Types of ICT Systems

Types of ICT Systems

• Desktop PCs typically include a monitor, keyboard, system unit, and mouse
• Laptops are slightly larger and heavier than A4 paper
• Notebooks are smaller, lighter laptops, about the size of an oversized book
• Netbook computers are very small laptops optimized for Internet and email with long battery life and are easy to carry.
• Handheld computers like PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) or palmtops fit in one hand and have touch screens; though keyboards can be attached to them, typing a long document is difficult
• Smartphones combine mobile phones with PDA functions, including personal record-keeping and satellite navigation
• Mainframe computers are large, expensive, and can support hundreds or thousands of simultaneous users
• Supercomputers are the fastest computers used for specialized applications requiring immense calculations, such as weather forecasting, animated graphics or petroleum exploration
• Embedded computers are designed for specific tasks within a device and may be very small, like those built into a single microchip
• Game consoles are PCs designed specifically for playing games

Importance of ICT Systems

• ICT systems increase productivity by enabling more tasks to be completed in less time, at a reduced cost compared to pre-computer methods
• ICT facilitates managing and processing vast amounts of data quickly
• ICT enables rapid transmission and reception of information

Input Devices

Keyboard

• The keyboard is a commonly used input method.
• Numeric keyboards have keys mainly for numbers, A QWERTY keyboard may optionally have a built-in numeric keypad
• Keyboards are widely used in workplaces and are almost always available as an input device
• Many people are familiar with QWERTY keyboards
• Efficient keyboard use requires knowledge of the layout and touch-typing skills

Mouse

• The mouse is commonly used as a pointing device
• Some types use a ball to detect movement, while optical mice use light

Tracker Ball

• The tracker ball is an upside-down mouse, operated with your thumb

Joystick

• The joystick is a lever providing similar control to a mouse with a slightly different behavior
• Joysticks can be stand-alone or built into gamepads

Graphics tablet

• Graphics tablets are rectangular pads that come in different sizes
• They work with a stylus for drawing on a computer
• Some styluses, like pucks, come with cross-hairs for tracing lines
• Styluses can be pen-shaped
• Graphics tablets are used for computer-aided design and drawing

Scanner

• Scanners can read printed data into a computer
• A handheld scanner reads images when dragged over them
• Flatbed scanners capture the image of a document placed on their surface
• Sheet-fed scanners pull the image through rollers
• Scanners quickly convert printed images to electronic form
• The data input accuracy is hard to verify

Digital camera

• Digital cameras store pictures on memory cards
• Pictures can be transferred to computers for editing or viewing
• They can also be viewed on TVs equipped with memory card readers
• Pictures are composed of small dots; higher dot density yields better quality
• Eight mega-pixel cameras produce higher quality output than two mega-pixel cameras
• Digital video cameras (camcorders) record moving images, saving them on memory cards, DVDs, miniDV tapes, or built-in hard disks

Webcam

• Webcams display captured images on a computer screen
• The computer connects to the webcam over the web
• The webcam can provide a live feed from a location
• Webcams can be used for virtual communication
• Webcams can be used in classroom settings for remote instruction
• Webcam photos and videos can be saved digitally enabling easier, more reliable and extensive backups
• Digital photos and videos can be displayed on various devices and sent via email
• Digital video can also be broadcast over the Internet for on-demand access
• Webcams can create needs for more storage because users tend to have more photos and longer videos
• High-quality photos and videos are very large files using up more bandwidth and slowing down the network when emailing/broadcasting over the Internet

Microphone

• The microphone is used for recording sound, voice commands, and communication over the internet

Touch screen

• The touch screen functions as both an input and output device, with tablet PCs, PDAs and smart phones widely utilizing them
• Users can interact by touching on-screen words/images

Optical Mark Recognition (OMR)

• OMR technology is utilized to interpret pencil marks on paper using a special reader that recognizes the position of the mark
• The OMR requires no typing
• OMR data input avoids typing, making it faster and less expensive
• The person filling in the form is responsible for accuracy
• OMR forms must be printed accurately, therefore printing costs can be more expensive
• Verification checks are unlikely, increasing chances of undetectable errors

Optical Character Recognition (OCR)

• OCR is the computer identification of printed or written text
• OCR scanners input printed text to computers where it is recognized and stored as word-processable text
• OCR software often comes bundled with scanners for handwriting readability
• Text printed on paper can be converted to electronic form for easier editing
• OCR can be particularly useful for creating electronic versions of books before computers

Bar code scanner

• Bar code scanners read the pattern of bars representing a printed items code number
• A bar code scanner often uses a small laser beam to read the reflected light pattern.
• Bar code scanners are either hand-held or built into supermarket checkout counters

Biometric scanner

• A biometric scanner makes personal identifications based on unique physical characteristics via face, retinal, fingerprint, geometric, and voice recognition
• Biometric scanners are embedded in mobile phones, laptops, desktops, and smart cards
• They can control entry to premises and even replace car keys
• Using biometric scanners removes the need to memorize/carry personal identification
• Biometrics prevents theft and fraud by requiring personal presence
• Current biometric identification is not always accurate and may reject access for permitted users and allow unauthorized access

Magnetic Stripe Reader

• The magnetic stripe reader reads a magnetic stripe on a plastic card
• Magnetic stripe cards include bank/credit cards
• Some readers can write information back onto the stripe
• The stripes store permanent account numbers or values that could change like cash withdrawal limits
• Use of magnetic strips is a widely accepted form of identification due to its small size and portability
• Data is recorded in electronic form and can be directly input into a computer quickly and efficiently
• Electromagnetic radiation can affect the data on magnetic stripes
• Magnetic stripe data is easy to copy or delete, increasing the risk of theft and fraud

Chip and PIN

• Chip and PIN (personal identification number) cards use a microprocessor chip, similar to magnetic stripe cards
• The chips process and store information
• Special devices read/write information
• Bank/credit cards have started utilizing Chip and PIN technology
• The card can be used to withdraw cash
• PIN entry is encrypted to match known PIN to proceed
• This method is easily used for identification
• Because the chip stores electronic data it can be input into a computer directly
• Chip data is more secure than the magnetic stripe
• Chip data can be updated after transactions
• Electromagnetic radiation can affect data on chip cards
• Cards may still be copied/edited by determined criminals

Sensors

• Sensors input data into the computer about the environment
• Sensors have a variety of shapes, sizes, and uses
• Sensors are useful recording light intensity, pressure, and temperature
• Sensors require the use of an ADC (analogue-to-digital converter) which converts a low voltage sent from the sensors into readable digital signals
• Sensors can be placed in dangerous locations
• Sensor are able to continuously and reliably record data
• Sensors can record data humans can't sense, such as humidity
• The data is automatically recorded for computer processing
• Data is able to be collected remotely reducing the need for travel
• Sensors cannot interpret the data
• They can only detect a limited amount of different data

Processors

CPU

• A processor or microprocessor is built into a microchip containing memory and other components

Graphics card (aka video card or display card)

• The graphics card houses within the system unit, controls the signals going to the monitor screen
• Higher quality graphics produce clearer graphics
• Some computer games demand advanced display cards

Sound card

• A sound card controls all input and output of audio, converting analogue input from sources like the microphone/speakers into digital signals which are processed by the computer, multimedia applications etc.

Output Devices

Monitor

• Monitors, or visual display units (VDUs), vary widely in styles and quality, affecting factors like color, resolution, and clarity
• Although a monitor picture appears sharp, images comprise picture elements (pixels); viewed from a distance the picture would resemble jagged pixelation
• Monitors enables GUIs (graphical user interface)
• They are interactive and have intuitive on-screen use
• Screen size limits extent and detail of the image
• Screen displays can be difficult to read for people with impaired sight

Printer

• Impact printers strike the paper through an inked ribbon to make marks
• Non-impact printers do not strike the paper
• Inkjet printers spray dots of ink to form shapes, are quiet, create good quality outputs, create colored prints, and are popular for homes and small offices
• Laser printers use a laser to create patterns of ink on a drum which transfers the ink and adheres it to the paper through heat, creating high quality prints very quickly
• Laser printers are more expensive than inkjet printers and often print in color
• Thermal printers mark heat-sensitive paper using heated wires
• Thermal dye printers heat dyes into a gas for the highest quality color printing, though this is expensive and requires special paper
• Thermal wax printers use molten wax to create tiny dots that blend into tones
• Printers have buffers to store data and not disrupt the system while the computer prints
• Print jobs from networks are first put in queue on a server, and then sent to the printer, making the process of printing in that manner known as spooling
• Printers with smaller dots will have higher print quality measured in dots per inch (dpi)
• A4 printer paper is a common material used for different types of paper
• High volume printers use paper with perforations so outputted pages can be easily separated from the rest
• Other printers use carbon copy paper

Photo Printer

• Images can be printed from a digital camera by plugging a memory card into the printer itself, or by connecting the camera another way
• Some prints can be viewed without a computer
• Many people and organizations still use paper media for legacy formats
• Printing is slow and expensive
• Paper is bulky and deteriorates in storage
• Printed media may be harder to access, may only be accessed by small groups, may be difficult and more expensive

Multi-Function Printers

• Newer printers combine scanners and fax machines
• Using this set up gives the user effective photocopying and printing capabilities
• Multifunction devices take up less space and money than their alternatives
• Multi function printers more modern and more likely to be used than their replacements
• A lack of function in some regions of the device can render it entirely unavailable
• Only one person can use the multi function device at a time

Plotter

• A plotter prints lines on paper using different colored pens, and are frequently used for computer aided design.
• Flatbed plotters hold the paper while the pen moves
• Other plotters have the pen move while the paper progresses forward and backwards
• Electric wires may also be used to draw patterns on the paper
• Larger sheets are more expensive
• Plotters print very slowly

Data projector

• Data projectors create the image displayed on computer screens
• An audience is presented with the image on a larger screen
• Data projections are used for presentations in business settings or home entertainment
• Interactive whiteboards are panels used with data projections that have a touch sensing feature for interacting with what is being displayed
• Some interactive whiteboards utilize special technology while some utilize capacitive or resistive technology

Speakers

• Speakers output audio used in many settings
• Speakers enable speech synthesis
• Speakers lead to multimedia application usefulness
• Speaker output is intuitive with computer programs
• Those with hearing impairments may have a difficult time working with speakers
• Voice recognition systems can be difficult

Control Devices

• Computer applications use control devices or actuators that control other events
• Examples of control devices are valves, heaters, coolers, and motors
• Actuators can perform physical tasks and control systems
• Actuators can act as a hazard if their instructions are not known to the user

Configuring Systems

• High speed processors and large memories are required to run systems
• An office system requires office tools
• Video gaming systems require video cards and high quality sound cards
• Both categories require a high quality operating system

System Software

• An operating system controls hardware
• The OS's capabilities include I/O (input/output) control, error handling, resource allocation, file-handling, and providing a user interface

Applications Software

Office Productivity

• Office software increases productivity
• This includes desktop publishing, word processing, managing spreadsheets, and databases

Web Authoring

• Web authoring creates internet accessible web pages using software and HTML
• Adobe Dreamweaver gives more control

Image and sound editing

• Image and sound editing software gives users control in different media files

Presentation

• Presentation software allows the speaker to have an audience view the presentation on a monitor through text, notes, and graphs

Project Management

• Software can be used to complete different tasks and projects

Backing Storage

Data capacity terminology

• One kilobyte (KB) is equivalent to 1024 bytes
• One megabyte (MB) is equivalent to 1024 KB or 1,048,576 bytes
• One gigabyte (GB) is equivalent to 1024 MB
• One terabyte (TB) is equivalent to 1024 GB

Main Memory

• Memory stores programs

Main Memory

• Data or instructions must be placed into main memory
• Main memory is also known as primary storage

RAM

• RAM, random access memory, data in it can be accessed in any order, read/written to, is volatile; RAM clears upon turning off the computer

ROM

• ROM, or Read-only memory, has data that can be accessed in any order, but not changed
• ROM is intended for permanent data and is non-volatile as it doesn't clear when the computer is turned off

Types of ROM

• PROM or Programmable Read-Only Memory, contains no data after manufactured; third party company inserts data and locks it in
• EPROM, or Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory, gets original data in the same PROM does, but if necessary, can be erased using a special light or electric charge

RAM vs. ROM

• RAM can be written to and read from
• ROM, or read only memory can only be read
• RAM holds program being run and data being processed, while ROM stores it
• RAM is volatile, it clears when the computer turns off; ROM is non, it retains data when powered off
• RAM microchips are supplied as a module plugged into the motherboard, while ROM is already installed

Storage Devices

Hard disks (HDD)

• These drives store and retrieve digital data using rotating magnetic disks or platters
• Data is stored in concentric tracks on each disk with corresponding tracks existing above and below, forming a cylinder
• Each surface has a read/write head that can traverse over the spinning disk
• The total storage capacity on a hard disk=readable sides x number of cylinders x sector per track x bytes per sector
• Redundant Array of Inexpensive Drives(RAID) carry copies on hard drives
• If one falls, data is recovered from others
• External Hard Disks are robust, small, lightweight, are easily carried around, and attach to a computer through an USB socket

Optical discs

• Compact discs use 700 MB of data and are 4/100 of an inch thick, read by laser
• The pattern of etched data is in a long spiral track covered by thin layers of acrylic and aluminum
• Digital Versatile discs(DVDs) can store 4.7 GB of data and dual versions are capable of 18 GB
• CD-R/DVD-R can have data written before becoming read only
• CD-RW/DVD-RW have up to only 1000 writes
• DVDs-RAM can be completely sealed and have 100000 writes and are used in computer camcorders with approximately 30 years of data lasting
• HD are used with DVD high res audio and video but found a rival and eventually ceased because of the rival format
• Blu-ray distributes HD as a dual sided DVD almost 10x as strong

Flash memory

• Flash memory is a type of EPROM, it can be quickly reset and rewritten while keeping the data when power off
• Commonly, the the basic input and output system (BIOS) will use flash memory

Magnetic tape

• Tape is mostly used for back-upped data with a large surface area by wrapping data on a reel
• Data has to be accessed though a serial connection leading to slow speeds

Networking

LANs

• LANs (local area networks) are collections of computers sharing peripherals, information, and communication locally, functioning independently or as network workstation
• LANs share files and software
• They are used to communicate
• Devices stream media
• Computers utilize all connected devices
• Buying single licenses are more efficient than single versions
• The user can share devices through Internet
• Setting up servers and connections causes expensive damage and data corruptions, and is vulnerable to viruses
• Client systems require specialized programs for each server
• Access is granted to network computers from the terminal or network

Types of LAN

• Client/server networks designate computers as servers, with other computers available as clients
• A file server handles files, while a print server handles printing, server software manages system services and security, and any computer granting to any type of network via, such as with a main frame network, known as a terminal

Peer-to-peer network

• Peer-to-peer networks allows users to exchange data across most computers, used mainly in small businesses

Cabled LAN

• In cabled LANs, attached cables transmit data over systems, all on a network interface

Wireless LAN

• Wireless LANs use access, interfaces, and routers to transmit data between systems
• Wireless access points use radio signals, encryption, and wireless cards, coaxial routers use the Internet to transmit data

Bluetooth

• Bluetooth is a wireless system used for computer, phone, or personal data sharing with 720 kbps via 10 meters

WANs

• WAN can connect networks, transmitting data through multiple lines like phone/fiber/satellite cables, used by businesses and universities to share data

IP address

• Each internet computer has unique IP (internet protocol) addresses, 32-bit and comprised of four number sets of three each and with periods
• The IP address is either static or dynamic

Benefits of establishing a network

• Hundreds of computers can use devices
• People can continuously share data and easily communicate
• Internet can be accessed
• Streaming media can be downloaded
• Software can be delivered

Network Security

Hacking

• Hacking is unauthorized access of your computer or files
• Protection comes through username and password, restrict file access to authorized users only, firewalls

spam

• Spam and unsolicited emails cause problems and are a virus threat
• Prevention comes through a spam filter and virus detection software

Phishing

• A phishing attack attempts to steal information like login details
• One method of protection utilizes spelling and grammar checks look for correct bank information
• Report all suspicious emails by breaking/repairing the connection and contacting the email sender, if no reply is received it is probably fraudulent

Pharming

• Pharming collects personal data by connecting fake sites to antivirus programs to detect

Adware

• To protect against adverts and pop ups, block pop-ups, use ad block programs like SpyBot Search and Destroy

Access to inappropriate information

• The access of children to illegal content is controlled by settings such as CYBERsitter, notify a breach with emails, record URLs, and control various settings

Cookies

• A cookie manager blocks cookies to control data settings

Requirements for Connecting

Wireless devices

• Modems provide connection of systems through telephone lines
• Routers wirelessly connect systems through wireless access-points
• Gateways connect two operating systems

Software

Web browsers

• Browsers show computer information though internet
• Different browsers, such as Microsoft Internet Explorer and Mozilla Firefox, achieve the same main point which is allowing users to access web based information

Email client

• Used over the internet to deliver emails, and allow digital communication

Type of Connection

Broadband

• Common with telephone wires, data is spread though fiber optic or coaxial lines and connect through ADSL
• Broadband connects through high radio communication

Dial Up

• Telephone lines connect users to different internet connection channels

WiFi

• The internet can use radio waves as connectors

VPN

• Virtual private networks protect network through encoded protocols and internet access

Features of Common Internet Services

Services

• The Internet is provided through service providers or ISP, that distribute the internet to different users

Uses

• View data
• Search engines like Google
• Email
• Online shopping
• Banking
• Customer and program maintenance

Access

• Download programs. printer programs
• Discuss bulletin information and view discussion threads
• Join chat lines
• Join conferences

Intranets

• LANs are like copies of the internet within an office
• Many groups use the web's function to publish notices or adverts among employees
• Intranets centralize organizational procedures and data

Impacts of ICT

Negative Effects

• Some jobs have been lost due to computers
• Factories use robots, reducing human labor
• Workers cannot work as fast as robots
• Automation replaces many factory jobs
• The company saves money because robots do not need compensation

Secretarial Work

• Employee production on paper has decreased due to employees writing their private documents on computers

Accounting

• Calculations are made much faster

Newspaper Printing

• DTP software quickly writes newspapers

Legal issues

• The internet has caused security breaches and crimes
• Software being downloaded for free that cost money
• Illegal media downloaded or accessed on illegal websites and from illegal parties

Legal Constraints

• Personal Data may include

1. Collection Notification
2. Data is kept private
3. Must be secure

• Personal data must have ways to protect your information
• Internet uploaders in countries must be careful what is downloaded

Safety

• Ergonomics are meant to lessen issues when using computers
• Keyboards should support the hands when in a proper place
• Look at the user

Intense Computer use is associated with:

• Constant strain/tendons
• Redness or trouble with vision
• Bad or incorrect posture leading to pain
• Fatigue
• Electric shock
• Cables

Computer Crime

Software Piracy

• Software is made at a copyright so no one hacks or takes free usage
• Illegally media

Hacking

• Users cannot access data unless with permission

Identity Theft

• Spy-ware is used without other's knowledge

Phishing

• Identity taken by various details

Physical Security

• Rooms guarded by doors prevent un-accesses and also keep hardware from being damaged such as CCTV to deter thieves and a second safe to protect back-up files, secure hardware from damage thieves, and make contingency plans, so systems carry on

Software Security

• Use passwords, block level passes, or firewall, the network can be restored
• Data must be scrambled, and wireless network

Personal Responsibility

• Be cautious of all data or access by cyber users
• Cyberbullying or sharing is prohibited