CAMBRIDGE IGCSE ICT: WORKSHEETS

YOUR NOTES
IGCSE ICT CIE 

1. Types & Components of Computer Systems

CONTENTS
1.1 Hardware & Software
Hardware
Software
Analogue & Digital Data
1.2 Components of Computer Systems
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Memory
Input Devices & Direct Data Entry
Output Devices
Storage
1.3 Types of Computer
Desktop Computers
Mobile Computers
1.4 Emerging Technologies
Artificial Itelligence & Virtual Reality (AI & VR)

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1.1 Hardware & Software YOUR NOTES


Hardware

Hardware
Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system
These components can be internal or external
Internal Components
Central Processing Unit (CPU): the computer's "brain" that performs calculations,
processes instructions, and controls other components
Processor: a chip inside the CPU that carries out instructions from a program
Motherboard: the main circuit board that connects all internal components
Internal Memory
Random Access Memory (RAM): temporary storage for running programs and data; it is
volatile, meaning data is lost when the computer is turned off
Read-Only Memory (ROM): permanent storage for essential data, like the computer's
BIOS; it is non-volatile, meaning data is retained even when the computer is turned off
Hardware Components
Graphics card: processes images and videos for display on a monitor
Sound card: processes audio for output through speakers or headphones
Network Interface Card (NIC): enables connection to a network, such as the internet
Camera: captures images or video for input into the computer
Internal/external storage devices: stores data permanently, such as hard drives or USB
flash drives
Input devices: allow users to enter data, like keyboards and mice
Output devices: display or produce results, like monitors and printers

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YOUR NOTES
 Worked Example

A computer contains internal hardware. Write down the most appropriate item of
internal hardware to match the descriptions.
a. This handles all the system instructions
[1]
Processor / CPU [1]
b. A printed circuit board that contains the main components of the computer
[1]
Motherboard [1]
c. This generates output for the speaker
[1]
Sound card [1]
d. A type of memory where data is lost when the computer is switched off
[1]
RAM / Random Access Memory [1]

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Software YOUR NOTES


Software
Software refers to programs that control the operation of a computer or the processing of
electronic data
Application Software
Application software provides the services that users require to solve a task
E.g.:
Word processing: creating and editing text documents
Spreadsheet: organising and analysing data in a grid format
Database management systems: storing, retrieving and managing data in databases
Control/measurement: uses sensors to measure and control a system
Applets and apps: specialised software for specific tasks
Video editing: creating and modifying video files
Graphics editing: creating and modifying images
Audio editing: creating and modifying sound files
Computer Aided Design (CAD): designing and modelling objects in 2D or 3D
System Software
System software provides the services that the computer requires to operate e.g.
Compilers: translating high-level programming languages into machine code
Linkers: combining object files into a single executable program
Device drivers: controlling hardware components and peripherals
Operating systems: managing the computer's resources and providing a user
interface
Utilities: tools for maintaining and optimising the computer's performance

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YOUR NOTES
 Worked Example

Tick whether the following are examples of applications software or system
software
[2]

Applications software Systems software

Control software
Compiler
Word processor
Device driver

Applications System
Software Software
(✓) (✓)
Control software ✓
Compiler ✓
Word processing ✓
Device drivers ✓

2 marks for 4 correct ticks

1 mark for 2 or 3 correct ticks
0 marks for 0 or 1 tick

 Exam Tip
A common misconception is that control software is system software - it's
actually application software

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Operating Systems YOUR NOTES

An Operating System has a user interface to allow the user to interact with the computer. There 
are different types of user interfaces:
Command Line Interface (CLI)
Text-based interface
Users type commands to perform tasks
Requires knowledge of command syntax
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
Visual-based interface with icons, windows, and menus
Users interact with the system using a mouse and keyboard
Easier for beginners to learn and use
Dialogue-based interface
Users communicate with the system through text or voice
The system responds with appropriate actions or feedback
Gesture-based interface
Users interact with the system through physical gestures
Requires a camera or sensor to detect movements
Differences between types of interface
CLI has a steeper learning curve compared to GUI
GUI is more resource-intensive than CLI
Dialogue-based and gesture-based interfaces enable more natural and intuitive
interaction

