ICT Applications: ICT IGCSE Theory - Presentation
ICT Applications: ICT IGCSE Theory - Presentation
ICT Applications: ICT IGCSE Theory - Presentation
ICT Applications
6.1 Communication applications
6.2 Data handling applications
6.3 Measurement applications
6.4 Microprocessors in control applications
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Paper Based
Types of Communication & Purpose Use of Computers
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
News Letter: Used by companies to communicate certain information to staff and • Save and insert pictures
customers. May contain information on recent events and identify success from clipart, Internet,
company may have experienced. scanned images & digital
camera.
• Adjust the page layout.
Brochures/Leaflet: Can be used to advertise a company or to be informative.
Brochures are normally printed on glossy paper with a high quality finish. • Create and Insert
Tables/charts
• Formatting the layout of
Flyers: Informative document which can be distributed to promote or create
awareness of an up and coming events. the document.
• Applying effects to
images (crop, colour
Posters: larger then flyers and are strategically positioned to promote and create
awareness. Displayed on billboards, notice boards, buildings as part of an scale, rotate etc.)
be created using
Websites specialist software
• Companies use websites as a means to communicate with existing and to promote new
potentially new customers. products.
• Websites can be easily updated and can provide relevant and up to
date information. Music Scores
• Websites can be used to research, social network, online gaming or for Music can now be
online shopping and banking. created and edited
Multimedia Presentations on computers. Can
be used as part of
• A common use for presentations is to provide training in businesses or adverts or slogans.
places of education. The presentation will be a focal point on the
projector whilst the speaker is presenting.
Advantages Disadvantages
• Can include interactive elements • Websites can be hacked and
such as sound, video, animation and information may be altered.
hyperlinks. • Setting up website and maintaining
• Can be available on different would be expensive and would
platforms. require a special skill set.
Send signals to
Motor to close
Window and Turn
1 – Input Heater ON
Microprocessor
ADC
Preset:
Sensors
Monitoring 20 Degrees
Continuously Process Send signals to
Repeated Motor to open
More than > 20 Degrees
Window
Exam Question
Keywords: Sensor, ADC, Microprocessor, Preset, Higher,
Lower,
Barrier, Continuous (Repeat)
Pre-set
Barrier
2018
2017
pollution at each Sensor Sensor B
2018
2017
B
2018
2017
Sensor A
Sensor B
Sensor C
C
Sensor C
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.4 Microprocessors in Control Applications
The sensor takes temperature readings in the oven. The sensor signal will be
converted from analogue to digital. The microprocessor receives the data from
the sensor and compares to the preset value. If the temperature is lower than
the pre-set value then the Microprocessor will send a signal to turn the heater
on. If the temperature is higher than the pre-set value then the Microprocessor
will send a signal to turn the heater off. The process will continue to repeat to
maintain a constant temperature.
The weather station continuously monitors the sensors on the weather balloon. Describe the
monitoring process. Key Words: Sensor, ADC, Microprocessor, Pre-set, Spreadsheet, Graphs,
Time
The sensor feeds data into the computer . The data is converted from analogue to digital . The
reading are then recorded on to spreadsheets application. Graphs are automatically produced by
the computer. The graphs can be plotted against time to examine the rate of cooling and
compare against previous entries.
Sometimes you can also say the microprocessor can compare readings from different stations.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.4 Microprocessors in Control Applications
Turtle Graphics
Turtle Graphics
A student wishes to use a floor turtle to draw this shape which has no two lines the same
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
length:
Name four different instructions which the turtle graphics software could use in order to
draw the shape. For each one explain the meaning of the instruction.
To make predictions of
To investigate the how the system would
capabilities of the system operate in the future.
in detail by interrogating
and manipulating the e.g. Use of
computer model. spreadsheets to track
profit/loss over time
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.5 Modelling Applications
Spreadsheets • Due to the use of formulas business can adjust certain values to see
automatic changes in potential revenue.
• Pilots are able to learn how to fly a plane using a flight simulator.
