Learn about business systems used by IT companies including MIS, SOP, CRM and help desk. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification. 3.5 - Business Systems Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 1 A business may use several types of complex systems to manage data , communicate with customers and ensure efficient business practice . Management Information System (MIS) A management information system (MIS ) is used to collect , store , analyse and present data for an organisation. The system processes a large amount of data and organises it (such as in databases) so that it can be used for decision-making and general data analysis . An efficient MIS can be used to display the financial status of an organisation, highlight areas of improvement and generate sales forecasts based on current data. Specifically, a bank could use an MIS for: Looking at the number of customers that visit each branch . Forecasting potential profits based on historical data of previous years. Profiling customers based on their actions and behaviour . Identifying specific customers with low activity to target them for email campaigns . Benefits of an MIS: Integrated system: A Management Information System shares a large amount of data from multiple departments within an organisation to produce accurate reports. For example, financial data can be used to generate accurate pay slips. Decision Making: An MIS can be used to inform an organisation's decision making by highlighting areas that need improvement within the company. Powerful analysis: An MIS will use large data sets to provide accurate data analysis that can be used in many different ways by an organisation. Trends and patterns can be identified easily. Backup capabilities: Data can be stored centrally and backed up easily if a disaster occurs. Limitations of an MIS: Cost and installation: An MIS is an expensive tool that needs to be professionally set up and requires technical knowledge to maintain. Requires accurate data: If any data is incorrect or out of date then the analysis will consequently be inaccurate . Potentially disastrous decisions could be made as a result of incorrect data. Training: Employees will need to be trained to use the software accurately for maximum efficiency. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) A CRM system is used to improve the relationship between an organisation and its customers . It can be used to increase customer loyalty with those who already subscribe to their services as well as used to try and increase the customer base by attracting new customers. The ultimate goal of a CRM system is to increase and retain customers which will result in more sales and higher profits . Examples of CRM systems: Marketing teams tracking which promotions customers are responding well to . Customer service teams responding quickly to customer complaints , through a variety of channels (such as social media, emails and telephone calls). Marketing teams rewarding customers who have spent a certain amount in a year. Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) A standard operating procedure is a comprehensive step-by-step guide of how to carry out a business routine. An organisation will create an SOP to abide by legal requirements and high company standards . SOPs must be followed in exactly the same method each time and by each employee to ensure the same outcome and remove any inconsistencies . Benefits of Standard Operating Procedures: Ensures consistency: The outcome should be the same each time when following SOPs which ensures an efficient result . Fewer errors: If all employees follow the SOP carefully then there should be no errors . Meets legal requirements : The SOPs will be designed to meet up-to-date legislation as well as any standards that the company have set. Limitations of Standard Operating Procedures: Inflexible practice: A lot of time may be spent on creating the paperwork and admin instead of the actual job. Legal updates: The SOPs must be periodically reviewed and updated to take into account any new laws . Sales Ordering Process (SOP) This is the process of a customer buying a product or service and the company reviewing the purchase . A sales order process ( SOP ) is important as it creates a clear plan for ordering a product . Each department can use the sales order to know exactly what jobs to perform. Help Desk Help desk software is used to provide real-time support to a user from a trained member of staff to overcome a technical problem . The customer logs an issue in the form of a ticket and is assigned a technician . As the technician tries to communicate with the user and solve the issue they must follow a service level agreement that defines the high standards the technician must keep to. When the problem has been solved the ticket is closed . All tickets are archived so that persistent problems can be checked to see what worked previously . If Help Desk software is used within a company by employees (rather than with external customers) to report and solve issues, it is known as ' in-house ' . Benefits of Help Desk software: Keeping Track: C ustomers can see that their issues are being dealt with and administrators have clear records of the problem. Audit Logs: All tickets are archived so if a problem occurs on the same machine the previous solution can be attempted again . Communication : Formal messages between the customer and the administrator mean there are no mixed messages and a running dialogue can take place as the problem is fixed. Limitations of Help Desk software: Cost : Setting up the necessary software and hardware and paying for an administrator to run the system can cost a large amount of money. Availability issues: A technician might not be available 24/7 or during holidays. Formal structure: This is a formal system that takes time to record and respond