Advantages & Disadvantages

Type of Operating System Advantages Disadvantages

Faster for experienced users Difficult for beginners to

Command Line Interface Consumes fewer system learn
resources Less visually appealing
Slower for some tasks
User-friendly and easier to compared to CLI
learn Consumes more system
Visually appealing resources (RAM / HDD)
Graphical User Interface
Better help facilities Slower to run as graphics
Can exchange data between have to be loaded
different applications Restrictive as can only use
pre-defined functions

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Natural and intuitive May require additional YOUR NOTES

Dialogue-based & interaction hardware 
Gesture-based Interfaces Accessible for users with Limited functionality
disabilities compared to CLI and GUI

 Exam Tip
Make sure you explain your answer in full - GUI requires more power is not
enough on its own and needs expansion
Make sure you know a range of both benefits and drawbacks

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Analogue & Digital Data YOUR NOTES


Analogue & Digital Data
Analogue data is continuous and varies smoothly over time
Digital data is discrete and represented in binary form (0s and 1s)
Differences between Analogue & Digital Data
Analogue data can have any value within a range, while digital data has a limited set of
values
Digital data is less prone to noise and distortion compared to analogue data
Digital data can be easily manipulated, stored, and transmitted by computers
Converting Analogue to Digital Data
Analogue data must be converted to digital data so it can be processed by a computer
This process is called analogue-to-digital conversion (ADC) and is performed by an
analogue-to-digital converter
Converting Digital to Analogue Data
Digital data must be converted to analogue data so it can be used to control devices
This process is called digital-to-analogue conversion (DAC) and is performed by a
digital-to-analogue converter

 Worked Example
A greenhouse is used to grow plants and is computer controlled. Give two reasons
why data from the sensors need to be converted for use by a computer.
[2]
Two of:
So that the data from the sensor can be understood by the computer [1]
The output from a sensor is analogue [1]
The input to the computer is digital [1]

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1.2 Components of Computer Systems YOUR NOTES


Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the computer's "brain" responsible for processing
instructions entered into the computer
The CPU processes instructions and performs calculations in order to produce an output
CPU Functions
Fetches instructions from memory
Decodes the instructions to determine the required operation
Executes the operation
Stores the result back in memory or sends it to an output device
CPU Components
The CPU is made up of 3 main components:
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
Control Unit (CU)
Registers

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Memory YOUR NOTES


Memory
Memory is used to store data and instructions temporarily for the computer to process
Characteristics of ROM and RAM

ROM RAM

Non-volatile (retains data when Volatile (loses data when powered

Volatility
powered off) off)
Read-only (data cannot be
Access Read-write (data can be modified)
modified)
Stores essential instructions (e.g. Stores data and instructions in use
Main Purpose
BIOS) by CPU

Differences between ROM and RAM

ROM is non-volatile, while RAM is volatile
ROM is read-only, while RAM is read-write
ROM stores essential instructions, while RAM stores data and instructions currently in use

 Worked Example
State two characteristics of RAM
[2]
Two of:
RAM can be read from and written to [1]
RAM is volatile memory [1]
RAM is temporary storage [1]

 Exam Tip
Make sure you know the difference between RAM & ROM - it's easy to get them
mixed up

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Input Devices & Direct Data Entry YOUR NOTES


Input Devices
Characteristics of Input Devices
Input devices: allow users to enter data or instructions into a computer system e.g.:
Keyboard
Mouse
Scanner
Microphone
Touch screen
Differences between Input & Output Devices
Input devices send data or instructions to the computer, while output devices receive data
from the computer
Input devices are used for user interaction and data entry, while output devices display or
produce the results of data processing

