Computer Science System Design

Key Concepts in System Design

1.2 Overview of Components of a Computer System

• Hardware: Physical parts of a computer.

• Software: Programs and instructions.

• Peripheral: External devices for I/O operations.

• Network: Interconnected devices for communication.

• Human Resources: People in the organization, including end-users.

1.2.1 Hardware

• Internal Hardware: Motherboard, Hard Drives, RAM.

• External Hardware: Monitors, Keyboards, Mice, Printers, Scanners.

1.2.2 Peripherals

• Input: Devices that send data (e.g., Keyboard, Mouse).

• Output: Devices that receive data (e.g., Monitor, Printer).

  • Also known as I/O devices.

1.2.3 Network

• Devices for communication, ranging from a few to billions.

• Includes LAN (Local Area Network) and WAN (Wide Area Network).

1.2.4 Software

• Virtual aspect of computing, stored in binary code.

• Examples: applications, scripts.

1.2.5 Human Resources

• Refers to end-users interfacing with the system.

System Design and Analysis

Requirements Gathering

• Identify stakeholders: crucial for planning.

• Methods include: surveys, interviews, observations.

Representations and Prototypes

• Illustrate system requirements, demonstrate concepts, refine through iteration.

User Involvement

• Lack of end-user involvement risks poor system engagement.

Social and Ethical Considerations

• Issues in a connected world, ethical implications of IT systems.

Usability and Accessibility

Defining Usability

• Usability: Ease of use and effectiveness.

Common Usability Issues

• Identifying problems in digital devices.

Improving Accessibility

• Enhance system accessibility for diverse users.

Implications of Human-Machine Interaction

• Consider moral, ethical, economic, social, and environmental impacts.