t match any device on the network, it passes on to another switch on
 the same network until the appropriate device is found. Routers can be wired
or wireless devices.

Gateway
A gateway is a network point (or node) that acts as an entrance to another
network. It is a key point for data on its way to or from other networks. It
can be used to connect two or more dissimilar LANs (LANs using different
protocols). The gateway converts data packets from one protocol to another.
Gateways can also act as routers, firewalls or servers – in other words, any
device that allows traffic to flow in and out of the networks. Gateways can be
wired or wireless devices.
All networks have boundaries so that all communication within the network is
conducted using devices such as switches or routers. If a network node needs
to communicate outside its network, it needs to use a gateway.

Modems
Modern computers work with digital data, whereas many of the public
communication channels still only allow analogue data transmission. To allow
the transmission of digital data over analogue communication channels we
need to use a modem (modulator demodulator). This device converts digital
data to analogue data. It also does the reverse and converts data received
over the analogue network into digital data which can be understood by the
computer.
Wireless modems transmit data in a modulated form to allow several
simultaneous wireless communications to take place without interfering
with each other. A modem will connect to the public infrastructure (cable,
telephone, fibre-optics or satellite) and will supply the user with a standard
Ethernet output which allows connection to a router, thus enabling an internet
connection to occur.
48
laptop

internet 2 PC

smart phone
modem router

tablet

▲ Figure 2.17 Wireless modem flow diagram

2.
1
Networkin
While the router will allow the creation of a network in a home, for g
example, the modem allows for the connection to the external networks
(for example, the internet). Routers and modems can be combined into
one unit; these devices have the electronics and software to provide both
router and modem functions.
Another example of a modem is a softmodem (software modem),
which uses minimal hardware and uses software that runs on the host
computer. The computer’s resources (mainly the processor and RAM)
replace the hardware of a conventional modem.
Table 2.6 shows the differences between routers and gateways.
Routers Gateways
 n forward packets of data from one n convert one protocol (or data
network to another; routers read format) to another protocol
each incoming packet of data (format) used in a different
and decide where to forward the network
packet

n can route traffic from one network n convert data packets from one
to another network protocol to another; they act as an
entry and exit point to networks

n can be used to join LANs together to n translate from one protocol to

form a WAN (sometimes called another
brouters) and also to connect a
number of LANs to the internet

n offeradditional features such as n do not support dynamic routing

dynamic routing (ability to
forward data by different
routes)

▲ Table 2.6 Differences between routers and gateways

EXTENSION ACTIVITY 2C
Draw a diagram to show how a gateway could be used to connect
together three LANs which are using different protocols. Include all the
hardware devices and cables needed.

Network interface card (NIC)

A network interface card (NIC) is needed to allow a device to connect
to a network (such as the internet). It is usually part of the device
hardware and frequently contains the MAC address generated at the
manufacturing stage.

49
card/controller (WNIC) all the data is transferred using the

2 Wireless network interface WAP and hub/switch; all the

cards/controllers (WNICs) are wireless devices connect to the
the same as the more ordinary WAP and must use the same
NICs, in that they are used to security and authentication
connect devices to the internet or techniques.
other networks. They use an Ad hoc mode does not need to
antenna to communicate with have access to WAPs; it is
networks via microwaves and possible for devices to interface
cation normally simply plug into a USB with each other directly.
2 Communi port or can be internal integrated
circuit plug in. 2.1.7 Ethernet
As with usual NICs, they work on Ethernet is a protocol used by
layers 1 and 2 of the OSI model many wired LANs. It was adopted
(refer to Chapter 14 for more as a standard by the Institute of
details). WNICs work in two Electrical and Electronic Engineers
modes. (IEEE) and Ethernet is also known
▲ Figure 2.18 Wireless network interface
card/controller (WNIC) as IEEE 802.3. A network using
Infrastructure mode requires
Wireless network interface Ethernet is made up of:
WAPs (wireless access points) and
 are temporary and may have been
» a node (any device on the LAN)
assigned to a device on the
» medium (path used by the LAN
network, unfortunately, another
devices, such as an Ethernet
device using static IP addresses
cable) » frame (data is transmitted
may already have the same IP
in frames which are made up of
address. This can be resolved by
source address and destination
re-starting the router. Any dynamic
address – the addresses are often
IP addresses will be re-assigned,
the MAC address).
which could resolve the issue.
Conflicts
Collisions
When using Ethernet, it is possible
▲ Figure 2.19 IP address conflict error Ethernet supports broadcast
for IP addresses to conflict; this
transmission (communications
could show up as a warning such This may occur if devices on the
as that in Figure 2.19. same network have been given the where pieces of data are sent
same IP address; without a unique from sender to receiver) and are
IP address it is not possible to used to send messages to all
connect to a network. This is most devices connected to a LAN. The
likely to occur on a LAN where risk is that two messages using the
dynamic IP addresses may have same data
been used. Dynamic IP addresses
50
channel could be sent at the same time, leading to a collision. Carrier sense