Input Device Use Advantages Disadvantages

Keyboard & Fast and accurate The steeper learning

Numeric Entering text and numbers input for experienced curve, repetitive strain
Keypad users injury
Pointing Navigate and interact with Intuitive and precise Requires flat surface,
Devices computer interfaces control the strain on the wrist
Control devices from a Convenient, no direct
Limited range, may
Remote Control distance, e.g., TVs and media physical contact is
require line-of-sight
players needed
Enhances gameplay Expensive, limited use
Joystick/Driving
Simulation and driving games experience, realistic outside of gaming,
Wheel
control bulky
Intuitive, no need for a The screen may get
Direct interaction with the
Touch Screen separate pointing dirty, less precise than
screen using fingers or a stylus
device a mouse
Accurate Quality depends on
Scanners and Capture images and convert
reproduction, easy to resolution, which can
Cameras them into digital format
share and store be expensive
Hands-free input can May pick up
Capture a sound for recording
Microphone be used for voice background noise, the
or communication purposes
recognition quality varies

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Sensors and
Sensors detect changes in the Can automate tasks, May require calibration, YOUR NOTES
environment; light pen interacts provides real-time affected by the 
Light Pen
with screens information environment

 Exam Tip
Note that a mouse isn't built into a laptop - instead, it would be another pointing
device e.g. trackpad
All the devices listed here are input devices. Some people think microphones
and webcams are output devices

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Direct Data Entry YOUR NOTES


Direct Data
Use Advantages Disadvantages
Entry Device

Reading information stored Data can be easily

Magnetic Stripe Fast, simple to use,
on magnetic stripes, e.g., erased, and limited
Reader reliable
credit cards, ID cards storage capacity

Chip and PIN Processing debit and credit Secure, quick

Requires PIN input,
Reader transaction, reduced
card transactions in stores potential for skimming
fraud risk
Reading information from No line-of-sight is The expensive system,
RFID Reader RFID tags, e.g., inventory needed, multiple tags and potential privacy
tracking, access control are read simultaneously concerns
OMR (Optical Reading marked areas on Limited to specific
Fast processing,
Mark forms, e.g., multiple-choice forms, cannot read
reduced human error
Recognition) exams handwriting
OCR (Optical Converting printed text into Can struggle with
The fast and accurate,
Character digital text, e.g., digitising complex layouts, font
searchable digital text
Recognition) books dependent
Scanning barcodes to
Fast and accurate, low Requires line-of-sight,
Barcode Reader retrieve product
cost limited data storage
information and prices
Scanning QR codes for Requires a smartphone
Can store more data,
QR Scanner information retrieval or or specific scanner,
versatile uses
linking to websites quality dependent

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YOUR NOTES
 Worked Example

For each of the following uses of data capture, name one appropriate direct data
entry device. The devices must be different in each case
a. Contactless credit cards
[1]
Radio Frequency Identification/RFID reader [1]
b. Multiple choice answers in an examination paper
[1]
Optical Mark Reader/OMR [1]
c. To scan items at a computerised till
[1]
Bar Code reader/scanner [1]

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Output Devices YOUR NOTES


Output Devices
Characteristics of Output Devices
Output devices: display or produce the results of data processing from a computer
system e.g.:
Monitor
Printer
Speakers
Projector
Differences between Input & Output Devices
Input devices send data or instructions to the computer, while output devices receive data
from the computer
Input devices are used for user interaction and data entry, while output devices display or
produce the results of data processing

