IGCSE ICT

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 IGCSE EXAM QUESTIONS
CHAPTER 1
(COMPONENTS AND TYPES OF COMPUTER SYSTEMS)
TICKS
True or false

TRUE FALSE
Database software is the best software to use to write letters
DTP software is used to create models
Word processor is used to monitor physical variables

Computer programs are examples of hardware

compiler is an example of Application software

TRUE FALSE
An internet browser is used to look at webpages on the internet
Desktop computers don’t have hard drives
DTP software can be used to produces magazines

Measurement software is used for environmental monitoring

Sensors are output devices

TRUE FALSE
 Presentation software is used to create slideshows
All laptop computers have touchscreens
Spreadsheet software can be used to produce databases

An internet browser is used by web designers to test web pages

DRAW LINES

FILL IN the gap

1 .Complete the following sentences using the most appropriate words from the list below.
hard disk drive hardware microphone OCR printer
scanner screen software speaker virus

(a) The physical components of a computer are called... ............................................................................................ [1]

(b) The programs and data of a computer are called.......................................................................................................... [1]
(c) The device used to input sound is called a..................................................................................................................... [1]
(d) The device used to store data is called a.................................................................................................................... [1]

2. Complete the following sentences, using the most appropriate technology from the list below.
a 3D printer artificial intelligence batch processing biometrics a speaker
a dot matrix printer a microphone a password a robot a scanner

(a) A printer that is capable of producing physical objects is called …………………….............................................................[1]

(b) The use of a computer to perform tasks that mimic or duplicate the functions of the human brain is called
................................................................................................................[1]
(c) A device used in a car production line to assemble a car is called ................................................................................[1]
(d) Authentication techniques that use fingerprints or retina scans is called ...................................................................[1]
3. Circle two types of system software.
Actuator Linker Operating system
Photo-editing software Sensor Spreadsheet [2]

4. Write down the item of internal hardware from the list to match the descriptions.
CD ROM Internal hard disk Network card RAM ROM
Sound card Touch screen Trackerball Video card Wide format printer
(a) Stores the start-up instructions for the computer......................................................................................................... [1]
(b) A magnetic medium that stores applications when they are not in use......................................................................... [1]
(c) Memory where data is lost when the computer is turned off...................................................................................... [1]
(d) Generates images to display on the monitor…….......................................................................................................... [1]

5. Complete the following sentences, using items from the list below.
Applications A bar code reader A compiler A CPU Hardware
A monitor A printer A scanner System USB

(a) ................................................................................................ software is designed to manage computer hardware. [1]

(b) ................................................................................... software examples include word processing and spreadsheets. [1]
(c) ................................................................................................ produces output in the form of hard copy. [1]
(d) ........................................................................................ converts high-level language programs into machine code. [1]

6. Write down the most appropriate type of internal hardware that fits the following descriptions:
(a) A volatile device that is used to store data....................................................................................................................[1]
(b) This is the main printed circuit board found in computer systems................................................................................[1]
(c) A non-volatile chip that stores the start-up commands……..........................................................................................[1]
(d) This electronic device provides a computer with the ability to produce sounds............................................................[1]
(e) This handles all the system instructions…………........................................................................................................ [1]
(f) A printed circuit board that contains the main components of the computer............................................................. [1]
(g) This generates output to the speaker………………………………….............................................................................. [1]
(h) A type of memory where data is lost when the computer is switched off........................................................... [1]
(i) The core component in a computer that controls arithmetic operations is called a .................................................... [1]
(j) The physical components of a computer are collectively called............................................................................ [1]

7. Write down the type of computer that match the following descriptions
(a) A computer that is difficult to move and has a separate monitor and keyboard..........................................................[1]
(b) A portable computer that includes a physical keyboard.......................................................................................[1]
(c) A thin portable computer that has a touch screen and a battery in a single unit, not normally used to make phone calls.
.............................................................................................................................[1]
(d) A mobile phone that can be used as a computer............................................................................................................[1]

FULL THEORY
1. A computer consists of hardware and software.
(a) State what is meant by hardware.
..............................................................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................................................ [1]
(b) State what is meant by software.
.............................................................................................................................................................................................
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There are two types of software.
(c) Name one of the two types of software used by a computer. ...................................................................................... [1]

2. Complete the table below by identifying the most appropriate type of software which would be used to carry out each of
the following tasks

3. Name the piece of hardware found in a tablet computer that is both an input and output device.
..................................................................................................................................................................................... [1]

4. A computer contains system software and applications software.

(a) Explain what is meant by system software.
.......................................................................................................................................................................................
..................................................................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) Explain what is meant by applications software.
............................................................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................................................ [1]

5. A group of students are producing a hard copy brochure for an event.

These students will need to prepare material to include in this document.
Name two types of software they might use and for each, write down what they would use it for.
Software 1 ...................................................................................................................................................................
Use ..............................................................................................................................................................................
Software 2 ...................................................................................................................................................................
Use ...................................................................................................................................................................... [4]

The type of software used to create printed magazines is called ......................................................................... [1]

6. A computer system consists of hardware and software.

(a) Explain what is meant by software.
.........................................................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................................................[2]

(b) Name the type of software from its description.

