ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation

1.1 Hardware and Software

Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

• Define hardware as consisting of physical components of a computer system

• Identify internal hardware devices (e.g. processor, motherboards, random access
memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), video cards, sound cards and internal
hard disk drives.
• Identify external hardware devices and peripherals (such as monitors, keyboards,
mice, keyboards, printers as input and output devices and external storage devices in
general)
• Define software as programs for controlling the operation of a computer or processing
of electronic data
• Identify the two types of software – applications software and system software
• Define applications software (e.g. word processing, spreadsheet, database
management systems, control software, measuring software, applets and apps,
photo-editing software, video-editing software, graphics manipulation software)
• Define system software (e.g. compilers, linkers, device drivers, operating systems
and utilities)
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Define hardware as consisting of physical components of a computer system

What is Hardware?
• Hardware are the physical components which make up the computer system.
• Each item of hardware have their specific roles in a computer system.
• Hardware components can either be internal or external.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Internal hardware devices

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The CPU is the 'brain' of the computer. It is the device that carries
out calculations to complete software instructions.

Motherboard
The motherboard is circuit board which is connects to main
components of the computer system.

Memory
Any data or instructions that are to be processed by the CPU must
be placed into main memory.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Internal hardware devices

Graphic Video Cards

A graphics card is a device that attaches to the motherboard to
enable the computer to process and display graphics.

Sound Card
A sound card is a device that attaches to the motherboard to enable
the computer to input, process, and deliver sound

Internal Hard Disk

A hard disk drive is a hardware device that's used to store
information like software and files. The capacity of hard drive
ranges from GB to Tera Bytes.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Internal hardware devices

Network Card
A network card provides the computer with a network (internet
connection) either through wireless signals or a physical cable
connection.
Optical Disk Drive
The optical disk drive (CD/DVD/Blu-Ray) allows for optical disks to
run on the computer. Also some optical disk drives are able to write
“burn” data onto discs.

Power Supply
The power supply is connected to main power sources to give
power to the computer system. The power supply connects to all
the main components of the computer system including the
motherboard, hard drive, optical drives etc.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

External hardware devices

Input Hardware Devices – Input data into a Computer

Examples
• Mouse
• Keyboard
• Microphone

Output Hardware Devices – Outputs data from a computer

Examples
• Monitor
• Speakers
• Printers

External Storage Devices – Provides external storage or backup solutions

Examples
• External Hard
drive
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Computer Software

What is Software?

Software is a collection of instructions that can be ‘run’ on a computer. These

instructions tell the computer what to do.

Software is not a physical thing (but it can of course be stored on a physical medium
such as a CD-ROM), it is just a bunch of codes.

For a computer system to be useful it has to consist of both hardware and software.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Applications Software and System Software

Application Software
Examples Application software are designed to allow users to
• Word Processor complete specific tasks. This may be to:
• Spreadsheet • Write a letter/Present information
• Databases
• Browse the internet
• Manipulate data in a spreadsheet or database
• Manipulate graphics, sound or video.
System Software
Examples System software are normally involved in the running
• Operating of the computer:
Systems • Operating systems to provide a user interface
• Device Drivers
• Utilities
• Device drivers which allow hardware components to
(antivirus) work.
• Utility software which maintain the computer
performance.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Application Software Examples

Word Processing Spreadsheet Database

Used to prepare reports, Use to create to organise and Database is used to insert
school essays etc. manipulate numeric data. and organise data using
fields and records.

• Create New or edit • Use of various formulas to • Create a table so that

existing text documents. carry out set tasks: records can be inserted.
• Formatting tools • Sum, Max, Min, Average • Run queries using search
• Create font styles • Count, CountA criteria to find specific
• Importing tables/images • CountIf & SumIF data.
• Spell Check • Lookups • Create reports including
• Copy/Paste • IF and Nested Ifs labels from the search
• Find/Replace • Apply various formatting to criteria.
• Page layout cells/
• Create graphs (Ba/Pie charts)
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Application Software Examples

Photo Editing Graphics Manipulation Video Editing

Used to edit digital images to Used to create and edit Used to edit and format video
either touch up or to apply bitmap and vector graphics. using various tools and
various formatting techniques.
techniques.