Output
Use Advantages Disadvantages
Device

Displaying computer-generated Real-time display, Power consumption,

Monitor
visual information on a screen adjustable settings potential glare
Touch Displaying visual information and Susceptible to
Screen allowing user interaction with the Intuitive, space-saving smudges, potential
(Output) screen calibration issues
Projecting computer-generated
Multimedia Large display, good for Requires darkened
images and videos onto a larger
Projector presentations room, expensive bulbs
surface
Fast, high-quality
Laser Printing high-quality text and Expensive initial cost,
prints, lower cost per
Printer graphics quickly limited to flat surfaces
page
Inkjet Printing text and graphics using Lower initial cost, high- Slower, higher cost per
Printer liquid ink quality prints page, ink may smudge
Printing text and simple graphics
Dot Matrix Low cost, can print
using a print head that strikes an Noisy, low print quality
Printer multi-part forms
ink-soaked ribbon
Creating large-format graphics, High accuracy, can
Slow, expensive, large
Plotter such as architectural plans and print on various
size
engineering designs materials

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Creating three-dimensional
Customisable designs, Limited materials, slow
YOUR NOTES
3D Printer objects by adding material layer 
rapid prototyping process
by layer
Range of sizes and
Converting digital audio signals Can be power-hungry,
Speaker power outputs,
into sound the sound quality varies
immersive audio
Converting electrical signals into Requires power,
Precise movement,
Actuator physical movement, e.g., motors potential mechanical
programmable
and valves in robotics wear

Holographic imaging
Holographic imaging is a technique that creates three-dimensional images by recording
and reconstructing light waves
These images provide a realistic and immersive visual experience
This could be used in medicine to create:
MRI scan images
Ultrasound images
3D views of our internal organs

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YOUR NOTES
 Worked Example

Complete the following sentences using the most appropriate items from the list
below.
A 3D printer An ADC A compiler An interpreter A microphone
A numeric
A monitor A speaker A switch A USB
keypad
a. ________ is a device used to input a pin
[1]
A numeric keypad [1]
b. ________ analyses and executes a program line by line
[1]
An interpreter [1]
c. ________ produces output in the form of solid objects
[1]
A 3D printer [1]
d. ________ produces output in the form of sound
[1]
A speaker [1]

 Exam Tip
Make sure you know which printer is which. Some people get mixed up between
dot matrix and laser
Detail is needed in the description in order to achieve full marks. Relating the
answer back to the scenario is important as some printers would not work in the
given scenario

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Storage YOUR NOTES


Storage
Characteristics of Backing Storage
Backing storage: long-term storage used to store data, files, and programs when not in
use e.g.:
hard disk drives (HDD)
solid-state drives (SSD)
USB flash drives
optical discs (CDs, DVDs)
Backing storage is typically slower than internal memory but has a larger capacity
It is non-volatile, meaning it retains data when the computer is powered off
Differences between Backing Storage & Internal Memory

Backing Storage Internal Memory

Long-term storage of files, Temporary storage of data and essential

Function
programs, and data instructions while the computer is running
HDD, SSD, USB flash drives,
Examples RAM, ROM
optical discs (CDs, DVDs)
Access
Slower Faster
Speed
Capacity Larger Smaller
Non-volatile (retains data when
Volatility RAM: volatile, ROM: non-volatile
powered off)

Storage Media

Storage
Examples Use Advantages Disadvantages
Media

Long-term data Slower access time,

Magnetic Hard disks, High capacity,
storage, backup, and moving parts,
Drives Magnetic tape low cost per GB
archiving susceptible to magnets
Data storage, audio, Portable,
Optical CD, DVD, Blu- Limited capacity,
video, and software durable, low
Discs ray susceptible to scratches
distribution cost

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Memory cards YOUR NOTES

Solid- (SD, xD, Fast data storage for Fast access 
More expensive, limited
State CFast), USB portable devices and time, no moving
write cycles
Media Drives, Solid modern computers parts
State Drives

 Worked Example
Give two error messages that may appear when trying to save to a CFast solid-
state memory card.
[2]
Two of:
Medium is full [1]
Corrupt card [1]
Write error [1]
Card error [1]
Card not initialised [1]
Virus found on the card [1]
Device not recognised [1]