(i) This type of software lets you manage the hardware and software resources. ..............................................................[1]
(ii) Give an example of this type of software……………………………….............................................................................[1]

(iii) This type of software lets you carry out tasks such as creating a document or an image...........................................[1]
(iv) Give an example of this type of software..................................................................................................................[1]

8. (a) Give the type of interface to the left.

...................................................................................[1]

(b) Give a disadvantage of using this type of user interface.

...................................................................................[1]

9. (a) Give the type of interface shown above.

...................................................................................................[1]

(b) One of the features of this type of interface is an icon. Describe

what is meant by the term icon.

.......................................................................................................

.................................................................................................[2]

(c) Identify one way you would select an icon using this type of
interface.

.................................................................................................[1]

10. Smartphones use touch screen technology that requires a Graphical User Interface (GUI).

Describe four advantages of users having a GUI on a smartphone rather than a Command Line Interface (CLI).
1 .............................................................................................................................................................................................
2 .........................................................................................................................................................................................
3 ..........................................................................................................................................................................................
4 ........................................................................................................................................................................................

12. Describe three drawbacks of using a command line interface (CLI) operating system.
1 .........................................................................................................................................................................................
2.........................................................................................................................................................................................
3................................................................................................................................................................................. [3]

13. Describe the benefits and drawbacks of using a Graphical User Interface (GUI) rather than a Command Line Interface (CLI).
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14. Describe the benefits and drawbacks of using a command line interface (CLI) rather than a graphical user interface (GUI) to
set up a new file server.

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15. Computer operating systems have developed since early computers used Command Line Interfaces (CLI).
Many computers now use Graphical User Interfaces (GUI), some of which are capable of using touch screen technology.
Compare and contrast CLI and GUI.

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16. Discuss why different user interfaces require the use of different types of input device.
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Robots are being used more and more in offices to carry out menial tasks, like delivering post.
Describe the advantages and disadvantages of using robots in this way.
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(a) Identify two uses of 3D printing that help doctors and patients in hospitals.
1 ...................................................................................................................................................................................
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2 .............................................................................................................................................................................................
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(b) Identify two uses of holographic imaging that help doctors and patients in hospitals.
1 .............................................................................................................................................................................................
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2 .......................................................................................................................................................................................
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MORE QUESTIONS
Name two input devices apart from a keyboard and mouse, which
could connect directly to the tower.

1 .................................................................................................
2 ..............................................................................................
(b) Name two storage devices which would be available in the PC
1 .............................................................................................................
2 ...............................................................................................................

(c) Name two output devices which could connect directly to the PC
1 ...........................................................................................................
2 ...........................................................................................................

Describe three advantages of using a desktop computer rather than a laptop computer.
1 ................................................................................................................................................
2 ................................................................................................................................................
3 ................................................................................................................................................

Fiona wants to communicate with her friend Myfanwy using her mobile phone.
Describe four ways she could do this.
1 ........................................................................................................................................................................................................
2 .......................................................................................................................................................................................................
3 ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................
4 ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................

A school is going to introduce an automatic registration system controlled by computer.

Students will carry a card which will be read automatically by an input device every session so that the school office will know
that they are present.

(a) Name a suitable input device to read the card………………………………………….………………………………………..[1]

(b) Instead of using this system the school ICT teacher suggests using student fingerprints.
Describe two advantages and two disadvantages of such a system.
Advantage 1……………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………
Advantage 2………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Disadvantage 1……………………………………………………………………………………………………….……………………
Disadvantage 2………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………………………
 CHAPTER 2
(INPUT & OUTPUT DEVICES)
[

CIRCLE
1. Circle three items which are used as output devices.
Buzzer CD/RW drive Keyboard LCD monitor Speaker Solid state drive Trackerball Web cam

2. Circle the names of three devices which are used for input.
CD writer Laser printer Pen drive Mouse Speaker Touch screen Remote control Printer

3. Circle two items which are used for direct data entry.
Keyboard MICR Microphone Mouse Printer RFID

TICKS ( √)
Barcode Chip and PIN Tracker
MICR OMR OCR Sensor
Reader reader ball
Reading data from a
cheque
Inputting temperature at a
greenhouse
Used by people with
limited motor skills
Inputting humidity in a
weather station
Inputting data ready for
processing by a word
processor
Inputting pencil mark data
from a school register
Reading Debit Cards
Reading the label on a can
of soup