2
multiple access with collision detection (CSMA/CD) was developed to
try and resolve this issue. Collison detection depends on simple physics:
when a frame is sent it causes a voltage change on the Ethernet cable.
When a collision is detected, a node stops transmitting a frame and
transmits a ‘jam’ signal and then waits for a random time interval before
trying to resend the frame. CSMA/CD protocol will define the random time
period for a device to wait before trying again.
2.
1
Figure 2.20 shows how data collisions can be dealt with using transmission
counters (which keep track of how many times the collision detection routine
Networkin
g
has been entered – there will a defined limit as part of the CSMA/CD
protocol) and random time periods.

A assemble
frame
1 allocated frame?
No time

Yes
is line
idle?
No frame
sent?
Yes
END
start to send
frame
Yes

set
transmissio No
n counter = wait for another
 wait for allocated
time period then
collision re-start
detected? transmission
No

Yes

stop transmission
and
send jam signal

increment abort
transmission transmission A
counter

max
Yes
transmission
counter? continue to send

No

▲ Figure 2.20 How data collisions can be dealt with using transmission counters
51
EXTENSION ACTIVITY 2D

2
Review Figure 2.20. As it stands, it is possible for an endless loop to be
established.
Suggest a modification to the flow diagram to ensure it terminates if there is
a problem with the data channel, or to prevent the data transmission holding
up the computer for an unacceptable time period.

cation
2.1.8 Bit streaming
Bit streaming is a contiguous sequence of digital bits sent over the internet
2 Communi
or a network that requires a high speed data communication link (such as
fast broadband). Since bit streaming often involves very large files (such as
video) it is necessary for the files to undergo some data compression before
transmission. It is also necessary to have some form of buffering to ensure
smooth playback of the media files.
The data transmission rate from the file server (containing the video, for
example) to the buffer must be greater than the rate at which data is
transmitted from buffer to media player. The larger the buffer, the better the
control over the bit rate being sent to the media player. The media player will
always check to ensure data lies between a minimum value (often referred to as
low water mark) and a maximum value (often referred to as a high water mark).
The difference between the two values is usually about 80% of the total buffer
capacity. The buffer is a temporary storage area of the computer.
stream
bit streaming from
media
server
player
source of data low high buffer
 ▲ Figure 2.21 Bit streaming

Table 2.7 shows the pros and cons of bit streaming.

Pros of bit streaming Cons of bit streaming

n no need to wait for a whole video or n cannot stream video or music

music file to be downloaded before files if broadband connection is
the user can watch or listen lost
n no need to store large files on n video or music files will pause to
your device allow the data being streamed to
n allows video files and music files to ‘catch up’ if there is insufficient
be played on demand (as required) buffer capacity or slow broadband
n no need for any specialist hardware connection
n affords piracy protection (more n streaming uses up a lot of
difficult to copy streamed files than bandwidth n security risks
files stored on a hard drive) associated with
downloading files from the
internet n copyright issues

▲ Table 2.7 Pros and cons of bit streaming

52
Bit streaming can be either on demand or real time.

2
On demand
» Digital files stored on a server are converted to a bit streaming
format (encoding takes place and the encoded files are uploaded to a
server). » A link to the encoded video/music file is placed on the web
server to be downloaded.
» The user clicks on the link and the video/music file is downloaded
in a contiguous bit stream.
2.
1
» Because it is on demand, the streamed video/music is broadcast to the user
N

et

rk

in

g
as and when required.
» It is possible to pause, rewind and fast forward the video/music if required.

Real time
» An event is captured by camera and microphone and is sent to a
computer. » The video signal is converted (encoded) to a streaming
media file. » The encoded file is uploaded from the computer to the
 dedicated video streaming server.
» The server sends the encoded live video to the user’s device.
» Since the video footage is live it is not possible to pause, rewind or
fast forward.

