Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE ICT Applications PDF

Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE ICT Your notes ICT Applications Contents Communication Computer Modelling Computer Controlled Systems School Management Systems Online...

Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE ICT Your notes ICT Applications Contents Communication Computer Modelling Computer Controlled Systems School Management Systems Online Booking Systems Banking Applications Computers in Medicine Expert Systems Computers in Retail Industry Recognition Systems Satellite Systems Page 1 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Communication Your notes Communication Media What is communication media? Communication media describes the tools and channels for sharing of information between a sender and a receiver Communication media can be both electronic and physical Newsletters Periodic publications, often used to inform, educate, or entertain subscribers about specific topics Usually distributed through email or as printed copies Suitable for organisations, schools, and clubs to keep members up-to-date Advantages Disadvantages Cost effective Low engagement Measurable results SPAM filters can unintentionally block Easy to personalise Limited interactivity Targeted Can get lost in a busy inbox Increases brand awareness Posters Visual presentations that convey information or promote events or products Combine text, images, and graphics to grab attention Advantages Disadvantages Page 2 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Cost effective Limited information Wide reach Lack of interactivity Your notes Versatile Can be removed/defaced Long shelf life in the right space Cannot update Websites Online platforms that provide information or services Accessible through the internet using a web browser Useful for businesses, educational institutions, and individuals to share information, sell products, or offer services Advantages Disadvantages Media rich Can be hacked Links to other websites Risk of pharming Easy navigation Maintenance can be expensive Global audience Multimedia presentations Digital presentations that combine various forms of media, such as text, images, audio, and video Used in education, business, and entertainment to present information in a visually engaging way Advantages Disadvantages Media rich Special equipment required Interactive Often required internet access Transitions/animations to highlight key Easy to create a bad presentation information Visuals can take focus from the overall message Audio & Video Page 3 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Sound recordings, such as podcasts, music, and radio shows It can be streamed or downloaded for offline listening Your notes Suitable for providing information, entertainment, or educational content Moving images with or without sound, used for entertainment, education, or promotional purposes Can be streamed or downloaded for offline viewing Typical platforms include YouTube, Vimeo, and social media websites Media streaming Real-time transmission of audio and video files over the internet Allows users to access content without downloading it to their devices Popular services include Spotify, Netflix, and YouTube E-Publications Digital versions of printed materials, such as eBooks, eMagazines, and eNewspapers It can be read on electronic devices, such as eReaders, tablets, and smartphones Offer benefits like portability, searchability, and adjustable text size Mobile Communication What is mobile communication? Mobile communication involves transmitting information between people and devices using radio waves Smartphones use subscriber identity module (SIM) cards to link the devices to a network carrier, allowing them to make phone calls and send messages Smartphones include features such as: Feature Description SMS messaging Quick communication Messages are stored on the device and can be read at any time Use virtual keyboards and predictive text Page 4 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Phone calls Simple voice communication Requires cellular reception Your notes Voice over internet protocol Audio & visual communication via the internet (VoIP) Requires extra apps installed on the devices Can make & receive calls via smartphone, tablet and computers Requires a forward facing camera for video calls Accessing the internet Requires cellular reception to access on the move Web pages are optimised for smartphone access Automatically used Wi-Fi when in range and connected Mobile payments Uses NFC Camera Smartphones have built-in cameras for video calls Camera can act as a barcode scanner for QR codes Page 5 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Computer Modelling Your notes Computer Modelling What is computer modelling? Computer modelling is using a computer to simulate a real-life system in order to be able to study the behaviour in different scenarios The simulation uses a model to help predict how the system will work in unusual circumstances Examples of modelling application include: Personal finance Bridge and building design Flood water management Traffic management Weather forecasting Advantages and disadvantages of computer modelling Advantages Disadvantages Cheaper than having to build the real thing A computer model will never be 100% accurate Easier to try out a range of different scenarios Results are only as good as the model Safer, can simulate hazardous environments e.g. designed and data entered power station Possibility of human error in the