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IGCSE
ICT NOTES

IGCSE ICT 2023-2025 Syllabus

Prepared by:
Mr. Alwaleed Abdulgadir Alzubair

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 Unit 1
Types and components of a computer system

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In this chapter you will learn about:

• Hardware
• Software
• Analogue and digital data
• Central processing unit (CPU)
• Internal memory (RAM and ROM)
• Input and output devices
• Backing store
• Operating systems
• Different types of computer systems
• The impact of emerging technologies – artificial intelligence (AI) and extended reality (virtual and
augmented).

Hardware and software

Hardware is a general term for the physical components that make up a computer system. The hardware can
be either external or internal.

Software is a general term for the programs that control the computer system. There are two types of
software: application and system.

Application software: Programs that allow the user to do specific tasks. e.g.

Word processor: word processing software is used to manipulate text documents, some of the factions
include:

• creating, editing and saving text

• copy and paste
• spell checkers
• importing photos into a structured page format.

Spreadsheet: spreadsheet software is used to organise and manipulate numerical data, some of the functions
include:

• Use of formulas to carry out calculations.

• Ability to produce graphs and charts.
• Ability to do modeling and what if’ calculations.

Database: database software is used to organise, manipulate and analyse data. A typical database is made up
of one or more tables. Some of the functions include:

• Ability to carry out queries on database data and produce a report (dbms)
• Add, delete and modify data in a table.

Photo editing software: photo editing software allows a user to manipulate digital photographs stored on a
computer; for example, change brightness, change contrast, alter colours saturation, remove unwanted items
and touch up a photo to make it as perfect as possible.

Video editing software: video editing software allows a user to manipulate videos. Some functions include:

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 • Rearranging, adding and/or removing sections of video clips and/or audio clips.
• Applying colour correction, filters and other video enhancements.
• Creating transitions between clips in the video footage.

Computer-aided design (CAD) software: This is software used to help in the creation, manipulation,
modification and analysis of a drawing/design. It can be used to produce 2D or 3D diagrams which:

• can be rotated to view the drawing from any angle

• can produce full dimensions
• can be used to estimate manufacturing costs of the final product
• predict any structural problems.
Audio editing software: Audio editing software allows a user to edit, manipulate and generate audio data on
a computer. It allows the user to alter:

• length of track
• start/stop time of track
• conversion between audio file formats
• volume of track
• fading in/out
• combine multiple sound tracks
• noise reduction
• to create another version of the sound track (for example, a continuous loop or phone ring tone).
Graphics manipulation software: Graphics manipulation software allows bitmap and vector images to be
changed. Bitmap graphics editors can change the pixels to produce a different image. Vector graphic editors
don’t use pixels they manipulate lines, curves and text to alter the stored image as required.

Apps and applets: Apps short to Applications; normally refers to the type of software that runs on mobile
phones or tablets. Common examples include:

• Video and music streaming

• GPS
• Camera facilities.

Control and measuring software: control and measuring software is designed to allow a computer or
microprocessor to interface with sensors so that it is possible to:

• Measure physical quantities.

• Control applications.

System software: System software is a program that allow the hardware to run properly and allow the user
to communicate with the computer. e.g.

Compiler: A compiler is a computer program that translates a program written in a high-level language into
machine code so that it can be directly used by a computer to perform a required task.

The original program is called the source code and the code after compilation is called the object code.

Example of high level languages include Java, Python, Visual Basic, Fortran, C++ and Algol.

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Linkers: A linker is a computer program that takes one or more object files (Modules) produced by a compiler
and combined them into a single program.

A module is a set of codes that perform specific task/s.

Device drivers: A device driver is a software that enables one or more hardware devices to communicate with
the computer’s operating system.

Utilities: Utility programs are software that has been designed to make the computer works perfectly.
Essentially, they are programs that help to manage, maintain and control computer resources. Examples
include: antivirus, backup of files, file management, screensavers, etc.

