ICT Exam Notes

1(a) Smartphone Sensor Uses:
- Detect orientation for screen rotation.
- Track steps for fitness applications.
1(b)(i) Advantages of Wired Connection:
- More secure connection.
- Faster data transfer speeds.
1(b)(ii) Advantages of Wireless Connection:
- Increased mobility.
- No physical cables required.
1(c) SIM Card Connectivity:
- D) 4G
1(d)(i) Diagram for Internet Connection Sharing:
- Kiki's smartphone acts as a hotspot, sharing its mobile data connection.
- Zara's tablet connects to the smartphone via Wi-Fi.
- The connection is labeled as Wi-Fi or hotspot.
1(d)(ii) Affect on Bandwidth:
- Sharing an internet connection reduces the bandwidth available to Kiki's smartphone because the available bandwidth is split between the smartphone and the tablet.
1(e) Shared Functionality Term:
- Convergence
1(f) Function of a CPU:
- The CPU (Central Processing Unit) processes instructions and performs calculations to control the operations of the smartphone.
1(g) Purpose of Application Software:
- Application software allows the user to perform specific tasks, such as browsing the web, playing games, or creating documents.
1(h) Benefit of Solid State Storage:
- Solid state storage offers faster data access times and increased durability compared to traditional hard drives.
1(i) Open Source Operating System Source Code:
- B) It is made available to users

2(a) Function of a Router:
- A router forwards data packets between different networks, enabling devices to connect to the internet and communicate with each other.
2(b) Benefits of Online TV:
- Access to a wide range of content on demand.
- Ability to watch TV on multiple devices.
2(c) Description of the Situation (Figure 1):
- Zara has been a victim of ransomware. Her files have been encrypted, and she is being asked to pay a ransom in Bitcoin to regain access to them.
2(d) Benefits of Connecting Tablet to TV:
- Larger screen for viewing content.
- Improved audio experience.
2(e) Methods to Prevent Unauthorised Access:
- Password protection.
- Biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition).
- Multi-factor authentication.
2(f) Advantage of Hosted Applications:
- Hosted applications do not require local installation, saving storage space and reducing the processing load on the tablet.
2(g) Advantage of Locally Installed Applications:
- Locally installed applications can be used offline without an internet connection.

3(a) Description of Bluetooth:
- C) A type of wireless connection
3(b)(i) Why Bluetooth over Infrared:
- Bluetooth has a longer range and does not require line of sight, unlike infrared.
3(b)(ii) Factors Affecting Transfer Speed:
- Distance between devices.
- Interference from other electronic devices.
3(c) How Encryption Helps:
- Encryption converts data into an unreadable format, so that even if intercepted, it cannot be understood without the decryption key.
3(d) Information from GPS Data:
- Speed.
- Distance traveled.
3(e) Risks of Using GPS Data on Social Networks:
- Sharing location data can allow others to track a user's movements and potentially lead to stalking or burglary.
3(f) Expression for Bits in 4 MiB:
- $4 \text{ MiB} = 4 \times 1024 \text{ KiB} = 4 \times 1024 \times 1024 \text{ B} = 4 \times 1024 \times 1024 \times 8 \text{ bits}$
- $4 \times 2^{20} \times 8 \text{ bits} = 2^{2} \times 2^{20} \times 2^{3} \text{ bits} = 2^{25} \text{ bits} = 33554432 \text{ bits}$
3(g) Positive Impacts of Internet on Companies:
- Wider reach to potential customers globally.
- Reduced overhead costs compared to physical stores.

4(a)(i) Negative Effects on Fitness for Purpose:
- Bias: Information presents a one-sided view.
- Age: Information is outdated and no longer relevant.
- Reliability: Information comes from an untrustworthy source.
4(a)(ii) Property Affecting Fitness for Purpose:
- D) Relevance
4(a)(iii) Improvement of Search Result Ranking:
- A) Acknowledged sources
4(b) Importance of Keywords:
- Keywords determine the relevance of search results. Using specific and accurate keywords helps to narrow down the search and find more appropriate information.
4(c) Why Different Results:
- Search engines use algorithms that personalize results based on user's search history, location, and other factors.
4(d) Protocol for Data Transfer:
- B) HTTPS
4(e) How MAC Addresses Prevent Access:
- MAC addresses can be used to create a whitelist of allowed devices on a network. Only devices with approved MAC addresses can access the network.
4(f) Impact of Cloud Services on Information Gap:
- Cloud-based services have the potential to bridge the information gap by providing affordable access to software and data storage, but disparities in internet access and digital literacy can limit the benefits for the information poor.

5(a) Example of a Wide Area Network:
- The Internet
5(b) Peripheral Devices for Accessibility:
- Peripheral device 1: Screen reader.
  - How it supports accessibility needs: Converts on-screen text into audible speech for visually impaired users.
- Peripheral device 2: Eye-tracking device.
  - How it supports accessibility needs: Allows users with motor impairments to control the computer using eye movements.
5(c) Benefits of a Local Area Network for Teachers:
- Easy file sharing and collaboration among teachers.
- Centralized management of resources and software.
5(d) Other Backup Procedure:
- Full backup
5(e) Purpose of Acceptable Use Policy:
- An acceptable use policy outlines the rules and guidelines for using the school's network and computer systems, promoting responsible and ethical behavior.
5(f) Purpose of Communication Software:
- Communication software enables users to send and receive messages, share ideas, and collaborate with others, facilitating effective interaction.
5(g) Impact of VLEs on Learners:
- VLEs (Virtual Learning Environments) provide learners with access to course materials, online assessments, and communication tools, enhancing their learning experience and promoting independent study.