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  • HTML Guide 9 - Colours & Fonts | CSNewbs

    Learn how to use the style tags in an HTML document to edit the background colour and font text and colour. 9. Style (Colours & Fonts) HTML Guide Watch on YouTube: Before you add any colours or font styles, you need to add tags. The style tags must be written within your head of your HTML document! Add them below your title tags: Add the

  • Python | 6a - For Loops | CSNewbs

    Learn how to create and use for loops in Python. Try practice tasks and learn through text and images. Perfect for students learning GCSE Computer Science in UK schools. top Python 6a - For Loops Types of Loop The third construct of programming (after Sequence and Selection) is Iteration . If you iterate something, then you repeat it. There are two key loops to use in Python: for loops and while loops . A for loop is count controlled – e.g. “For 10 seconds I will jump up and down”. The loop will continue until the count (e.g. 10 seconds) has finished . A while loop is condition controlled – e.g. “While I am not out of breath, I will jump up and down.” The loop will continue as long as the condition remains true . Simple For Loops (1 Range Value) for i in range (5): print ( "This is a loop!" ) This is a loop! This is a loop! This is a loop! This is a loop! This is a loop! for i in range (8): print ( "Jaffa Cakes aren't biscuits" ) Jaffa Cakes aren't biscuits Jaffa Cakes aren't biscuits Jaffa Cakes aren't biscuits Jaffa Cakes aren't biscuits Jaffa Cakes aren't biscuits Jaffa Cakes aren't biscuits Jaffa Cakes aren't biscuits Jaffa Cakes aren't biscuits The i is a count variable , it is used to measure each iteration (turn) of the loop. In the range brackets write the number of times to loop the indented code. Don’t forget the colon at the end and remember that everything you want to repeat must be indented (press tab key once). For Loops Task 1 (Repeat Your Name ) Example solutions (shortened): Create a simple for loop that prints your name twenty times. For Loops Task 2 (Are We There Yet? ) Christopher Christopher Christopher ... Create a simple for loop that prints the sentence 'Are we there yet?' 150 times. Are we there yet? Are we there yet? Are we there yet? ... Counting Using i (2 Range Values) For loops can be used to count by referring to the iteration inside the loop itself using i : for i in range (5): print ( "Loop number" , i) Loop number 0 Loop number 1 Loop number 2 Loop number 3 Loop number 4 for i in range (1,6): print ( "Loop number" , i) Loop number 1 Loop number 2 Loop number 3 Loop number 4 Loop number 5 There are two important things to know about how Python counts using for loops. Python will automatically start counting at 0 rather than 1. The second value in the range is an exclusive limit - it will stop 1 before this value. For example, if you wanted to count 1 to 10 you would need to write range(1,11) . For Loops Task 3 (100 to 150 ) Create a for loop that prints all numbers from 100 to 150 . You don't need to print any additional text, just the i variable. Example solution (shortened): 100 101 102 ... ... 148 149 150 Using a Step (3 Range Values) A third value can be added to the range brackets of a for loop to define a step . A step is the number to go up (or down ) with each iteration . for i in range (2,11,2): print ( i) 2 4 6 8 10 for i in range (18,0,-3): print ( i) 18 15 12 9 6 3 In most programs defining a step is not essential , Python will assume it is +1 if you don't include it. For Loops Task 4 (Even Numbers 10 to 30 ) Example solution for Task 4 (shortened): Create a for loop that prints all even numbers from 10 to 30 . Use a step . For Loops Task 5 (Countdown ) Use a for loop with a negative step to print a countdown from 10 to 1 . 10 12 14 ... ... 26 28 30 Using Variables with For Loops Variables can be used to make for loops suitable for a range of different purposes. loopnum = int ( input ( "Times to repeat: " )) for i in range (loopnum): print ( "Hello!" ) Times to repeat: 4 Hello! Hello! Hello! Hello! The loop above uses a variable in the range brackets to repeat the loop the specific number of times that the user enters . loopnum = int ( input ( "Times to repeat: " )) word = input ( "Word to repeat: " ) for i in range (loopnum): print (word ) Times to repeat: 3 Word to repeat: velociraptor velociraptor velociraptor velociraptor The loop above uses two variables that are input by the user ; one to define the range and another that is printed . For Loops Task 6 (Many Happy Birthdays ) Example solution for Task 6 (shortened): Ask the user to input their age then print 'Happy Birthday! ' that many times. For Loops Task 7 (House Number and Name ) Ask the user to enter their house number (e.g. 15 if they lived at 15 Cherry Road) and their name . Print their name as many times as their house number . For example, if Hannah lived at 103 Apple Lane then Hannah would be printed 103 times . Enter your age: 5 Happy Birthday! Happy Birthday! Happy Birthday! Happy Birthday! Happy Birthday! ⬅ Section 5 Practice Task s 6 b - While Loops ➡

