🛠 Hardware vs.

Software

Hardware

 Definition: Physical, tangible parts of a computer system

 Internal components:

o CPU (Central Processing Unit): Executes instructions,

processes data, controls system flow

o Motherboard: Circuit board connecting all components.

o Memory:

 RAM (Random Access Memory): Volatile, temporary

working memory.

 ROM (Read-Only Memory): Non-volatile, stores

firmware.

o Expansion cards: Graphics card, sound card, Network

Interface Card (NIC), etc.

 External peripherals:

o Input devices: Keyboard, mouse, scanner, digital camera,

etc.

o Output devices: Monitor, printer, speakers,.

o Storage devices: Internal/external HDDs, SSDs, USB drives,

etc.

Software

 Definition: Non-physical programs that control hardware and

perform tasks

 Types:

1. System software:

 Operating systems, device drivers, compilers, linkers,

utilities

2. Application software:

 Tools for end-users like word processors, spreadsheets,

databases, graphics/video/audio editors, CAD,
apps/applets, etc.
1.2 Main Components of Computer Systems

CPU (Processor)

 Central unit that interprets and executes instructions, controls data

flow

 Memory

 RAM: Stores active programs/data; volatile.

 ROM: Stores firmware; non-volatile; cannot be altered easily.

 Key differences: RAM is temporary and fast; ROM is permanent

and slow to change

🌀 Analogue vs Digital Data (Section 1.1.3 in Hodder)

Analogue Data

 Definition: Continuous, physical data present in the real world—

never limited to discrete values.

 Characteristics:

o Infinite possible values (e.g., the smooth vibration of sound

waves).

o Captures real-world phenomena like temperature, light

intensity, and human speech.

 Example: A sound wave captured by a microphone, or mercury

level changes in a thermometer.

Digital Data

 Definition: Data represented in discrete binary form (0s and 1s).

 Characteristics:

o Finite set of values based on bit depth.

o Ideal for storage, processing, and transmission in computers.

 Example: Digital audio files (MP3), images (JPEG), and text.

🔄 Conversion Between Analogue and Digital

Analogue-to-Digital Conversion (ADC)

 Process of converting continuous signals into digital form.

  Steps:

1. Sampling: Measuring the analogue signal at regular intervals.

2. Quantization: Assigning sampled values to the closest

numeric level.

3. Encoding: Converting quantized levels into binary.

 Used in: Microphones, scanners, sensors.

Digital-to-Analogue Conversion (DAC)

 Converts stored digital data back into analogue signals.

 Used in: Speakers, displays, motors, and other actuators.

 ⚖️Comparison Table
Feature Analogue Data Digital Data
Nature Continuous Discrete (binary)
Value Range Infinite within range Limited by bit resolution
Example Sound waves, temperature MP3, JPEG, text files
Susceptibility to Noise High Low
Storage & Processing Difficult Easy and efficient
🧠 Main Components of a Computer System (Cambridge IGCSE
ICT 0417)

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)

 The CPU is the brain of the computer: it interprets and executes

software instructions and coordinates all system operations.

 Its main internal parts:

o Control Unit (CU): directs data flow between CPU, memory,

and peripherals. Fetches, decodes, and manages instructions.

o Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): performs arithmetic

operations (e.g. add, subtract) and logical comparisons (e.g. A
< B).

o Immediate Access Store (IAS) or registers: small, fast

storage for instructions/data currently processed.

2. Internal/Main Memory

Includes two essential types: RAM and ROM

• RAM (Random Access Memory)

 Temporary, volatile memory: stores running programs, operating
system, and processing data; contents are lost when power is off

 Data can be both read and written; used for active data processing.

• ROM (Read-Only Memory)

 Non-volatile memory: retains data even without power. Stores

firmware, including the boot file/BIOS that boots up the computer
and performs hardware checks.

 Contents cannot normally be altered by the user.

3. Backing (Secondary) Storage

 Non-volatile storage for long-term data retention: includes HDDs,

SSDs, optical disks, USB flash drives

 Stores programs and files not actively used in RAM.

 Compared to RAM: slower access, larger capacity, data remains

after shutdown.

4. Input and Output (I/O) Devices

Peripherals that enable data exchange between users and the

system.

• Input Devices

 Enter raw data into the system (e.g., keyboard, mouse, scanner,
camera). Raw data has no meaning until processed.

• Output Devices

 Present processed information to users—e.g., monitor (visual),

printer (hard copy), speakers (audio).

5. Expansion and Interface Components

While not always explicitly in the “main components” list, students

should be familiar with these internal extensions:

 Motherboard: the main circuit board that connects CPU, memory,

storage, and peripherals. Serves as the system's backbone.

 Graphics Card (GPU), Sound Card, Network Interface Card

(NIC), Internal Camera Modules: expansion cards enable
 specialized functions like visual output, audio processing, and
network connectivity.