Storage Devices

Storage
Use Media Advantages Disadvantages
Devices

High capacity Slower access time,

Magnetic Long-term data storage,
Magnetic (10TB), low cost moving parts,
Drive backup, and archiving
per GB susceptible to magnets

Fixed General-purpose Large storage

Magnetic Moving parts, vulnerable
Magnetic storage in computers capacity (5TB),
Hard Disk to physical damage
Hard Drive and servers relatively fast

Portable Portable (5TB), Slower than SSDs,

External storage for data Magnetic
Magnetic large storage vulnerable to physical
transfer and backup Hard Disk
Hard Drive capacity damage

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Magnetic
Backup and archiving,
Magnetic
High storage
Slow access time,
YOUR NOTES
especially for large capacity (10TB), 
Tape Drives Tape sequential access
volumes of data low cost

Audio and data storage, Affordable, widely Low capacity (700MB),

CD CD
software distribution compatible susceptible to scratches

Higher capacity storage Higher capacity Susceptible to

DVD for data, video, and DVD than CD (8.5GB), scratches, lower
software distribution affordable capacity than Blu-ray

High capacity
High-definition video More expensive, and
(50GB), high-
Blu-ray and high capacity data Blu-ray requires specific
resolution video
storage hardware
storage

Fast access time,

Fixed Solid-
Fast internal storage for Solid- no moving parts, More expensive, limited
State Drive
modern computers State high capacity write cycles
(SSD)
(30TB)

Fast access time,

External storage for fast Solid- portable, no More expensive, limited
Portable SSD
data transfer and backup State moving parts, high write cycles
capacity (2TB)

Portable data storage Small size, fast Limited capacity

Solid-
Pen Drive and transfer for various read/write speeds, compared to other
State
devices high capacity (1TB) storage devices

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YOUR NOTES
 Worked Example

A program collects a large amount of data and this could be stored using either a
fixed solid-state drive (SSD) or cloud storage.
a. Describe four advantages to the school of using cloud storage rather than using
the SSD
[4]
Four of:
The cloud has greater storage capacity [1]
The data could be sent directly to/from the cloud from any computer/device [1]
Storage capacity can be increased without adding additional physical devices [1]
Many people can share the data [1]
The school would only pay for the storage used [1]
There is an automatic backup of data [1]
b. Describe three disadvantages to the school of using cloud storage rather than
using the SSD
[3]
Three of:
More security issues as multiple copies of the data are stored [1]
The school loses control over the storage of the data [1]
Cloud storage has an ongoing cost [1]
Users must have a reliable internet connection to store data [1]
Users must have an internet connection to access data [1]

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1.3 Types of Computer YOUR NOTES


Desktop Computers

Desktop Computers
Characteristics of a Desktop Computer
Designed to be used on a desk or table
Comprised of separate components (monitor, keyboard, mouse, tower)
More powerful than laptops and tablets
Easier to upgrade and customise
Typically less portable than other computer types
Uses of a Desktop Computer
Office and business management:
Word processing
Spreadsheet creation and management
Email communication
Data storage and backup
Education:
Access to educational resources
Creating and editing multimedia content
Conducting research
Distance learning and virtual classrooms
Gaming and entertainment:
High-performance gaming
Streaming movies and TV shows
Social media browsing
Creating and editing video and audio content