design Faster, can speed up variables that would impact could skew results on results e.g. climate change Testing can be done before real-life construction begins Modelling applications Application Description Page 6 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Personal finance Use of a spreadsheet to test 'what if' scenarios Using spreadsheet functionality to change values and see what impact is Your notes made e.g. the financial impact on a family if household income was to go down Bridge and building Architects will use 3D computer models of bridges and buildings so that a design number of scenarios can be tested In bridge design: How much traffic can the bridge take The effects of natural vibrations The effects of different weather conditions What impact on structural integrity would an accident cause In building design: The effects of different weather conditions Simulating fire evacuation protocols What impact on structural integrity would a fire cause Page 7 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Flood water Computer models allow risk assessments to be made of high risk flooding management areas Your notes Using models and changing variables allows for the design of automated flood defence systems Variables would include: different rivers and sea inlets time of the day previous flood behaviours possible obstructions etc. An automated system allows for: Real-time monitoring Data collection Faster response to changing conditions e.g. advance warning to people Traffic Computer models allow users to see the effect of traffic and accidents on management major road networks The data collected can be used to optimise the traffic light times at different junctions Data collected could include: Time of day Number of vehicles passing the junction from all directions Factors that effect the flow of traffic e.g. pedestrians crossing, accidents etc. After successful modelling has been completed, optimised systems can be built and installed Weather Sensors are used collect data and sent to a central computer forecasting Data collected could include: Air pressure Wind speed Page 8 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Air temperature Humidity Your notes The computer model can then be used to predict weather patterns for the next few days Actual weather is compared to the modelled data to check for accuracy and identify any areas in the model to modify Page 9 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Computer Controlled Systems Your notes Computer Controlled Systems What is a computer controlled system? A computer controlled system uses computers and software to control, monitor, and manage processes, machines, or devices The effectiveness of computer controlled systems depends on the quality of software, hardware, and input data Advantages and disadvantages of computer controlled systems Advantages Disadvantages Increased efficiency and productivity (due to High initial investment and maintenance costs working 24/7) Greater precision and accuracy Job displacement for human workers Ability to operate in hazardous environments Dependency on reliable software and hardware Reduced human error and fatigue Lack of flexibility and adaptability to unexpected situations Can work with large or delicate items Requires costly backup systems Robotics What is robotics? Robotics is the principle of a robot carrying out a task by following a precise set of programmed instructions Robots can be categorised into two groups: Dumb robots Smart robots Page 10 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Repeat the same programmed instructions over and Carries out more complex tasks and can adapt over again (no AI) and learn (AI) Your notes E.g. Car assembly line E.g. Assisting surgeons in delicate procedures The development of artificial intelligence, including the increased use of machine learning and robotics raises ethical and legal issues such as: Accountability Safety Algorithmic bias Legal liability What is the role of robots? Robots play a crucial role in many areas such as: Scenario Role Advantages Disadvantages Industry Quality Advanced vision to inspect May not work on defects that inspector products for defaults, might require human judgement improving quality control Transport Warehouse Efficiency in finding, moving High infrastructure costs and worker and packing, less reliable on potential safety concerns for manual labour human workers sharing the same space Agriculture Planting & Precise planting (optimum High upfront costs, may struggle seeding depths and distances) with uneven terrain and changing machine weather conditions Medicine Rehabilitation Personalised physical therapy Doesn't provide emotional therapist exercises to aid recovery support Page 11 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Domestic Sous chef Assists with meal prep by Limited ability and capabilities doing basic duties (chopping, Your notes measuring and following basic recipes) Entertainment Educational Interactive learning High cost, cannot replace the robot experiences for children, guidance of human teachers increased engagement Worked Example The European Space Agency (ESA) is building a new space telescope to orbit the Earth and search for distant galaxies. The ESA is using computer controlled robots to build the lens of the telescope. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using computer controlled robots rather than humans to build the lens. Answer Max 4 of: Advantages Robots can work in sterile areas where humans would need protective clothing Robots can easily be used for transferring large delicate items Robots can work 24/7 / continuously Cheaper in the long run/robots not paid More accurate as the lens needs to be precise / higher quality of lens More frequent checking of the equipment/lens They do boring/laborious work Issues can be found more quicker Task/job can be carried out far quicker Max 4 of: Disadvantages Very expensive to buy / higher in the short term Maintenance is very expensive Difficult to re-program when changes are made Requires expensive backup systems They replace skilled workers, leading to de-skilling Page 12 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources They need constant observation which increases the cost of maintenance crews If something goes wrong, it may be difficult to find the error Your notes Examiner Tips and Tricks Some of the advantages/disadvantages listed above don't always apply depending on the scenario. Choose the ones appropriate for the scenario in the question You can't get full marks by only focusing on advantages or disadvantages - make sure you know both Don't use short answers like 'it's expensive' - explain your answer Page 13 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources School Management Systems Your notes School Management Systems What is a school management system? A school management system is a software solution designed to centralise and streamline schools administrative tasks Data is stored centrally to improve efficiency Processes that can be included in a school management system include: Registration & attendance Recording learner performance Computer aided learning (CAL) Advantages Disadvantages Streamlined administration and record-keeping Cost Improved communication between teachers, students, and Transition can be time parents - this can be automated consuming and complex Centralised access to information and resources Training is required Data-driven decision-making and insights for teachers and Dependant on technology administrators Data security concerns Information is more up to date Information can be obtained quickly in an emergency Patterns of absence can be found quickly which helps to tackle truancy/lateness Registration & attendance Traditional ways of recording attendance and registration involve a teacher manually inputting data The use of IT systems makes other methods possible, for example magnetic stripe cards and/or biometrics Recording learner performance Page 14 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Using IT systems gives teachers a plethora of information which can be analysed to identify class and individual strengths and areas for development Your notes Data can be used to inform teaching strategies Data can be used to provide individual progress reports Data can be used to critically analyse class/teacher performance Computer aided learning (CAL) The use of computer aided learning is designed to enhance and not replace traditional classroom teaching CAL allows students to work on individual development areas CAL can provide interactive revision resources to aid exam performance Worked Example A school is setting up a new computerised system to manage many aspects of the school administration. a. Describe how this system can be used to manage student registration and attendance. b. Describe the benefits of using this system. Answers a. three of: Student scans a card // teacher records the student as present on the computer system The system records the time of arrival The system sends the data to the school administration database The data is searched in the database If a student arrives after a certain time the student’s attendance record is flagged as late/absent Attendance/lateness records are automatically printed/sent to parents Letters/texts are automatically sent to parents to show the absenteeism/lateness of students Parents can log in into the system to check student’s attendance/lateness records b. two of: Page 15 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources The information is more up to date Information about the student can be obtained quickly after a fire/emergency Information regarding patterns of absence can be found quickly Your notes Helps to tackle truancy/lateness Parents can be informed automatically about patterns of lateness/attendance Lateness is entered consistently in the school Automatic lateness reports for the form tutor can be generated Accurate/up to date records if there is a fire Speeds up the process as attendance is not marked manually Examiner Tips and Tricks It is vital that you read the question carefully and any answers relate directly to the context in the question Page 16 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Online Booking Systems Your notes Online Booking Systems What is an online booking system? An online booking system is a computer system that allows customers to purchases tickets for events online Examples of industries that make use of these systems include: Travel - booking flights, hotels and package holidays Music - Reserving tickets for live music events Film - Booking cinema tickets, allowing customers to pick a seat Sport - Purchasing tickets to sporting events, choosing their view Advantages and disadvantages of online booking systems Advantages Disadvantages Convenience and accessibility (24/7 booking) Potential for technical issues and downtime Instant confirmation and ticketing Possible security and privacy concerns Ability to compare prices and options Transaction and booking fees Promotions and personalised offers Impersonal and less tailored