ACTIVITY 2B
1 a) Explain the differences between LAN, MAN and WAN.
b) Give three of the benefits of networking computers.
c) Explain the following terms.
i) Thick client
ii) Thin client
2 a) Draw diagrams to show the following network topologies.
i) Bus
ii) Star
iii) Mesh
b) Give one benefit and one drawback of using each type of network
topology.
3 a) Explain the differences between public and private cloud computing.
b) Give two benefits of using cloud computing.
c) Give two drawbacks of using cloud computing.
4 You have been asked by a manager to write a report on whether a
LAN being set up in their new building should use wired or wireless
connectivity. The building has 20 floors.
Explain your arguments for and against using both types of connectivity
and draw a conclusion to help the manager make their decision.
5 a) What is meant by bit streaming?
b) Why is it necessary to use buffers whilst streaming a video from the
internet?
c) Explain the differences between on demand and real time bit streaming.

53
World Wide Web (WWW) – collection of telephones when making calls or when
sending faxes.

2
multimedia web pages stored on a
website, which uses the internet to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) –
access information from servers and converts voice and webcam images into
other computers. digital packages to be sent over the
HyperText Mark-up Language (HTML) – internet.
used to design web pages and to write Internet protocol (IP) – uses IPv4 or
http(s) protocols, for example. IPv6 to give addresses to devices
Uniform resource locator (URL) – connected to the internet.
specifies location of a web page (for
cation example, www.hoddereducation.co.uk).
Web browser – software that connects
2 Communi to DNS to locate IP addresses; interprets
2.2 The internet web pages sent to a user’s computer so
that documents and multimedia can be IPv4 – IP address format which uses
read or watched/listened to. 32bits, such as 200.21.100.6.
Key terms Internet service provider (ISP) – Classless inter-domain routing (CIDR)
company which allows a user to connect – increases IPv4 flexibility by adding a
Internet – massive network of to the internet. They will usually charge a suffix to the IP address, such as
networks, made up of computers and 200.21.100.6/18.
monthly fee for the service they provide.
other electronic devices; uses TCP/IP IPv6 – newer IP address format which
Public switched telephone network
communication protocols.
(PSTN) – network used by traditional uses 128bits, such as
A8F0:7FFF:F0F1:F000:3DD0: Private IP address – an IP address system for finding IP addresses of a
256A:22FF:AA00. reserved for internal network use behind domain name.
Zero compression – way of reducing the a router. JavaScript® – object-orientated (or
length of an IPv6 address by replacing Public IP address – an IP address scripting) programming language used
groups of zeroes by a double colon (::); allocated by the user’s ISP to identify the mainly on the web to enhance HTML
this can only be applied once to an location of their device on the internet. pages.
address to avoid ambiguity. Domain name service (DNS) – (also PHP – hypertext processor; an HTML
Sub-netting – practice of dividing known as domain name system) gives embedded scripting language used to
networks into two or more sub-networks. domain names for internet hosts and is a write web pages.

2.2.1 The differences between the internet and the World

Wide Web
There are fundamental differences between the internet and the World
Wide Web (WWW).

Internet
» The internet is a massive network of networks (although, as
explained in Section 2.1.1, the internet is not a WAN) which are
made up of various computers and other electronic devices.
» It stands for interconnected network.
» The internet makes use of transmission control protocol
(TCP)/internet protocol (IP).

54
World Wide Web (WWW)

2
» This is a collection of multimedia web pages and other documents
which are stored on websites.
» http(s) protocols are written using HyperText Mark-up Language
(HTML). » Uniform resource locators (URLs) specify the location of
all web pages. » Web resources are accessed by web browsers.
» The world wide web uses the internet to access information from servers
and other computers.
2.
2
The internet
2.2.2 Hardware and software needed to support
the internet
The fundamental requirements for connecting to the internet are
» a device (such as a computer, tablet or mobile phone)
» a telephone line connection or a mobile phone network connection
(however, it is possible that a tablet or mobile phone may connect to
the internet using a wireless router)
» a router (which can be wired or wireless) or router and modem
» an internet service provider (ISP) (combination of hardware and
software) » a web browser.
The telephone network system, public switched telephone network
(PSTN), is used to connect computers/devices and LANs between
towns and cities. Satellite technology is used to connect to other
countries (see later).
In recent years, telephone lines have changed from copper cables to fibre
optic cables, which permits greater bandwidth and faster data transfer
 rates (and less risk of data corruption from interference). Fibre optic
telephone networks are usually identified as ‘fast broadband’. As
discussed earlier, high speed broadband has allowed WLANs to be
developed by using WAPs.
High speed communication links allow telephone and video calls to be
made using a computer and the internet. Telephone calls require either
an internet enabled telephone connected to a computer (using a USB
port) or external/ internal microphone and speakers. Video calls also
require a webcam. When using the internet to make a phone call, the
user’s voice is converted to digital packages using Voice over Internet
Protocol (VoIP). Data is split into packages (packet switching) and sent
over the network via the fastest route. Packet switching and circuit
switching are covered in more detail in Chapter 14.