to which might annoy staff when it is only a minor issue to be fixed, like resetting a password. Knowledge: Technicians need technical expertise regarding the company's computer systems and need to be able to fix both hardware and software issues. This might require additional training every few years. Ticket Response Time: Administrators must ensure that all tickets are read and responded to in reasonable time so that productivity in the company is not affected. Q uesto's Q uestions 3.5 - Business Systems: 1a. What is the purpose of an MIS ? [ 2 ] 1b. Describe 3 ways a bank could use an MIS . [ 3 ] 1c. Describe the benefits and limitations of an MIS . [10 ] 2a. What is the purpose of a CRM ? [ 4 ] 2b. Describe 3 ways that a CRM could be used by a company . [6 ] 3a. What are standard operating procedures (SOP ) and why are they used? [ 4 ] 3b. Describe the benefits and limitations of SOPs . [ 10 ] 4a. What is the sales ordering process ( SOP )? [ 2 ] 4b. Why is the SOP important in a company? [ 2 ] 4c. Summarise the 3 stages of the SOP . [ 4 ] 5a. What is the purpose of help desk software? [ 2 ] 5b. Explain how help desk works , including tickets , technicians and service level agreements . [3 ] 5c. Describe the benefits and limitations of Help Desks . [ 10 ] A typical sales order process will work as follows: 1. The customer orders a product or service, usually via an email or telephone conversation . 2. The order is confirmed and a sales order is created. This is a document that lists the customer’s requirements and exactly what they have purchased . 3. The sales order is sent to the relevant departments (e.g. production , finance and delivery ) so they can fulfil the customer’s request . Once the order has been completed, the customer will be sent an invoice for payment . 3.4 - Connection Methods Topic List 4.1 - Communication Methods

Learn about the five main roles of an operating system including CPU management, security, managing processes and the user interface. Based on the J277 OCR GCSE Computer Science specification (first taught from 2020 onwards). 5.1: Operating Systems Exam Board: OCR Specification: J277 Watch on YouTube : Operating Systems What is an Operating System? An operating system (OS ) is software that helps to manage the resources of a computer system and provide the interface between the user and the computer’s hardware . There are five main functions of an operating system: Memory Management & Multitasking All programs must be temporarily stored in RAM for the CPU to be able to process them. The OS transfers programs in and out of memory from the hard drive (or virtual memory ) when processing is required - programs are removed from RAM when closed to free up space for other tasks. The operating system can only perform one process at a time , but through memory management it can appear that more than one process is being executed - this is called multitasking . Peripherals Management & Drivers A peripheral is an external device connected to a computer system to input or output data . Data is transferred between external devices and the processor and this process needs to be managed by the operating system . A device driver is a program that provides an interface for the OS to interact and communicate with an external device . Drivers are hardware dependent and OS-specific . The driver translates the OS’ instructions into a format the specific hardware can understand . Because the CPU and the peripheral will process data at different speeds , a buffer is typically used to temporarily store data until it can be processed . User Management The OS allows users to create , manage and delete individual accounts . User accounts can be granted different access rights such as an administrator or guest . The OS will manage security settings such as allowing passwords to be reset and can also be used to monitor login activity . File Management The operating system creates and maintains a logical management system to organise files and directories (folders ). File management allows files to be named , renamed , opened , copied , moved , saved , searched for , sorted and deleted . It also allows users to set access rights for specific files and to view file properties . User Interface The final function of an operating system is to provide a user interface , allowing a human to interact with the computer system . The way in which a user can navigate a computer system is known as human-computer interaction ( HCI ). Graphical User Interface (GUI) The most common type of user interface is a graphical user interface (GUI ) which can be presented in the following ways: Icons are displayed to represent shortcuts to applications and files. Multiple windows can be opened at the same time and switched between. A folder and file system is displayed and manipulated allowing for copying , searching , sorting and deleting data. The interface can be customised , such as changing font sizes and the desktop background . The taskbar allows shortcuts to be pinned for quick access . Menus can be opened from the Start button to display files and shortcuts. System settings can be accessed such as network and hardware options . Command-Line Interface Other types of user interface do exist, such as a command-line interface (CLI ). This type of interface is entirely text-based and requires users to interact with the system by typing commands . This is a complicated process and mistakes could easily accidentally delete data. There are many commands to learn so only experts who have been trained t o learn this interface will be able to efficiently make use of it. Other Interfaces Humans can interact with computers using other types of interface , such as: Touch-sensitive interface (e.g. smartphones ). Voice-sensitive interface (e.g. smart speakers ). Menu-driven interface (e.g. ATMs in banks). Q uesto's Q uestions 5.1 - Operating Systems: 1. Describe each role of the operating system : Providing a user interface [ 3 ] Memory management (and multitasking) [ 3 ] Peripheral management (and drivers) [ 3 ] User management [ 3 ] File management [ 3 ] 2. Describe 5 different ways the operating system can provide a graphical user interface (GUI) . [5 ] 4.2 - Preventing Vulnerabilities Theory Topics 5.2 - Utility Software