  • OCR CTech IT | Unit 1 | 2.7 - Protocols | CSNewbs

    Learn about the different protocols used to transfer data across a network, including TCP/IP, FTP, SMTP and Ethernet. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification. 2.7 - Protocols Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 1 What is a protocol? A protocol is a set of rules that allow devices on a network to communicate with each other . Protocols to Transfer Data: TCP / IP / UDP TCP ( Transmission Control Protocol ) breaks data down into small packets to be transferred across a network and reorders them back into the original data at the destination . TCP checks for errors when sending data packets, which makes it slower than UDP for data transfer, but it guarantees that no packets have been lost on the way. IP ( Internet Protocol ) is in charge of routing and addressing data packets to ensure data is transferred across networks to the correct destination . It is also an addressing system - every device on a network is given a unique IP address . TCP and IP are often used together to transfer data across the internet. UDP ( User Data Protocol ) is a faster alternative to TCP for transferring data. It is used where low latency ('low lag') is important, such as online gaming and video chat . However, UDP does not automatically check for errors so packets are more likely to be lost or received out of order . HTTP is a protocol that can be used to transfer web pages on the world wide web so that users can view them in a web browser . All URLs start with either HTTP or HTTPS (e.g. https://www.csnewbs.com ). HTTPS is a more secure version of HTTP that works with another protocol called SSL (Secure Sockets Layer ) to transfer encrypted data . You should see a padlock symbol in the URL bar if your connection to that website is secure. HTTP/HTTPS (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol) FTP (File Transfer Protocol) FTP ( File Transfer Protocol ) is used to transfer files across a network. It is used most often to upload or download files to/from a file server . ICMP ( Internet Control Message Protocol ) collects network status information (such as router errors) and is used for troubleshooting . SNMP ( Simple Network Management Protocol ) is a protocol that records network statistics , such as router usage . Network Management Protocols Email Protocols SMTP ( Simple Mail Transfer Protocol ) is a protocol used to send emails to a mail server and between mail servers . POP ( Post Office Protocol ) is for downloading and storing emails from a mail server. TCP/IP Protocol Stack The TCP/IP protocol stack is a model split into 4 layers . The model is used to visualise the different parts of a network as each of the four layers has a specific role . Splitting a network design into layers is beneficial to programmers as it simplifies design , making it easier to modify and use . Each layer has a certain purpose and is associated with different protocols . 4 Allows humans and software applications to use the network e.g. browsers (HTTP /HTTPS ), email (SMTP / POP ), file transfer (FTP ) and network management (SNMP ) applications. 3 TCP breaks the data down into data packets . This layer makes sure the data is sent and received in the correct order and reordered at the destination without errors. UDP can also be used for faster , but less reliable , data transfer . 2 The network layer is also known as the ' Internet Layer '. IP is responsible for addressing and routing data packets . The optimal route for the data to take is calculated in this layer. ICMP may be used here for network monitoring . 1 This layer handles transmission errors and passes data to the physical hardware such as routers . It also sets out the final format of data packets . Q uesto's Q uestions 2.7 - Protocols: 1. Describe each of the following protocols . Also, state the protocol's full name and draw an icon or diagram for each: a. TCP b. IP c. UDP d. HTTP & HTTPS e. FTP f. ICMP g. SNMP h. SMTP i. POP [1 each ] 2. State which protocol would be used in the following scenarios: a. Transferring a music file to a friend over the internet. b. Sending an email to a friend in Japan. c. Checking for errors on a network. d. Having a video call with a colleague in London. e. Receiving an email from the bank. f. Watching a video on YouTube. g. Checking the statistics of usage on a network [1 each ] 3. Summarise each layer of the TCP/IP stack and identify the protocols used in each layer . [ 8 ] 2.6 - Software Troubleshooting Topic List 3.1 - Server Types

  • 5.1 - Data Types & Sources | Unit 2 | OCR Cambridge Technicals | CSNewbs

    Learn about the different types of data and information sources. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification for Unit 2 (Global Information). 5.1 - Data Types & Sources Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 2 Sources of Information Internal Source Information that comes from within an organisation , such as financial reports, data analysis or employee surveys. External Source Information that comes from outside of an organisation , such as government reports, financial data of competitors or price lists from suppliers. Types of Data Primary Data Data that has been created and collected by yourself or another employee within an organisation . For example, interviews or questionnaires sent within the company. Secondary Data Data that has been created and collected by someone outside of the organisation , such as national census data collected by the government or surveys taken by a competitor. Some secondary data may need to be purchased . Qualitative Data This is descriptive data , often composed of text , that can be observed but not measured . For example, survey responses where customers are asked why they visit a particular shop. Quantitative Data This is measured data , often in the form of numbers , percentages or statistics . For example, survey responses of the amount of time it takes to reach a shop. Q uesto's Q uestions 5.1 - Data Types & Sources: 1. A supermarket wants to find out how many of their customers have bought peaches this year compared to customers at a rival shop . Describe data that they could use for each of the source and data types below (e.g. stock information for peaches in the supermarket would be an internal source of information). Internal source External source Primary data Secondary data Qualitative data Quantitative data [6 ] "Why do you visit this supermarket?" 'Because it is close to home.' 'I like the easy access to parking.' 'I've always gone here.' "How many minutes does it take you to get here ?" 10 25 30 4.3 - Green IT Topic List 5.2 - Data Flow Diagrams

  • 10.2 - Stages of Compilation - Eduqas (2020 Spec) | CSNewbs

    Learn about the six stages of compilation - lexical analysis, symbol table construction, syntax analysis, semantic analysis, code generation and code optimisation. Based on the 2020 Eduqas (WJEC) GCSE specification. 10.2: Stages of Compilation Exam Board: Eduqas Specification: 2020 A compiler translates source code (high-level language written by a programmer) into machine code in five separate stages : 1. Lexical Analysis The term 'lexical' refers to words and phrases . Source code needs to be broken down into tokens that can later be analysed. In lexical analysis: Spaces and comments are removed from the code. Identifiers , keywords and operators are replaced by tokens . A token is similar to a variable with a name and a value . A symbol table is created. T his table stores the addresses of all variables , labels and subroutines used in the program. 2. Syntax Analysis The term 'syntax' refers to sentence structure . In syntax analysis: The tokens created in the first stage are checked to see if they follow the syntax (spelling and grammar ) rules of the programming language. This process is called ' parsing ' . During parsing, if a syntax error is found then an error message is displayed and compilation stops . 3. Semantic Analysis The term 'semantic' refers to logic . Variables are checked in this stage to ensure they are used correctly: Variable checks ensure they are correctly declared and use a valid data type (for example integers are not assigned to decimal values). Operation checks ensure they are correct for the data type used ( for example dividing a number must result in an real value ). 4. Code Generation The machine code (data in a binary format ) is generated . 0010 1011 0101 0101 0110 0111 0101 0001 0101 0101 0101 0110 5. Code Optimisation The code is optimised so it is fast , efficient and uses as little of the computer's resources as possible. Q uesto's Q uestions 10.2 - Stages of Compilation: 1 a. List the 6 stages of compilation in order . [6 ] 1b. Create a poster or flowchart describing each of the 6 stages of compilation : 1. Lexical Analysis 2. Symbol Table Creation 3. Syntax Analysis 4. Semantic Analysis 5. Code Generation 6. Code Optimisation [ 10 total ] 10.1 - Translators Theory Topics 10.3 - Programming Errors

  • 6.1 - Security Principles | Unit 2 | OCR Cambridge Technicals | CSNewbs

    Learn about the three principles of information security - confidentially, integrity and availability. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification for Unit 2 (Global Information). 6.1 - Security Principles Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 2 There are three key principles of data security that are protected in legislation such as the Data Protection Act (2018 ). Organisations storing personal or sensitive information must ensure that these three principles are upheld at all times . Confidentiality What it means: Information should only be accessed by individuals or groups with the authorisation to do so. How to uphold this principle: An organisation should use protection measures like usernames and passwords to ensure that only authorised people can access the sensitive data. Tiered levels of access or permissions can also limit who has access to the data. Integrity What it means: Information is maintained so that it is up-to-date , correct and fit for purpose . How to uphold this principle: Organisations should carry out regular data maintenance to update information (e.g. confirm contact details once a year). If storing data in a spreadsheet or database, record-locking should be used so that only person can edit at a time, preventing the data from becoming incorrect. Availability What it means: Information is available to the individuals or groups that need to use it. It should only be available to those who are authorised . How to uphold this principle: Staff should have the correct privileges so that they can easily access data when required. Data could be stored online , e.g. cloud storage so that it is available remotely using an internet connection. Data must also be kept safe from unauthorised access . Staff should not make additional copies of information which could be lost or stolen. Q uesto's Q uestions 6.1 - Security Principles: 1a. Describe what is meant by ' confidentiality ' . [1 ] 1b. Explain two ways that an organisation can keep data confidential . [4 ] 2a. Describe what is meant by ' integrity ' . [1 ] 2b. Explain two ways that an organisation can preserve the integrity of its data . [4 ] 3a. Describe what is meant by ' availability ' . [2 ] 3b. Explain two ways that an organisation can keep its data available . [4 ] 5.2 - Data Flow Diagrams Topic List 6.2 - Risks

  • OCR CTech IT | Unit 1 | 1.3 - Computer System Types | CSNewbs

    Learn about six different types of computer system including embedded, mainframe and quantum. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification. 1.3 - Computer System Types Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 1 Different types of computer system are available to purchase and use, each with their own benefits , drawbacks and typical functions . Desktop A computer suitable for use at an ordinary desk. They are bulky and not so easy to move . Individual components (e.g. graphics card) can be upgraded over time . Desktops are versatile , they allow the user to carry out a range of activities , including document creation, data manipulation, game playing, design and communication facilities for personal or business purposes. Tablet / Laptop A small and portable type of computer. Many modern laptops can also fold back , effectively turning them into a tablet with a screen-based virtual keyboard . They can perform many of the functions of the traditional PC, but the screen size can be restrictive , especially if several documents need to be open at the same time. Because it can be transported through public spaces, loss or theft is more likely. Smartphone Embedded Systems Smartphones can be used to run a range of applications including email, social media, videos and music. However, they can negatively affect social interaction (e.g. by using them and ignoring people around you) and reduce spatial awareness when being used. Security is another issue as they can be easily lost or stolen . Security software for phones is not as secure as other computer systems so sensitive data should not be held on smartphones. An embedded system is when a smaller computer system is installed within a larger device , such as a washing machine, traffic light or car. Embedded systems have a dedicated purpose and often run in real-time . The internet of things (IoT) describes a global network of connected objects that were previously 'dumb', such as smart bulbs, smart plugs and thermostats. Mainframe Mainframes are huge and very powerful computers that are reliable . Mainframes are used to process large amounts of data and can be used to solve scientific and engineering problems that require complex calculations with large datasets (e.g. weather forecasting or scientific simulations). Mainframes are reliable and secure because they have large backup capabilities . Mainframes are very expensive and require teams of experts to oversee them, and so are used only by organisations that need to process very large amounts of data quickly, such as banks and airlines . Quantum These are still experimental and in development . They work with quantum bits ( qubits ), which, unlike binary, are not limited to just two states (0 or 1). Qubits represent atomic particles, which can be in several different states at the same time . A fully working quantum computer would potentially be able to process data and perform calculations millions of times faster than currently available computers. Q uesto's Q uestions 1.3 - Computer System Types: 1. For each type of computer system , make a list of benefits , drawbacks and possible uses . a. Desktop [6 ] b. Tablet / Laptop [6 ] c. Smartphone [6 ] d. Embedded System [6 ] e. Mainframe [6 ] f. Quantum Computer [6 ] 2. Suggest and justify which type of computer system is most suitable for the following scenarios: a. Updating a spreadsheet while on a train. [3 ] b. Forecasting the next week’s weather. [3 ] c. A PE teacher recording sports day race times. [3 ] d. Playing a new video game on maximum settings. [3 ] 1.2 - Computer Components Topic List 1.4 - Connectivity

  • OCR CTech IT | Unit 1 | 2.1 - Software Types | CSNewbs

    Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of different types of software including open-source, closed-source, off-the-shelf and bespoke. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification. 2.1: Software Types Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 1 Software refers to the programs and applications that run on a computer system. Open Source Software Source code is the software code written by programmers . If the software is open source it means that users can view and modify the code . Linux, Python and Firefox are examples of open source software. Benefits Drawbacks Because the source code is available to edit , it can be customised to the organisation's needs . Often shared in the public domain so users can work together to modify, debug and improve a product. Unwanted features can be removed to make the software run faster . There are security risks - some editors may add malicious code to the program. Open source software is often low in price and sometimes free. It may be difficult to receive support as development is often distributed between people in different locations. The code may be prone to errors as it may not have been tested fully. It requires technical skills to be able to adapt source code efficiently and to maintain the code . Closed Source Software If the software is closed source it means the code is restricted for users to view or modify . You buy the right to use the software but you don't actually own it. Microsoft Office, Fortnite and Spotify are examples of closed source software. Closed source software is also known as proprietary software because it is another company's property and protected by law. Benefits Drawbacks The code is well tested and has been professionally developed. Updates will generally be secure . Users must rely on the company to provide updates and fix issues. This might be infrequent or stop completely. The company can be held to account if it does not perform as listed in the terms and conditions upon purchase. Often not free (see Freeware below for free closed source software). Most developers will provide some form of help/support . Users cannot modify, debug or improve the code for their own benefit. Off-the-Shelf Software This is any software made for general use , with features that can be used in different ways and for different purposes . Examples include office software (e.g. Microsoft Office), video games (e.g. Minecraft) and image editors (e.g. Adobe PhotoShop). Back before internet downloads, people had to actually go to shops and buy software off the shelf and install it at home, hence the name. Benefits Drawbacks Should have been tested thoroughly so users can be confident that features will work as expected . Secure updates will be regular. It can be expensive to purchase some software , especially for a single user rather than a business. Some software, such as anti-virus protection, requires yearly licenses . It can be cheaper to purchase than bespoke software as it is not customised for a specific user or organisation. The software may contain additional features that the user / organisation doesn’t need which can reduce the performance of the system. The end users might be familiar with the software and trust the company (e.g. Microsoft Word). Bespoke Software This is any software that has been custom made for a specific organisation or user. For example, programmers might be hired by a company to create software for a specific task. Hospitals and schools use bespoke software to track and manage patients / students. It can be expensive to commission bespoke software as programmers and user interface designers need to be hired and there could be issues with rights to any created software. Benefits Drawbacks The software is built to the company's requirements , it is unique to their needs. Unwanted features can be removed to make the software run faster . Bespoke software is expensive to develop because it is tailor-made for the company. Staff may require training on using the system because it is unique . The look of the software (e.g. design & layout ) can be customised to fit the company's image. Because it has been custom-made, the original programmers may be needed to maintain the software and fix errors . Shareware This software allows the user to trial the program for a limited time before forcing them to buy the product or stop using it. For example, WinRAR is utility software that asks the user to buy the full version after 40 days. This allows the user to get a taste of what the software offers before choosing whether to buy it fully or not . Freeware This is software that is freely available to download and use . These are usually closed-source software that earn money through adverts or additional purchases. Rights to the software remain with the author despite the free access. App developers may release their app as freeware to allow users to try the software and then encourage them to purchase a full version with more features. Unlike shareware, the user should be able to keep using the product for free indefinitely, though their version may have features restricted or adverts enabled. Examples of freeware software include iTunes , Clash of Clans and Adobe Acrobat Reader (for PDFs). Embedded Software An embedded system is when a smaller computer system is installed within a larger device , such as a washing machine, traffic light or car. Embedded systems have a dedicated purpose and often run in real-time . Because of the small size, the embedded software will usually have memory and storage restrictions . Q uesto's Q uestions 2.1 - Software Types: 1. Describe the 7 types of software , listing the advantages and disadvantages of each. a. Open Source b. Closed Source c. Off-the-Shelf d. Bespoke e. Shareware f. Freeware g. Embedded [6 each ] 1.8 & 1.9 - Number Systems Topic List 2.2 - Applications Software

  • 1.2 - Devices | F161 | Cambridge Advanced National in Computing | AAQ

    Learn about the devices used to host applications, including consoles, desktops, haptics, laptops, servers, smart devices, tablets / hybrid devices and wearables. 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 1.2 - Devices Watch on YouTube : Devices You need to know the characteristics of the eight types of devices shown below that application platforms run on . You must also understand the advantages and disadvantages of each device . YouTube video uploading soon What You Need to Know Devices Game consoles are designed specifically for playing video games , usually connected to a TV . Desktops are powerful and customisable personal computers designed for use at a desk . Haptic devices allow users to feel vibrations with touch . Game controllers and smartphones use haptics. Laptops are portable computers with a built-in screen and keyboard , suitable for work on the go . Servers are powerful computers on a network that process requests sent by other systems. Smart devices connect to a network allowing it to communicate with other devices and be controlled remotely . Tablets use a large touchscreen and are more portable than a laptop , ideal for browsing and media . A hybrid device is a laptop with a detachable screen . Wearable devices such as a smartwatch are worn on the body and often monitor the user's condition in real-time . Q uesto's Q uestions 1.2 - Devices: 1. What? [2 ] 2. What? [1 ] 3. What? [1 ] 4. What? [1 ] Check out the Shorts on the CSNewbs YouTube channel if you are interested in how video game consoles have evolved over time . There are separate videos for PlayStation , Xbox and Nintendo consoles. D id Y ou K now? 1.1 - Application Platforms Topic List 1.3 - Storage Locations

  • 1.1 - The CPU | OCR A-Level | CSNewbs

    Explains the components of the CPU, the different registers, buses, how the FDE cycle works, CPU performance factors, pipelining, Von Neumann architecture and Harvard architecture. Based on the OCR H446 Computer Science A-Level specification. Exam Board: OCR A-Level 1.1 - Structure and Function of the Processor Specification: Computer Science H446 Watch on YouTube : CPU components Registers Buses The FDE cycle CPU performance Pipelining Von Neumann vs Harvard Contemporary architecture The Central Processing Unit ( CPU ) is the most important component in every computer system. The purpose of the CPU is to process data and instructions by constantly repeating the fetch-decode-execute cycle . In this cycle, instructions are fetched from RAM and transferred into the registers of the CPU to be decoded and executed . CPU Components The CPU has three key components : The control unit directs the flow of data and instructions inside the CPU and manages the FDE cycle , especially decoding instructions . The arithmetic logic unit ( ALU ) performs all arithmetic calculations and logical operations inside the CPU . Registers are small , ultra-fast storage locations that temporarily hold data , instructions or addresses during processing . The CPU also contains cache memory , which is temporary storage space for frequently accessed data . Registers A register is a small storage space for temporary data , instructions or addresses in the CPU . Each register has a specific role in the FDE cycle : The Program Counter ( PC ) stores the memory address of the next instruction to be fetched from RAM . The Memory Address Register ( MAR ) stores the memory address currently being accessed , which may be an instruction or data . The Memory Data Register ( MDR ) stores the data that is transferred from RAM to the CPU . The Current Instruction Register ( CIR ) stores the instruction that has been fetched from RAM . The Accumulator ( ACC ) stores data currently being processed and the result of calculations or logical operations made by the ALU . Buses Data and signals are transmitted between components across internal connections called buses . There are three types of computer bus : The data bus transmits data and instructions between the CPU , memory and other components such as input/output devices . It is bidirectional (data is sent both ways ). The address bus transmits the location in memory that the CPU is accessing . It is unidirectional (one-way ) from the CPU to RAM . The control bus transmits control signals (e.g. 'read ' or 'write ') from the CPU to coordinate other components . It is bidirectional . The FDE Cycle In the Fetch Decode Execute (FDE ) cycle , instructions are fetched from RAM , then decoded (understood) and executed (processed) in the CPU . This cycle is performed by the CPU millions of times every second using the registers and buses explained above. This cycle is how the CPU processes data and instructions for each program or service that requires its attention . CPU Performance The performance of the CPU is affected by three main factors : Clock speed is t he number of cycles per second , so a higher clock speed means more instructions can be executed per second . The number of cores is important as more cores allow a CPU to carry out multiple instructions simultaneously , improving multitasking and parallel processing . Cache memory is small and very fast memory inside the CPU that stores frequently used instructions , reducing the time needed to access RAM . Pipelining Pipelining is the concurrent processing of multiple instructions . An instruction can be fetched while another is decoded and another is executed . This overlapping of instructions increases the overall speed of program execution . Computer Architecture Computer architecture refers to the design and organisation of a system’s components and how they interact . There are two types of architecture to know: Von Neumann architecture uses a single main memory (RAM ) that stores both program instructions and data . This means instructions and data travel along the same buses , which can cause a bottleneck (congestion ). Harvard architecture separates the storage of program instructions and data into two different memory locations . This allows instructions and data to be fetched at the same time , improving performance . You also need to know about c ontemporary (modern) architecture , which includes features such as onboard ( integrated ) graphics , performance boosting mode , out-of-order execution and virtual cores . Q uesto's K ey T erms Components of the CPU: control unit (CU), arithmetic logic unit (ALU), registers, cache memory Registers: program counter (PC), memory address register (MAR), memory data register (MAR), current instruction register ( CIR), accumulator (ACC) Buses: data bus, address bus, control bus, unidirectional, bidirectional FDE Cycle: fetch stage, decode stage, execute stage CPU Performance: clock speed , number of cores , cache memory Pipelining: pipelining Computer architecture: Von Neumann, Harvard, contemporary D id Y ou K now? The Apollo Guidance Computer ( AGC ) for NASA's Apollo 11 mission , when humans first set foot on the moon , had a CPU clock speed of about 1 megahertz - slower than many GCSE-level calculators used today. A-Level Topics 1.2 - Types of Processor

  • 5.2 - Utility Software - OCR GCSE (J277 Spec) | CSNewbs

    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

  • 6.1 - Job Roles | F160 | Cambridge Advanced National in Computing AAQ

    Learn about the responsibilities of job roles such as an application designer, mobile application designer, project manager, systems analyst, systems designer, user experience designer (UXD) and user interface designer (UID). Based on Unit F160 (Fundamentals of Application Development) for the OCR Cambridge Advanced National in Computing (H029 / H129) (AAQ - Alternative Academic Qualification). Qualification: Cambridge Advanced National in Computing (AAQ) Unit: F160: Fundamentals of Application Development Certificate: Computing: Application Development (H029 / H129) 6.1 - Job Roles Watch on YouTube : Job roles Developing a new application is rarely a solo project and often involves a team working together . There are seven specific job roles for application development you need to know, from application designer to user interface designer (UID ). For each job role , you must understand its main responsibilities and how it contributes to software application development . Job Roles Application Designer Application designers create the blueprint that guides developers , ensuring the software performs required tasks efficiently and logically . They design the structure and layout of software applications . Mobile Application Designer Mobile application designers ensure the software is suitable and user-friendly on mobile devices . They design apps specifically for mobile platforms (e.g. iOS or Android ) with touch-semsitive interfaces and responsive design . Project Manager Project managers keep the project organised , on track and within budget , making sure all team members work efficiently towards the same goals . They must be organised to effectively plan and oversee the entire software development process . Systems Analyst Systems analysts ensure the final software solves the right problems by fully understanding what users and businesses actually need . They gather and analyse user requirements and identify possible improvements or new system solutions . Systems Designer Systems designers provide the technical structure of the system , ensuring it functions correctly and efficiently under real-world use . They translate requirements into detailed system designs and specify data structures . User Experience Designer (UXD) UXDs ensure the software is pleasant and efficient to use, increasing user satisfaction and reducing errors or frustration . They focus on how users interact with the application and research user behaviour through testing and feedback . User Interface Designer (UID) UIDs make the application visually appealing and easy to navigate , supporting a good first impression and smooth interaction . They design the visual elements including the style of buttons , menus , icons and overall layout . Q uesto's Q uestions 6.1 - Job Roles: 1. Explain how UXDs and UIDs can work together to design applications . [5 ] 2. Describe how systems analysts contribute to application development . [4 ] 3. Describe the responsibilities of two other roles not mentioned in Q1 or Q2 . [ 6 ] There were estimates of about 6,000 developers working together across Rockstar's global video game studios to make Grand Theft Auto VI . D id Y ou K now? 5.3 - HCI Designs & Diagrams Topic List 6.2 - Communication Skills

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