Grade 12 Computer Application Technology - PDF

1/31/2025 SWEAT DOC Grade 12 Mr Thishae Naidoo is a DON CCILL CONTENTS SYSTEM TECHNOLOGIES.................................................................................................................. 3 Non-portable computers....................

1/31/2025 SWEAT DOC Grade 12 Mr Thishae Naidoo is a DON CCILL CONTENTS SYSTEM TECHNOLOGIES.................................................................................................................. 3 Non-portable computers................................................................................................................... 3 Entry Level computer............................................................................................................................ 3 Portable computers:.............................................................................................................................. 3 Several types of portable devices:.................................................................................................... 3 Wearable computers.................................................................................................................... 4 Generic features of a mobile computer.................................................................................... 4 Categories of users...................................................................................................................... 4 Convergence.................................................................................................................................... 5 THE INFORMATION PROCESSING CYCLE....................................................................................... 6 Input.................................................................................................................................................. 6 Processing........................................................................................................................................ 6 Output............................................................................................................................................... 6 Combining input sources and output destination.......................................................................... 6 Storage............................................................................................................................................. 7 INPUT DEVICES.............................................................................................................................. 7 Keyboard...................................................................................................................................... 7 Mouse............................................................................................................................................... 7 Touch Screen............................................................................................................................... 8 Touch Pad.................................................................................................................................... 8 Scanner........................................................................................................................................ 9 Digital Camera............................................................................................................................ 10 RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag................................................................................. 10 Webcam..................................................................................................................................... 11 Microphone:................................................................................................................................ 11 OUTPUT DEVICE........................................................................................................................... 12 DISPLAY.................................................................................................................................... 12 Display devices- key specifications................................................................................................. 12 Monitors...................................................................................................................................... 12 Speakers and Headphones........................................................................................................ 13 Printers....................................................................................................................................... 13 Multi-functional printer................................................................................................................ 14 Data Projector............................................................................................................................ 15 DRIVES AND STORAGE.................................................................................................................... 