ICT Chapter 1 Exam Review Flashcards

Flashcards reviewing hardware, storage, input/output devices, data capture, security, and directory structures based on ICT Chapter 1 questions.

What calculation gives the total number of bits in a CPU's $16\text{ MiB}$ cache memory?

$16 \times 1024^2 \times 8$ (or $16 \times 1024 \times 1024 \times 8$)

What two factors affect the read/write speed of a hard disk drive?

1. The latency of the read/write head. 2. The revolutions per minute (RPM) at which the platter/disk spins.

Why does a game distributed on a DVD-R optical disc not require rewritable media?

Game progress is stored on local storage (hard disk, SSD, or Cloud) which has faster write access, or the DVD data does not need updating because it functions as authentication.

How does an inkjet printer differ from a laser printer in operation and print output?

Inkjet printers spray liquid ink droplets using a moving print head (producing high-resolution images, though text can smudge), whereas laser printers use a laser to draw patterns on a drum and fuse toner using electrostatic charge (printing faster and producing sharper text).

Why can a smartphone determine a user's location without an active Internet connection?

The phone uses Global Positioning System (GPS), which receives signals directly from satellites rather than needing Internet data.

How does Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) process data from forms?

Data forms are scanned and analysed by software to detect whether marks or responses are present in specific pre-defined positions.

Why does Near-Field Communication (NFC) speed up retail transaction payments?

NFC is a contactless technology, allowing customers to tap or scan their card without inserting it into a terminal or entering a PIN.

What does a CPU clock speed specification of $2.3\text{ GHz}$ represent?

It indicates the operating speed of the processor, specifically that it executes $2.3 \times 10^9$ instruction cycles (or clock ticks) per second.

What are the key benefits to a business of using barcode readers at point-of-sale checkouts?

1. Faster transaction speeds, reducing customer queues. 2. Improved input accuracy, reducing human error and enabling instant stock control and price updates.

What methods can an organization use to ensure that stored customer personal data remains accurate and up-to-date?

Periodically asking customers to verify/update details, setting system data validation checks, restricting data entry with drop-down menus, using automated postcode address lookups, and checking data against official documentation.

Why is flash memory often more suitable for data backups than optical storage media?

Flash memory devices provide larger storage capacity, significantly faster read/write speeds, and greater physical durability against damage or corruption.

What are the main advantages and drawbacks of biometric security access systems?

Advantages: Users do not need to carry physical IDs or remember passwords; biometric features are unique and cannot be easily stolen. Drawbacks: Readers may fail to scan correctly; temporary physical injuries can prevent access; system power or software failures can lock users out.

How is a 'printer is out of paper' status message generated and displayed to a computer user?

A sensor inside the printer detects the lack of paper, sends an interrupt signal to the operating system, and system software displays the alert message on the monitor.

What system settings and specialized hardware can assist a user with visual impairment?

Settings: High contrast themes, increased font/icon size, lower screen resolution, screen magnifiers, and screen narrator/audio output. Hardware: Braille keyboard, Braille display, Braille printer, or larger high-resolution monitors.

What is the formal definition of an icon in a graphical user interface?

A small picture, symbol, or image used to represent, open, run, or contain a specific task, command, application, file, or folder.

Why is storing data on a microchip preferable to storing data on a magnetic stripe?

Microchips provide better encryption and security (requiring PIN verification), possess built-in processing power, and are encased in protective plastic, making them far less susceptible to corruption or magnetic field damage.

What advantages does Wi-Fi have when compared directly to Bluetooth?

Wi-Fi offers a significantly wider transmission range, higher data transfer speeds, and stronger security options.

In Diagram 3, which listed items correspond to folders, subfolders, and fixed storage devices?

Folders: items 1, 8, 12, 13, 14. Subfolders: items 9, 10, 11. Fixed storage device: item 3 (Local Disk C:).

Which specifications of Laptop B make it more suitable for a traveling salesman compared to Laptop A?

A longer battery life ($6\text{ hours}$ vs $2\text{ hours}$) for travel without power outlets, a lighter weight ($1.3\text{ kg}$ vs $2.9\text{ kg}$), a smaller screen size ($10.1\text{ inches}$) for confined spaces, and a built-in webcam for video conferencing.

What key decisions must be made when establishing a system backup strategy?

Selecting the storage media type, choosing a secure/offsite backup location, deciding which files to back up, determining backup frequency, setting encryption/access permissions, and scheduling automated backup times.