Comparison between PSTN and internet when making a phone

call Public switched telephone network (PSTN)
PSTN uses a standard telephone connected to a telephone line.
The telephone line connection is always open whether or not anybody is
talking – the link is not terminated until the receivers are replaced by both
parties.
Telephone lines remain active even during a power cut; they have their
own power source.
Modern phones are digitised systems and use fibre optic cables (although
because of the way it works this is a big waste of capacity – a 10 minute
phone call will transmit about 10MB of data).
Existing phone lines use circuit switching (when a phone call is made the
connection (circuit) is maintained throughout the duration of the call – this
is the basis of PSTN).
55
Phone calls using the internet

2
Phone calls using the internet use either an internet phone or microphone and
speakers (video calls also require a webcam).
The internet connection is only ‘live’ while data (sound/video image) is being
transmitted.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) converts sound to digital packages
(encoding) which can be sent over the internet.
VoIP uses packet switching; the networks simply send and retrieve data as it
cation
is needed so there is no dedicated line, unlike PSTN. Data is routed through
thousands of possible pathways, allowing the fastest route to be determined.
2 Communi
The conversation (data) is split into data packages. Each packet contains at
least the sender’s address, receiver’s address and order number of packet – the
sending computer sends the data to its router which sends the packets to
another router, and so on. At the receiving end, the packets are reassembled
into the original state (see Chapter 14 for more details).
VoIP also carries out file compression to reduce the amount of data being
transmitted.
Because the link only exists while data is being transmitted, a typical 10
 minute phone call may only contain about 3 minutes where people are talking;
thus only 3MB of data is transmitted making it much more efficient than PSTN.
Cellular networks and satellites
Other devices, such as mobile phones, use the cellular network. Here, the
mobile phone providers act as the ISPs and the phones contain communication
software which allows them to access the telephone network and also permits
them to make an internet connection.
Satellites are an important part of all network communications that cover
vast distances. Due to the curvature of the Earth, the height of the satellite’s
orbit determines how much coverage it can give. Figure 2.22 shows how
satellites are classified according to how high they orbit in relation to the
Earth’s surface.
GEO
MEO
LEO

35 800 km
5000–12 000 km 500–2500
km

diagram not to scale

Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) provide long distance telephone and computer network
communications; orbital period = 24 hours

Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) used for GPS systems (about 10 MEO satellites are currently orbiting the
Earth); orbital period = 2 to 12 hours

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) used by the mobile phone networks (there are currently more than 100 LEO
satellites orbiting the Earth); orbital period = 80 mins to 2 hours

▲ Figure 2.22 Satellite classification

56

Satellites have the advantage that they will always give complete coverage 2
and don’t suffer from signal attenuation to the same extent as
underground/ undersea cables. It is also difficult to isolate and resolve
faults in cables on the sea bed.

2.2.3 IP addresses
The internet is based on TCP/IP protocols. Protocols define the rules that must
be agreed by senders and receivers on the internet. Protocols can be divided
2.
2
into TCP layers (see Chapter 14). We will first consider internet protocols (IP).
T

e
 i

Internet protocols (IP)

IPv4 addressing
The most common type of addressing on the internet is IP version 4
(IPv4). This is based on 32bits giving 232 (4294 967296) possible
addresses. The 32 bits are split into four groups of 8bits (thus giving a
range of 0 to 255). For example, 254.0.128.77.
The system uses the group of bits to define network (netID) and network
host (hostID). The netID allows for initial transmission to be routed
according to the netID and then the hostID is looked at by the receiving
network. Networks are split into five different classes, as shown in Table
2.8 below.
Netw IPv4 range Numbe Numbe Types of
ork r of r of network
class netID hostID
bits bits