TRUE FALSE TRUE FALSE

MICR is used to read the A numeric keypad is used to type
information on a credit card a letter
The chip on a credit card is read by Word processor is used to
a PIN reader monitor physical variables
An RFID chip can be used to track A laser printer works best in an
stock industrial environment
Answers to multiple choice exam
A palmtop computer is easier to
papers can be read using an Optical
carry than a laptop computer
Mark Reader
Sensors are used to input data to
a microprocessor
 Tick true or false next to each of these statements
TRUE FALSE TRUE FALSE
A Palmtop computers are bigger CRT Monitors use more power
than PCs. than TFT Monitors
A touch screen can be used as an A dot matrix printer produces
input device or an output device high quality graphics
A dot matrix printer is used to
A motor is an input device
print magazines
Computer programs are examples Graph Plotters are used to
of hardware output car designs

Dot Impact Non

3D Laser
matrix Impact
Dot Matrix
A printer that uses toner
Printer
A printer that uses Inkjet Printer
continuous stationery
A printer that can be used to Laser Printer
make physical models
A printer that prints layer by 3D Printer
layer
A printer that is suitable for a
quiet environment

TRUE FALSE TRUE FALSE

A numeric keypad is used to A dot matrix printer produces

type a letter high quality graphics
The chip on a credit card is CRT monitors use more power
read by a PIN reader than TFT monitors
An inkjet printer cartridge lasts
A laser printer works best in longer than a laser printer toner
an industrial environment cartridge producing the same
output
A dot matrix is used to print A laser printer is a type of page
magazines printer
Sensors are used to input A dot matrix printer produces
data to a microprocessor very high quality printouts quickly
A home is fitted with a microprocessor-controlled burglar A school library has computerized its book borrowing system. Students are
alarm system. allowed to borrow books free of charge.
It is not connected to a police station.
When a book is borrowed, the details of the book and the borrower have
Tick three sensors which could be used in such a system to be input into the system.

Tick three direct data entry devices which could be used in such a system

Tick three items you can use to make a purchase at

the Electronic Fund transfer

Tick two appropriate uses of dot matrix printers

IDENTIFY
Apart from the keyboard, name two input devices shown
in the diagram above.
1................................................................................
2................................................................................ [2]

(b) Name two output devices shown in the diagram above.

1.................................................................................
2................................................................................ [2]
DRAW LINES

FILL IN THE GAP

Complete the following sentences, using the most appropriate technology.

Numeric Keypad Graphic Tablet Monitor Robot Pin Pad

Microphone Biometrics Laser Printer Speaker Light Pen
Pressure Sensor OCR Buzzer MICR Webcam
Touchpad Dot Matrix Printer Inkjet Printer Motor Graph Plotter

(a) A device that is most suited to being used to produce hard copy output in a general office environment is called
................................................................ .............................................................................. [1]
(b) The input device that reads the cheque number from a bank cheque is called .......................................................
(c) A device that outputs hard copy large architectural drawings is called ...................................................................
(d) A device that outputs sound is called …………………………….........................................................................................
(e) A device used to input sound is called .......................................................................................................................
(b) A device used to enter a four-digit code when paying by debit card in a shop is called a .......................................
(f) A pointing device commonly built into a laptop is called a .......................................................................................
(g) A device, used by designers and artists, which has a stylus for drawing applications is called a
.........................................................................................................................
(h) ................................................................................................................................. is a device used to input a PIN.
(i) .............................................................................................................produces output in the form of solid objects.
(j) .................................................................... Is used to input moving images from a fixed position on a computer.
(k) .............................................................................is used to input hand drawn images into the computer.
(l) ..........................................................................................................is an output device used in microwave ovens
(m) .......................................................................is used to input data to a microprocessor controlled weighing scale
(n)....................................................................................................................... is used input details from an ID Card
(p) An item of hardware which is used to open windows is called a .........................................................................

(q) Fixing wheels to a car on a production line would be done by ..............................................................................

(r) Authentication techniques that use fingerprints or retina scans is called................................................................
(s) A device used to print high resolution drawings in hard copy ……………….............................................................
(t) A device used to output scenes from a video game. ………….………........................................................................

(u) A printer that prints by pressing metal pins against an ink ribbon onto the paper..................................................

(v) A printer that sprays tiny droplets of ink directly onto the paper...........................................................................

(w) A printer that uses toner to transfer the print image to plain paper....................................................................

Different devices connected to the computer have a number of different characteristics.

