Grade 10 Study Notes - Term 1

Storage Capacities
Here is a summary of common storage capacities in a table format:
Storage Type Abbreviation Capacity (in Bytes) Equivalent Capacity
Byte B 1 1 byte
Kilobyte KB 1,024 bytes 1,000 bytes (approx.)
Megabyte MB 1,048,576 bytes 1,000,000 bytes (approx.)
Gigabyte GB 1,073,741,824 bytes 1 billion bytes
Terabyte TB 1,099,511,627,776 bytes 1 trillion bytes

Types of Storage and devices

Type Examples Characteristics

Primary Storage RAM, Cache Memory Fast, volatile, temporary data storage
Secondary Storage HDD, SSD Non-volatile, stores OS & files
Optical Storage CD, DVD, Blu-ray Uses laser to read/write data
Flash Storage USB Drive, SD Card Portable, fast, durable
Cloud Storage Google Drive, Dropbox Remote, internet-based storage

Difference between HDD (Hard drive disk) and SSD (Solid State Drive)

Here’s a concise table comparing HDD (Hard Disk Drive) vs. SSD (Solid
State Drive):

HDD SSD
Feature HDD (Hard Disk Drive) SSD (Solid State Drive)
Speed Slower (100-200 MB/s) Faster (500+ MB/s)
Technology Magnetic spinning disk Flash memory (no moving parts)
Durability Prone to damage (moving parts) More durable (shock-resistant)
Power Usage Higher power consumption Lower power consumption
Noise Produces noise/vibration Silent operation
Cost Cheaper per GB More expensive per GB
Lifespan Longer with heavy writes Limited write cycles but improving
Types of Software

The two main types of software are system software and application software.
1. System Software:
o Purpose: Manages hardware and provides a platform for running application
software.
o Examples:
▪ Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux
▪ Device Drivers: Software that allows the operating system to communicate
with hardware devices like printers, graphics cards, etc.
▪ Utilities: Antivirus programs, disk management tools.
2. Application Software:
o Purpose: Designed to perform specific tasks for the user, like word processing or
gaming.
o Examples:
▪ Productivity software: Microsoft Word, Excel
▪ Media players: VLC, Spotify
▪ Web browsers: Google Chrome, Firefox
In short, system software ensures that your computer works, while application software
allows you to perform specific tasks on that system.

Biometrics
Biometric input refers to the use of unique physical or behavioural characteristics to identify
or authenticate individuals.
Examples of biometric input:
1. Fingerprint recognition: Scanning and analysing the unique pattern of ridges and valleys
on a person's finger.
2. Facial recognition: Analysing facial features to identify or authenticate a person.
3. Iris scanning: Analysing the unique patterns in the coloured part of the eye.
4. Voice recognition: Analysing the unique patterns in a person’s voice.
5. Hand geometry: Measuring the shape and size of a person’s hand.
.
Input and Output

Input Devices:
These devices allow users to enter data or commands into a computer.
Device Function Example
Keyboard Allows typing of text and commands Standard QWERTY keyboard
Moves the cursor on the screen and selects
Mouse Optical or wireless mouse
items
Converts physical documents into digital
Scanner Flatbed scanner, barcode scanner
format
Used in voice recognition,
Microphone Captures audio input
podcasts
Used for video calls and
Webcam Captures video input
recordings

Output Devices:
These devices display or project data processed by a computer.
Device Function Example
Monitor Displays visual output on a screen LED, LCD, OLED displays
Printer Produces hard copies of digital documents Inkjet or laser printers
Speakers Outputs audio signals Used for music, videos, and alerts
Headphones Outputs audio privately Used for personal audio listening
Displays visual output on a large screen or Used in presentations or home
Projector
surface theatres

Here’s a table summarizing devices that serve as both input and output devices:
Device Function Examples
Functions as both an input (touch) Smartphones, tablets,
Touchscreen
and output (display) device. interactive kiosks
Headset (with microphone Used for input (microphone) and Gaming headsets,
and speakers) output (speakers) communication devices
Sends data (input) and receives data ADSL modems, cable
Modem
(output) through a network modems
Sends data (input) and prints
Fax Machine Traditional fax machines
received data (output)
External Storage Devices Can input data to the computer and USB flash drives,
(with data transfer) output data from the computer external hard drives
Information Processing Cycle