A 0.0.0.0 to 8 24 very large

127.255.255.255

B 128.0.0.0 to 16 16 medium size

191.255.255.255

C 192.0.0.0 to 24 8 small
223.255.255.255 networks

D 224.0.0.0 to – – multi-cast
239.255.255.255

E 240.0.0.0 to – – experimental
255.255.255.255

▲ Table 2.8 The five network classes

Consider the class C network IP address 190.15.25.240, which would be

written in binary as:

10111110 00001111 00011001 11110000

 Here the network id is 190.15.25 and the host ID is 240.
Consider the class B network IP address 128.148.12.14, which would be
written in binary as:

10000000 10010100 00001100 00001110

Here the network ID is 128.148 and the host ID is 12.14 (made up of
sub-net ID 12 and host ID of 14).
Consider the class A network IP address 29.68.0.43, which would be
written in binary as:

00011101 01000100 00000000 00101011

Here the network ID is 29 and the host ID is 68.0.43 (made up of
sub-net ID 68.0 and host ID of 43).

57
However, it soon became clear that this IPv4 system provides insufficient

2
address range. For example, a user with a medium sized network (class B) might
have 284 host machines and their class B licence allows them 216 (65534; note
the value is not 65536 since two values are not assigned). This means several of
the allocated host IDs will not be used, which is wasteful.
Classless inter-domain routing (CIDR) reduces this problem by increasing the
flexibility of the IPv4 system. A suffix is used, such as 192.30.250.00/18, which
means 18 bits will be used for the net ID and the last 14 bits will be used for
the host ID (rather than the normal 24 bits and 8bits for a class C network).
cation
The suffix clearly increases the flexibility regarding which bits represent the
net ID and which represent the host ID.
2 Communi
EXTENSION ACTIVITY 2E
Network address translation (NAT) removes the need for each IP address to
be unique. Find out how it works.

IPv6 addressing
IPv6 addressing has been developed to overcome some of the problems
associated with IPv4. This system uses 128-bit addressing, which allows for
much more complex addressing structures. An IPv6 address is broken into
16-bit chunks and because of this, it adopts the hexadecimal notation. For
example:
A8FB:7A88:FFF0:0FFF:3D21:2085:66FB:F0FA
Note how a colon (:) rather than a decimal point (.) is used here.
It has been designed to allow the internet to grow in terms of number of hosts
and the potential amount of data traffic. IPv6 has benefits over IPv4, it
» has no need for NATs (network address translation)
» removes risk of private IP address collisions
» has built in authentication
» allows for more efficient routing.
 Zero compression
IPv6 addresses can be quite long; but there is a way to shorten them using
zero compression. For example, 900B:3E4A:AE41:0000:0000:AFF7:DD44:F1FF
can be written as:
900B:3E4A:AE41::AFF7:DD44:F1FF
With the section 0000:0000 replaced by ::
The zero compression can only be applied ONCE to an IPv6 address, otherwise
it would be impossible to tell how many zeros were replaced on each occasion
where it was applied. For example, 8055:F2F2:0000:0000:FFF1:0000:0000:DD04
can be rewritten either as:
8055:F2F2::FFF1:0000:0000:DD04
or as:
8055:F2F2:0000:0000:FFF1::DD04

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8055:F2F2::FFF1::DD04 is not a legal way of compressing the original address
–

2
we have no way of knowing whether the original address was
8055:F2F2:0000:FFF1:0000:0000:0000:DD04
or
8055:F2F2:0000:0000:0000:FFF1:0000:DD04
or
2.
2
8055:F2F2:0000:0000:FFF1:0000:0000:DD04
It would, therefore, be regarded as ambiguous.
The internet

Sub-netting
CIDR is actually based on sub-netting and the two are similar in many
ways. Sub-netting divides a LAN into two or more smaller networks. This
helps reduce network traffic and can also hide the complexity of the
overall network. Recall that the IP address (using IPv4) is made up of the
netID and hostID. Suppose a university network has eight departments
and has a netID of 192.200.20 (11000000.11001000.00010100). All of the
devices on the university network will be associated with this netID and
can have hostID values from 00000001 to 1111110 (hostIDs containing all
0s or all 1s are forbidden). The university network will look something like
this:

Humanities
Admin and
 finance Business

Science

internet
Arts

gateway Engineering

Computing
Maths

▲ Figure 2.23 An example of a university network

So, for example, the devices in the Admin and finance department might
have hostIDs of 1, 8, 240, 35, 67, 88, 134, and so on, with similar
spreads for the other seven departments.
It would be beneficial to organise the netIDs and hostIDs so that the
network was a lot less complex in nature. With sub-netting, the hostID is
split as follows:
000 00000, where the first 3 bits are netID expansion and the last 5bits
are the hostIDs.