• The controls and the interface is the same as real plane.
Flight
• Different conditions can be tested.
Simulator • Reduced costs as a plane would not be damaged in the training.
Describe the advantages of using computer modelling to replicate (simulate) the functions of
a real system?
Key Words: costs, controlled environment, train, investigate, predictions
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Computer modeling simulates the functions of a real system in controlled environment. For
example a pilot training to fly a plane will use a flight simulator. It will be a safer environment
and also reduce costs as a real plane will not have to be used or damaged. Spreadsheets are
another example of computer modelling. User can use spreadsheets to investigate the data
and to make predictions. For example projected profits for a month can be calculated on
spreadsheets.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
The city of Venice is in danger of being damaged due to rising sea levels. A new
computer controlled flood defence system is being planned. The developers of
the system are using a spreadsheet to model the plan.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Give three reasons why computer models are used to simulate the flood
defense system.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.6 Applications in Manufacturing Industries
Robots are used in manufacturing to help to improve productivity, consistency (in terms of final finish) and
to reduce overall running costs. Robots generally make the factory a much more safer environment for
workers.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Advantages Disadvantages
• Robots can work 24/7 with the same consistency and Robots cannot easily adapt to a situation which is beyond
accuracy compared to humans. their sequence of instructions.
• Robots can be more productive than humans. Robots can be expensive to buy and maintain.
• Robots can work in extreme conditions not suitable Some workers may loose their jobs as robots can do more
for humans. labor intensive jobs.
• Robots do not need to be paid. People are deskilled due to robots doing more
complicated jobs.
Describe the advantages and disadvantages to the company of using robots rather
than humans to manufacture cars.
Advantages Disadvantages
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Robots are able to work 24/7 with the same consistency and accuracy. Furthermore Robots do
not get tired and therefore are more productive. However purchasing and maintaining the
robots could be more expensive. Jobs may be lost as robots are now taking over jobs once
completed by humans. As a result humans may also be deskilled. Alternatively robust are
unable to adapt to a change in conditions however they can be used in extreme or dangerous
conditions. Since the robots do not require a salary; expenditure costs would be reduced.
The managers have been told they can use this robot for other tasks by replacing
the existing sensors with different ones.
Give three advantages of using an existing robot device rather than developing
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
a new one.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
(a) A proximity sensor is used to detect how close to a worker the robot is.
Describe theherole of t microprocessor in stopping the robot.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.7 School Management Systems
Exam • Exam Timetables can be produced using management systems and teachers who
Timetables are not teaching could be easily allocated to invigilate exams.
Benefits to • Parents are able to log in and access student reports online.
school/parents • They can be kept up to date about exam results and general student progress in
subjects.
• Also they can receive immediate feedback. There would be no need for printed
reports which would reduce costs.
Give three reasons why the school has introduced this system.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.8 Booking Systems
Online booking systems use real time processing which allows users to Input: User will select the
make and confirm bookings instantly. Once payment has been requirements of the
received and booking is confirmed then booking can not be double booking. E.g. date of flights,
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
booked.
Example Uses: Airports, Location etc.
Transport: Flight, Trains and Buses
Entertainment: Theatre, Cinema and Stadium Processing : involves
Accommodation: Hotels, Apartments and Villas checking if bookings are
Advantages: Disadvantages possible (availability)
• User can check availability of tickets • It may be difficult to cancel a booking
and compare prices on comparison and get your money back. Outputs:
websites. booking confirmations
• Online booking services have known
• Confirmation message is sent to crash to high level of traffic to the /rejections
instantly once payment has been website. alternatives/Payment
authorised.
• You are unable to receive specific
• They prevent double booking as the
advice on your booking if it is done
process is real time. This means if online.
somebody makes a booking then it
instantly becomes unavailable. • Websites may not be user friendly
• You may receive special offers if and
may make the booking process more
difficult.
you regularly book using a
particular booking website.
Describe the inputs and processing involved in booking flight tickets online?
The customer would first select the number of tickets (requirements), arrival and destination
airport, date and time of the flight. The computer will then check for the availability of the
seat. Alternative tickets may be offered on a different day if tickets are not available. The
customer will then select and confirm the ticket and the payment details will be entered.
Once the payment has been processed a booking reference will be generated and the seats
will become unavailable. Confirmation (e-ticket) could be sent over email.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
Give four advantages of using online booking systems for the customer rather than
using manual systems.
•
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
A theatre manager wishes to introduce an online booking system. A programmer
has been asked to write the software. She could continue on her own or discuss the
ideas with the theatre manager.
(a)Explain why is it beneficial to discuss ideas with the theatre manager
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
• The programmer will not be familiar with the workings of the theatre/to
understand the requirements of the system
• The solution may be easy for the programmer to use but not the users/make
it user friendly
• The theatre manager is paying the programmer
• The theatre manager may want enhancements that the programmer has not
thought of
• The progress of the solution needs to be checked with the theatre manager in
case the he/she changes his mind
• The budget needs to be discussed (as it may involve purchasing new
hardware/software)
• The timescale needs to be discussed
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.9 Banking Applications
Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) allows money to be transferred electronically from one account to
another.
An example of EFT is when an Employer pays their employees their salaries.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Employee 1
Business
+ £1500
Bank
EFT instruction to pay Employees
Account Employee 2
£4500
+ £1500
-£4500 Employee 3
+ £1500
Advantages: Disadvantages
• No physical money is transferred which makes • Money could be transferred from the incorrect
the transfer more secure. account.
• Transfer of salaries can be regulated by the • Incorrect amount of money could be transferred
government (e.g. Used in Qatar to ensure by mistake.
employers are paying their employees on time). • If you have a poor credit rating then you may not
• Customers can set up standing orders (direct be declined to use EFT as a method of payment
debit) to pay bills on specific dates. (e.g. paying monthly for a mobile phone contract).
Transaction
Using details on the Declined. Card holder is paying by
card the Merchant’s Card.
bank contacts the Card will be place in
card holders bank to chip and pin reader.
check for sufficient Merchant Card Holder
Pin will be entered to
funds to complete the proceed with
transaction. transaction.
Describe the processing that takes place at POS to make payment using a debit card?
Key Words: PIN, Validity of Card, Account, Balance, Sufficient funds, Transfer, declined, receipt
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Once the customer has entered the Pin it will be compared to Pin on the Chip. IF the Pin is
correct than the card will be checked to see if this is valid (not stolen and expired). If the card
is valid than the transaction will continue. Using the account details on the chip the shops
computer will make contact with the customer’s banks. Checks will be made for sufficient
funds to complete the transaction. If funds are available then the amount will be transferred
fro m the c usto mer ’s ac co unt to the shops ac co unt. If funds are not available then
the transaction will be declined. If the transaction has been successful the receipt will be
printed and the card will be given back to the customer.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
When a debit card is read by computer, data on the card can be used
for transactions.
List four items of data found on a debit card which can be read by
computer.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
• Sort code
• PIN
• Debit card number
• Bank account number
• Valid from
• Expires end
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
Contactless debit cards are replacing standard debit cards. Some countries
are introducing contactless debit card transactions at ATM machines. Discuss
the advantages and disadvantages to the bank of using these cards at an
ATM.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Advantages: Disadvantages:
• The cards last longer as they are not • The cost of producing new cards
in contact with the machine • The cost of producing new readers
• Attracts new customers • The cost of re-writing the ATM
• Reducing the cost of replacement software
cards • They are liable to fraud therefore
• Reduction in fraud as less money compensate customers... ...Increasing
taken out costs
• Cards not retained therefore less cost • Less money removed at transaction
for replacements therefore potentially more small
• The transactions are faster transactions
...Increased administration
...Increased hardware use
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
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.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.9 Banking Applications
Clearing of Cheques
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
• Bank/city/branch code
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
• Cheque number
• Account number, Amount
• Account holder’s
• name/payee/drawer
Date written on the cheque
(b) Describe what is involved in the clearing of bank cheques which the bank has
collected in the course of the day.
ATM (Cash machines) can be used for various purposes (including cash withdrawal/deposit,
checking/printing statement).
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Phone Phone banking is very similar to online banking • Can talk directly to a • Call costs
in that customers can complete similar tasks. representative from • May be put on hold
Banking the bank. for a long time.
Customers will have to enter in their account
• Ask additional queries • Call times (9am-5pm)
details to authenticate them to the system. which are not available are not flexible.
Then they will have to select from various online.
options by the specified numbers keys.
Computers are used in libraries to keep a track on which books have been borrowed by which
members. Databases software is typically used to store details of the books and the members.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Expert systems are used to provide expert opinions without the need for the expert by using a
system allowing the user to query the knowledge base to find solutions to their problems.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
User Inference
Knowledge base
Interface Engine
2. The rules base is designed/created based on the information from the knowledge base.
3. A user interface screen is designed/created which would provide the user with the ability to
interact with the system.
4. The inference engine is designed/created as link between the user interface and the
knowledge base.
5. The system is tested.
Examples
A mining company has asked a knowledge engineer to devise an expert system to help them
with their prospecting for valuable minerals. Describe how this expert system would be
created. Key Words: Experts, Knowledge base, Rule base, user interface, inference engine
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Data is collected from the experts to develop the knowledge base. The rules base is then
created based on the information from the knowledge base. The user interface screen is
designed/created which would provide the user with the ability to interact with the system.
The inference engine is designed/created as search engine between the user interface and the
knowledge base. The system is then tested.
Doctors often use expert systems to diagnose illnesses of patients. Describe how an expert
system diagnoses illnesses. Key Words: user interface, inference engine, knowledge base,
rules based
User will interact with the user interface and enter their symptoms. Inference Engine will act
as a search engine and compare the data which is held in the knowledge base. The knowledge
base will use the rules base to give an appropriate match. Further questions could be asked
via the user interface until the system suggest a probable illnesses.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
Describe three benefits of the doctor using an expert system to help diagnose a
patient’s illness.
• An expert system may help the doctor make a more accurate diagnosis
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
Describe how an expert system can be used to suggest car engine fault diagnoses.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.13 Computers in the Retail Industry
POS (Point of Sale) is the place a transaction takes place. Customers can pay by cash or using
their debit/credit cards. Stock control systems can automatically update stock records when
items are purchased at the POS.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Describe the processing that takes place in an automatic stock control system?
Key Words: POS, Stock Level deducted, Preset, Lower, order, delivery, stock level
updated
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Stock is purchased at the POS and the amount is automatically deducted from the overall stock
level. If the stock level falls below (lower) than the pre-set value then an automatic delivery
request is sent to the supplier. A preset value will be reordered and will arrive in the next
delivery. The stock levels will automatically update.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.13 Computers in the Retail Industry
EFTPOS (Electronic Fund Transfer Point of Sale) is when a customer uses a card to complete a
transaction.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
2. The cashier enters the card in to the chip and pin reader
Pin entered has and confirms the value of the purchase.
to be correct for
the transaction 3. The customer is requested to enter their pin. If Pin
to continue. The matches the Pin stored on the chip then the transaction can
card will also be continue.
checked for
validity (expiry 4. The shops computer will use the account details on the
If funds are not available a
date/stolen). chip to connect to the customers bank account and check
the balance. declined message will be
sent to the stores
5. If funds are sufficient then the transaction will be computer. The cashier will
approved.
then request for another
method of payment
6. The purchase amount is subtracted from the customer’s
account and deposited into the shops banks account.
Internet banking and shopping is becoming more popular to users due to the development of
the internet and the advancement of mobile internet technology.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Advantages Disadvantages
• Internet is now available on more platforms including • Online accounts could be hacked/cards
applications available on phones and tablets. details could be stolen.
• Internet can be accessed 24/7. • Users require a internet connection and
• No need to travel (saves money on travel/parking) need to be computer literate.
• Saves time (No need to que in the banks or shops) • Lack of socialising/exercising.
• Access to wide range of goods on the internet. • You can not see the goods before you
• Useful for individuals who find it difficult to travel and buy (try on clothes).
goods can be delivered directly to your home. • Delays in delivery.
• People can spend more time doing other leisure
activities.
Effect on the company
• Less retail outlets required which means no rent or utility costs.
• Less staff required in retail outlets however specialist staff would have to be
employed to maintain the website and run the dispatch department.
• Online presence would attract more customers (Global).
• Lack of customer interaction.
Recognition Systems are used to directly enter data into a computer system. Recognition
systems tend to be more accurate and quicker method of entering data into a computer system
compared to manual methods.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
MICR Magnetic ink which are found at the bottom of the checks
are scanned in to MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Reader).
Sensors are used to detect a car (if its gone over the line)
Number Plates and a signal will be send to the microprocessor to take
the image of the number plate.
• range.
• It provides a means of communicating with the transponder/the RFID tag
• The scanning device provides energy…
• …so that the chips can broadcast the information in them…
…for the computer to read.
Explain why RFID technology is used for reading data from passports.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
When a bank cheque is presented to a bank it is sent off to a cheque clearing centre.
Give three items of information that are pre-printed on the cheque in magnetic ink.
• Account number
•
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
Apart from the details of the test and the lozenges, give two items of
information, essential to the student, that are pre-printed on the answer sheet.
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
• If the marks don't fill the space completely they may not
be read correctly/overfill the space/smudged
• If the marks are not in a dark enough pencil they may
not be read correctly
• If more than one lozenge shaded in result is invalidated
• Only suitable for recording one out of a selection of
answers, not suitable for text input
• Have to use prepared forms which may be expensive
• Examinations could consist of mainly multiple-choice
questions changing the nature of what is being tested
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.15 Monitoring and Tracking Systems
A new toll road that drivers pay to use has just opened. The company that owns
the
road uses Electronic Number Plate Recognition Systems to collect payments from
drivers automatically. Describe how an Electronic Number Plate Recognition
Chapter 6: ICT Applications
System
works.
Key Words: CCTV cameras, Number plate captured, OCR, database, car owner
The system has CCTV cameras. The images and the text from the number plate are captured by
details
the camera. The system uses optical character recognition to input the data into the computer
system.
The number plate is checked against its database to find the car o wner ’s detai ls . Using
the car owner details the payment can be processed.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
Key-loggers are thought to be security risks but they can be used to monitor and track the use
of employees on a computer system. Describe how a key-logger monitors computer usage.
A small minority of employees in a company have been using the computers for non-business
use, so the company has had to introduce other methods of monitoring their use of ICT. Apart
from key-logging list three other ways that employees could be monitored in their use of ICT.
• Cars, Ships, Planes can use GPS when navigating to specific locations.
• Walkers to locate position on hills/mountains.
• Used by runners to calculate distance.
Advantages: Disadvantages
• Drivers do not have to use maps • Loss of signal
• GPS can re-route and find quickest • Maps have to be updated (New roads
routes. may not be shown)
• Can provide useful locations of
amenities (e.g Petrol stations)
Describe how a satellite navigation system (sat nav) in a motor vehicle would
calculate the quickest route from Destination A to Destination B.
data
from 4 satellites, Algorithm calculates distance from A to B, traffic, road speeds
Destination B is input by driver. The Position of the motor vehicle at A is calculated using GPS
using data transmitted from 4 satellites. Algorithm calculates shortest distance from A to B.
The algorithm makes allowances for traffic and takes into account average road speeds to
calculate the time it would take to reach the destination.
Exam Question
MR. BENJAMIN ADU APPIAH
ICT IGCSE Theory – Presentation
ICT Applications
6.16 Satellite Systems