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Unit 1 - General Concepts (CAT)

The document outlines the fundamental concepts of computer applications technology, including the information processing cycle, types of computers, and their features. It discusses the role of ICT in education, communication, and various careers, as well as social issues related to hardware and software use, such as theft protection and health risks. Additionally, it highlights the importance of energy efficiency and ergonomics in computing environments.

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Gracia Omari
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13 views14 pages

Unit 1 - General Concepts (CAT)

The document outlines the fundamental concepts of computer applications technology, including the information processing cycle, types of computers, and their features. It discusses the role of ICT in education, communication, and various careers, as well as social issues related to hardware and software use, such as theft protection and health risks. Additionally, it highlights the importance of energy efficiency and ergonomics in computing environments.

Uploaded by

Gracia Omari
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computer

Applications
Technology

U N I T 1 G E N E RA L
CONCEPTS
1. Information Processing Cycle
Input, processing, output and storage
Input is data being entered into a computing device using
an input device
Processing is when data is being translated into something
useful by the CPU and RAM
Output is when information is presented to the user after
processing
Information and data can be stored for future use
2. Types of computers and typical
features
2.1 Dedicated computers
Dedicated computers are designed to perform a specific
task
E.g. ATMs, washing machines and MP3 players
Computers housed in appliances or other equipment are
called embedded computers.
2.2 Mobile computers and devices
PDA

A PDA (Personal Digital Assistant)- a small touch screen device that acts
as an electronic-diary

primarily used for appointments and reading documents

A smart phone is a cellular phone with functions and features normally
found on computers
PDA features include:

ability to run third-party software

an up-to-date operating system, such as Android or Symbian

greater processing power than cell phones

more storage space than a cell phone or PDA

Programmability

e-mail facilities.
Laptop computers features:
smaller size than desktop computers
input and output devices are integrated into the unit
ability to run from battery power, as well as a power outlet

2.3 Client/server
This is a shortened way of saying client/server network
Computers that provide resources on a network are called
servers
Computers that use resources on a network are called clients
3. Computer categories
3.1 Portable and non-portable computers
Portable computers include computing devices designed
to be easily moveable
Non-portable computers are designed to remain in one
place
3.2 Processing power
A CPU sends out electrical pulses to synchronise
components.
The number of pulses governs the speed of the computer.
CPU speed is based on the amount of instructions it can
complete in a second.
Personal computers
Personal computers are used for home and business use

CPUs can have multiple cores, such as a dual core or quad core machine

Mainframes
Mainframes are designed to handle large amounts of data reliably

Mainframes can store huge amounts of data


Supercomputers
Supercomputers are the most powerful computers available
They are used for resource intensive tasks, such as
weather forecasting
4. The role of ICT in the workplace
4.1 Education and training
Computers can adapt to the speed of the learner

Lecturers and learners can communicate over any distance

Demand for skilled workers in ICT has gone up

4.2 Communication
Networks allow communication between workers

E-mail and video conferencing are more efficient than travelling


4.3 Careers
Computer technology enabled the building of robots

Robots can work in places where humans cannot, such as


explore remote areas, such as the moon

explore dangerous places

defuse bombs in urban areas

work in toxic areas

 perform menial work

Knowledge and skills learnt in CAT can be used in ICT careers, such as:
communication technician

management of computers

training workers in the use of ICT

computer technician

 web designer
5. Social issues related to the use
of hardware and software
5.1 Hardware theft and protection
Laptops can be fastened to a fixture using a Kensington lock

Desktop computers can be bolted to the floor or desk

Security guards, burglar bars, locking doors and biometric security can be
used to secure computers
Servers should be kept in a separate locked room

Backups should be kept off-site


5.2 Power saving
Power can be saved on your computer by:
switching of your computer when not in use
using energy efficient hardware
switching off any peripheral devices, such as printers, when not in use using
a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) provides a computer with a
constant power supply if the power is cut off
Surge protectors are used to prevent damage to electronic
equipment because of powers pikes
5.3 Health and health risks
To reduce health risks:
use ergonomically designed furniture
take regular breaks
look away from the screen every 30–40 minutes
sit comfortably with a good posture
use an ergonomically designed keyboard with wrist rest
work in a well lit and ventilated room

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