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Thus, we have eight sub-nets with the same range of hostIDs.

2
Department netID hostID range

Admin and finance 192.200.20.0 00001 to 11110

Humanities 192.200.20.1 00001 to 11110

Maths 192.200.20.2 00001 to 11110

Science 192.200.20.3 00001 to 11110

Arts 192.200.20.4 00001 to 11110

Engineering 192.200.20.5 00001 to 11110

Computing 192.200.20.6 00001 to 11110

Business 192.200.20.7 00001 to 11110

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2 Communi
▲ Table 2.9
 Humanities
Admin and finance
192.200.20.0
192.200.20.1

Maths
192.200.20.2

Science
192.200.20.3 Computing
192.200.20.6

internet router
Arts
192.200.20.4

Engineering
192.200.20.5
Business
192.200.20.7

▲ Figure 2.24 An example of a university network with netIDs

The devices in the Admin and finance department will have IP

addresses 192.200.20.000 00001 to 192.200.20.000 11110
The Humanities department will have IP addresses
192.200.20.001 00001 to 192.200.20.001 11110
And so on for the other departments.
To obtain the netID from the IP address we can apply the AND mask
(recall that 1 AND 1 = 1, 0 AND 0 = 0 or 1 AND 0 = 0). Thus, if a
device has an IP address of
11000000.11001000.00010100.011 00011
we can apply the AND mask
11111111.11111111.11111111.111 00000
which results in the netID value
11000000.11001000.00010100.011 00000 (or 192.200.20.03)
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This is the Science department. Consequently, the whole network is more 2

efficient (for the reasons stated above) and less complex. Compare this to
CIDR 192/200/20/0/27, which extends the size of the netID to 27 bits and
has a hostID of only 5 bits, but would not reduce the complexity of the
network.

Private IP addresses and public IP addresses

Private IP addresses are reserved for internal use behind a router or other
2.
NAT device. The following blocks are reserved for private IP addresses. 2

Class A 10.0.0.0 to 10.255.255.255 16 million possible addresses

Class B 172.16.0.0 to 172.31.255.255 1 million possible addresses

 Class 192.168.0.0 to 192.168.255.255 65 600 possible addresses
C

The internet
▲ Table 2.10

Private IP addresses (which are internal value only) allow for an entirely
separate set of addresses within a network. They allow access to the
network without taking up a public IP address space. However, devices
using these private IP addresses cannot be reached by internet users.
Public IP addresses are the ones allocated by a user’s ISP to identify
the location of their device. Devices using these IP addresses are
accessible from anybody using the internet. Public IP addresses are
used by
» DNS servers
» network routers
» directly-controlled computers.

2.2.4 Uniform resource service (URLs)

Web browsers are software that allow users to access and display web
pages on their screens. They interpret HTML sent from websites and
display the results. Web browsers use uniform resource locators (URL) to
access websites; these are represented by a set of four numbers, such
as 109.108.158.1.
But it is much easier to type this into a browser using the following
format: protocol://website address/path/filename
Protocol is usually http or https
Website address is
» domain host (www)
» domain name (name of website)
» domain type (.com, .org, .net, .gov, and so on)
» (sometimes) a country code (.uk, .de, .cy, .br, and so on).

Path is the web page (if this is omitted then it is the root directory of the
website) Filename is the item from the web page
For example: http://www.hoddereducation.co.uk/computerscience

2.2.5 Domain name service (DNS)

The domain name service (DNS) (also known as domain name system)
gives domain names for internet hosts and is a system for finding IP
addresses of a domain name. Domain names eliminate the need for a
user to memorise IP addresses. The DNS process involves converting a
host name (such as www.hoddereducation.co.uk) into an IP address the
computer can understand (such as 107.162.140.19).
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Often, DNS servers contain a database of URLs with the matching IP addresses.