Types of Computers

Type of Computer Description Examples

Personal Designed for individual use, suitable for Desktop computers,
Computers (PC) everyday tasks. laptops, tablets
Mainframe Powerful, large systems used by organizations Banking systems,
Computers for bulk data processing. government databases
Extremely fast computers used for complex Weather forecasting,
Supercomputers
calculations and simulations. scientific research
Mid-sized computers, smaller than mainframes, Control systems,
Minicomputers
used by small businesses or departments. laboratory equipment
Smart appliances,
Embedded Specialized computers within other devices for
automotive control
Computers controlling specific tasks.
systems
High-performance computers used for tasks
CAD workstations, video
Workstations requiring greater computing power, such as
editing systems
graphic design or engineering.
Computers that provide services or resources to Web servers, database
Servers
other computers on a network. servers
Parts of a Computer

Part Description Examples

Central Processing The brain of the computer, responsible for Intel Core i7, AMD
Unit (CPU) executing instructions and processing data. Ryzen 5
The main circuit board that connects and
Motherboard ASUS Z490, MSI B450
allows communication between all components.
Temporarily stores data that is actively being 8GB DDR4 RAM, 16GB
Memory (RAM)
used by the CPU for quick access. DDR4 RAM
Stores data permanently or for long-term Hard Drive (HDD), Solid
Storage Device
access. State Drive (SSD)
Power Supply Unit Converts electrical power from an outlet to a
550W PSU, 750W PSU
(PSU) usable form for the computer.
Graphics Processing Handles rendering of images, video, and NVIDIA GeForce RTX,
Unit (GPU) animations. AMD Radeon
Allows users to interact with the computer Keyboard, Mouse,
Input Devices
and input data. Scanner
Allows the computer to display or output data Monitor, Printer,
Output Devices
to the user. Speakers
Keeps the internal components cool by CPU cooler, Case fans,
Cooling System
dissipating heat. Liquid cooling
Reads or writes data to optical discs like CDs
Optical Drive DVD drive, Blu-ray drive
or DVDs.
Components that are plugged into the motherboard

Component Description
CPU (Central Processing Unit) The main processor responsible for executing instructions.
RAM (Random Access
Temporary memory that stores data for active processes.
Memory)
GPU (Graphics Processing
Handles rendering of graphics and visual output.
Unit)
Storage Devices (HDD/SSD) Provides long-term data storage.
Power Supply Connector Supplies power to the motherboard and components.
Includes sound cards, network cards, or other expansion
Expansion Cards (PCI/PCIe)
devices.
Cooling Fans Ensures the motherboard and components stay cool.
USB Headers Allows additional USB ports to be added.
Audio/Networking Ports For integrated audio or Ethernet connections.

Help Function on devices

Here’s a table summarizing the keys that can be used to access the help function on a
computer:
Keys to Access Help
Operating System Description
Function
Pressing F1 usually opens the Help and
Windows F1
Support centre.
Command + Space, Opens Spotlight search, allowing you to
MacOS
then type "Help" search for Help topics.
F1 (varies by Often opens the application’s help, or the
Linux (Ubuntu, etc.)
application) system-wide help menu.
Opens the Microsoft Office Help window for
Microsoft Office F1
guidance on the current application.
Web Browsers
Opens the browser's Help menu or online
(Chrome, Firefox, F1 (or) Alt + H
support pages.
etc.)
Devices that can be connected and used in a typical computer

Name of device/component Main function

A joystick is an input device consisting of a stick that pivots on a

Joystick base and reports its angle or direction to the device it is
controlling.

A touch-sensitive interface surface that allows you to manipulate

Touchpad / Trackpad and interact with a laptop computer through finger gestures.

HDMI can carry both digital and audio signals. Default cable
HDMI Cable
standard for connecting monitors and projectors.

A QR Code, or quick response Code, is a Code that is quickly

QR Code readable by a cell phone. When a QR Code is scanned, it conveys a
wide multitude of information.

A machine allowing the creation of a physical object from a

3D Printer three-dimensional digital model, typically by laying down many
thin layers of a material in succession.