16 HARD DRIVE............................................................................................................................. 16 1  External Hard Drives.................................................................................................................. 16 Flash Drives............................................................................................................................... 16 SSD (solid state drive):............................................................................................................... 17 OPTICAL MEDIA - CDs, DVDs....................................................................................................... 17 Communication Devices................................................................................................................. 17 Cellular Modem.......................................................................................................................... 17 ADSL and Fibre Routers............................................................................................................ 18 Virtual Reality............................................................................................................................. 18 Augmented Reality..................................................................................................................... 18 Drones........................................................................................................................................ 18 Buying a computer.............................................................................................................................. 18 System Components...................................................................................................................... 19 Devices That Connect to the Computer.......................................................................................... 19 Devices for Disabled Users............................................................................................................ 19 Accessibility & ICT.......................................................................................................................... 20 SOFTWARE........................................................................................................................................ 20 Application Software....................................................................................................................... 20 Choosing Software......................................................................................................................... 20 DEFINITIONS..................................................................................................................................... 21 Pg 10 Answers................................................................................................................................ 23 Gr.12 PAT 2025.................................................................................................................................. 25 Topic 2............................................................................................................................................ 25 Smart wearable technology............................................................................................................ 25 2 SYSTEM TECHNOLOGIES When comparing computers you should look at: How powerful they are o Referring to specifications of the speed of CPU or how much RAM they have What the computer is used for o As a server for a network or just for basic office applications Their mobility(size) The software that is run on the computer Either Linux or Windows NON-PORTABLE COMPUTERS Generally consist of: o system unit o monitor o mouse o keyboard ENTRY LEVEL COMPUTER All computers have an entry-level model in their range cheapest to purchase low hardware specifications come with fewer features compared to Professional versions o called Home editions of office suites takes up less space compared to a professional or gaming computer PORTABLE COMPUTERS: Uses a traditional operating system o Windows, Linux or macOS Uses hardware that is designed for portability o All-in-one design includes screen, keyboard and pointing device Includes a battery to allow it to be used without access to external power source for limited time Allows for 1 computer to be used at work and at home SEVERAL TYPES OF PORTABLE DEVICES : Laptop/notebook o Description: a machine with a screen size larger than 12/13 inches o Can have same specifications as high-end desktops o But the cost more than a high-end desktop Tablet o Description: a portable computer that has a touch screen or pen-sensitive screen o Larger screen than phone ▪ apps like Spreadsheet or word can be used more effectively 3  ▪ don’t have the ability to make cellphone calls or send/receive SMS messages ▪ longer battery life than cellphones ▪ always on and connected -just on standby mode Hybrid laptop/computer o Description: often have a reversible/detachable screen and a normal keyboard. Screen is tough and pen-sensitive and the user can interact directly with screen o Can be used a laptop or as a tablet Smartphone o Descriptions: a cell phone that includes an