CAIE AS Level Computer Science Flashcards

A comprehensive set of flashcards aimed at preparing students for the CAIE AS Level Computer Science exam by reviewing key concepts and definitions.

Data Representation

The method used to represent information in a computer system, including formats like denary (base 10) and binary (base 2).

Binary System

A system that uses two digits, 0 and 1, to represent data and information.

ASCII

A character encoding standard that represents English characters using numbers, with values between 0 and 127.

Extended ASCII

An extension of ASCII that includes additional characters to represent most European languages' alphabets.

Unicode

A character encoding standard that can represent characters from multiple languages, supporting a wide range of character sets.

Bitmap Images

Images created by assigning colors to individual pixels using a grid of bits.

Image Resolution

The number of pixels that make up an image, affecting the clarity and detail.

Colour Depth

The number of bits used to represent the color of a single pixel in an image.

Analogue vs Digital Data

Analogue data consists of continuous signals, while digital data consists of discrete signals.

Sampling Rate

The number of samples taken per unit of time to convert an analogue signal into a digital signal.

Lossless Compression

Compression that allows the original data to be perfectly reconstructed from the compressed file.

Lossy Compression

Compression that irreversibly eliminates some data, resulting in reduced file sizes but lowered quality.

Client-Server Model

A computing model where a dedicated server provides resources and services to client devices.

Peer-to-Peer Network Model

A decentralized network where each connected computer operates independently, acting as both client and server.

Network Topologies

The layout of connected devices in a network, including bus, star, and mesh topologies.

Cloud Computing

On-demand access to computing resources and services over the internet.

Public Cloud

Cloud services provided by third-party vendors and shared among multiple users.

Private Cloud

Cloud infrastructure owned and operated by a single organization, providing exclusive access to its users.

IP Address

A unique address assigned to each device on a network to allow for communication.

Static IP Address

An IP address that does not change and is often used for devices that need consistent access.

Dynamic IP Address

An IP address that changes periodically, typically assigned by a DHCP server.

Operating System (OS)

Software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for application programs.

Antivirus Software

Programs designed to detect and remove malware from a computer.

Database Management System (DBMS)

Software that allows for the creation, manipulation, and management of databases.

Data Normalization

The process of organizing data to reduce redundancy and improve data integrity.

SQL (Structured Query Language)

A programming language used to manage and manipulate relational databases.

Encryption

The process of converting information into a secure format to prevent unauthorized access.