(a) Name the type of printer that is best suited to operate in harsh conditions.........................................................[1]
(b) Name a type of monitor that can reduce the effects of eye strain........................................................................[1]
(c) Name the type of printer that produces a solid object...........................................................................................[1]
(d) Name the type of monitor that is an input device on which output can be seen and is found in a public
information system................................................................................................................................................[1]

Write down the most appropriate input device which matches the following descriptions:
(a) This is provided with a laptop to imitate the functions of a mouse...................................................................... [1]
(b) This is not a mouse but is used to manoeuvre objects around the screen in computer video games.
..................................................................................................... [1]
(c) This is used to type in text.................................................................................................................................... [1]
(d) This is used for direct input of hard copy images................................................................................................. [1]

Data can be input to a computer using direct data entry methods.

Write down the most appropriate device to input the following:
(a) information from the chip in an electronic passport............................................................................................ [1]
(b) text from an id card............................................................................................................................................. [1]
(c) account details from the front of a credit card at an EFTPOS terminal................................................................. [1]
(d) account details from the back of a credit card at an EFTPOS terminal.................................................................. [1]

Give the right type of printer used for the following applications

THEORY TYPE

1. (a) Name two input devices that would be found at a POS terminal / Checkout.
1 .......................................................................... 2 ..............................................................................

(b) Name two output devices that would be found at a POS terminal / Checkout.
1 ................................................................................ 2 .................................................................................

2. A virtual reality (VR) system is being used to train workers in a nuclear power station.
(a) Name two input devices that could be used with VR systems in this environment.
1 .............................................................................. 2 ...................................................................................

(b) Name two output devices that could be used with VR systems in this environment.
1 ............................................................................ 2 .............................................................................

3. Shopping often requires the use of a credit card. Give three methods of reading the data from the credit
card.
1 ..................................................................................................................................................................

2 .....................................................................................................................................................................
3 ............................................................................................................................................................. [3]

4. Midwest School library has a database system. Students who borrow books present their library cards
containing their details. The librarian wishes to improve security by introducing biometric methods.
(a) Name two direct input methods the cards could use.
1.................................................................................. 2...............................................................................

(b) Give two examples of biometric input.

1.................................................................................. 2.................................................................................

5. The pupils want to record themselves speaking. Their voices will be added to the presentation. They will
need to listen to their voices to make sure the presentation is of good quality.
Name two devices which they will need to use to do this.

1 ...................................................................................................................................................
 2 .................................................................................................................................................... [2]

6. Identify two input devices which are used in mobile phones when making a phone call.

1 ................................................................................ 2 ........................................................................... [2]

7. Describe what an RFID chip consists of.

..............................................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................................ [2]

8. State what is meant by OMR and MICR, giving an example of their use.

OMR ..................................................................................................................................................................

Example .............................................................................................................................................................

MICR ...................................................................................................................................................................

Example ............................................................................................................................................................ [4]

9. In a library, when members make a booking, they will show their membership card which holds their
details.
Name the device which will be used to input their details from the card........................................................ [1]

Give two reasons why this method is better than typing the number in.

1 .................................................................................................................................................................

2 ........................................................................................................................................................... [2]

10. Identify the methods he would use to transfer the photographs to the computer from:
Digital camera photograph ......................................................................................................................................
Printed photograph ........................................................................................................................................... [2]

11. Describe three types of medical aid which can be produced using a 3D printer.
1 ………………………………………………. 2………………………………………………… 3 ……………………………………………

12. Contactless debit cards are replacing standard debit cards. Some countries are introducing contactless debit
card transactions at ATM machines. Give three disadvantages to the customer of using these cards at an ATM.
1 ..........................................................................................................................................................................
2 ........................................................................................................................................................................
3 ......................................................................................................................................................................[3]

13. The Geography teacher in a school has set up an automatic weather station connected to a computer.
(a) Name three physical variables which will be measured by sensors.
1. …………………………………………. 2. …………………………………………….. 3. …………………………………………….

(b) (i) Explain why the computer is unable to read the data directly from the sensors.
........................................................................................................................................................................................
.................................................................................................................................................................................... [2]

(ii) Name the device that is needed to enable it to do so. ..................................................................................... [1]

(c) Give three advantages to the Geography department of having a computerised weather system rather than a
manual weather system
1 .....................................................................................................................................................................
2 ...................................................................................................................................................................
3.................................................................................................................................................................. [3]

14. Some students are studying the amount of pollution in a river. They are using a computer to measure the
pollution using sensors. The results are recorded and printed.
(a) Name two sensors they should use to measure the amount of pollution.
1 ......................................................................... 2 ................................................................ [2]

15. Sensors are used to measure pollution in a river.

Name a type of software which would be used to store the results. ……………..…….................................................. [1]
Name a type of software which would be used to produce a report incorporating graphs. ..................................... [1]

ii. Driverless automobiles use a number of different methods to drive between two points.
(a) Name a sensor that could be used on the automobile to detect a person walking in front of it.