• Contrast/Brightness • Pixels in bitmap images • Split and Trim videos

• Use of layers can be changed to • Create split screens
• Filter tools produce a different image. • Rearranging order of clips.
• Lighting effects • Vector images use: • Transitions between clips
• Liquify (change features of • Lines (Fade)
a face) • Curves • Inserting Audio
• Brush tools • Text • Applying filters and using
• Clone/Stamp tool video enhancement
techniques
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Application Software Examples

Apps (Phone Applications) Measuring and Control Software

Apps are the software which runs on mobile Measuring and control software which are
phones. They usually come with the phone responsible for changing physical conditions in
or can be downloaded and updated. an environment.

• Games (Angry Birds) Measuring

• Video/Music Streaming (YouTube) • Sensors take readings which are processed
• Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, by the computer or microprocessor.
Instagram)
• Communication (Whats App, Viber) Control Software
• Camera (Editing images) • By comparing sensor readings to a pre-set
• GPS (Satellite navigation) level the control software will decide on an
• Health/ Fitness output (For example to increase or
decrease the heat in a green house.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

System Software Examples

Operating Systems Device Drivers

Manages computers functions Allows hardware devices to

including hardware devices run on the computer
(input/output). Also provides including printers, sound,
users with a GUI interface graphics and network cards.

System
Software
Utilities Compiler
Help to manage and Linkers
Translates a program written
maintain computer In a specific language which
resources and Combines object files Can be understood by the
performance by produced by a complier into a computer.
running specific tasks. A single program.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.1 Hardware and Software
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Describe the difference between Hardware and Software?

Key Words: physical components, instructions

Exam Question
Hardware are the physical components which make up the computer system.
Software is a collection of instructions that can be ‘run’ on a computer. These
instructions tell the computer what to do.

Describe the difference between Application and System Software?

Key Words: specific tasks (Word Processor), manage and maintain (Operating System)

Application software are designed to allow users to complete specific tasks. For
example a Word Processor is used to write a letter. System software is used to
manage and maintain the computer system. An operating system such as Windows
10 is used to manage the functions of the computer system.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.2 The Main Components of Computer Systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

• Describe the central processing unit including its role

• Describe internal memory, i.e. ROM and RAM and the differences between them
• Define input and output devices and describe the difference between them
• Define secondary/backing storage
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.2 The Main Components of Computer Systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Describe the central processing unit including its role

• The CPU is the 'brain' of the computer.

• It is where all the searching, sorting, calculating

and decision making takes place.

• The speed of the CPU is measured in Gigahertz

(GHz).

• A 1 GHz CPU can carry out 1 billion instructions per

second!

• Intel and AMD are the most popular CPU brands.

 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.2 The Main Components of Computer Systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Main Memory

Applications are installed in the Secondary Storage (Hard drive).

Temporary data from Applications in use are held in the Main Memory.

The CPU will first check the Cache for the required piece of the data so that it can
be processed.

If the data is not in the cache then the CPU will check the RAM and transfer data to
the CPU.

The Cache will then transfer the next piece of data from the RAM into Cache.

The CPU will again check the Cache for the next piece of data. This time the CPU will
be able to get the data from the Cache Memory.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.2 The Main Components of Computer Systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Main Memory
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.2 The Main Components of Computer Systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Cache

• Cache is the fastest type of Memory.

• It is located between the processor and the RAM.

• Cache collects data from the RAM.

• Holds onto commonly used data.

• The Cache will automatically transfer the next set

of data from the RAM in to the Cache so that it
can be processed by the CPU.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.2 The Main Components of Computer Systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

RAM (Random Access Memory)

• RAM stands for Random Access Memory

• RAM is the part of the computer that temporarily

stores the instructions that the computer is
running whilst the data is being processed by the
CPU.