2 DNS server (2)

 32

cation
computer

2 Communi
5 ① The user opens their web browser and types in
the URL
website server

DNS server (1)

▲ Figure 2.25 An example of the DNS process

(www.hoddereducation.co.uk) and the web browser asks the DNS

server (1) for the IP address of the website.
② The DNS server can’t find www.hoddereducation.co.uk in its database
or its cache and sends out a request to DNS server (2).
③ DNS server (2) finds the URL and can map it to 107.162.140.19; the
IP address is sent back to DNS server (1) which now puts the IP
address and associated URL into its cache/database.
④ This IP address is then sent back to the user’s computer.
⑤ The computer now sets up a communication with the website server
and the required pages are downloaded. The web browser interprets
the HTML and displays the information on the user’s screen.

2.2.6 Scripting in HTML

This section considers HTML scripting using JavaScript and PHP.
While this extends beyond the syllabus, it is included here to help you
understand how HTML is used to create websites and how web
browsers communicate with servers. It is included here for information
and to aid understanding.
A user may wish to develop a web application, which is client-server
based, on their own computer. To do this they would need to:
» download the necessary server software
» install the application on the chosen/allocated server
» use the web browser on their computer to access and interpret
the application web pages.
Each web page would need to be created using HTML. A domain name
would have to be purchased from a web-hosting company. The HTML
files would need to be uploaded to the server which was allocated to
the user by the web-hosting company.

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HTML would be used to create a file using tags. For example:
 2
<html>
<body>
<p> Example <p/>
[program code]
</html>

2.
2
The
Between the HTML tags the inclusion of JavaScript or PHP can be used.
i

JavaScript
JavaScript (unlike HTML) is a programming language which will run
on the client-side. What is the difference between running on the
client-side and running on the server-side?
» Client-side – the script runs on the computer, which is making the
request, processing the web page data that is being sent to the
computer from the server.
» Server-side – the script is run on the web server and the
results of processing are then sent to the computer that made
the request.

The following short program inputs a temperature and outputs ‘HIGH’ if

it is 200°C or over, ‘OK’ if it is 100 °C or over and ‘LOW’ if it is below
100 °C.

01 <html>
02 <body>
03 <p>Enter the temperature</p>
04 <input id="Temp" value="0"
05 <button onclick="checkReading()>"Enter</button>
06 <script>
07 function checkReading() {
08 var temp, result;
09 temp = document.getElementById("Temp").value;
10 if (temp >= 200) {
11 result = "HIGH"
12 } else if (temp >= 100) {
 13 result = "OK"
14 } else {
15 result = "LOW"
16 }
17 alert("The result is " + result)
18 }
19 </script>
20 </body>
21 </html>

PHP
PHP is another language which can be embedded within HTML.
However, when PHP is used it is processed on the server-side.
Again, the code will be sandwiched inside HTML and will be stored as
a .php file.
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The following example is similar to the JavaScript example; again temperatures

2
are input but this time ‘H’, ‘O’ and ‘L’ are output depending on the result. Note
that variables begin with $ and are case-sensitive.

01 <?php
02 if(isset($ _ GET['temp'])) {
03 echo "Result: " . checkReading($ _ GET['temp']);
04 } else {

cation
05 ?>
06 <form action="#" method="get">

2 Communi
07 Enter Temp: <input type="text" name="temp" /><br />
08 <input type="submit" value="Calculate" />
09 </form>
10
11 <?php
12 }
13 function checkReading($inputTemp) {
14 $resultChar = "L";
15 if($inputTemp >= 200) $resultChar = "H";
16 else if($inputTemp >= 100) $resultChar = "O";
17 return $resultChar;
18 }
19 ?>

EXTENSION ACTIVITY 2F
Look at the two pieces of code in the previous JavaScript and PHP sections,
then answer these questions.
a) Write down the names of two variables which are used in each piece
 of code.
b) In each case, identify which statement(s) correspond(s) to an output.
c) What is the purpose of the statement shown in line:
i) 09 of the JavaScript code
ii) 03 of the PHP code?
e) What is the purpose of line 05 in the JavaScript?

ACTIVITY 2C
1 a) Describe what happens when a telephone call is made using PSTN.
b) Describe what happens when a computer, equipped with microphone
and speakers, is used to make a ‘telephone’ call over the internet.
c) Communication links between continents frequently involve the use of
satellite technology. Explain the differences between GEO, MEO and
LEO satellites.

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