Difference between RAM and ROM

Here’s a simple table highlighting the differences between RAM and ROM:
Feature RAM (Random Access Memory) ROM (Read-Only Memory)
Temporary memory used to store data Permanent memory used to store
Definition
currently in use. firmware or instructions.
Volatile (data is lost when power is Non-volatile (data is retained even after
Volatility
turned off). power is off).
Stores data and instructions that the Stores essential system instructions or
Purpose
CPU needs quickly. firmware.
Can only be read from, not easily written
Read/Write Can be both read from and written to.
to.
Speed Faster compared to ROM. Slower compared to RAM.
Example 8GB DDR4 RAM, 16GB RAM BIOS chip, ROM in embedded devices.
Functions of a Operating System

Function Description
Manages processes running on the computer, ensuring proper
Process Management
execution and scheduling.
Allocates and manages memory resources for processes, ensuring
Memory Management
efficient use.
File System Organizes and controls how data is stored, accessed, and retrieved
Management on storage devices.
Controls and coordinates hardware devices such as printers, disks,
Device Management
and keyboards.
Security and Access Protects data and system resources through user authentication and
Control access control.
Provides the means for users to interact with the computer (e.g.,
User Interface (UI)
command-line or graphical interface).
Schedules and prioritizes tasks or processes to ensure system
Task Scheduling
efficiency and responsiveness.
Manages network connections and communication between devices or
Networking
computers.
System Resource Distributes system resources (e.g., CPU time, memory) between
Allocation processes and users.
Error Detection and
Monitors system operations and handles errors to maintain stability.
Handling
System Software

Type of System
Description Examples
Software
Operating System Manages hardware, software, and resources,
Windows, macOS, Linux
(OS) providing an interface for users.
Software that allows the operating system to Printer drivers,
Device Drivers
communicate with hardware devices. Graphics card drivers
Perform maintenance tasks to optimize and Antivirus software,
Utility Programs
manage system resources. Disk cleaners
Low-level software stored in hardware to BIOS, Embedded
Firmware
control its functions. software in devices
Compilers and Convert high-level programming code into GCC Compiler, Java
Interpreters machine-readable code. Interpreter
Converts assembly language into machine code MASM (Microsoft
Assembler
for execution. Assembler)
System Management Monitors and controls system resources and Task Manager, System
Software performance. Monitor tools

Measurement of Screens

Measurement/Resolution Description Example

The diagonal length of the screen, 15.6 inches (laptop), 24
Screen Size
typically measured in inches. inches (monitor)
The number of pixels on the screen 1920 x 1080 (Full HD), 3840
Resolution
(width x height). x 2160 (4K)
The ratio of the screen's width to its 16:9 (widescreen), 4:3 (older
Aspect Ratio
height. screens)
The number of pixels per inch, 300 PPI (smartphone), 90
Pixel Density (PPI)
indicating screen sharpness. PPI (monitor)
How many times per second the 60Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz (for
Refresh Rate
screen updates the image. gaming monitors)
The number of colours a screen can 8-bit, 10-bit, 12-bit colour
Colour Depth
display. depth
Analysing Adverts

Laptop 1 Laptop 2
ASUS ROG Strix 18 Intel® Core™ i9 13980HX Surface Studio Intel® Core™ i9 11370H 32GB
16GB RAM 1TB SSD RTX4080 Gaming RAM 1TB SSD RTX3050 Laptop

Windows 11 Home Windows 11 Home

2560x1600 display 14.4-inch Touch Display
32GB Memory 32GB Memory
1TB NVMe M.2 SSD 1TB SSD
Nvidia GeForce 12 GB GDDR6 Nvidia GeForce 4GB GDDR6
240 GHz refresh rate

What to look at:

• Operating System – Windows 10/Windows 11

• RAM – Memory/DDR4
• Storage space – HDD/SSD/M.2 SSD
• Screen Size – Measure in inches and indicated in inches on the advert
• Resolution - Resolution for a screen is measured by the number of pixels that make up
the display, typically represented as width x height. For example, a screen with a
resolution of 1920 x 1080 has 1920 pixels horizontally (width) and 1080 pixels
vertically (height). The more pixels, the sharper and clearer the image will be.
Higher resolutions like 4K (3840 x 2160) or 8K (7680 x 4320) offer more detail and
better image quality.
• Processor – A processor (or CPU) is the central unit of a computer that performs most
of the processing inside. It executes instructions from programs by performing basic
arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output operations.
Examples:
o Intel Core i7 – A high-performance processor commonly used in desktops and
laptops.
o AMD Ryzen 5 – Known for good performance in gaming and multitasking, typically
used in budget to mid-range systems.
o Apple M1 – A custom-designed ARM-based processor used in recent Apple
MacBooks and iPads, offering high energy efficiency and performance.
 Types of Printers

