Edexcel-IAL-IT-Topic1-Hardware_and_Software-Part.2

Practice flashcards covering Topic 1: Hardware and Software, including storage types, system architecture, binary conversions, and software licensing.

What is non-volatile storage?

Computer storage that retains its data when the power is removed.

What is random access memory (RAM)?

A type of volatile memory in a computer that stores currently running data and programs.

What is the role of read only memory (ROM)?

A type of non-volatile memory used to store start-up instructions for the computer.

How is a sensor defined in the context of input devices?

A type of input device that captures data from its immediate surroundings.

What effect does a touchscreen have on device design?

It allows the keyboard and screen to be combined into one, saving space and enabling larger displays or smaller device sizes.

What is the purpose of an accelerometer in a mobile device?

To change the orientation of the screen depending on which way the device is held.

How does the amount of RAM affect a device's design?

Larger memory hardware takes up more physical space, which can make a device less portable.

What is the difference between current liquid electrolyte batteries and solid-state batteries?

Solid-state batteries use solid electrolytes, are more efficient, lighter, and more compact than standard lithium liquid electrolyte batteries.

What is miniaturisation?

The process of fitting more transistors onto an integrated circuit ($IC$) so a device can be smaller while maintaining performance.

What is an embedded system?

A type of system that has a dedicated purpose or limited functions and is built into a single electronic chip.

What is the Raspberry Pi an example of?

A single-board computer that performs all computer functions on a single miniaturised board.

If a processor has a clock speed of $3.5\,GHz$, how many instructions can it process per second?

$3.5$ billion instructions per second.

How does a dual-core processor differ from a single-core processor?

A dual-core processor can process two instructions at the same time, whereas a single core processes one at a time.

What is the benefit of including RFID tags in items like golf balls?

It helps users keep track of the items and find them more easily if they are lost.

What is a Quick response (QR) code?

A type of barcode that contains data such as a link to a web page or online document.

What is the internet of things (IoT)?

The network of everyday home devices (fridges, toasters) and sensors connected to the internet.

What is technological convergence?

When two or more devices are combined to create a single device, product, or service, such as a smart TV or tablet.

What is a microprocessor?

A small version of a processor where all data is processed using a single or limited number of integrated circuits.

Which two programs are contained within the firmware of an embedded system?

The basic input/output system ($BIOS$) and the bootloader.

What is the function of the bootloader?

It is responsible for loading the operating system when a computer is turned on.

How is bandwidth defined?

The maximum amount of data that can be transferred from one device to another in a set amount of time.

What unit is used to measure a processor's clock speed?

Gigahertz ($GHz$).

In binary conversion, what are the decimal units for an $8$-bit binary number?

$128, 64, 32, 16, 8, 4, 2, 1$.

What is the binary equivalent of the denary number $13$?

$1101$.

According to the International Electrotechnical Commission ($IEC$), how many bytes are in a kibibyte ($KiB$)?

$1024$ bytes.

How many bits are in a single byte?

$8$ bits.

What is the difference between systems software and application software?

Systems software helps the computer run efficiently and maintain hardware, while application software performs specific tasks for the user (like word processing).

What is a driver?

A type of systems software that allows peripheral devices to communicate with the operating system.

What is an interrupt signal?

A signal sent to the processor by a peripheral device to get its attention for a task.

What is the main difference between free software and open-source software regarding cost?

Free software refers to user freedom and may charge a fee; open-source software is nearly always provided without a fee.

What defines proprietary software?

It is software not distributed with the source code, meaning users cannot study, modify, or redistribute the code.

What does a 'No derivatives' Creative Commons licence mean?

A user can modify the software but they cannot share the modification with others.

What is an institutional software licence?

A licence that allows all computers belonging to an organisation to have the software installed, usually based on the number of users.

What is a software patch?

A quick-fix released by a developer to fix errors, improve functionality, or repair security vulnerabilities.

What are compatibility issues in software updates?

Problems that arise when a software update causes the application to not function properly, often due to older hardware.