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Mobile Computers YOUR NOTES


Mobile Computers
Portable computing devices, such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, and phablets, that allow
users to access and use computer applications and resources on the go
Characteristics of Mobile Computers
Laptop Computers:
Portable with integrated display, keyboard, and touchpad
Battery powered
Less powerful and less expandable than desktops
Smartphones:
Portable and lightweight
Touchscreen interface
Multifunctional (phone, internet access, camera)
Anti-glare screen
Front and rear facing camera
Battery powered
Uses Bluetooth, WiFi, 3G, 4G, 5G
Has an on screen keyboard
Tablet Computers:
Larger touchscreen than smartphones
Ideal for media consumption and web browsing
Limited expandability
Anti-glare screen
Front and rear facing camera
Battery powered
Portable and lightweight
Uses Bluetooth, WiFi, 3G, 4G, 5G
Has an on screen keyboard
Phablet Computers:
Combine features of smartphones and tablets
Larger screen than smartphones
Can be used for phone calls
Uses of Mobile Computers
Office and business management:
Remote access to office applications
Email and communication on the go
Mobile payment processing
Calendar
Education:
E-books and digital textbooks
Educational apps and tools
Note-taking and research

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Gaming and entertainment: YOUR NOTES

Mobile gaming apps 
Streaming movies and music
Social media
Remotely controlled devices:
Controlling smart home devices
Remote access to surveillance systems
Controlling drones and other devices
Communication:
Video calling
Text messaging
Other:
Sat Nav
Online banking
Searching the Internet
Taking photos
Language translation
Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages Disadvantages

Limited expandability (Difficult to upgrade

Easy to carry and use on the go (Portability)
hardware)
Access to internet and resources from Less powerful (Lower performance compared to
anywhere (Flexibility) desktop computers)
Can be used for various tasks and activities
Shorter battery life (Needs frequent charging)
(Multi-functionality)

 Worked Example
Circle two input devices that could be used in a smartphone.
magnetic stripe
HDD microphone mouse
reader
remote control speaker touchpad touch screen
[2]
Microphone [1]
Touch screen [1]

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1.4 Emerging Technologies YOUR NOTES


Artificial Itelligence & Virtual Reality (AI & VR)

AI
This is the development of computer systems that can perform tasks usually requiring
human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, and decision-making
Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Enhances productivity by automating repetitive tasks
Improves decision-making through data analysis and pattern recognition
Can be used in various industries, such as healthcare, finance, and transportation
Raises ethical concerns, including job displacement and privacy issues

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VR & AR YOUR NOTES

Virtual Reality (VR): 
A computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional replicated environment
It can be interacted with in a seemingly real or physical way
Can manipulate objects or perform a series of actions
Makes use of the sensory experience
Uses a virtual reality headset with built in speakers
Can be used with gloves / controllers / driving wheel
Augmented Reality (AR): A technology that superimposes a computer-generated image or
information onto a user's view of the real world, providing a composite view
Impact of Extended Reality (VR and AR)
Virtual Reality (VR) immerses users in a simulated environment, while Augmented Reality
(AR) overlays digital information onto the real world
Used in gaming, education, and training for a more engaging experience
Can be applied in fields like architecture, medicine, and retail for improved visualisation and
interaction
Potential issues with addiction and excessive screen time

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YOUR NOTES
 Worked Example

Some smartphones connected to the internet can allow the user to point their
phone’s camera at an object or image to display information about it on the
phone’s screen. The object acts like an item in a search engine. This is called
augmented reality.
One example of its use is in mobile games, where the user tries to catch characters
from the game as the characters appear to walk in the streets. Explain, using
examples, other ways in which augmented reality could be used in everyday life.
[4]
Max three of:
Gather information [1]
Can be used as a direction finder [1]
Visualise what something will look like in real life [1]
Could be used for facial recognition [1]
Max three of:
Examples of gathering information about a building/painting / product [1]
Giving information about the area you are moving in / finding your way in an
airport/railway station / shopping mall etc. [1]
Used by archaeologists / architects / interior designers / try on clothes / trying
makeup/colour of clothing / placing furniture [1]
point it at a word to link to the thesaurus / get it's meaning / translation / modern
landscape [1]
Used by the police to recognise suspects [1]

 Exam Tip
Don't get mixed up between augmented reality and virtual reality - augmented
reality changes the real world in front of you (e.g. Pokemon Go) whereas virtual
reality puts you in a new world entirely and you can't see the real world around
you

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