Type of Examples
Description
Printer

Inkjet Uses liquid ink sprayed onto paper to HP Inkjet, Canon

Printer create text and images. PIXMA

Laser Uses a laser beam and toner powder HP LaserJet, Brother

Printer to produce high-quality prints. HL series

Dot Matrix Creates images using a print head Epson LX series, OKI
Printer with pins that strike an inked ribbon. Microline

Thermal Uses heat to transfer ink onto paper, Zebra label printers,
Printer commonly used for receipts. Epson receipt printers

Creates three-dimensional objects

3D Printer by layering material based on a MakerBot, Ultimaker
digital model.

All-in-One Combines printing, scanning, copying, Canon PIXMA, Epson

Printer and sometimes faxing in one device. EcoTank

Photo Specially designed for high-quality Canon Selphy, Epson

Printer photo printing with vivid colours. SureColor

Printing resolution

Printing resolution is measured in DPI (dots per inch). It indicates the level of detail a
printer can produce. The higher the DPI, the sharper and more detailed the printout.
• Low resolution (e.g., 300 DPI) is sufficient for text and basic graphics.
• High resolution (e.g., 1200 DPI or more) is used for detailed images or professional-
quality prints, such as photographs.
In summary, the higher the DPI, the better the print quality.
Printer duty cycle

Printer duty cycle refers to the maximum number of pages a printer is designed to print
within a specified period (usually a month) without experiencing damage or excessive wear. It
is an indication of the printer's durability and performance under regular use.
For example:
• A low-duty cycle printer might handle 5,000 pages per month (ppm).
• A high-duty cycle printer can handle 50,000 or more pages per month (ppm).
A higher duty cycle is ideal for businesses or environments with high-volume printing needs.

Printer Troubleshooting Problems

Here’s a table with possible solutions for when a printer is not printing:
Possible Issue Solution
Ensure the printer is turned on, connected to the network, and set to
Printer is offline
"online" mode.
Out of Paper Check if the paper tray is loaded correctly and has sufficient paper.
Paper Jam Open the printer and remove any stuck paper carefully.
Check the ink or toner levels and replace or refill cartridges if
Low Ink/Toner
necessary.
Update or reinstall the printer drivers from the manufacturer’s
Driver Issues
website.
Ensure the printer is properly connected to the computer or network
Connectivity Problems
(USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).
Clear the print queue by restarting the printer or canceling stuck
Print Queue Jam
print jobs.
Incorrect Printer
Make sure the correct printer is selected in the print dialog.
Selection
Check for and install any firmware updates from the printer’s
Outdated Firmware
settings.
Wrong Printer Verify print settings (e.g., color, paper size) are correct in the
Settings printer preferences.

File Management

Aspect Importance
Helps in organizing files and folders, making it easier to find and access
Organization
data quickly.
Efficiency Increases productivity by reducing time spent searching for files or data.
Backup and Simplifies the process of backing up important files and ensures easy data
Recovery recovery in case of loss.
Enhances data security by allowing proper access control, encryption, and
Security
permission management.
Aspect Importance
Keeps track of different versions of files, helping to avoid confusion or
Version Control
loss of important updates.
Ensures files are stored correctly, preventing data corruption and
Data Integrity
ensuring reliability.
Facilitates sharing and collaboration among multiple users while
Collaboration
maintaining proper file access.
Space Optimizes storage space by helping with file compression, deletion of
Management unnecessary files, and proper storage practices.
Ensures that files are stored in compatible formats for easy access
File Compatibility
across different devices and software.

ICT in Perspective

Dedicated Devices
Dedicated devices are specialized hardware designed for a specific function or task. Unlike
general-purpose devices (e.g., computers), dedicated devices perform limited functions
efficiently and reliably.