Learn about key mnemonics used in assembly language and how very simple programs can be created. Assembly Language Assembly language is a low-level programming language - it is closer to machine code (binary) than high-level programming languages like Python. Assembly language uses mnemonics (abbreviations of commands) to signify instructions; for example, input is written as INP and output is written as OUT . Little Man Computer is a representation of assembly language . This simulator will help you understand assembly language and allow you to check if your instructions are correct. Assembly Language Mnemonics INP (Input) INP is used to input a number . The number is temporarily stored in the accumulator . OUT (Output) OUT is used to output the number currently stored in the accumulator . STA (Store) STA stores the value that is currently in the accumulator . It can be used to assign a value to a variable. ADD (Addition) ADD is used to add a number to the value currently stored in the accumulator. SUB (Subtraction) SUB takes away a number from the value currently stored in the accumulator. LDA (Load) LDA is used to load the value of a stored variable back into the accumulator . BRZ (Branch if Zero) BRZ is used to loop only if the value in the accumulator is currently 0 . BRP (Branch if Positive) BRP is used to loop only if the value in the accumulator is currently positive (including 0). BRA (Branch Always) BRA is used to loop continuously . HLT (Halt) HLT will stop running the program . Every program MUST have a HLT command. DAT (Data Definition) DAT must be used to define a variable name (and / or set it with a starting value). Data definitions must be written at the end of the instructions . Peter Higginson's Little Man Computer simulation Examples of Simple Assembly Language Programs #1 - Input & Output Program Purpose: Input a number, store the number as a variable called Number1 and output the number. 1. Lets the user input a number 3. Outputs the value in the accumulator - which will be the number that was just inputted. 5. Defines a variable called 'Number1'. This has to be at the end of the program and you must write the variable name first, not the command first. INP STA Number1 OUT HLT Number1 DAT 2. Stores the number in a variable named 'Number1' - there must be no spaces in a variable name. 4. Halts (stops) the program. Type these instructions line by line into the Little Man Computer simulator to see how it works. #2 - Addition Program Purpose: Input and store two numbers. Add them together. Output the total. 1. Lets the user input a number 3. Lets the user input another number 5. Adds number1 to the value in the accumulator (which is currently number2 as you just inputted it). 7. Halts the program. Type these instructions line by line into the Little Man Computer simulator to see how it works. Then change the program to subtract the number instead. INP STA Number1 INP STA Number2 ADD Number1 OUT HLT Number1 DAT Number2 DAT 2. Stores the inputted number in a variable named 'Number1'. 4. Stores the inputted number in a variable named 'Number2'. 6. Outputs the value in the accumulator (which is now number1 added to number2. 8. & 9. The two variables Number1 and Number2 are defined on separate lines. #3 - Load in Order Program Purpose: Input and store three numbers. Load and output them in the order that they were entered. 1. - 6. Lets the user input three numbers and immediately stores each one as they are entered. 8. Now that Number1 has been loaded into the accumulator, this value is outputted. 13. Halts the program. Type these instructions line by line into the Little Man Computer simulator to see how it works. Let the user input a fourth number and output this fourth number last . INP STA Number1 INP STA Number2 INP STA Number3 LDA Number1 OUT LDA Number2 OUT LDA Number3 OUT HLT Number1 DAT Number2 DAT Number3 DAT 14. - 16. The three variables Number1, Number2 & Number3 are defined on separate lines. 9. - 12. Number2 is loaded and output then Number3 is loaded and output 7. Once all three numbers have been inputted and stored, the first number is loaded back into the accumulator. #4 - Branching Program Purpose: Input and store two numbers. Output the largest number. (Branching required). 1. - 4. Lets the user input two numbers and immediately stores each one as they are entered. 7. BRP is 'Branch is Positive'. If the result of Number1 - Number2 is positive then the program will jump to line 11. You can write any value instead of 'loop', such as 'jump' or 'break'. If the result is not positive it will continue to the next line. 11. - 13. The program will jump to line 11 if the result of Number1 - Number2 is positive. This means that Number1 is larger than Number2 so Number1 is loaded and output then the program is halted. INP STA Number1 INP STA Number2 LDA Number1 SUB Number2 BRP loop LDA Number2 OUT HLT loop LDA Number1 OUT HLT Number1 DAT Number2 DAT 5. & 6. Loads Number1 and subtracts Number2 from it. 8. - 10. The program will continue to line 8 if the result of Number1 - Number2 is not positive. Because the result is a negative number, this tells us that Number2 is larger than Number1. So we load Number2, output it because it is bigger, then halt the program. 14. - 15. The variables Number1 & Number2 are defined on separate lines. Type these instructions line by line into the Little Man Computer simulator to see how it works. Change the program so that the smallest number is output .