operating systems and the ability to install and run other apps (programs). Mostly use a touch interface o Always on and connected – just on standby mode o Provides internet access to email, internet and normal phoning and texting o GPS feature, camera / video camera Phablet o Description: a smartphone with a screen size larger than 5 inches o Always on and connected – just on standby mode WEARABLE COMPUTERS Smart watches- messages, music, heart rate monitor Head mounted display- e.g. google glasses Fitness tracker- e.g. Fitbit Sport tracking system- e.g. Adidas MI Coach Elite System (a chip that is put on the sport person’s clothing. It records their blood pressure, temperature, heart rate. Rugby players put it on their mouth guard, and you can track all those things. It can also record how many times there was an impact on the mouth guard. It is sent to the coach which records and analyzes the data GENERIC FEATURES OF A MOBILE COMPUTER Portability- lightweight, compact and has a battery Connectivity - ability to be connected wirelessly Interactivity- share data and collaborate with others Individuality- personalized for the user (can be adapted to individual needs) CATEGORIES OF USERS PERSONAL USERS Limited office tasks Internet banking Email and browsing the web Social networking To skype with family and friends Viewing and sharing photos o For entertainment- gaming, music, viewing movies, etc. 4 SOHO USERS (Small Office Home Office) Depends on the type of business the user runs General entry-level computers for administrative functions: Accounting or billing Databases with clients, suppliers, stock, etc. Electronic document archiving P OWER USERS Top of the range hardware and software are required by: Hardcore gamers Architects Engineers Video and editing professionals Scientists M OBILE USERS Want and need to have their technology with them wherever they are They use a smartphone or tablet for… Browsing the internet and using email Playing games Reading books Navigating with GPS Taking quick notes Taking photos/videos and recording sound CONVERGENCE The trend where separate technologies and functions that previously required different devices are combined into one single device The smartphone and tablet are good examples of convergence 5 THE INFORMATION PROCESSING CYCLE INPUT Provides the data that needs to be processed to generate information Keyboard, mouse, touchpad, touch screen, scanner Planning the data that needs to be collected Deciding on the best way to capture the data Planning and creating data capture forms or instructions PROCESSING The collection of steps, decisions and calculations taken to convert data into information CPU RAM Takes place only when software + data are loaded into RAM (random access memory) Uses an algorithm – step- by -step solution Data that has been inputted will create information that can be output Involves tasks such as: o Searching o Sorting o Comparisons/decisions o Math calculations OUTPUT Proof that processing has taken place, communicated using monitors, speakers, printers Screen, printer, data projector, touch speaker Sent directly to storage Communicated directly to other computers Used as input for other programs, systems or parts of the same program Used to control equipment or devices COMBINING INPUT SOURCES AND OUTPUT DESTINATION Most ICT systems use multiple input sources and output destinations Smartphones or tablets may have- o Sensors to detect movement and allow you to touch o Onscreen controls POS (point of sale) system might be- o Specialized till keyboard +barcode scanner+ card reader or fingerprint scanner Musicians might connect- o MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) piano keyboard + computer using USB+ keyboard and mouse Scanners o Input- using the camera scan the QR code o Process- always happening in the background. The QR code is searching for the link for the website or form o Output- the link to the website/form is displayed for the user to click on (on the screen) 6 STORAGE Methods to store data: o Flash drive o USB o External hard drive o Cloud storage Security to protect sensitive data, through encryption and physical safe keeping Create + implement good backup policies Create + use storage of non- IT related media INPUT DEVICES KEYBOARD Uses: o Type in text (data) o Give commands (function keys and shortcut keys) Advantages: o Fastest way to enter text o Easy to learn and use Limitations: o Keyboard skills required o Not designed to be used with a GUI interface o Takes up space o Can be difficult to use for some people to use Factors (Buying decisions): o Ergonomic considerations ▪ Ergonomic key boards positions keys to reduce the risk of an RSI (repetitive strain injury) like Carpal tunnel syndrome o Wireless vs cabled ▪ Wireless- can reduce clutter on desktop, but is inconvenient if battery is dead Troubleshooting: o ‘Sticky’ keys: clean with damp cloth/small brush o Wireless keyboard not responding: check batteries/dongle/port o Wired keyboard not responding: disconnect and reconnect MOUSE Pointing device that essential to use a GUI Uses: o Interact with graphic elements of GUI o Click/double click/scroll/drag Advantages: o Easy to learn o Effective