Comprehensive Summary of the

Grade 11 Computer Applications

Technology (CAT) Theory Book

Term 1
Chapter 1: General Concepts of Computing

This chapter introduces fundamental computing concepts, including

the information processing cycle (input, processing, storage,
output, and communication), the classification of computers, the
role of ICTs in the workplace, and the value of CAT as a
subject.

 Unit 1.1: Information Processing Cycle

o Input: Data entry through devices like keyboards,
scanners, and touchscreens.
o Processing: The CPU processes input data using
instructions.
o Storage: Data is saved in primary storage (RAM) or
secondary storage (HDD, SSD, USB drives).
o Output: Displays processed data via monitors, printers, or
speakers.
o Communication: Data transmission over networks or the
internet.
 Unit 1.2: Computer Features and Classification
o Computers are categorized based on processing power
and portability:
 Non-portable: Servers, desktops.
 Portable: Laptops, tablets, smartphones.
 Dedicated devices: ATMs, smart fridges.
 Unit 1.3: Role of ICTs in the Workplace
o Impact of ICTs: Faster communication, automation,
virtual offices, and improved business efficiency.

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 o BYOD (Bring Your Own Device): Employees use
personal devices for work.
 Unit 1.4: Value of CAT
o Computer literacy is essential for employment.
o CAT improves efficiency, adaptability, and technical skills
in various careers.

 Chapter 2: Input, Output, and Other Devices

 This chapter explores various input and output devices, their
functions, advantages, and disadvantages.

 Unit 2.1: Input Devices

o Scanners, digital cameras, biometric devices
(fingerprint, facial recognition), ATMs, POS
systems, wireless devices, touchscreens.
o Factors affecting image quality: Resolution, color
depth, and dynamic range.
 Unit 2.2: Output Devices
o Display devices: Monitors, projectors, interactive
whiteboards.
o Quality factors: Resolution, aspect ratio, contrast ratio,
response time.
o Printers: Laser vs. inkjet, dpi, ppm, duty cycle.
 Unit 2.3: Devices, Software, and Equipment
o Device drivers: Software that enables communication
between hardware and the OS.
o Plug-and-play: Automatic recognition and installation of
new devices.
o OCR (Optical Character Recognition): Converts printed
text into digital form.

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Term 2
Chapter 3: Storage, Memory, and Processing Devices

Covers different storage types, processing components, and

troubleshooting methods.

 Unit 3.1: Storage Devices

o Primary storage: RAM, ROM.
o Secondary storage: HDD, SSD, USB drives.
o Backup storage: Cloud storage, external drives.
 Unit 3.2: Processing Devices
o Motherboard: Main circuit board connecting
components.
o CPU: Executes instructions; performance depends on
clock speed, cores, and cache.
o RAM vs. ROM: RAM is temporary storage, ROM is
permanent.
 Unit 3.3: Basic Troubleshooting
o Identifying and resolving common storage and processing
issues.

Chapter 4: Software

Covers application software, communication tools,

compatibility issues, and cloud computing.

 Unit 4.1: Application Software

o Categories: Productivity (MS Office), multimedia,
collaboration tools.
 Unit 4.2: Collaboration and Communication Software
o Multimedia software (video editing), communication
software (email, VoIP).
 Unit 4.3: Compatibility Issues
o Importance of updating software for security and
performance.
 Unit 4.4: Software for Physically Challenged Users
o Screen readers, speech recognition software.
 Unit 4.5: Cloud-Based Applications
o Google Workspace (G Suite), Microsoft Office 365.

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 Unit 4.6: Online Storage
o Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive.

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Term 3
Chapter 5: Hardware, Software, and Computer Management

Discusses system requirements, software installation, and file

management.

 Unit 5.1: System Requirements

o RAM, CPU speed, storage, OS.
 Unit 5.2: Software Installation
o Downloading and installing programs from online
sources and portable storage.
 Unit 5.3: File Management
o File types, attributes, importing/exporting,
searching for files.

Chapter 6: Social Implications of Hardware

Focuses on health, accessibility, and hardware protection.

 Unit 6.1: Devices for Physically Challenged Users

o Alternative input/output devices.
 Unit 6.2: Health Issues
o Ergonomics: Proper posture, screen positioning.
 Unit 6.3: Protecting Hardware
o Surge protectors, antivirus software, security
measures.
 Unit 6.4: Power Supply and Settings
o UPS, power-saving settings.

Chapter 7: Networks and Internet Technologies

Covers network types, security, and internet access.

 Unit 7.1: Networks

o LAN, WAN, Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet.
 Unit 7.2: Intranet vs. Internet
o Differences between internal (intranet) and global
(internet) networks.

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  Unit 7.3: Basic Network Security
o Passwords, access rights, usernames.

Chapter 8: Social Implications of Computer Networks

Covers network security, privacy, and data management.

 Unit 8.1: Social Issues in Networks

o Unauthorized access, ethical use, school policies.
 Unit 8.2: Network Security
o Firewalls, encryption, privacy issues.
 Unit 8.3: Databases and Big Data
o Storing, analyzing large datasets.
 Unit 8.4: Cryptocurrency
o Bitcoin, blockchain technology.

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Term 4
Chapter 9: Errors and Bugs

Discusses human error, data validation, and software bugs.

 Unit 9.1: Human Error

o GIGO (Garbage In, Garbage Out) principle.
 Unit 9.2: Data Verification & Validation
o Ensuring accuracy in databases.
 Unit 9.3: Software Bugs
o Debugging, software patches.

Chapter 10: Social Issues and Online Protection

Covers cybersecurity, social engineering, and malware.

 Unit 10.1: Social Engineering Tricks

o Phishing, scams.
 Unit 10.2: Data Protection
o Backups, encryption.
 Unit 10.3: Online Safety
o Cyberbullying, harassment.
 Unit 10.4: E-Commerce & E-Banking
o Online shopping, security.
 Unit 10.5: Antivirus Programs
o How antivirus software works.

Chapter 11: Internet & the World Wide Web

Covers communication technologies, online transactions, IoT,

and social media.

 Unit 11.1: Internet Communication

o VoIP, video conferencing.
 Unit 11.2: Online Transactions
o Security in e-commerce.
 Unit 11.3: Internet of Things (IoT)
o Smart homes, devices.

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 o Unit 11.4: 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution)
o AI, automation.

Chapter 12 & 13: E-Communications & Information

Management

 Email management, data processing, spreadsheets,

databases.

Conclusion

This textbook provides a detailed foundation in computing,

covering hardware, software, networks, security, and ICT’s
impact on society and the workplace.