Examples of Dedicated Devices:

Device Description Example
ATM (Automated Teller Used for banking transactions like Bank ATMs (e.g., NCR,
Machine) withdrawals and deposits. Diebold)
POS (Point of Sale) Used in retail stores for billing and Cash registers, barcode
System inventory management. scanners
Provides real-time location tracking and Garmin GPS, Car
GPS Navigation System
directions. navigation systems
Designed for healthcare monitoring and ECG machines, MRI
Medical Devices
diagnostics. scanners
Built specifically for gaming with high-
Gaming Consoles PlayStation, Xbox
performance graphics.
Used for internet connectivity and
Routers & Modems TP-Link, Netgear routers
network management.
Automate household functions like Amazon Echo, Google
Smart Home Devices
lighting and security. Nest
General-Purpose Devices

General-purpose devices are electronic or computing devices designed to perform multiple

functions rather than being limited to a specific task. These devices can run various
applications and be used for different purposes.

Examples of General-Purpose Devices:

Device Description Examples

Personal Computers Used for various tasks like browsing, gaming, Laptops, Desktops
(PCs) work, and programming. (Dell, HP)
Multi-functional devices for calling, internet, iPhone, Samsung
Smartphones
apps, and entertainment. Galaxy
Portable touch-screen devices used for work,
Tablets iPad, Samsung Tab
media, and browsing.
Compact computers for business, education, and MacBook, Lenovo
Laptops
entertainment. ThinkPad
Samsung Smart TV,
Smart TVs TVs with internet connectivity and app support.
LG OLED
While primarily for gaming, they can also stream
Game Consoles PlayStation, Xbox
media and browse.
What is ICT?

ICT (Information and Communication Technology) refers to the use of technology for
processing, storing, retrieving, and sharing information. It includes hardware (computers,
mobile devices), software (applications, operating systems), networks (internet, Wi-Fi), and
services (cloud computing, telecommunications). ICT plays a key role in communication,
business, education, and daily life.

Why is ICT important to use?

ICT (Information and Communication Technology) is essential because it enhances

communication, efficiency, and access to information in various fields. Here’s why ICT is
important:
1. Improves Communication – Enables instant messaging, video calls, and emails globally.
2. Enhances Education – Supports online learning, digital resources, and e-learning
platforms.
3. Boosts Business Efficiency – Automates tasks, improves data management, and
enhances customer service.
4. Facilitates Remote Work – Enables collaboration through cloud computing and virtual
meetings.
5. Increases Access to Information – Provides quick access to knowledge through the
internet and databases.
6. Supports Innovation – Drives advancements in AI, automation, and digital
transformation.
7. Enhances Daily Life – Used in banking, entertainment, healthcare, and smart home
systems.

ICT Systems

Input Storage
(Data
collected) (Permanent)

Processing Output Communication

(Working with
data and (Showing (sending results)
information) results)

People
(Users, clients, customers, operators, etc.)
Ethical use of Computers

Ethical Use of Computers

Ethical use of computers refers to following moral principles and responsible behaviour when
using technology to ensure fairness, privacy, and security.

Key Aspects of Ethical Computer Use

Ethical Principle Description Example
Respecting user data and avoiding
Privacy Protection Not hacking or spying on others.
unauthorized access.
Intellectual Respecting copyrights, patents, and
Not pirating software or music.
Property software licenses.
Protecting systems from hacking, Using strong passwords, avoiding
Cybersecurity
malware, and cybercrime. phishing scams.
Avoiding false information, Citing sources in research and not
Honesty & Integrity
plagiarism, or misrepresentation. spreading misinformation.
Avoiding Using technology responsibly and Not sending harmful messages or
Cyberbullying treating others with respect. harassing others online.
Responsible Social Sharing ethical content and avoiding Posting truthful and respectful
Media Use hate speech or fake news. content.
Minimizing Digital Ensuring equal access to technology Supporting ICT in underprivileged
Divide for all. areas.
Sustainable Reducing electronic waste and using Recycling old computers
Computing energy-efficient devices. responsibly.

Ways in which ICT can be used to act unethically

• Theft: identity / data / computer time / piracy
• Spreading false information – greater speed and reach
• Creating malicious software: viruses, Trojans, worms, etc.