way to interact with GUI Limitations: o Best used at a fixed workplace with a suitable surface area o Entry level mice are not very precise/accurate 7  Troubleshooting: o ‘Sticky’ mouse: use a clean, smooth, non-reflective surface o Wireless not responding batteries/dongle/port o Wired mouse not responding disconnect and reconnect o Final solution: reboot computer Factors (Buying decisions) o Ergonomic considerations ▪ Ergonomic mouses positions keeps hands relaxed to reduce the risk of an RSI (repetitive strain injury) like Carpal tunnel syndrome ▪ Vertical mouse is designed to be used without twisting the forearm o Wireless vs cabled ▪ Wireless can reduce clutter but is useless with flat batteries TOUCH SCREEN Uses: o Replacement of / addition to mouse + keyboard o Direct interaction with on -screen elements o Best interface for systems with limited options Advantages: o Serves as both mouse and keyboard o Natural input, drawings o Intuitive interactions, zoom = pinch o Easy to use with little training Limitations: o Not as easy to use as physical keyboard o Needs additional finger pressure to respond o Quality of touch experience depends on OS being used o Display is reduced o Harder to see small elements o Not easy to use for certain task TOUCH PAD Integrated device in a portable computer that acts as a pointing device o Gives user a way to navigate GUI without needing to connect an external device ▪ Takes up less space Advantages: o User does not have to carry an extra device o User can perform actions that would normally require a mouse without the need for a desk or extra surface area Limitations o Not as accurate / precise as a mouse o Size of touch pad is limited, makes it harder to use for some users o Cannot be repositioned in relation to screen for comfort and use of use 8  Social Implications o Security ▪ Tracking software to track user input - keylogger Can track keys pressed and mouse movements without permission Malicious software ▪ Accuracy and validity Time needs to be spent re checking data inputted for human errors SCANNER Advantages o Easy to convert documents into digital format o OCR text conversion faster than retyping o Easy to convert old film photos into digital format o Benefits environment as less paper and ink I used Uses o Capturing images from paper sources o Capturing images of text for conversion to editable text with OCR software o Reading Barcodes Limitations o Quality of scanned images depends on quality of the original doc/image o Affected by dirt or fingerprints on glass or dust on sensor o Books difficult to scan with flatbed scanner o Can be slow Office automation o Large documents scanned and combined into a single digital file o Digital copies save office space o Scanned copies can be emailed o Older documents can be archived POS and database o Library and Point of Sale (POS) systems – provide quick and accurate input Other uses o Number plates of cars scanned and recorded on e-toll roads o Access control systems – swipe cards and RFID cards read by wireless devices – biometric input devices such as fingerprint scanners Troubleshooting o Errors in image size or quality ▪ Check setting of the scanner software o Nonresponsive: must check ▪ Switched on ▪ Plugged on ▪ Properly connected to USB port ▪ Lock switch is off 9 DIGITAL CAMERA Uses o Capturing images o Capturing videos o Alternative to scanners for photographing and capturing documents in a digital format o Barcode or QR code reader Advantages o Photos already in digital format o Easy to use o Doesn’t cost money to take photos o View photos instantly o Photos are easy to share o GPS feature will include location in metadata geo-tagging Limitations o Photos are easy to lose along with the device o Quality of photos depends on quality of camera Factors – to consider when buying o Resolution ▪ No. of horizontal and vertical pixels in the images ▪ Minimum 300 dpi for printing ▪ 72 dpi suitable for on – screen / web display o Image quality ▪ Colour depth The higher the depth the better (32 bits in the current max) ▪ Sensor size The bigger the better ▪ ISO rating Camera’s sensitivity to light RFID (RADIO FREQUENCY IDENTIFICATION ) TAG Typical information that can be stored: Example 1: you go to the gym. It scans your card and reads(checks) if you are a member. Details that are stored include your ID, your photograph, address, the type of member that you are, age, gender. Example 2: chip in pet. RFID chip- name, type, age, address of the owner, contact details of the owner. RFID does not have GPS tracking on them. It sends out a frequency. Example 3: All the animals in the game reserve have an RFID chip inserted in them. Depending on the animal, it will be a stronger chip. A smaller animal like a tortoise/flamingo will have a lower frequency. If an animal wanders off and gets hurt its difficult to find them. On a full moon, game rangers go out on foot and patrol the entire game reserve. Because of more poachers. There is a device that can fly using a drone and it’s able to pick up the radio frequency of the animal in the area to know where the animal is. 10 B IOMETRICS Facial recognition- scans the distance between your facial features. High quality biometric scanners use more points Metadata- all the info related to the picture, such as the time and type of camera they got. WEBCAM Uses o Internet video communication o ‘Live feeds’ of events o Remote control security cameras Advantages o Cheap o Small o Often built into portable computers o Video calls allow you to see the person you are talking to Limitations o Very low resolution- doesn’t create good images o Must be connected to an ICT device to work Trouble shooting o Unresponsive webcam – either not plugged in properly, not switched on, not selected as current camera ▪ Can use webcam software to test that the webcam is functioning properly MICROPHONE: Can be connected via microphone jack or USB Uses o Record sound o Communicate Advantages o Record verbal communication o Give voice commands o Add sound input to a computer o Use software to edit, analyze or manipulate sound Limitations o Built in microphones don't generally provide high quality sound o Difficult to use in a noisy environment 11 OUTPUT DEVICE DISPLAY Visual output- soft copy: on a screen ▪ -hard copy: printed onto paper Sound output- speakers or headphones Touch output- joysticks and controllers vibrate/resist the user ▪ -mobile devices vibrate DISPLAY DEVICES - KEY SPECIFICATIONS Screen size Resolution (no. of pixels, pixels across x pixels vertically) Contrast ratio (difference between whitest white and darkest black- the range. How many colors in between) Aspect ratio (length and breadth of monitor. Given by a ratio, ie.14:9. dpi, can tell you about the resolution. The higher the dpi the better the resolution) Response time (the amt of time it takes to refresh) Lumens for projectors (the brightness, what type of bulb it is) DVI and HDMI Range of height and swivel adjustment Viewing angle Built-in USB ports/webcam/speakers. When replacing/upgrading the hardware is more expensive than buying a new computer. Need to replace hardware/laptop after 8 years old. It’s no longer compatible with newer software because its slow and doesn’t have the capabilities If the components are no longer compatible. MONITORS Uses o Interactive feedback o Extra visual alerts for the hearing-impaired people2 Advantages o Immediate feedback to user o Allows for interaction between user and PC o Displayed content can easily be changed o Text can be enlarged for the v1 o Visually impaired/ High contrast used o Display options can be changed to suit the users Limitations o Quality of display related to monitor size o Size of the monitor limits portability o Output difficult to share (unless it is a projector) o Image quality affected by natural lighting of environment 12  Factors – buying decisions o Resolution: The highest number of pixels a display supports (horizontal × vertical pixels). ▪ Aspect Ratio: The width-to-height ratio of a display (e.g., 4:3, 16:9, 16:10). o Image Quality Factors: ▪ Colour depth: Higher bits provide a wider range of colours (e.g., 24-bit is better than 16-bit). ▪ Pixel density (DPI): More pixels per inch lead to sharper, clearer images ▪ Refresh rate: Higher rates reduce "ghosting," especially in fast-moving visuals. ▪ Contrast ratio: Determines image sharpness and colour vibrancy. Low contrast results in "muddy" images. Troubleshooting o Faded/muddy/too bright image → Adjust contrast and brightness settings. o Blocky or stretched image → Incorrect resolution settings; adjust to recommended values. o Purple/blue/yellow/green tint → Possible faulty connection or damaged cable; check and replace if needed. o No display → Check power, cables, and computer settings. Swap monitor to test if faulty. SPEAKERS AND HEADPHONES Uses: o Play sound and provide feedback. o Alert users with visual disabilities. o Enable communication (e.g., Skype, voice messages). o Listen to media on the go. Advantages: o Headphones allow private listening. o Speakers enable sound for groups. o Useful for mobile devices (e.g., jogging with music). Limitations: o Sound quality depends on the device. o External amplifiers may be needed for larger spaces. o Speakers can be distracting to nearby people. Troubleshooting: o Wrong jack connection (e.g., plugged into microphone jack). o Speakers requiring power may be off or unplugged. o Sound settings may be muted or on the wrong output device. PRINTERS Types: o Laser Printers: ▪ Fast, high-quality text. ▪ Good for high-volume printing, but not ideal for high-quality graphics. 13  o Inkjet Printers: ▪ Cheaper than laser. ▪ Best for high-quality photo printing but has higher running costs. o Dot Matrix Printers: ▪ Low-quality prints, mainly used for receipts and invoices. ▪ Can create carbon copies. Environmental Considerations: o Print only when necessary to reduce paper and energy use. o Use both sides of paper or print two pages per sheet. o Recycle old printers, ink, and toner cartridges properly to prevent harmful chemicals from contaminating the environment. Multi-functional printer Uses o Laser- print black and white or color documents o Inkjet- print black and white or color documents o Dot-matrix- most often used as POS (point of sale) printer for receipts, invoices, etc. Factors o Speed ▪ Measured in pages per minute (ppm). ▪ Based on printing a page with ~5% ink coverage. o Colour – Separate cartridges for colour is better ▪ Uses Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black (CMYK). Printers with separate cartridges are more cost-effective. o Resolution – Higher is better but uses more toner and ink ▪ Measured in dots per inch (dpi). ▪ Higher dpi results in clearer images. ▪ High resolutions mainly beneficial for photo printing. o Cost per page ▪ Based on average ink usage. ▪ Printing at higher resolutions increases costs. o Paper – Type of paper used and size of paper ▪ Paper type affects print quality. Different paper needed for laser and inkjet printers. ▪ Paper size compatibility varies (A4, A3, etc.). System compatibility – Ensure printer drivers are available for your OS (Windows, macOS, Linux) o Wireless or wired compatibility – built-in wireless functionality (e.g. Bluetooth) or a port to connect to a cabled network o Mobility – generally not designed to be mobile o Duplex printing- printing on both sides of the page o Laser printer more suitable for large volumes of pages, for a low cost. o Inkjet printers for seldom usage as it is cheaper Primary colors - cyan, magenta and yellow 14  Troubleshooting – if printer is not printing correctly o Not plugged in or powered off. o Improper connection to the computer. o Low ink or toner issues. o Incorrect toner selected. ▪ Incorrect network settings (for network printers). o Wrong type of paper causing ink spread or toner adhesion issues. o Paper jams requiring careful manual removal. 3 D PRINTER Uses: o Creates 3D objects from own design software o Uses variety of materials, resin, PVC, plastic Advantages: o Print prototypes of new designs o Print once off parts (cheaper) o Prints tools and parts when needed o Creates newer designs o Rapid prototyping o Custom part production Environmental issues o too many fumes o too much power uses o has a lot of excess facets that can’t be used again Limitations o Expensive (but generally work out cheaper in the long run) o Can be slow, noisy, smelly o Need a lot of control and attention to work effectively ▪ Issues with materials, heating or design ▪ Mistakes = larger amount of waste materials Trouble shooting ▪ Issues with 3D model design. o Faulty heating element. o Incorrect printing speed. o Problems with the printing material. DATA PROJECTOR Use o To project an image of the display onto a screen, wall or other surface to share it with an audience Advantage o Allows a display to be viewed by a large amount of people Limitations o Resolution of images not as good as those of high-quality display monitors o Normally limited to a 4:3 aspect ratio Troubleshooting o Blown bulb requiring replacement. o Special drivers may be needed. 15 DRIVES AND STORAGE HARD DRIVE Most common internal storage. Stores software and data permanently. o Non – volatile Can be used as virtual memory for multitasking Uses o Store data and software permanently o Act as ‘Virtual memory’ (Some free disk spaced used as if it were RAM) Advantages o Larger capacity than RAM o Cheaper per GB than RAM o Stores data and programs when device is switched off Limitations o Easily damaged if improperly handled o Comparatively slow as it operates on a mechanical basis ▪ Mechanical and magnetic moving parts slow compared to SSD Troubleshooting o Storage may be nearly full ▪ Delete or remove files o System seems slow and unresponsive ▪ Use disk fragmentation utility to rearrange o Files are corrupted ▪ Files may have been corrupted because the computer didn’t shut down properly Select properties, tools, and check to fix the disk EXTERNAL HARD DRIVES Portable versions of internal hard drives. Useful for backups and additional storage. Advantages: o High capacity. ▪ Portable and easy to use. ▪ Can be plugged into USB port and used instantly ▪ Faster and more reliable than optical media. o Adds extra storage for computer without needing to open computer Limitations: ▪ Bulkier than flash drives. o Prone to mechanical damage. FLASH DRIVES Small, portable, and widely used for data transfer. Advantages: o Portable and fast. o No external power needed. o Durable and reliable. 16  Limitations: o Easy to lose. ▪ More expensive per GB than HDDs. ▪ Limited storage capacity. SSD (SOLID STATE DRIVE): Complete electronic alternative to traditional hard drive Electronic storage with no moving parts. Faster than hard drive No moving parts (not easily damaged if dropped) More expensive per GB Used in smartphones, tablets, and modern computers. Advantages: ▪ Faster than HDDs. o Energy-efficient and durable. o Quieter operation. Limitations: ▪ More expensive per GB than HDDs. OPTICAL MEDIA - CDS , DVDS Uses: o Distributes software and media. ▪ Backup storage. Advantages: o Affordable. ▪ Portable. o Industry standard. Limitations: ▪ Slow data access. ▪ Easily damaged. o Limited storage capacity (CD: 700MB, DVD: 4.7-8.5GB, Blu-ray: 25GB+). o Increasingly obsolete. COMMUNICATION DEVICES CELLULAR MODEM Use o Access the internet wherever there is cellphone reception. o Used for mobile internet access via SIM cards. Advantages o Easy to install (plug in a USB port) o Small – portable internet access on any computer o Portable and easy to use. o No need