• RAM is volatile which means that when the

computer is turned off all data is lost
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.2 The Main Components of Computer Systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

ROM (Read Only Memory)

• ROM stands for Read Only Memory

• ROM is a built in memory that can not be changed

(Read Only).

• ROM normally holds the ‘boot up’ instructions to

start the computer – without it the computer
wouldn’t know what to do when on button is
switched on (e.g. the operating system will not
start).

• ROM is non-volatile memory which means that

memory is not lost when computer is turned off.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.2 The Main Components of Computer Systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Describe the difference between the Cache, RAM & ROM?

Cache RAM ROM (Read only memory)
Fastest, CPU, Common Data Temporary data, volatile (data
Read Only, Bootup & Non-
lost on startup)
volatile (Data not lost)
Exam Question
The Cache memory is the fastest type of memory. It is located between the CPU and
RAM. It holds commonly used data. RAM (Random Access Memory) is a volatile
type of memory which means all data is lost on startup. In contrast ROM (Read Only
Memory) is non-volatile which means data is not lost on startup. The ROM memory
is Read Only and contains boot up instructions. The RAM memory hold temporary
data which is processed by the CPU.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.2 The Main Components of Computer Systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Input and Output devices

Devices need to be connected to a computer to allow data to be inputted and

outputted.

The general name for these extra devices is ‘peripheral devices’. They are usually
categorised into input devices, output devices and storage devices.

Input Output Storage

An input device is a device that can pass date into the computer
Devices that take data from the computer are known as output devices.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.2 The Main Components of Computer Systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Define secondary/backing storage

Backing storage is also known as secondary storage

Backing storage is non-volatile which means that

data is not lost when computer is turned off.

Backing storage is used to store data for a long time

(data can be read from and written to)

Users tend to make copies of original files on

backing storage.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.2 The Main Components of Computer Systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Describe what is backing storage (secondary storage)?

Key Words: non-volatile, data, long time, Read, Write &
copies
Exam Question

Backing storage also known as secondary storage is non-volatile which means that data
is not lost when computer is turned off. An example of backing storage is a fixed hard
drive. Data is stored for a long time and can be accessed at any point (Read and write).
Users tend to make copies of original files on backing storage.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

• Define and describe operating systems which contain a Command Line Interface
(CLI)
• Define and describe operating systems which contain a Graphical User Interface
(GUI)
• Describe the differences, including the benefits and drawbacks, between operating
systems which contain a CLI and those which contain a GUI
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Role of an Operating System

An operating system is a system software that manages the general operation of a

computer system:
Allows users to
Provides security
load, run and
and prevents
store applications.
unauthorised
Also resolve errors
access to a system
occurring
applications
Helps the user
interact with the Role of an Decided what
computer through a operating System should be loaded
user interface. and deleted from
memory

Helping save,
organise, find and Manages input,
delete files output and backing
devices.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Describe the main functions of the operating system?

Key Words: User Interface, Security, Files, memory,

applications, input/output/storages devices
Exam Question

The operating system provides the user interface which allows the user to interact
with the system. In addition the operating system provides security and prevents
unauthorised access to a system. Files and folders can be created and organised.
Furthermore the operating system allows users to load, run and store applications
also decides what should be loaded into the computer memory (RAM). The operating
system also manages the input/output/storages devices.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Example GUI Operating Systems

 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

GUI (Graphical User Interface) is an user interface built around graphics.

Windows – areas Menus - lists of

for displaying options or
information applications users
can select from

GUI
Icons -small images Pointers –Mouse
used to represent pointer can be used
files/folders or to select and open
applications files/applications

• GUIs are quite easy to use due to the visual nature of

the interface
• The user has lots of visual clues as to what things do.
WIMP
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Post GUI (GUI) Touch Screen Technology

Post GUI allows the use of touch screen

Post GUI allows the use of pinching, scrolling, expanding

 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Graphical User Interface (GUI) Examples

 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Command Line Interface (CLI)

• CLI requires the user to enter command prompts to interact with the
computer.
• CLI are normally used by expert users as it allows them to is more
complicated to use.
• CLI and is not restricted to a number of predetermined options.

Example Command Prompts

ATTRIB: Displays or changes file attributes.

CD: Displays the name of current directory
CHKDSK: Checks a disk and displays a status
report
Copy: Copies one or more files to another
location
DIR: Displays a list of files and sub
directories
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Main Differences between CLI and GUI

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

Advantages:
• The user does not need to learn any commands.
• The interface is easier to use.
• Can use a pointing device to clicks and select icons or menu options.
Disadvantages:
• Takes up more memory than a CLI interface.
• Requires an operating system to operate.
Command Line Interface (CLI)
Advantages:
• The user has more freedom to use specific command in interacting
with the computer.
• It is possible to alter computer settings.
Disadvantages:
• User needs to learn commands
• Commands must be typed in without errors.
• No visual aids.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.3 Operating systems
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Discuss the difference between a CLI and GUI interface?

Key Words: Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointers, visuals aids,

learn, command prompts, pre-determined options, expert user
Exam Question

The GUI (Graphical user interface) allows the users to interact with the interface by
using a pointer to select windows, icons and menu options. The GUI will have visual
aids which it make it easier for users to learn how to use the interface. On the other
hand users are required to enter command prompts to interact with the CLI
(Command Line Interface). The command prompts have to be learned by the user
and entered correctly. This would make the CLI interface more challenging to for the
user to learn. However the advantage of using the CLI for expert users is that you
are not restricted to pre-determined options which would be the case in the GUI.
This would allow for greater freedom when using the CLI.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.4 Types of computer
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

• Describe the characteristics of a personal/desktop computer and its uses, both as a

standalone and networked computer
• Describe the characteristics of a laptop computer and what it is used for, both as a
standalone and networked computer
• Describe the characteristics of a tablet computer and what it is used for, including its
ability to use wireless technology or 3G/4G technology
• Describe the computer characteristics of a smartphone and what it is used for in
computing terms
• Describe the advantages and disadvantages of each type of computer
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.4 Types of computer
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Describe the characteristics of a personal/desktop computer and its uses, both as

a standalone and networked computer

Desktop/Personal Computer

• Computers used to be huge and would sometime take

up the whole space of a room.
• In the 1980s (desktop/personal) computers were
created and were small enough to fit on desks.
• These computers were cheap and affordable for the
public.
• Desktop Computer normally have a separate monitor,
keyboard, mouse, speakers etc.
Standalone Networked
• Can be used as a standalone • Share resources
computer in your home for • Share files
personal or work use. • Shared Drives
• Tends to be connected to • Central Storage
own printer and internet • Online Gaming
connection.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.4 Types of computer
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Describe the characteristics of a laptop computer and what it is used for, both as a
standalone and networked computer

Laptop Computer

• Laptops refers to a computer where all the components

(monitor, keyboard etc.) are together on a single device.
• The main advantage of a laptop computer is that it is
portable and can connect wirelessly to network
connections.

Standalone Networked
Can be used for either personal • Connect to Internet
or work use. • Share resources
• Completing work • Share files
• Communication • Shared Drives
• Gaming • Central Storage
• Online Gaming
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.4 Types of computer
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Describe the characteristics of a tablet computer and what it is used for, including
its ability to use wireless technology or 3G/4G technology

Tablet Computer

• Tablets are very similar to smart phones.

• They have an internet connection via a wireless
connection including 3G/4G.
• Tablets make use of touch screen technology to select
options on a menu or to select particular icons.
• Applications can be downloaded and installed.
• Sensors including speech recognition.
Wireless 3G/4G
Tablets are able to connect to 4G is a mobile communications
any wireless networks. standard intended to replace
3G, allowing wireless Internet
Users are able to use the access at a much higher speeds.
internet as long as they are in
range. Would allow for internet
connection on the move.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.4 Types of computer
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Describe the computer characteristics of a smartphone and what it is used for in

computing terms

Smart Phone

• Smart phones can use traditional methods to make

phones calls and send messages using mobile network.
• Smart phones have operating systems which allows
them to run multiple applications.
• Like the Tablets Computers Smart Phones have many
features including:
• Touch Technology
• Internet connection (Wireless/3G/4G)
• Sensors
• Cameras
Use
• Send and receive emails
• Browse the internet
• Voice over Internet Protocol (Voip) – voice/video calls.
• Streaming music/video content
• Communication via social networking applications
• Global Positioning System – to help navigate
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.4 Types of computer
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Describe the advantages and disadvantages of each type of computer

Type Advantages Disadvantages

Desktop/Personal • Always connected to the mains. • Not portable
Computer • Monitors can come in any sizes • Takes up more desk space.
• Can be upgraded and parts easily replaced. • Separate components like keyboard, mouse,
• Tend to have a higher specifications than laptop monitor, speakers etc.
computers. • Loose cables which could be trip hazards.

Laptop • Its portable due to small size and weight. • Limited battery life.
Computer • Battery can be recharged. • Laptops are difficult to repair and upgrade.
• Can connect wireless to internet. • Can be stolen or lost.
• No loose cables. All components connected • Some users find it difficult to use pointing
together. device.
Tablet • High definition anti glare display. • Limited memory compared to laptops.
Computer • Wireless , 3G/4G & Bluetooth connection. • Expensive to use 3G/4G internet
• Data can backed up or synchronised with other • Typing can be more difficult compared to a
devices. normal keyboard.
• Touch screen technology • Not all files are compatible with tablets.
• Battery life longer than a mobile phone.
Smart Phone • Small in size and easier to carry around. • Small screens make it difficult to read.
• Can be used whilst on the move using wireless • Battery life is short
or 3G/4G Connectivity. • Could be misplaced or stolen
• Touch screen technology • Limited storage/memory compared to other
types of computers.
• Slow data transfer rates
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.4 Types of computer
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Describe the advantages and disadvantages of using each type of

computer?
Exam Question
A desktop computer (PC) is always connected to a power source so you do not have to worry about the
battery running out. In addition a PC is easier to upgrade as individual components can be replaced.
Furthermore the PC tends have a higher performance compared to laptop, tablet and smart phones.
However the PC is not portable and loose cables could be a trip hazard. More desk space is required for
the PC and separate components such a mouse and keyboard would have to be purchased also. The main
advantage of using the laptop computer is that it is portable and it does not need to be connected to a
power source all the time. However the battery is limited and would require a regular charge. Some users
may also find using the touch pad quite difficult to maneuver the pointer on the screen. However no
additional components would have to be purchased as the touchpad, keyboard and screen are built into
the monitor. On the other hand the laptop could be lost or stolen. The Tablet is even more portable than
the laptop and tends to have a longer battery life compared the laptop and smartphone. In addition It can
either connect to the internet wirelessly or via mobile networks. In contrast the screen is smaller on a
tablet and it may be more difficult to create resources compared to laptop or PC. The smart phone is
more portable than a tablet and like the tablet can connect to internet either wirelessly or through the
mobile networks. The performance and storage of the smart phone will be limited compared to the other
computers. Some users may also find it difficult the touch screen difficult to use due to the smaller
screen.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.4 Types of computer
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages to a teacher of using a tablet

computer instead of another type of computer.

Exam Question

The advantage of using a tablet device in the class room is that it is more portable
than a PC or laptop. Internet can be accessed in most places either wirelessly or via
mobile networks (4G). However the tablet will have a smaller screen than a monitor
or screen on a laptop. In addition the tablet is not as portable as a smart phone. On
the other hand specific applications may be used to help the students interact with
the lesson. Nevertheless it may prove more difficult to create worksheets and lesson
resources on the tablet compared to using a PC or laptop.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.5 Impact of emerging technologies
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

• Describe how emerging technologies are having an impact on everyday life (e.g.
artificial intelligence, biometrics, vision enhancement, robotics, quantum cryptography,
computer-assisted translation, 3D and holographic imaging, virtual reality
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.5 Impact of emerging technologies
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Emerging Technologies

Artificial intelligence (AI) is computer systems that can simulate human intelligence
(able to make decisions typically made by a human).

• The PR2 robot is being programmed to complete a number

of specific tasks just like a human.

• Deep Blue was a chess-playing computer developed by IBM.

It is known for being the first piece of artificial intelligence to
win both a chess game against a reigning world champion.

• Self-parking cars currently on the market are not completely

independent, but they do make parallel parking much easier.

• As seen in the movies AI could be potentially used in the military

and police force.
• However the issue would be whether a robot could demonstrate
empathy in certain situations.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.5 Impact of emerging technologies
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Emerging Technologies

Biometrics authentication is used as a form of identification which recognises

individuals body parts. Biometrics uses unique characteristics of the human which
means it can not be replicated by other people.

Finger Printing
• Staff can scan their finer prints to sign in and out of work.
• Police can use finger print to authenticate an individual’s identity.
• Some laptops use finger prints biometrics to gain access to the system.

Eye Recognition
• The iris of the eye is scanned for recognition purposes.
• No physical contact is required to scan the iris which may
be useful in some cultures.
• Immigration at airports use eye recognition to prevent
people travelling with fraudulent documentation.

Facial and voice recognition is also another form of biometrics. The main purpose of
biometrics is to improve security with regards to access to computer systems.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.5 Impact of emerging technologies
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Emerging Technologies

Vision Enhancement uses video technology which is projected to the user though
the lens. The system can bring distant objects closer and into focus.

• The vision enhancement system amplifies infrared light so that an image can be clearly
seen even in darkness.

• Militaries across the world use this technology to complete missions and carry out
surveillance at night.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.5 Impact of emerging technologies
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Emerging Technologies

Robotics are used commonly in the manufacturing industry typically completing

labour intensive jobs.

• Robots can be programmed to complete specific tasks or used manually.

• No human intervention is required once the robot has been programmed.
• Robots can complete tasks with more precision including robotic surgery.
• Robots can work in extreme conditions or environments.

How Are Robots Used in a Factory?

1. Lift heavy items into from place to
place
2. Assemble parts together to create
things
3. Join parts together using glue, or
by welding (melting metal)
4. Paint items
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.5 Impact of emerging technologies
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Emerging Technologies

Quantum Cryptography

Quantum Cryptography is a technology will

allows for securing communications whilst
online. Commonly use in online shopping
and banking website to secure data.

Computer-assisted Translation

Google Translate is an example of computer

assisted translation. The human user can
either type or speak into a microphone.
The information will then be translated in
to the selected language.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.5 Impact of emerging technologies
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Emerging Technologies

3D and holographic imaging is a technology that allows 3D images to be

produced. A holographic image moves in the same way as the original image
in three dimensions (3D)
How Holograms are created:
Object beam Object
1. Splitting a laser beam.
Laser beam
2. Half the light (object beam) is
reflected of the object onto a
photographic plate .
Reference beam Mirror
3. The other half of the light
(reference beam) is reflected off a
mirror onto the same photographic
Photographic
plate .
plate
4. The hologram is produced when the
two light beams meet on the
photographic plate.
 ICT IGCSE Theory – Revision Presentation
1.5 Impact of emerging technologies
Chapter 1: Types and components of computer systems

Emerging Technologies

Virtual reality is an artificial environment that is created with software. The

user will normally wear a head mounted display which will simulates their
physical presence in places in the real world or imagined worlds.

Uses:
1. Training: Allow professionals to conduct training in a virtual
environment without the threat of any physical harm.

2. Education: Looking inside of an ancient building or ruins

3. Computer Games: users are able to immerse themselves into a

gaming platform.

4. Sports: It is used as an aid to measuring athletic performance as

well as analysing technique
5. Construction: An organisation can not only render the resulting
structure in 3D but also experience them as they would in the real
world.