........................................................................................................................................... [1]

iii. Modern automobiles contain electronic devices designed to help the driver.
Suggest three examples of labour-saving or safety devices in a modern automobile that use sensors.

1.........................................................................................................................................

2.........................................................................................................................................

3......................................................................................................................................... [3]

16. A house has a microprocessor controlled central heating system.

(a) Describe the use of the following input devices in such a system.
Keypad ..........................................................................................................................................................
Sensor .................................................................................................................................................. [2]

17. Apart from a keyboard, mouse and display devices, identify two other devices which must be present for a
video conference to take place.

1 ........................................................................... 2 .................................................................... [2]

18. A company is planning to have a video-conference. (a) Describe the purpose of each of the following devices.

Microphone ............................................................................................................................................................
Speakers.....................................................................................................................................................................
Webcam ............................................................................................................................................................... [3]
19. Midwest School library has a database system. Students who borrow books present their library cards
containing their details.
(a) Name two direct input methods the cards could use.
1.........................................................................................................................................
2......................................................................................................................................... [2]

20. Explain what is meant by OCR and give one example of its use.

.............................................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................................................

......................................................................................................................................................................... [3]

21. Describe two advantages of using Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) rather than barcodes when
processing cheques.

................................................................................................................................................................................

.............................................................................................................................................................................. [2]

22. Truck repair shops tend to use dot matrix printers to produce their invoices.
Identify two advantages of using a dot matrix printer rather than a laser printer in this environment.

.............................................................................................................................................................................
.............................................................................................................................................................................. [2]

23. Give four reasons why a laser printer should be used rather than an inkjet or a dot matrix printer.

1 ...............................................................................................................................................................

2 ..................................................................................................................................................................

3 .................................................................................................................................................................

4 ................................................................................................................................................................ [4]

24. List four items of data found on a debit card which can be read by computer.
1 ................................................................................................................................................
2 ................................................................................................................................................
3 ................................................................................................................................................
4 ................................................................................................................................................ [4]
25. Name four pieces of information that the bank’s computer may read from the bank cheque.

1 ................................................................................................................................................

2 ................................................................................................................................................

3 ................................................................................................................................................

4 ................................................................................................................................................ [4]
 26. Several EFTPOS terminals have recently been installed in the ticket booking area of a train station.
Describe the inputs and outputs of such a system when purchasing a ticket.

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………...........................................................................................................................................................................

….................................................................................................................................................................................

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27. Bank cheques are usually read using Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR). Recent developments mean that
cheques can now be photographed by a smartphone and processed using Optical Character Recognition (OCR).

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using MICR rather than OCR for reading cheques.

...................................................................................................................................................................................

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 CHAPTER 3
(STORAGE DEVICES)
IDENTIFY

TRUE FALSE

Magnetic tapes use direct access

Fixed HD has slower access than optical discs

DVD RWs allows you to save new data on them

CD has greater storage capacity than DVD

Pen drives are used to make backups of servers

Storage medium Use
Fixed hard disc To transfer files from one computer to another
DVD ROM Batch processing applications
Pen drive To store operating systems
Magnetic tape Publishers distributing encyclopaedias

Circle two optical storage media from the list below

DVD RAM SSD Web-cam Hard disk drives Pen drive Blu-ray disc Magnetic tape

Circle two items which are used as external storage media.

CD RW Hard disk Monitor Mouse RAM ROM

Complete the sentences

(a) Optical storage medium that is often used to store HD movies is called ........................................................[1]
(b) Internal memory where the data cannot be changed is called …......................................................................[1]
(c) Magnetic medium which can only be used for serial access is called ……..........................................................[1]
(d) Internal memory that is volatile is called …………………………...............................................................................[1]
(e) A company selling copies of games would use a ..................................................................................................[1]
(f) An office worker who never took her work home would store her work on a ...................................................[1]
(g) The most suitable storage medium for making system backups for a network is a ............................................[1]
(h) Data about the details of a PIN are stored on a bank card on a ............................................................................[1]
(i) Videos produced so that data cannot be changed are stored on a .......................................................................[1]
(j) Details of a product are scanned at a POS from a .................................................................................................[1]

2. Use the most appropriate phrase from the list below to complete each sentence.
store high definition films store data in real time applications store backups of file
servers store music for sale store photographs in a digital camera
(i) A CD ROM is used to ……………………….....................................................................................................................
(ii) A Blu-ray disc is used to ………………………...............................................................................................................
(iii) A magnetic tape is used to ………………………..........................................................................................................
(iv) A flash memory card is used to ………………………................................................................................................... [4]

3. Identify two storage media used to store data on a bank card.

1 ......................................................................... 2 ..................................................................... [2]

4. All computers come with main memory as well as backing storage. Give a reason why the following are needed.

RAM .................................................................................................................................................................................
ROM ................................................................................................................................................................................
Backing storage ...........................................................................................................................................................[3]

5. RAM and ROM are part of Immediate Access Memory.

Explain why computer systems have both backing storage and Immediate Access Memory.
..........................................................................................................................................................................................