🧾 Comparison Table: Main Components

Component Role/Function

Executes software instructions; includes

CPU CU, ALU, and registers for data
manipulation.

Volatile memory for running programs and

RAM
data; fast, writable, but temporary.

Non-volatile memory holding BIOS and

ROM
start-up instructions; not user-writable.

Permanent storage (e.g., HDD, SSD) for

Backing Storage
files and applications not currently in RAM.

Capture raw data from users or

Input Devices environment (keyboard, mouse, scanner,
sensors).

Present processed data as meaningful

Output Devices
output (monitor, printer, speaker).

Connect hardware components; enable

Motherboard /
graphics, sound, and network via GPU,
Expansion Cards
sound card, NIC, etc.

✅ Quick Revision Summary

 The CPU is central to processing and control.

 RAM and ROM form the essential internal memory structure: RAM is
temporary, ROM is permanent.

 Backing storage retains data outside of working memory.

 I/O devices enable user interaction and system responses.

 The motherboard interconnects all hardware; expansion cards add

functionality.

These align precisely with the Cambridge IGCSE ICT 0417

requirements for “main components of computer systems”
 Types of User Interfaces (IGCSE ICT 0417 – Hodder)

The User Interface (UI) is the way users interact with a computer
system or software. There are several types:

🔹 1. Graphical User Interface (GUI)

 Definition: A user interface that uses windows, icons, menus,

and a pointer (WIMP).

 Features:

o Easy to use – suitable for beginners.

o Can use a mouse, touchpad, or touchscreen.

o Multitasking is easy (e.g. dragging windows, minimizing apps).

 Examples:

o Microsoft Windows

o macOS

o Android

o iOS

 Advantages:

o Intuitive and visual

o Multiple tasks can be done at once

 Disadvantages:

o Requires more memory and processing power

o Slower for expert users who need speed

🔹 2. Command-Line Interface (CLI)

 Definition: A text-based interface where users type commands.

 Features:

o Requires users to memorize commands.

o No graphics or mouse interaction.

 Examples:

o MS-DOS

o Linux Terminal

o Windows Command Prompt (CMD)

 Advantages:

o Fast and efficient for experienced users

o Uses very little system resources

 Disadvantages:

o Not user-friendly

o Errors can occur easily (e.g. mistyped commands)

🔹 3. Menu-Driven Interface

 Definition: Users interact through a series of menus and options.

 Features:

o Navigation using arrows or number/letter keys

o Often used in ATMs, washing machines, and older mobile

phones

 Examples:

o ATM machines

o Feature phones (non-smartphones)

o Self-service kiosks

 Advantages:

o Simple and structured

o Easy for non-technical users

 Disadvantages:

o Can be slow to navigate

o Limited control compared to GUI/CLI

🔹 4. Touchscreen Interface
 Definition: Input is made directly by touching the screen.

 Features:

o Uses gestures: tap, swipe, pinch

o Combines input and output into one interface

 Examples:

o Smartphones

o Tablets

o Self-checkout machines

 Advantages:

o Natural and intuitive

o No need for separate input devices (keyboard/mouse)

 Disadvantages:

o Can be hard to use with large fingers or for detailed tasks

o Screens may wear out or get dirty

🔹 5. Voice-Driven Interface (Voice UI)

 Definition: Allows users to speak commands instead of typing or

touching.

 Features:

o Uses speech recognition

o Often found in virtual assistants

 Examples:

o Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant

o In-car systems ("Call John", "Navigate to Home")

 Advantages:

o Hands-free operation

o Very useful for disabled users

 Disadvantages:

o May not recognize accents or background noise

 o Privacy concerns with always-on microphones

📋 Summary Table

Interface Input Example

Best For
Type Method Use

Everyday
Mouse, Windows,
GUI personal
touch macOS
computing

Expert Linux
Keyboard
CLI users, Terminal,
(typed)
scripting CMD

Simple
Menu- Keyboard, ATMs,
systems,
Driven touch microwaves
beginners

Tablets,
Smartphones
Touchscree Fingers/ kiosks,
, self-
n stylus mobile
checkout
devices

Hands-free Smart
Voice-
Speech or assistants,
Driven
accessibility cars

Types of Computers Used in Daily Life (IGCSE ICT 0417 –

Hodder)

1. Desktop Computer (Personal Computer)

 Description: A computer designed to be used at a desk.

 Features:

o Consists of separate components: monitor, CPU, keyboard,

mouse.

o Not portable.

o More powerful and cheaper than laptops.

 Uses:

o Office work

o Gaming

o Internet browsing

o Home use

2. Laptop (Notebook)

 Description: A portable computer with built-in screen and

keyboard.