Operating systems (OS): operating system is a system software that runs in the background of a computer
system. It manages many of the basic functions. Operating systems allow:

• Input/output operations
• Users to communicate with the computer, (GUI) and (CLI).
• Error handling to take place
• Loading and running of programs to occur
• Managing of system security.

Analogue and digital data:

Computers can only understand data which is in a binary format (that is, a base 2 number system where only
the values 0 and 1 can be used). This is often referred to as digital data (because it can only have discrete,
discontinuous values). However, data in the real world is actually analogue in nature. Analogue data is physical
data that changes smoothly from one value to the next, and not in discrete steps as with digital data.

The graph on the left shows analogue data; an infinite number of values can exist between 0 and 6 (for
example, 2.5, 4.652, and so on) because the curve is smooth in shape. The graph on the right shows digital
data; notice only the exact values of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 can be taken. If analogue data is being sent to a
computer, it must first be converted into digital data; this is done by hardware known as an analogue to digital
converter (ADC). If the computer is controlling a device (such as a motor) then the digital output from the
computer needs to be converted into analogue form. This is done by a digital to analogue converter (DAC).

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User interfaces

• Command line interface (CLI),

• Graphical user interface (GUI),
• Dialogue-based user interface,
• Gesture-based user interface.

Command line interface (CLI): Command line interface requires a user to type in instructions. The user has to
learn a number of commands just to carry out basic operations.

Graphical user interface (GUI): Graphical user interface allows the user to interact with a computer using
pictures or icons rather than having to type in a number of commands.

Graphical user interface uses WIMP(windows icons menu and pointing device)

In the recent years, devices such as touch screen phones use post-WIMP interaction, where fingers are in
contact with the screen allowing actions such as pinching and rotating.

The main differences between CLI and GUI

Interface Advantages Disadvantages

Command line interface (CLI) • The user is in direct communication • The user needs to learn commands
with the computer . • It takes time to type commands.
• The user is not restricted to number of • The commands must be in the correct
predetermined options . format.
• It is possible to alter computer • It is difficult to edit commands.
configuration systems.
Graphical user interface (GUI) • The user doesn’t need to learn any • It uses more memory.
commands. • The user is limited to options given.
• It is friendly use, easy to use. • It needs operating system , such as
• Icons represents applications windows which needs more memory.

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Who would use each type of interface?

• CLI: a programmer, analyst or technician.

• GUI: the end user who doesn’t have any great knowledge of how the computer works.

Dialogue-based user interfaces

Dialogue-based user interfaces use the human voice to give commands to a computer system. An example of
its use is in some luxury modern cars, where voice activation is used to control devices such as the in-car
entertainment system or satellite navigation system.

Gesture-based interfaces

Gesture-based interfaces rely on human interaction by the moving of hands, head or even the feet. Gesture
recognition allows humans to interface with a computer in a more natural fashion without the need for any
mechanical devices. This type of interface uses techniques known as computer vision and image processing.
For example, using our car example again, the following gestures can be used to carry out certain functions:

» rotating a finger clockwise near the radio will increase the sound volume (rotating the finger anti-
clockwise will reduce the sound volume) 14 1 Types and components of computer systems
» opening the thumb and next finger will change the track being listened to (for example, in a playlist)
» moving the foot under the rear bumper of the car automatically opens the boot lid
» moving a hand near a window switch automatically opens a window.

Advantages and disadvantages of using Dialogue –base and Gesture-base user interfaces

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Internal computer hardware:

Motherboard: the motherboard is a printed circuit board (sheet

of non-conductive material) found in all computers. It allows the
processor and other computer hardware to function and
communicate with each other.

Thin layers of copper or aluminum are printed onto the board.

These form the circuits between the various components. In
addition to circuits, a motherboard contains several sockets and
slots to connect the other components.

The central processing unit(CPU): the central processing unit is the part of the
computer that interprets and executes the commands form the computer
hardware and software.

The CPU used to be made up of discrete components and numerous small

integrated circuits.

The CPU now referred to as a microprocessor. This is a single integrated circuit.

The CPU is made up of a control unit, which control the input and output devices; an arithmetic and logical
unit (ALU), which carries out calculations and makes logical decisions; and the immediate access storage
(RAM).

Random access memory (RAM):Random access memory is a volatile memory. It is an internal

chip where data is temporarily stored when running applications. RAM stores the data, files or
part of the operating system currently in use.

Read-only memory(ROM): Read only memory is a non-volatile memory used to store

information that needs to be permanent. It is often used to contain, for example, configuration
data for a computer system.

Differences between RAM and ROM:

RAM ROM
Random access memory Read only memory
Temporary memory Permanent memory
Volatile memory Non-volatile memory
For read and write For read only
Can be altered or deleted Can’t be altered or deleted

Uses of RAM of ROM:

RAMs ROMs
• Loading the operating system. • Store the configuration systems.
• Loading the application software. • Store the system date and time.
• Accessing the data currently in use. • Store basic input/output systems (BIOS)
that used to start up the computer.

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Video card: A video card allows the computer to send graphical information to
a video display device such as a monitor, television or projector.

Sound card: A sound card is an integrated circuit board that provides a

computer with the ability to produce sounds. Sound cards also allow a user to
record sound input from a microphone.

Sound cards use two basic methods to translate digital data into analogue
signals:

• FM synthesis: mimics different musical instruments according to built-in

formulas.
• Wavetable synthesis: relies on recordings of actual instruments to
produce sound.

Internal hard disk drive/solid state drive(HDD/SSD): Basically, hard disk drives
(HDD) are magnetic in nature and are one of the methods for storing data, files,
and most of the system and application software.

More modern computers and all tablets use newer storage systems that make use
of solid state drive (SSD) technology, their function is the same as HDD.

Network interface card (NIC):

A network interface card (NIC) is needed to allow a device to connect to a network,

each NIC contain unique MAC address generated at manufacturing stage.

Types of computer

PC/desktop computers: PC/desktop usually refers to a general purpose computer that is made up of a
separate monitor, keyboard, mouse and processor unit.

The advantages of desktop computers over laptop computers are as follows:

• Lower cost.
• Better specification (e.g. faster processor).
• Better dissipation of any heat.
• More robust.
• Internet access is more stable.

Disadvantages compare to laptops:

• They are not portable.

• It is necessary to copy files for work elsewhere.
• Need space.

Laptop computers: laptop computers (or notebook) refer to a type of computer where the monitor, keyboard,
pointing device and processor are all together in one single unit.

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The key features you would expect in a laptop:

• Lightweight.
• Low power consumption.
• Cooling is very important.

Advantages over desktop computers:

• They are portable.

• No trailing wires.
• They can take full advantage of Wi-Fi.
• They can link to any multimedia system.

Disadvantages compare to desktop:

• Easier to steal.
• They have limited battery life.
• Sometimes the keyboard and touch pad are (awkward)difficult to use.

Tablets: Tablets are a relatively new internet-enabled portable computer. Tablets use touch-screen
technology. The keyboard is a part of the touch screen, keys are touched by fingers or a stylus.

The internet is usually through Wi-Fi or 3G/4G/5G connectivity.

Typical features of tablets include:

• High definition, anti-glare display.

• Front- and back-facing cameras.
• Lower weight and longer battery life.
• Bluetooth connections.
• Flash memory and cloud storage facilities.
• Sensors :-
o Proximity sensor.
o Accelerometer sensor.( movement and orientation).
o Can use sophisticated speed-recognitions systems (Siri – search for things; e.g. address book).

Advantages of tablets compare to laptops:

• Very fast to switch on.

• Fully portable.
• Touch screen technology.
• Can use several apps as standard.
• Don’t generate any heat.
• Battery life is longer.
• Remain connected to the internet.

Disadvantages of tablets compare to laptops:

• Limited memory.

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 • They can be expensive to access internet (3G/4G/5G).
• Transferring of files can prove irritating for users.
• Don’t supported more types of files format.

Smartphones: Smartphones allow normal phone calls to be made but also have an operating system allowing
them to run a number of computer applications.

Features of Smartphones include:

• Send and receive emails.

• Surf the net.
• Global positioning system.
• Calendar functions.
• Telephone banking.
• Voice over internet protocol (VoIP).
• Streaming of videos and music.
• Instant access to social networks.
• Instant messaging.

Advantages of Smartphones:

• Very small in size and lightweight.

• Have internet connection.
• Can be used almost anywhere.
• They have hundreds of apps.
• Reasonable battery life.

Disadvantages of Smartphones:

• Difficult to read and type.

• Web browsing and photography drain the battery quickly.
• Memory size isn’t very large.
• Not all website features are compatible.
• Easier to lose.
• The data transfer rate is slower.

The next generation of Smartphones will use touch screens with OLED (Organic light-emitting diode), solar
powered, use Li-Fi, can be used in flights, etc.

Smartwatches: essentially allow users to wear a mini-computer on their wrists. They offer the same functions
as a Smartphone.

The Smartwatches have the following functions:

• Internet connectivity.
• Ability to make phone calls.
• Messaging via text or video.
• Weather forecasts
• Fitness and health monitoring

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 • GPS.

Advantages of Smartwatches:

• More convenient.
• Easy to use.

Disadvantages of Smartwatches:

• Large and bulky.

• Unattractive.

Some of the latest smartphones have been designed as a hybrid between a tablet and a smartphone; these
are referred to as a phablet. They have much larger screens than a smartphone but are smaller than a tablet.
All the features of a smartphone (described earlier) also apply to phablets together with the typical features
of a tablet.

The main uses of smartphones, tablets and phablets include:

» entertainment (streaming of music, videos and television programmes)

» gaming (including group games)
» as a camera or video camera (the quality of videos and photos now matches a good digital cameras)
» internet use (online sales, social networks, using QR codes, and so on)
» sending/receiving emails
» global positioning system (use of maps to navigate to a location)
» calendar functions
» telephone banking (sending and receiving money using the banking apps)
» Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) – telephone network using the internet which also allows video
calling
» instant access to social networks (social contact with friends no matter where you are in the world)
» instant messaging
» office and business management (particularly the features that allow rapid voice and video
communication)
» education use (using interactive software to teach or learn from)
» remotely control devices (it is possible to remotely operate devices in the home, such as microwave
ovens, which contain embedded microprocessors; by using internet-enabled smartphones or tablets, it
is possible to start/stop the oven even while several kilometres away from home by using an App and
the internet).

Mainframe computers: Mainframe computer is a term used for a large, powerful, computer system. Their
main purpose is to run commercial applications, such as banking and insurance.

The main features of mainframe computers are:

• They can have several CPUs.

• Have fast processor speeds.
• Support multiple operating systems.
• Huge amounts of storage capacity.

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 • Huge internal memories (RAM).
• Operates using time sharing or batch processing.

Emerging technologies
Impact of emerging technologies:

Artificial intelligence

There are many definitions of artificial intelligence (AI). Essentially, AI is a machine or application which carries
out a task that requires some degree of intelligence. For example:

– the use of language

– recognising a person’s face
– the ability to operate machinery, such as a car, aeroplane, train, and so on
– analysing data to predict the outcome of a future event, for example weather forecasting.
AI duplicates human tasks which require decision-making and problem-solving skills. Eventually, many tasks
presently done by humans will be replaced by robots or computers, which could lead to unemployment.
However, the positive side includes improvements in safety and quality of services and products. Some
examples are detailed below.

The impact of AI on everyday life Whenever AI is mentioned, people usually think of science fiction fantasies
and think of robots. The science fiction writer Isaac Asimov even went as far as producing his three laws of
robotics:

» robots may not injure a human through action or inaction

» robots must obey order given by humans without question

» a robot must protect itself unless it conflicts with the two laws above.

Many science fiction movies continue to fuel people’s imagination with slightly sinister interactions between
humans and machines. However, AI goes way beyond robotics and covers many areas, such as those shown

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Negative impacts of AI

All of the above examples give a very favourable view of the effect of AI on our everyday lives. However, in
any balanced argument, we should also consider the drawbacks of the new technology:

» could lead to many job losses in a number of areas (although it is true to say that new technical jobs would
also be created); many jobs could be lost in manufacturing, but other roles are likely to be affected (such as
bus, taxi, lorry and train drivers)

» dependency on technology and the inability to carry out tasks done by robots, for example, could be an issue
in the future

» loss of skills – even now, skills from previous generations have been lost as humans have been replaced by
machines and software applications.

Extended reality

Extended reality (XR) refers to real and virtual combined environments, and is a ‘catch all’ term for all
immersive technologies. The three most common examples at the moment are:

» augmented reality (AR)

» virtual reality (VR)

» mixed reality (MR). All these immersive technologies extend the reality we experience by either blending
the virtual and real worlds or by creating a fully immersive experience.

In this chapter, we will only consider the first two examples.

Augmented reality (AR)

The features of augmented reality include:
» allow the user to experience the relationship between digital (virtual) and physical (real) worlds

» virtual information and objects are overlaid onto real-world situations

» the real world is enhanced with digital details, such as images, text and animation

» the user can experience the AR world through special goggles or via smartphone/phablet screens » the user
is not isolated from the real world and is still able to interact and see what is going on in front of them

» examples include the Pokémon GO game which overlays digital creatures onto real-world situations.

In the future, augmented reality will have an impact on all the following areas:

» safety and rescue operations (for example, it is possible to provide 3D images of an area where a rescue
mission is to take place, giving the team the opportunity to interact with the environment and try out rescue
procedures before doing the real thing)

» entertainment (for example, AR takes users into a virtual environment where it is possible to interact with
the characters; imagine the characters of your favourite film interacting with you at home)

» shopping and retail (this is one of the big areas – for example, using your smartphone camera you can try
out make-up and see how it looks on you before buying it, or you can experience a virtual tour of a new car
where you can ‘sit’ in the interior and try out the driving experience before buying the car)

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» healthcare (doctors can make use of AR to have a better understanding of a patient’s body; software, such
as Echopixel enables doctors to use CT scans from patients to build up a 3D image of their body to help with
surgery and diagnosis).
Virtual reality (VR)
The features of virtual reality include:
» the ability to take the user out of the real-world environment into a virtual (unreal) digital environment » in
contrast to AR, the user is fully immersed in a simulated digital world

» users must wear a VR headset or a head-mounted display which allows a 360° view of the virtual world (this
‘fools’ the brain into believing they are walking on an ocean bed, walking in an alien world or inside a volcano)

» this technology can be used to good effect in: medicine (teaching operation procedures), construction,
engineering and the military.

In the future, virtual reality will have an impact on all the following areas:

» military applications (for example, training to operate a new tank)

» education (for example, looking inside an ancient building as part of a history lesson)

» healthcare (for example, as a diagnostic tool to recommend treatment)

» entertainment (for example, games where gloves, goggles or helmets are worn to fully immerse players and
make it seem very real)

» fashion (for example, to do fashion shows before doing the real thing – see the clothes on people, check out
the venue and so on)

» heritage (for example, allowing users to walk around and close up to monuments like Stonehenge) » business
(for example, training courses and role-playing scenarios for staff)

» engineering (for example, seeing how new designs like bridges will look in an existing environment)

» sport (for example, a golfer trying to improve his swing can use this technology and get feedback to improve
his game)

» media (for example, interactive special effects in movies) » scientific visualisation (for example, part of a
molecular structure in chemistry, or a cell in biology).

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