Learn about the main character sets - ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) and Unicode. Also, discover the five data types - character, string, integer, real and Boolean. Based on the 2020 Eduqas (WJEC) GCSE specification. 4.5: Character Sets & Data Types Exam Board: Eduqas Specification: 2020 What is a Character Set? A character set is a table that matches together a character and a binary value . Character sets are necessary as they allow computers to exchange data . Two common character sets are ASCII and Unicode . ASCII Unicode ( American Standard Code for Information Interchange ) 0100 0001 0100 0010 0100 0011 Uses Binary 128 Tiny Set of Characters Less Memory Required Per Character U+0042 U+0055 U+004E Uses Hexadecimal 36,536+ Large Set of Characters More Memory Required per Character What are the different data types? When programming, variables should be given appropriate data types . Character String Integer A single character , such as a letter, number or punctuation symbol. Examples: A sequence of characters , including letters, numbers and punctuation. Examples: A whole number . Examples: T 8 ? Harry Waters 14:50pm Ice Age 4 475 -8432 56732 Real Boolean Telephone numbers are always stored as a string , not an integer. True / False Yes / No 0 / 1 An answer that only has two possible values . Examples: A decimal number . Examples: 65.3 -321.1234 909.135 Be careful with punctuation. 32.10 is a real but £32.10 is a string. Q uesto's Q uestions 4.5 - Character Sets & Data Types: 1. What is a character set and why are they needed ? [ 2 ] 2. Describe 3 differences between ASCII and Unicode . [6 ] 3. State the 5 different data types . [ 5 ] 4. State which data type is most suitable for the following variables: a. Age [ 1 ] b. Surname [ 1 ] c. Height (in metres) [ 1 ] d. First Initial [ 1 ] e. Phone number [ 1 ] f. Right-Handed? [ 1 ] 4.4 Arithmetic Shift Theory Topics 4.6 - Graphical Representation

Learn about different types of utility software including anti-virus, firewall and defragmentation. Based on the J277 OCR GCSE Computer Science specification (first taught from 2020 onwards). 5.2: Utility Software Exam Board: OCR Specification: J277 Watch on YouTube : Utility Software What is utility software? Utility software are dedicated programs used for the maintenance and organisation of a computer system (this is known an 'housekeeping '). Utilities are required to run additional tasks not performed by the operating system . Anti-malware (such as an anti-virus or anti-spyware ), firewall and encryption software are examples of utilities and have been explained in section 4.2 . Data Compression is another utility that has been explained in section 2.5 . Other utility software include backup software , disk checkers , disk formatters and auto-updaters . Defragmentation What is fragmentation and how does it happen? Over time files stored on a hard disk drive may become fragmented - this is when the file is split into parts that are saved in different storage locations . Fragmentation occurs when there is limited contiguous space in which to store a file . This may happen as data is stored and then later deleted on the hard drive . New files are created which may be bigger than the spaces left by the deleted files . The new files are then split up . Fragmentation increases access time - files that are fragmented take longer to load and read because of the distance between the fragments of the file. How does defragmentation work? Empty spaces are collected together on the hard disk drive and file fragments are moved to be stored together. This means that fewer disc accesses are needed (requiring less physical movement ) as file fragments can be read consecutively . What are the effects of defragmentation? A defragmented file takes less time to read and access because the data is stored contiguously . The read/write head of the hard drive does not need to move as far to read the next piece of data because it is in the adjacent memory location , saving time . It also quicker to save new files because there is more free space together so it does not need to split the file and can store the data contiguously . Q uesto's Q uestions 5.2 - Utility Software: 1. Explain what fragmentation is and how a file may become fragmented . [ 3 ] 2. Describe the process of defragmentation . [ 3 ] 3. Explain the effects of defragmenting a hard disk drive. [ 3 ] 5.1 - Operating Systems Theory Topics 6.1a - Impacts of Technology