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..........................................................................................................................................................................................

.....................................................................................................................................................................................[4]

6. The main memory in computers is becoming very large. Give three reasons why backing storage is still needed.
1 ......................................................................................................................................................................................
2 .......................................................................................................................................................................................
3 ...................................................................................................................................................................................[3]

7. Teachers should always make a backup of their worksheets.

(i) Describe what is meant by a backup.
............................................................................................................................................................................
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(ii) Explain why backups are necessary.

1 ......................................................................................................................................................................
 2 ….............................................................................................................................................................. [2]

8. Describe four features of ROM.

1 ....................................................................................................................................................................
2 ......................................................................................................................................................................
3 .......................................................................................................................................................................
4 ................................................................................................................................................................... [4]

7. Give two advantages of a fixed magnetic hard disc compared to an optical disc to store data.

1 ………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………………………

2 ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. [2]

7. Students save and carry their work from school to home on a pen drive.
(a) Describe two advantages of a pen drive compared to a CD of doing this.
1 ..........................................................................................................................................................................
2 .................................................................................................................................................................. [2]

(b) Describe two disadvantages of a pen drive compared to a CD of doing this.

1 ........................................................................................................................................................................
2 .................................................................................................................................................................... [2]

8. (a) Compare and contrast the use of a pen drive rather than a CD R.
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(b) A student has completed some work at school and wishes to take it home. He could use a pen drive or a CD R
disc to transport the files.

Give two error messages that could appear to stop him saving his work.
................................................................................................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................................................................... [2]

10. Optical discs and magnetic tapes are both used to store computer data.
Give two uses of optical discs and for each use give a reason why they are preferred to magnetic tapes.

Use 1 .............................................................................................................................................................................

Reason 1 ........................................................................................................................................................................

Use 2 ...............................................................................................................................................................................

Reason 2 ................................................................................................................................................................... [4]

11. Explain why a hard disk is used to store data files.

..........................................................................................................................................................................................
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..................................................................................................................................................................................... [3]

12. A student wishes to store data on an optical storage medium. List two optical media and give one advantage
and one disadvantage of using optical media when compared with fixed hard discs.
Optical medium 1 .......................................................................................................................................................
Optical medium 2 ............................................................................................................................................................
Advantage .......................................................................................................................................................................
Disadvantage ............................................................................................................................................................[4]

13. Liu works from home and is considering either backing up her data on to magnetic tape or a pen drive.
Give three reasons why she may prefer to use a pen drive.
1 ...............................................................................................................................................
2 ...............................................................................................................................................
3 ............................................................................................................................................... [3]

14. Laptop computers are often equipped with Solid State Drives (SSD) or Hard Disk Drives (HDD).
(a) Give four advantages of SSD compared to HDD.
1 ................................................................................................................................................
2 ................................................................................................................................................
3 ................................................................................................................................................
4 ................................................................................................................................................ [4]

15. (a) Give four advantages of storing the data in the cloud rather than using other storage methods.
1 ................................................................................................................................................
2 ................................................................................................................................................
3 ................................................................................................................................................
4 ................................................................................................................................................ [4]

Describe three disadvantages of using the cloud to store data rather than other storage methods.
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Describe the differences between ROM and RAM.

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Magnetic tapes are traditionally used for backing up data on large computer systems. Liu works from home and is
considering either backing up her data on to magnetic tape or a pen drive.
Give three reasons why she may prefer to use a pen drive.

1 ...............................................................................................................................................
2 ...............................................................................................................................................
3 ............................................................................................................................................... [3]

CHAPTER 4
(NETWORKS)

PLEASE use this in conjunction with THE POWERPOINT slides,

only attempt questions on subtopics you have actually read

TYPES OF NETWORKS
A media company with branches around the world has recently opened a new branch in London.
The branch includes a number of different computer networks. Identify the most appropriate type
of network to answer each of the questions.

(a) The type of network used to connect the branch to its head office in New York is called a

........................................................................................................................................... [1]
(b) The type of cabled network used to connect computers together in one of the offices is called a

........................................................................................................................................... [1]

Complete each sentence below using the most appropriate item from the list.

a bridge a hub a keyboard a microphone a mouse

a printer a router a scanner a sensor a switch
(a) A network device which broadcasts data passing through it is called
...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(b) A network device that connects a LAN with the internet is called

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(c) A network device that connects a LAN to another LAN using the same protocol is called

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(d) A network device that learns which devices are connected to which ports is called

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

The manager of a large company wants to replace the company’s cabled LAN with a WLAN.
Describe the features of a WLAN.