customer service Faster to change/cancel Internet connected devices required Automated reminders via email/text Staff may lose their job Repeated bookings can easily be made Staff are freed up to do other things Page 17 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Case Study Your notes Reserving a seat to watch a film at the cinema. After the user logs in the following process takes place 1. Customer selects the film they want to watch 2. Customer chooses a date 3. The database is searched and times and availability are displayed on the screen 4. Customer chooses a suitable time 5. The screen seating chart is displayed, showing available/taken seats 6. Customer clicks on an available seat 7. Total price is displayed on the screen 8. Customer can choose another seat or click confirm to continue to payment 9. Seat(s) are temporarily made unavailable for booking by any other user 10. Customer checks personal details are correct and enters payment information 11. Payment is taken and confirmation message is displayed 12. Payment receipt and QR code (e-ticket) are emailed 13. Database is updated to make seats unavailable Worked Example RockIT Airlines representatives use a computer booking system to book flights for customers. A representative from the airline types in the customer reference number, the number of passengers, departure time, departure date, departure airport and the destination airport. Describe the processing and outputs involved in making the booking. Answer Six of: Display flights available The booking database is searched for the customer reference number A matching record is retrieved Details of the customer are displayed on the screen The booking database is searched for matching departure airports The booking database is searched for matching destination airports If the flight correct, the date/time found Search if seats/tickets/flights available If unavailable error message output Page 18 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Outputs the price If seats are available, flags seat as booked If not booked then the flag removed Your notes Reduces the number of seats/tickets available by the number booked E-ticket/ticket details are output E-ticket/ticket details sent to customer A receipt is printed//Verification email sent Page 19 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Banking Applications Your notes ATM What is an ATM? An Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) is used in the banking industry to provide customers with convenient access to financial transactions 24/7 Characteristics and uses of ATMs: Withdrawing cash: Obtain money from a bank account Depositing cash or cheques: Add funds to a bank account Checking account balance: View the current balance of a bank account Mini statements: Obtain a summary of recent transactions Bill paying: Settle utility bills and other payments Money transfers: Sending funds to another bank account Advantages and disadvantages of ATMs Advantages Disadvantages Convenient access to banking services Cash withdrawal limits Available 24/7 Risk of theft or fraud Reduced waiting time Limited services compared to bank branches Global access to funds Technical issues and machine downtime Some banks charge for using ATMs EFT What is EFT? Electronic Funds Transfer is a way of moving money from one account to another EFT is used primarily for: Salary deposits Page 20 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Bill payments Online purchases Your notes EFTPOS Electronic Funds Transfer Point Of Sale (EFTPOS) is used by retailers to allow customers to make purchases using a debit/credit cards The process involves: Data being read from the chip (using RFID / NFC if it's a contactless payment) The business bank's computer contacts the customer’s bank's computer The card is checked if it is valid If the card is valid the transaction continues If it is not valid the transaction is terminated An authorisation code is sent to the business The price of the item is deducted from the customer’s account This money is added to the business' account Advantages and disadvantages of EFT Advantages Disadvantages Fast and efficient Risk of online fraud Reduces paperwork Technical issues Lower transaction costs Requires internet connection EFT transactions can be disputed for up to 60 days Requires immediate funds available Internet Banking What is internet banking? Internet banking is a secure online platform for accessing and controlling a persons bank account Internet banking can be accessed via the internet through a secure website or by using the bank's official app on a smartphone Internet bank allows for transfers, bill payments, account management and much more Page 21 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Advantages and disadvantages of Internet banking Advantages Disadvantages Your notes Convenience and 24/7 access Security of transactions Easy account management Requires a reliable internet connection Reduced need for branch visits (saving time More risk of fraud and money) Easier to make errors (typing in the wrong Interest rates may be better information) Easier to shop around for the best account Physical cash can't be deposited/withdrawn Examiner Tips and Tricks Sometimes the question will be about advantages and disadvantages of going to the bank rather than using online banking. Read the question carefully (you can reverse the statements in the table above) Worked Example Adam is paying his bill in a restaurant using a contactless debit card. Describe the computer processing involved in Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) using contactless cards. Answer Four of: The reader checks the amount to pay is less than the contactless limit The data is read from the chip using RFID / NFC The restaurant’s bank's computer contacts the customer’s bank's computer The card is checked if it is valid If valid the transaction continues If not valid the transaction is terminated An authorisation code is sent to the restaurant Page 22 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources The price of the meal is deducted from the customer’s account Added to the restaurant’s account Your notes Page 23 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Computers in Medicine Your notes Information Systems What is an information system? An information system is a purpose built system designed to collect, store, process, distribute and use information In a hospital an information system would be used to: Access patient medical records Appointment scheduling Manage medication dispensing Facilitate communication between doctors, nurses and other healthcare providers Public health reporting Information systems are used by healthcare professionals for making informed decisions about patient care 3D Printers What is a 3D printer? A 3D printer is a machine capable of outputting three-dimensional objects from a digital file 3D printing starts with the creation of a 3D model using computer aided design (CAD) The benefits of 3D printing include: 3D models can be fully customised on the computer before printing Prototyping 3D printers in medicine Printing of prosthetics Custom-made prosthetic limbs or body parts Can be tailored to a patient's specific needs Faster and more affordable than traditional methods Page 24 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Tissue engineering 3D printing of living cells to create functional tissues Can be used to repair or replace damaged organs Your notes Potential to reduce the need for organ donations Artificial blood vessels 3D printed blood vessels made of biodegradable materials Can be used in surgeries to replace damaged vessels Allows for improved blood flow and faster healing Customised medicines 3D printed pills with precise doses and drug combinations Tailored to a patient's specific needs and conditions Potential to improve medication adherence and effectiveness Page 25 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Expert Systems Your notes Expert Systems What is an expert system? An expert system mimics human knowledge and experience and uses a combination of the two to solve problems or answer questions Examples of expert systems include: Equipment troubleshooting and repair Technical support Medical diagnosis system Expert systems share five key characteristics Knowledge base A database of facts to generate rules that are used to solve problems and make decisions Rule base A set of rules or logic that is used to apply the knowledge in the knowledge base to specific problems Inference engine A program that applies the rules in the rule base to the facts in the knowledge base to solve problems Interface A way for users to interact with the system and provide input Explanation Provides the users with explanation and reasoning behind decisions or system recommendations Gives a percentage probability of the accuracy of its conclusions Case Study Movie recommendation system Inputs Page 26 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Indicate favourite genres/directors Rate movies watched (stars/thumbs up, thumbs down etc.) Previous movie searches (keywords) Your notes Inference engine Matching similar movies to users history (based on director/genre/actor/reviews etc.) Filtering movies with similar characteristics as previously watched Filtering movies based on what users with similar tastes have watched/liked Output Display a personalised list of movie recommendations Advantages and disadvantages of expert systems Advantages Disadvantages Consistent results Only as good as the data entered Faster responses Responses can be cold and lack human emotion Can store large amounts of data Requires training to use correctly Unbiased Worked Example Expert systems are used by doctors. a. Describe how an expert system can be used to diagnose illnesses. b. Name two other applications of expert systems. Answers a. five of: An Interactive user interface appears Questions are asked about the illness Yes and No type answers to the questions Answers lead to other questions The inference engine searches the knowledge base Page 27 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Using the rules base Probabilities/possibilities of diagnoses and treatments are displayed Displays the ways it achieved the solutions/conclusions / explanation Your notes b. two of: Mineral prospecting Car engine fault diagnosis Chess games Tax queries Careers recommendations Movie recommendations on streaming platforms Page 28 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Computers in Retail Industry Your notes POS & EFTPOS What is POS & EFTPOS? Point of Sale (POS) is a computer terminal used to read product barcodes Barcodes are used in an automatic stock control system in shops A barcode is part of a process that involves: Every barcode being assigned to a product in stock Each product record contains its price, stock level and a description When a barcode is matched with a record the information is transferred to the POS terminal and the price is displayed on the screen The stock level is reduced by one If the current stock level falls below a minimum reorder stock level it triggers a restocking process automatically Electronic Funds Transfer at the Point of Sale (EFTPOS) is how a payment is made to purchase good or services using a card or electronic devices such as smartphones Examples of EFTPOS include: Chip and Pin Contactless Near field communication devices (NFC) Chip and Pin Contactless NFC Enhance security with two- Allow for faster Facilitate payments through factor authentication transactions smartphones and other devices Require customers to enter a Enable customers to tap personal identification number their card on the terminal Increase convenience for (PIN) customers Internet Shopping Page 29 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources What are the advantages and disadvantages of internet shopping? Your notes Internet shopping is the act of purchasing good or services online through a website or mobile application Characteristics of Internet Shopping Online stores accessible through web browsers Wide variety of products and services are available Convenient and often open 24/7 Advantages and disadvantages to the customer Advantages Disadvantages Time-saving and convenient Security concerns Shop from home or on the go Risk of fraud or identity theft Avoid queues and busy stores Need to provide personal and financial information Greater product variety Limited physical interaction Access to the global market Can't touch or try products before Compare products and prices easily purchasing Customisation options This may lead to dissatisfaction or returns Personalise items or services Delivery delays and fees Tailor purchases to individual Wait for items to be shipped and delivered preferences Additional costs for shipping and handling Potential cost savings Impersonal customer service Competitive pricing due to lower overheads Difficulty resolving issues or returning items Take advantage of online sales and Lack of face-to-face interaction with staff promotions Advantages and disadvantages to the business Page 30 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Advantages Disadvantages Your notes Can target prices, products and services at specific groups Increased Competition based on buying data Digital Fraud and Security Can update stock availability and prices more quickly than a Concerns physical store through their website Technical Issues and Cheaper to publicise special offers rather than mail shots Downtime International customer base Costs of Delivery and Returns Increased profits due to lower overheads (e.g. fewer staff) Customer Trust Inventory Management Depersonalisation Online Reviews Dependency on Internet Infrastructure Logistical Challenges Legal and Regulatory Compliance Increased Customer Expectations Worked Example Modern supermarkets have automated stock control systems, which use data from the checkouts. Describe how food items can be ordered by an automated stock control system so they are delivered before the stock in the supermarket runs out. Answer four of: Each item is scanned/bar code is read at the POS terminal Bar code is searched in the database Page 31 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources The quantity of products is reduced The stock database is updated When the minimum stock number/level/reorder level is reached Your notes Reads re-order quantity Goods flagged as ordered The automated stock system sends a signal to the warehouse computer to order new items The warehouse sends the items to the supermarket Re-order quantity is found in the database Flags removed The stock control system updates the stock levels in the stock control database with the new stock Page 32 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Recognition Systems Your notes What is a recognition system? A recognition system is a way of using computer technology to automatically identify something Common examples of recognition systems include: Facial recognition Speech recognition Optical character recognition OMR & OCR What is OMR? Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) detects marked areas on paper by using a special machine to read the marks Examples include: Multiple-choice examination Barcodes QR codes Automates data collection and entry Page 33 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources An OMR form being filled in Advantages Disadvantages Your notes Fast and efficient data collection Limited to predetermined responses Reduces manual entry errors Sensitive to poor marking or smudging What is OCR? Optical Character Recognition (OCR) converts printed or handwritten text into digital format Useful for digitising documents Assists in searching and editing text Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) is an example of OCR For example, reading number plates and controlled entry and exit at airport parking Advantages Disadvantages No staff required Privacy concerns as number plates are recorded Faster, no need to stop and take tickets etc Number plates can be cloned Stops cars parking illegally, cannot enter without authorisation Dirty or broken number plates can not be read Lack of staff could lead to vandalism RFID & NFC What is RFID? Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFIDs) use radio waves to identify and track objects Examples of where RFID can be used is: Stock tracking Passports Vehicles Page 34 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Contactless payment RFID tags are made of a microchip and antenna and can be either: Your notes Passive - uses energy from the reader Active - has it's own power source Stock tracking Livestock tracking on a farm Keeping track of animals Location Medical data Active tags would be used due to the distance involved Passports Passive chips in passports Read by a reader to decrypt data stored on the chip Personal details Photo Fingerprints Vehicles Track progress on assembly line Used on toll roads to automate payment and raise barriers Entry and exit to carparks What is NFC? Near field communication (NFC) is a subset of RFID which allows communication between two devices in very close proximity NFC can be either: Passive - uses energy from the reader Active - has it's own power source Smartphones use active NFC to allow contactless payments by tapping a smartphone on a reader Smartphones can also exchange data using NFC by tapping together (usually back to back) Page 35 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Worked Example Your notes A farmer has purchased a computerised feeding system for her goats. A goat has an RFID tag attached to its ear, which is recognised by the computer. The system uses a passive RFID tag. a. Describe how the RFID tag can be activated. b. Describe how RFID technology will be used to give the correct feed to the animal. Answers a. three of: The RFID reader sends radio waves / signals to the RFID antenna in the tag The tag sends radio wave/signal back to the reader The radio waves move from the tag’s antenna to the microchip A signal is generated and sent back to the RF system The RF wave is detected by the reader which interprets the data b. three of: The goat passes the RFID reader The RFID reader extracts data from the tag The ID is compared with data stored in the database The feed for the goat is then selected/identified / read from the database Page 36 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Satellite Systems Your notes GPS What is GPS? Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite system used to track the exact location of an object GPS uses orbiting satellites to receive, amplify and transmit signals Radio frequencies are used to communicate between satellites and ground stations GPS requires a direct line of sight Case Study Sat nav in a car The position/location of the car is calculated using GPS software Data is transmitted every few seconds An algorithm calculates the speed/location of the car The map is updated every few seconds Advantages Disadvantages Wide coverage area Expensive setup and maintenance Real-time data transmission Signal interference due to weather or obstacles Improved communication in remote locations Limited bandwidth and capacity Accurate location tracking Privacy concerns and potential for Surveillance GIS What is GIS? A geographic information system (GIS) is a powerful computer system that acts as a database for geographic data Any data that contains a location component can be stored, such as: Page 37 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Physical features - Rivers, mountains and roads Man-made - Buildings, utilities (electricity, water, gas) Your notes Social and economic - demographics, crime rates and/or property value Two main features of a GIS are: Analyse geographic data to find patterns/trends/relationships Visualise geographic data using maps (easier to understand) Examples of where a GIS may be used include: Assigning closest emergency services to an emergency Businesses analysing customer demographic, competitors and possible gaps in the market Tracking deforestation, monitoring pollution and mapping wildlife habitats Advantages Disadvantages Overlaying data based on location to reveal Cost hidden patterns Only as good as the data it uses Visual representations allows for better decision making Need specialised training to understand visual elements properly Automation Data privacy concerns Better communication & collaboration Media Communication What is media communication? Media communication is a system of creating, transmitting, storing and delivering media content using a global network of satellites Media transmission includes: TV signals Radio signals Internet data Media communication systems can also act as relays, bouncing signals over a large distance, for example: Page 38 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers  Head to www.savemyexams.com for more awesome resources Broadcasting live events to a global audience Ensuring a wider reach to geographically hard to reach places Your notes Advantages Disadvantages Global coverage Tine delays can cause audio/video sync issues High bandwidth Bad weather can affect quality of signal received Cheaper, no cables required Satellites need regular monitoring and maintenance Secure encrypted transmissions Worked Example Modern-day drivers rely less on paper maps and more on satellite navigation systems (satnav). Describe the inputs, outputs and processing of a satnav when used by a driver to reach a destination. Answer Four of: Destination is input by driver Exact position of motor vehicle is continually calculated using GPS Using data transmitted from 3 / 4 satellites The on board computer contains pre-stored road maps The car’s position is displayed on the map/route displayed The algorithm calculates the route from the current car’s position to the destination Makes allowances for traffic jams/roadworks The car system receives regular updates on traffic conditions Outputs the journey time/ETA of journey/voice output Calculates the journey time / ETA of journey time Outputs speed limits/cameras / warning speed limit Page 39 of 39 © 2015-2024 Save My Exams, Ltd. · Revision Notes, Topic Questions, Past Papers