Learn how to create simple programs in Python. Try practice tasks and learn through text and images. Perfect for students learning GCSE Computer Science in UK schools. Setting up Python Downloading Python If you are using Python in Computer Science lessons, then your school should already have it downloaded and installed on the school computers. It is a good idea to download it on a home computer too so you can practice outside of lessons. Python is free and can be downloaded from the official website. You should download the most up-to-date version of Python 3. Save the file and then run it to start installing. Official Download Page Using Python When you run the Python application, it will open the shell. This window will display the outputs of any program you have created. Do not type into the shell . Click on the File tab then New File to open the editor. Python Shell - This displays the outputs of your program. Do not write directly into the shell . Python Editor - All code is written into the editor. When you want to test a program press the F5 key (or click the Run tab then Run Module ). The first time you test a program, it will prompt you to save the file. Make sure you save it somewhere you will remember - it is a good idea to create a folder named 'Python' where you can keep all your practice programs. The next page looks at actually creating a program but above shows how code has been typed into the editor and then displayed in the shell. You never need to save the shell window. Also, the editor saves automatically every time you run the program. Opening a Saved Program When you want to re-open and edit a file you have created previously double-clicking on it won't work . Right-click on the file and select Edit with IDLE : https://trinket.io/python/76b41b35c5 1 a - Printing ➡

Learn about two methods of representing negative numbers in binary - sign and magnitude and two's complement. Based on the 2020 Eduqas (WJEC) GCSE specification. 4.2: Signed Binary Exam Board: Eduqas Specification: 2020 What are Sign and Magnitude and Two's Complement? Sign and Magnitude and Two's Complement are both methods of writing positive and negative binary values . Sign and Magnitude is simpler but will cause incorrect answers if used in binary calculations . Two's Complement is more complex but will generate correct answers when used in binary calculations . Sign & Magnitude The most significant bit (MSB ) is the largest bit of a binary number - the one furthest to the left . The MSB is the sign - it represents whether the binary value is positive or negative . If the sign is 0 then the binary number is positive . If the sign is 1 then the binary number is negative . The other bits represent the magnitude - the value of the binary number. For an 8-bit binary number , the range is -127 to 127 , because only 7 bits are used to define the magnitude. Sign & Magnitude: Problems Sign and magnitude is not commonly used by computers for two main reasons: Performing binary addition and subtraction (see section 4.3 ) will often cause a wrong result . In the example below, -7 + 3 should equal -4 but the result given is 2. + Sign and magnitude creates two different values for 0 - positive 0 and negative 0 which is incorrect. Two's Complement Two's complement is a method of representing positive and negative binary values. It is used often by computers because binary calculations will work correctly and there is only one value for zero. Two's Complement: Denary to Binary To represent a negative value using two's complement follow these steps: Write out the positive value in binary . Start on the right-hand side and move along, copy all 0s until you get to the first 1 . The first 1 is copied too. After the first 1 invert each value (change to its opposite ). So 0 becomes 1 and 1 becomes 0 . 1. 2. 3. Two's Complement: Binary to Denary To convert a binary number to denary using two's complement you must remember that the MSB is a negative value . Just add the numbers with 1 together to work out the denary value . Q uesto's Q uestions 4.2 - Signed Binary: Sign & Magnitude 1. Using sign and magnitude , convert the following values to denary : a. 00011101 b. 11100011 c. 10110110 d. 01001111 [1 each ] 2. Using sign and magnitude , convert the following values to binary : a. 83 b. -13 c. -102 d. -24 [1 each ] 3. Describe two problems when using sign and magnitude . [ 4 ] 4. Using sign and magnitude , the range of numbers that can be represented in 6 bits is from - 31 to + 31 . State the range of numbers that can be represented using sign and magnitude in the following bits: a. 8 bits b. 4 bits [1 each ] Two's Complement 1. Using two's complement , convert the following values to binary : a. -20 b. -49 c. -87 d. -113 [2 each ] 2. Using two's complement , convert the following values to denary : a. 10110010 b. 11101110 c. 01101011 d. 10011111 [2 each ] Watch the video to learn how sign and magnitude is used to represent negative numbers in binary . Watch the video to learn how two's complement is used to represent negative numbers in binary . Watch on YouTube Watch on YouTube 4.1 - Number Systems Theory Topics 4.3 - Binary Calculations