 Features:

o Battery-powered, easy to carry.

o Similar functions as desktop computers.

o More expensive than desktops with similar specs.

 Uses:

o Students and professionals on the go

o Business presentations

o Remote work

3. Tablet

 Description: A touchscreen device without a physical keyboard

(can use virtual keyboard).

 Features:

o Lightweight and portable.

o Runs mobile apps.

o Easy to use for media and simple computing tasks.

 Uses:

o Reading e-books

o Watching videos

o Browsing the internet

 o Taking notes

4. Smartphone

 Description: A pocket-sized computer with phone capabilities and

touchscreen.

 Features:

o Runs apps for messaging, internet, games, GPS, etc.

o Has camera, sensors, and microphone.

 Uses:

o Communication (calls, texts)

o Social media

o Navigation (GPS)

o Photography and video

5. Embedded Systems

 Description: Computers built into other everyday devices to

control their functions.

 Features:

o Usually not visible to users.

o Perform specific tasks.

 Examples:

o Washing machines

o Microwave ovens

o Cars (engine control)

o Smart TVs

 Uses: Control and automate household appliances and gadgets.

Summary Table
 Portabl Input
Type Main Use
e? Method

Keyboard, Home, office,

Desktop No
Mouse gaming

Mobile
Keyboard,
Laptop Yes computing,
Touchpad
work, study

Touchscree Media, light

Tablet Yes
n computing

Smartphon Touchscree Communication,

Yes
e n apps, media

Embedded Usually Buttons, Control devices

System no sensors and appliances

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

 Description: Machines or software that can simulate human

intelligence, including learning, reasoning, and problem-solving.

 Examples:

o Virtual assistants (Siri, Alexa)

o Self-driving cars

o Chatbots and recommendation systems

 Impact:

o Automates tasks

o Improves efficiency and decision-making

o Raises ethical and job security concerns

2. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

 Virtual Reality (VR):

o Creates a fully immersive computer-generated environment.

o Requires headsets like Oculus Rift.

o Used in gaming, training simulations, and education.

 Augmented Reality (AR):

 o Overlays digital information on the real world (e.g., Pokémon
GO).

o Used in navigation, healthcare, and retail.

3. Internet of Things (IoT)

 Description: Network of physical devices (appliances, vehicles,

sensors) connected to the internet, able to collect and exchange
data.

 Examples:

o Smart home devices (thermostats, lights)

o Wearable fitness trackers

o Connected cars

 Benefits:

o Increased automation and convenience

o Better data collection and monitoring

 Risks:

o Privacy concerns

o Security vulnerabilities

4. 3D Printing (Additive Manufacturing)

 Description: Creating physical objects from digital designs by

layering materials.

 Uses:

o Rapid prototyping

o Manufacturing complex parts

o Medical applications (prosthetics)

 Advantages:

o Customization and speed

o Reduces waste compared to traditional manufacturing

 5. Biometric Technology

 Description: Identification and authentication using unique human

characteristics.

 Examples:

o Fingerprint scanners

o Facial recognition

o Iris scanners

 Applications:

o Security (phones, airports)

o Access control systems

6. Cloud Computing

 Description: Using remote servers hosted on the internet to store,

manage, and process data.

 Benefits:

o Access data anywhere, anytime

o Reduces need for physical storage

 Examples:

o Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft Azure

7. Quantum Computing (Advanced, emerging field)

 Description: Uses quantum bits to perform complex calculations

faster than traditional computers.

 Potential:

o Breakthroughs in cryptography

o Solving complex scientific problems

Summary Table
Techno Descrip Examp Concer
Benefits
logy tion le Use ns

Machine
Virtual
s
Artificia assista
simulati Automati
l nts, Ethics,
ng on,
Intellige self- job loss
human efficiency
nce (AI) driving
intellige
cars
nce

VR:
Virtual immersi
Gaming
Reality ve
, Improved Cost,
(VR) & digital
training training, motion
Augme worlds;
, interactio sickness
nted AR:
navigat n (VR)
Reality overlays
ion
(AR) digital
info

Devices
Internet Smart
connect Convenie
of homes, Security,
ed to nce, data
Things wearabl privacy
the collection
(IoT) es
internet

Creating
Prototy
physical Customiz
3D ping, Cost of
objects ation, less
Printing medical printers
layer- waste
parts
by-layer

ID Fingerp
Biometr
based rint,
ic Improved Privacy
on facial
Technol security issues
human recogni
ogy
traits tion

Data/
Google
Cloud storage Accessibil
Drive, Data
Comput on ity,
Office security
ing internet scalability
365
servers
Techno Descrip Examp Concer
Benefits
logy tion le Use ns

Quantu
m bits Fast
Quantu
for processin Still
m Researc
advance g of experim
Comput h
d complex ental
ing
computi tasks
ng