for a fixed telephone line. o High-speed 3G/4G networks. Limitations o Easily lost or stolen 17 ADSL AND FIBRE ROUTERS Required for wired internet connections. Advantages: ▪ Can connect multiple devices via LAN and Wi-Fi. o ADSL allows simultaneous internet and phone usage. Limitations: ▪ Requires physical infrastructure. o Susceptible to cable theft. VIRTUAL REALITY Creates an immersive digital environment. Requires a powerful computer, VR headset, and motion controllers. Challenges: ▪ Expensive. ▪ Motion sickness due to display lag. AUGMENTED REALITY Example is Pokémon, how it shows the Pokémon. Overlays digital elements onto the real world. Used in gaming, education, and navigation. Requirements: o Motion sensors, camera, display, control input. DRONES Advantages o Surveillance: drones can be used to monitor events, such as traffic violations, and to recreate crime scenes. o Environment protection: drones can monitor the health of wildlife and forests, which can help save the planet. o Equipment inspection: drones can inspect equipment like power lines, pipelines and wind turbines. o Cost efficiency: drones can be cheaper than other methods for many tasks. o Science education: drones can be used to teach STEM concepts o Rescue operations: drones can be used to provide critical assistance during natural disasters and other crisis. BUYING A COMPUTER Always buy the best your budget will allow- Type of processer Ram installed Size of storage General Considerations o Mobility needs (desktop vs. laptop). ▪ Software compatibility. ▪ Standard specifications for different user levels. o Legal operating system included. 18 SYSTEM COMPONENTS ▪ CPU: Measured in GHz; higher cores improve performance. ▪ RAM: More RAM improves multitasking. ▪ Identified by terms such as DIMMS, DDR3 or DDR4 o Storage: HDDs for cost, SSDs for speed. ▪ HHD = SATA Measured in revolutions per minute o Video Card: Essential for gaming, graphics, and video editing. ▪ Ports: USB, Thunderbolt, and network connectivity options. Used to connect external devices to a computer. ▪ Most devices connect via USB ports; USB 3 is faster than USB 2. ▪ Thunderbolt or USB-C for high-speed data and video connections ▪ Many computers include a network port for wired connections. ▪ Wi-Fi support is built into many computers. ▪ Monitor: Resolution and size affect usability. o Case: affects airflow, cooling, component compatibility ▪ Limited choice DEVICES THAT CONNECT TO THE COMPUTER o Mouse and Keyboard ▪ Ergonomic designs reduce RSI. ▪ Wireless vs. wired options available. ▪ Mobile users rely on built-in laptop touchpads. ▪ Power users may need specialized devices (e.g., gaming mice, digitizing tablets). o Monitor/Screen ▪ Most common softcopy output device. ▪ Tablets and smartphones drive demand for touch-compatible screens. Power users (gamers, editors) require larger screens with high resolution and colour accuracy. ▪ Printer Used for hardcopy output. ▪ Selection depends on print quality, speed, and connectivity. Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) users prefer multifunction printers. ▪ Mobile users might opt for battery-powered printers. o External (Portable) Storage ▪ Flash drives are quick and simple for personal users. ▪ External hard drives are useful for backups and media storage. SOHO and power users often require large-capacity external storage. o Scanner ▪ Image scanners are less popular - digital photography. ▪ SOHO and power users may need high-quality scanners with OCR for document conversion. DEVICES FOR DISABLED USERS Visually Impaired / Blind Braille keyboards, displays, and printers. Magnification devices. 19  Large-key keyboards. Hearing Impaired / Deaf Devices that vibrate instead of emitting sound. Motor Control Issues (Paralysis, Arthritis, etc.) Eye and head movement tracking devices. Large-key keyboards, trackballs, joysticks. Foot pedal controls. Sip and puff devices for alternative input methods. ACCESSIBILITY & ICT Remote Surgery: Specialists can operate from different locations. Internet Access: Provides educational and research resources. Distance Education: Online learning and mobile learning. Mobile Banking: Services like M-Pesa for secure financial transactions. Assistive Technology: Voice recognition, eye-tracking, and tactile alerts. Software Selection SOFTWARE APPLICATION SOFTWARE ▪ Office Suites: Word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, databases. ▪ Productivity Apps: Cloud storage, note-taking, project management. ▪ Reference Software: Encyclopaedias, dictionaries, translation apps. o Web Browsers: Essential for internet access. o Email Software: Communication tools with organization features. CHOOSING SOFTWARE Purpose-specific software for different needs. Web-based vs. installed applications. Compatibility between different software versions. System requirements must be checked. o Fixing Software Issues Common Issues & Solutions o Freezing Applications: Use Task Manager to force close. o Software Crashes: Restart, check for conflicts, update software. o Read-Only Files: Copy file or change permissions. ▪ Bugs & Updates: Regular updates fix security and functionality issues. User-Centred Design o Good Layout: Organized, easy navigation. o Legibility: Proper font, colour contrast, and spacing. ▪ Effective Instructions: Clear language, familiar icons, and useful graphics. 20 DEFINITIONS Driver definition- small programs called the peripheral or device that allows the user to configure the device for use so that it can become plug and play. Plug and play- the device is ready for use as soon as it is plugged into the computer because the operating software already has the device pre-loaded. Fiber- for fiber internet connection Fiber glass- thin fragments that are crushed and bound together in a protective sheet to create fibre cables. Because its glass it uses light to transmit. Its fast. The infrastructure is not yet completed in some areas, so not all areas are fitted with fibre cables. It also requires skilled labor to lay it. ADSL- for ADSL internet connection (telephone line) Hardware specification- some software requires more processing power. Current specification- entry level computer SOHO- small office, home office Fragmentation- different parts of the data is saved on the hard drive Disk cleanup- free up space Disk defragmentation- do things faster. It saves data on different parts of the hard drive 4IR- Fourth industrial revolution Patch- downloadable update for an installed program. System software – 21 Application software – Software that is installed by a user that allows a user to perform specific tasks, not essential for the running of a computer OCR- technology on your mobile phone for scanning 22 ACTIVITY ANSWERS PG 10 ANSWERS 1. Computers can save on labor costs by reducing the need to employ many employees. They can save on the cost of paper because electronic versions of documents are used instead of hard copies 2. Human cannot perform hazardous tasks such as monitoring a nuclear reactor. Humans cannot perform complex tasks that need to happen in real time such as controlling a spacecraft landing on Mars 3. Computers can be used in factories for manufacturing and assembly lines. They can also be used in determining which students pass or fail their academic year They can be used in laser surgery, e.g. In cataract operations. 4. Computers can help save on paper and paper costs in paperless offices. Can control electricity and power use in energy efficient buildings that use sensors to control the lights etc. Technology can also be used to monitor carbon emissions in factories and motor cars 5. Distance is now only relevant when transferring physical goods because of the availability of global communication. Businesses can conduct business at any time of the day and across different time zones across the world. 6. You can ‘see’ the person you are talking to no matter where they are in the world by using video conferencing. You can share files, use the same desktop and even work on the same document simultaneously. 7. They can make overseas calls at a fraction of the cost of a traditional telephone call. People can skype instead of travelling to meetings. 8. Facebook. Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, blogs etc. 9. CPU and RAM 10. It means the computer runs on a Linux operating system 11. It is generally more powerful than ordinary PCs and provides services to users on a network. Other computers are intended for the users to tune their documents directly, etc. 12. It is portable and can be used on battery power for a few hours if there is no electricity available. E.g.) during a power outage 13. They have a larger screen (which enables more productivity applications and is great for reading or watching videos) and they have a longer battery life. 23 14. A smartphone is slightly smaller than a phablet, and fits more easily into a pocket etc. The larger size of a phablet might actually be inconvenient for the user 15. Power users have computing needs which require top – of – the – range hardware (and software) for their specific needs. In addition, they may need specific hardware related tot heir interests / jobs. A power user will typically use all the advanced functions of the software they use. E.g. of power users) gamers, architects, engineers, scientists and video editing professionals 16. Convergence refers to the trend where separate technologies and functions that required different devices in the past are combined into one single device that has all or some of the functionality of each separate device. Convergence is therefore the ‘bringing together’ or combining of multiple technologies into a single… 24 GR.12 PAT 2025 TOPIC 2 SMART WEARABLE TECHNOLOGY What are the challenges with these devices? How is it effective? Surveys from those who wear these devices Research what it is, what it does, why should buy it or not, how gone change the way people work, how gone change the way people operate in society It works well with medical devices. What other devices does it work well with? Topic 3: Community event Can range from: Festivals Fundraisers Health fairs Cultural celebrations Task: Plan and organise a community event to celebrate diversity and prom0oting inclusivity. Gather and analyse relevant data Identify problems and solutions Present findings Plan maybe school cruise or bonding day. Or any school event. 25 Gamma.ai 26