An overview of what desktop publishing (DTP) is, considerations designer must take and common forms such as posters, leaflets and business cards. Desktop Publishing (DTP) What is DTP? Desktop Publishing (DTP) software allows people to create documents with a mixture of graphics and text . Examples of desktop publishing software are Microsoft Publisher and Serif PagePlus . Desktop publishers can be used to produce documents such as business cards, leaflets, brochures, newspapers, magazines and newsletters . DTP software can be cheap and printers at home are more common these days so people can design and print their own documents. Professional-looking documents can be made simply and without an extensive knowledge of graphic design. The biggest advantage of using DTP is that it is frame based . Text and picture frames can be laid out on the page, and rotated, moved or resized as necessary. It is easy to import images from clip art or the web. The view of the page is known as WYSIWYG (W hat Y ou S ee I s W hat Y ou G et) because the view on the computer will be very similar to what you get when it is printed. What to consider when using DTP Orientation Will your document be landscape or portrait ? Some document types are more commonly one orientation than the other. For example, business cards are generally landscape but newsletters are more often portrait. Size The size of a typical piece of paper is A4. But that is too large for most DTP documents. The larger the number, the smaller the piece of paper . A5 is half the size of A4 and A3 is twice the size of A4. Documents can also be measured in millimetres, for example, an appropriate business card size is 85mm wide and 55mm high. House Style A house style is a set of rules to ensure that each document made by a person or company is part of an identity . To be consistent , each document should use the same logo, titles, colours, graphics and layout . For example, the NHS always uses a blue colour, the same logo and similar layout on each of its documents. Some companies have perfected their house style so that they are synonymous with a single colour - e.g. McDonald's use yellow and Coca-Cola use red and white . DTP Documents Business Cards A business card is a small piece of card that must be simple and stylish . The purpose of a business card is to clearly state the contact details of a person or company. Sharing your business card with other people is one way to promote your business or skills to attract new business partners or customers. A business card must be uncluttered and clearly display relevant contact information, such as an email address, phone number or physical address. Today, business cards may also state social media contacts, such as Facebook pages or Twitter accounts. Flyers A flyer is a small handout that advertises an event or new product. The purpose of a flyer is to clearly and quickly promote an event . It must be eye-catching and to-the-point so that people can immediately understand what it is about. Flyers are often handed out in the street or posted through letterboxes so if it is not clear people will just ignore it. A flyer should use a large title to promote the event, as well as appropriate graphics and information about the date, location and time. It should also contain contact details including a telephone number, website and email address. Posters A poster is a large piece of paper that is put up to advertise an event and display more information than a flyer . Posters should promote an event by using large titles and graphics to clearly describe where the event is taking place, when it is and why people should go. Because there is much more space on a poster than a flyer, additional information can be added and some kind of persuasion to entice passers by to attend. Leaflets A leaflet is a small folded handout that provides more information about an event or new product. The purpose of a leaflet is to give additional details about an event . It can be used before an event to describe the different parts, such as the different acts in a circus or different bands at a festival. It can also be used during an event, such as at a school fair to list the different stalls. Because it is folded over it can display a large amount of information, with both text and graphics . The front of the leaflet should clearly display the purpose of it and the text inside must be readable with images to break up the words. There may also be contact information inside the leaflet, such as directions to a website or social media page .