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A school’s Science department has a network which uses WiFi.

A teacher has a laptop computer and whilst in school wishes to connect to this network.

(a) Write down the name of this type of network.

........................................................................................................................................... [1]

(b) In order to access the network the laptop must be within range of a type of WiFi network device.

(i) Write down the name of this type of device.

................................................................................................................................ [1]

(ii) Describe how this device is connected to the network using an ethernet cable.

................................................................................................................................

................................................................................................................................ [1]

WiFi networks can be limited in their range.

(b) Describe one other disadvantage of a WiFi network compared to a cabled network.
...........................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................... [1]

A school has a cabled LAN. The head teacher of the school wants to replace it with a WLAN.
Explain the differences between a cabled LAN and a WLAN, giving two advantages and two
disadvantages of having a WLAN.
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NETWORK DEVICES

A desktop computer is already used in an office which does not have an internet connection.
(a) Name two items of hardware which would enable the computer to be connected to a local area network.

1 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

2 ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………... [2]
(b) Name one item of hardware which would enable the network to be connected to the internet.

.................................................................................................................................................. [1]
There are a number of different network devices associated with computers.
Give the most appropriate type of communication device that fits the following descriptions.

(a) This device connects a LAN to the internet.

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(b) This device transmits data to specific computers in a network.

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(c) This device broadcasts data to all computers in a network.

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

(d) This device connects one LAN to another LAN that uses the same protocol.

...............................................................................................................................................[1]

A router is used in networks.

Describe how a router routes data packets.
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Describe how a router forwards data packets from one network to another.
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The teachers have asked the head teacher if they can access the internet. The computer
technician will need to attach a router to the network.
Explain how a router works.
...................................................................................................................................................
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............................................................................................................................................. [3]

A number of devices are used to enable computers to communicate within a network. Two of these
devices are hubs and switches.
(a) Compare and contrast the use of a hub and a switch.
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15 (a) A router is connected to a LAN.

Describe the function of a router.
...................................................................................................................................................
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...................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................[2]

Describe how data is sent from a networked computer to a computer on a different network.
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Describe the details of computer addresses that are stored by a router.

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BLUETOOTH & WI-FI

Bluetooth is an alternative method of allowing computers to communicate with other computers

and devices.
Describe how a tablet computer can connect to a printer using Bluetooth.
...........................................................................................................................................
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Compare and contrast Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

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The school plans to connect some teachers’ laptops to this new network using Wi-Fi.
Describe, in detail, how data is transmitted from the laptops to the new network.
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One example of wireless communication is Bluetooth.

Describe how computers can use Bluetooth to connect to a device.
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(b) Different methods can be used to connect computers to networks.

Describe two advantages for each of the following methods.
Wi-Fi ...........................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................[2]
Satellite .....................................................................................................................................
...................................................................................................................................................
...............................................................................................................................................[2]

3G / 4G ......................................................................................................................................
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...............................................................................................................................................[2]

Bluetooth and WiFi can connect devices together.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using Bluetooth or WiFi.
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SETTING UP A NETWORK
The computer technician at Tawara School is planning to set up ten new computers to be placed in the
staffroom to form a network. The network will not be connected to the internet.

Assume the school currently has no hardware or software for this network.
State the steps that the technician would need to take to set up this network.
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 INTERNET AND INTRANET

Complete the following sentences.

(a) A piece of programming code which maliciously deletes files is called

........................................................................................................................................... [1]

(b) The scrambling of data to make it unreadable by unauthorised users is called

........................................................................................................................................... [1]

(c) An internet protocol for delivering private messages using cryptography is called

........................................................................................................................................... [1]

(d) An attachment to an electronic message used to verify the identity of the sender is called

........................................................................................................................................... [1]

Describe four methods you could use to minimise the likelihood of receiving spam emails.
1 ................................................................................................................................................
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2 ................................................................................................................................................
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3 ................................................................................................................................................
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4 ................................................................................................................................................
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(a) Describe what is meant by an intranet.

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(b) Describe what is meant by the internet.
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The internet and intranets have many different uses.

(a) Explain what is meant by the internet.
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(b) Explain what is meant by an intranet.

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Describe the differences between the internet and an intranet.

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Explain the purpose of an intranet.

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Tawara school uses both the internet and an intranet.
(a) Describe four disadvantages to students of using the internet compared with an intranet.
1.........................................................................................................................................
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2.........................................................................................................................................
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3.........................................................................................................................................
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4.........................................................................................................................................
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A company’s employees can have access to the internet and the company intranet.
Describe the differences between an intranet and the internet.
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(b) Some home devices can be controlled remotely when away from home. These home devices need to
be connected to the internet.

Describe the disadvantages of connecting home devices to the internet.