Test your understanding of subroutines (procedures and functions) in Python. Try practice tasks and learn through text and images. Perfect for students learning GCSE Computer Science in UK schools. top Python - Section 7 Practice Tasks Task One Example solution: Create a program with three different subroutines (procedures ). One subroutine asks the user their name and prints a response. The second asks for their age and prints a response. The third asks for their favourite colour and prints a response. Remember to write subroutines before the main program. Task Two Create a program that asks a user to input the length of a side in a square. Write a function that takes this value and returns it to be printed. Example solution: Task Three Example solution: Create a program that takes 3 inputs from the user – a name, a villain and a place. Write a function that outputs a story using the user’s answers. Task Four Create a calculator program that uses four different subroutines (add, subtract, multiply and divide). In the main program ask the user to make a choice of which operator to use and then to enter two numbers. Keep looping until the user types stop. Use the 'Using Subroutines as a Menu' section in the 7b to help you. Example solution: ⬅ 7b - Functions 8a - Using Lists ➡

Learn what an embedded system is and about different examples of embedded systems. Based on the J277 OCR GCSE Computer Science specification (first taught from 2020 onwards). 2.1: Primary Storage (Memory) Exam Board: OCR Specification: J277 Watch on YouTube : Primary Storage RAM and ROM Virtual Memory Primary vs Secondary Storage Storage in a computer system is split into two categories: Primary Storage: Very quick because it is directly accesse d by the CPU . Typically smaller in storage size . Sometimes called ‘main memory’ . Includes RAM and ROM . Volatile vs Non-Volatile Storage Storage is also split into two types - volatile and non-volatile . Volatile storage is temporary - data is lost whenever the power is turned off . Example: RAM Non-volatile storage saves the data even when not being powered . Data can be stored long-term and accessed when the computer is switched on . Example: ROM Why do Computers need Primary Storage? Primary storage is low-capacity , internal storage that can be directly accessed by the CPU . Program instructions and data must be copied from the hard drive into RAM to be processed by the CPU because primary storage access speeds are much faster than secondary storage devices like the hard drive. Types of Primary Storage (Memory) Random Access Memory (RAM) Read-Only Memory (ROM) RAM is volatile (temporary) storage that stores all programs that are currently running . RAM also stores parts of the operating system to be accessed by the CPU. RAM is made up of a large number of storage locations, each can be identified by a unique address . ROM is non-volatile storage that cannot be changed . ROM stores the boot program / BIOS for when the computer is switched on. The BIOS then loads up the operating system to take over managing the computer. RAM ( R andom A ccess M emory) ROM ( R ead O nly M emory) Virtual Memory Programs must be stored in RAM to be processed by the CPU . Even if there is insufficient space in RAM for all programs the computer can use the hard disk drive (HDD ) as an extension of RAM - this is called virtual memory . If new data is needed to be stored in RAM then unused data in RAM is moved to the hard drive so the new data can be transferred into RAM . If the original data is required again, it can be moved back from virtual memory into RAM . Using virtual memory is beneficial because it allows more programs to be run at the same time with less system slow down . Secondary Storage: ( Section 2.2 ) Slower because it is not directly accessed by the CPU . Typically larger in storage size . Used for the long-term storage of data and files because it is non-volatile . Includes magnetic , optical and solid state storage. Q uesto's Q uestions 2.1 - Primary Storage (Memory): 1. Describe the differences between primary and secondary storage . [ 6 ] 2. Explain the difference between volatile and non-volatile storage . State an example of both types. [ 4 ] 3. Explain why the computer requires primary storage . [ 2 ] 4. For each type of memory below, describe it and state what information is stored within it: a . Random Access Memory (RAM) [3 ] b. Read-Only Memory (ROM) [ 3 ] c. Virtual memory [ 3 ] 1.3 - Embedded Systems Theory Topics 2.2 - Secondary Storage

Learn about application software installation methods, including clean, remote, cloud, mobile and network installation. Resources based on Unit F161 (Developing Application Software) for the OCR Cambridge Advanced Nationals in Computing (H029 / H129) AAQ (Alternative Academic Qualification). Qualification: Cambridge Advanced Nationals in Computing (AAQ) Certificate: Computing: Application Development (H029 / H129) Unit: F161: Developing Application Software Watch on YouTube: Application installation 5.2 - Application Software Installation You need to know how different installation processes (e.g. clean , remote , cloud , network and mobile installs) work as well as their advantages , disadvantages and appropriate uses . What You Need to Know Application Installation Application software can be installed using different methods depending on factors such as the number of devices , their location , network availability and the requirements of the users or organisation . Ghost / Image A ghost is a master copy (known as an image ) of a correctly configured system containing the required software and settings , which is created and deployed to other devices . This is used when the same applications and configuration need to be installed on many devices, such as computers in a school or business . It allows many devices to be configured quickly and consistently , reducing repetitive installation work and ensuring they have the same software and settings . However, creating and maintaining the image takes time , devices may need compatible hardware and an error or outdated application in the master image could be copied to every device . Upgrade An upgrade is when a newer version is installed over an existing version , usually retaining the user's existing data , settings and configuration . It is required when users need to move to a newer version of an application without completely reinstalling it . Upgrading is usually quicker and more convenient than