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An organisation is creating a company website and is deciding whether to make it available on the internet
or create a company intranet. The website will contain confidential information.

(b) Explain why they should use an intranet rather than the internet.
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COMPUTERS ACCESS TO THE INTERNET

Many devices in the home can now connect directly to the internet.
Smartphones and computers used in the home can connect to the internet.
Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using other devices that connect to the internet in the
home.
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 IGCSE EXAM QUESTIONS
CHAPTER 5
(EFFECTS OF ICT)
PLEASE USE THIS IN CONJUCTION WITH THE POWERPOINT SLIDES ,
ONLY ATTEMPT QUESTIONS ON SUBTOPICS YOU HAVE ACTUALLY READ

I RECOMMEND THAT YOU PRINT THIS AND WRITE THE ANSWERS ON THE HARDCOPY,
YOU WILL NEED IT WHEN SCHOOL RESUMES

Question 1

Question 2
The introduction of computers into the workplace has caused some changes in employment.
(a) Identify two different types of job where employment has decreased.

1 ..........................................................................................................................................................................................

2 ............................................................................................................ ............................................................................. [2]

(b) Identify two different types of job where employment has increased.

1 ..............................................................................................................................................................................................

2 ............................................................................................................................ ............................................................. [2]

Question 3
The introduction of these computers has had positive and negative effects on the payroll department’s workers.

Describe the benefits to workers of introducing computers into this department.

............................................................................................................................................................................. ......................

....................................................................................................................................................................... ...........................

............................................................................................................................................................................ ......................

...................................................................................................................................................................... ................ [4]

Question 4

Question 5
Robotic systems are now widely used in the production of cars.
Describe the effects this has had on job roles and working conditions in a car production factory.

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Question 6
The introduction of computers into an organisation’s payroll department has affected employees’ working
patterns.

(a) Describe what is meant by the following:

(i)part-time working................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................... [2]

(ii) job sharing...........................................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................................................[2]

(iii) Compressed hours............................................................................................................................................

............................................................................................................................................................................ [2]

(iv) Flexible hours................................................................................................................................................

........................................................................................................................................................................... [2]

Question 7
The use of computers has led to some employees changing their working patterns.
Complete the following sentences.

(a) Two or more employees doing the same job but working at different times is called
...............................................................................................................................................[1]
(b) When a person is employed to work fewer hours than the normal working week, this is called
...............................................................................................................................................[1]
(c) When employees work the full normal hours in a week but work at times which suit them and
the employer, this is called
...............................................................................................................................................[1]
(d) When an employee works the full normal hours in a week but works fewer days, this is called
...............................................................................................................................................[1]

Question 8
The use of computers continues to change the way employees work.
(a) Describe how the use of computers has led to a number of employees changing their working patterns.

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Question 9
The use of microprocessor-controlled devices in the home affects an individual’s leisure time, social interaction and
the need to leave the home.

(a) Give three advantages to the individual when microprocessor-controlled devices are used in the home.
1 ...............................................................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................... ........................................................................

2 ......................................................................................................... ........................................................................

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3 ........................................................................................................................ ........................................................................

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(b) Give three disadvantages to the individual when microprocessor-controlled devices are used in the home.

1 .............................................................................. .................................................................................................................

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2 ...................................................................................................... ........................................................................

................................................................................................................. ........................................................................

3 ....................................................................................................................... ........................................................................

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Question 10
Describe the effects on people’s lifestyles of the use of microprocessor-controlled devices in the home.
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Question 11
Describe RSI and what causes it.
.........................................................................................................................................................................................
........................................................................................................................................................................................[2]

(b) State two strategies for preventing RSI.

................................................................................................................................................................................................
.......................................................................................................................................................................................... [2]

Question 11

Question 12
Question 13

Question 14

Question 15
Name three health problems associated with the prolonged use of IT equipment, and for each one, suggest a
possible method to prevent the problem. The methods should be different in each case.

Problem 1 ...................................................................................... .....................................................................

Method 1 ................................................................................................................ .......................................................
........................................................................................................................................ .......................................................

Problem 2 .............................................................................................................. .......................................................

Method 2 .................................................................................................................. .......................................................
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Problem 3 ............................................................................................................. .......................................................

Method 3 ....................................................................................................... .......................................................
........................................................................................................................... .......................................................[6]

Question 16
Evaluate your own use of computers in terms of health. Include any strategies you have devised.
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Question 17
You use a computer to do your homework. You are concerned about the health issues of using a computer.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different methods you could use to help minimise the health
problems of using the computer.

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Identify three ways in which employment patterns have changed since the introduction of ICT.

1 .................................................................. ...............................................................................................................
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2 ................................................................................................................................... ............................................................
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3 ...................................................... ........................................................................................................................................
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