a clean install and allows existing settings and data to be retained . But existing problems , unnecessary files or incompatible settings may remain and compatibility issues can occur between versions. Clean Install A clean install is when any previous installation is removed and a completely new copy of the application is installed . It is used when installing an application for the first time , or when an existing installation has serious problems and a fresh installation is required. A clean install provides a fresh installation without problems or unwanted settings from an older version, which can improve reliability . However, it can be more time-consuming and existing settings or application data may be lost if they are not backed up first . Repair/Modify Install A repair install (or modify install ) is when an existing installation is reopened to repair damaged or missing files . Installed features can be added or removed without completely reinstalling the application . This is used when an application is not functioning correctly or when its installed features need to be changed . It is usually quicker than completely reinstalling the application and can retain existing settings and data . But it may not fix more serious problems , and the required installation or repair files must be available . Remote Install A remote installation is when an administrator installs an application onto another device from a different location using remote management software . It is used when IT staff need to manage devices without physically accessing them, such as employee computers across different offices . A remote install saves time and travel , allows centralised management and can enable IT staff to install software on many geographically separated devices . However, it requires network connectivity , appropriate permissions and remote management tools . Connection problems could interrupt the installation. Unattended Install An unattended installation is automated using predefined settings , allowing it to complete without the user responding to installation prompts . It is used when installing the same application and settings on many devices or when installations need to occur without staff being present . Advantages are that it requires little or no user interaction , saves staff time and ensures consistent installation settings across devices. However, it requires careful configuration beforehand, and incorrect predefined settings could cause the same installation problem across multiple devices . Cloud Install With a cloud install , files are downloaded from an internet-based cloud service and then installed onto the device . It's suitable for when users or organisations need to download applications directly over the internet , particularly across different locations and devices . Cloud installs can be accessed from many locations and devices , it does not require physical installation media , can support automatic updates and may allow installations to be scheduled for convenient times . But it depends on a reliable internet connection , interrupted downloads can cause problems, large applications can use significant bandwidth and the device must meet the software's requirements . Mobile Install A mobile install is when an application is downloaded and installed through a mobile app store onto a smartphone or tablet . It's needed for applications designed for mobile devices , such as installing a revision app onto a student's tablet . It is usually simple and convenient for users as app stores can manage installation and updates . Also, applications can be installed directly onto the user's device . However, it requires sufficient storage and a compatible operating system and downloads can consume mobile data . Connectivity problems can interrupt installation and app stores may restrict what applications can be distributed . Network Install With a network install , files are stored in a central location on a local network and accessed by devices connected to that network . It is used when an organisation needs to install software on multiple devices connected to the same network , such as computers around a school . Advantages are that installation files can be managed centrally , physical installation media is not required for each device and many devices can access the same installation files . But it requires a working network connection , installing on many devices can increase network traffic and problems with the network or central server could prevent installations . Q uesto's Q uestions 5.2 - Application Software Installation: 1. Describe how each application software installation method is completed : ghost/image , upgrade , clean install , repair/modify , remote , unattended , cloud , mobile and network installation. [ 2 each ] 2. Give an example of when each installation method would be appropriate to use . [1 each ] 3. Give the advantages and disadvantages of each application software installation method . [4 each ] 4. Explain the differences between remote , unattended , cloud and network installation. [3 ] 5. For installing new software in a school , recommend a suitable installation method and justify why it would be appropriate . [ 4 ] The PC version of Baldur's Gate was originally released on five CDs in 1998 , with players swapping discs during installation . As games became larger , lengthy multi-disc installations became common , sometimes leaving players waiting hours before they could start playing . D id Y ou K now? 5.1 - Testing Topic List 5.3 - Policies

A tutorial to understand how to create a game in Greenfoot. A simple step-by-step guide and walkthrough featuring all code needed for the Eduqas GCSE 2016 specification. A Tutorial to Creating a Greenfoot Game Greenfoot Home Greenfoot is software that uses the programming language Java to make simple games. This is called object-oriented programming (OOP ) because objects are coded to interact in a visual environment. Work your way through the following tutorial to create a game similar to one required in the WJEC 2017 specification Component 2 exam . Topic Links: Starting from Scratch & Populating the World Move with Arrow Keys Move Randomly & Bounce on Edge Remove Objects Play Sounds The Counter Extension Ideas Pupils using the 2017 WJEC specification will use Greenfoot version 2.4.2 , despite the fact that Greenfoot is now on version 3.9.0 . See the download page . This tutorial will work on all versions . Watch on YouTube: