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Learn about the laws related to computing - the Data Protection Act, Computer Misuse Act, Copyright Design and Patents Act and Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act. Based on the OCR H446 Computer Science A-Level specification. Exam Board: OCR A-Level Specification: Computer Science H446 5.1 - Computing-related Legislation Watch on YouTube : Data Protection Act Computer Misuse Act Copyright Design and Patents Act Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act Several key UK laws govern the ethical and legal use of computers and digital information including the Data Protection Act and Computer Misuse Act . Each act is designed to protect data , users or intellectual property in the digital age. Data Protection Act (2018) The Data Protection Act is a UK law designed to ensure that personal data is collected , stored and used responsibly . It gives individuals (data subjects ) rights over their personal information and sets rules for organisations that process it . Introduced in 1998 , it was updated in 2018 to align with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR ). The Data Protection Act's key principles include that data must be processed lawfully , fairly and transparently , used for specific purposes , kept accurate and up to date , stored securely and not kept longer than necessary . It also gives data subjects rights such as accessing their data , correcting inaccuracies , objecting to processing and requesting deletion . Organisations that break the law can face heavy fines and legal action from the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO ). YouTube video uploading soon Computer Misuse Act (1990) The Computer Misuse Act (1990 ) is a UK law created to make unauthorised access and use of computer systems illegal . It was introduced in response to the rise of hacking and other cybercrimes as computers became more common . This act defines several offences , including: Unauthorised access to computer material , such as hacking into a system without permission . Unauthorised access with the intent to commit further offences , such as fraud or data theft . Unauthorised modification of data or programs , for example, spreading viruses or deleting files . Making , supplying or obtaining tools used for committing these offences . Penalties range from fines to imprisonment , depending on the severity of the crime . This act helps protect individuals , organisations and data from malicious attacks and misuse . YouTube video uploading soon Copyright, Designs & Patents Act (1988) The Copyright, Designs and Patents Act (1988 ) is a UK law that protects people’s creative and intellectual work from being copied or used without permission . It gives creators automatic legal rights over their original work , such as books , music , films and software . The act states that the copyright owner controls how their work is used , including the rights to copy , distribute or adapt it. Anyone wishing to use the work must get permission or a licence from the owner. It also includes exceptions , allowing limited use for purposes like education or research . This act helps ensure that creators are fairly rewarded for their work and that their intellectual property is legally protected . YouTube video uploading soon Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (2000) The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA ) (2000 ) is a UK law that governs how public bodies and law enforcement can carry out surveillance and access electronic communications . It was introduced to balance national security and crime prevention with individuals’ right to privacy . RIPA allows authorised agencies , such as the police , intelligence services and local councils , to monitor communications , intercept phone calls or emails and use covert surveillance , but only with proper legal authorisation . It also regulates the use of informants and access to encrypted data . This act aims to ensure that surveillance is done lawfully , proportionately and for legitimate purposes , such as preventing or detecting serious crime or protecting public safety . YouTube video uploading soon This page is under active development. Check here for the latest progress update. Q uesto's K ey T erms Legislation: Data Protection Act (2018) Computer Misuse Act (1990) Copyright Design and Patents Act (1988) Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (2000) D id Y ou K now? In 1985 , two journalists were arrested for ‘ hacking ’ into the emails of the Duke of Edinburgh ( Prince Philip ) after discovering an engineer’s username was ‘ 2222222222 ’ and password was ‘ 1234 ’. They were acquitted in court because no UK laws covered hacking , exposing a major legal gap that led to the creation of the Computer Misuse Act ( 1990 ) . 4.3 - Boolean Algebra A-Level Topics 5.2 - Moral & Ethical Issues

Learn about the different types of applications software including productivity programs, business tools and IDEs. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification. 2.2: Applications Software Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 1 What is applications software? Don't confuse applications software and apps . Apps generally have a single purpose , such as a game like Angry Birds or the torch tool on a phone. Applications software can be used for a number of different functions depending on the user's needs and their purpose. Productivity Software This is general use software for completing a range of tasks accurately and efficiently . Key examples include word processors (e.g. Microsoft Word or Google Docs), presentation software (e.g. Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides) and web browsers (e.g. Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome). Email applications (e.g. Microsoft Outlook or Gmail) are beneficial to organisations because staff can send information to many customers at once which is a simpler and less costly method of communication than something like sending letters or leaflets in the mail. Emails can also include attachments of important documents and include multimedia elements like images and videos to make communication more interesting . Databases and Spreadsheets Database tables and spreadsheets can store both numerical and textual data ready for analysis . Examples include simple database tables and financial spreadsheets of a company's profits each year. Microsoft Access is an example of database software that uses tables of records and Microsoft Excel is an example of spreadsheet software . Data can be sorted numerically or alphabetically for both software types but graphs can be created from spreadsheets to visualise data . When using spreadsheets (or databases) records can be locked ('record locking' ) so that only one person can make edits to a specific record at any one time. Edits will be saved before unlocking the file. This will stop data being incorrectly overwritten and will ensure that the data in the spreadsheet is up-to-date, accurate and fit for purpose. Development Tools These are tools for programmers who are creating or modifying software . An integrated development environment ( IDE ) is software used to create , edit and debug (fix) programs . An IDE features a number of tools , including: A source code editor to type program code into. It may contain features such as error highlighting and automatic formatting . Because IDEs use high-level languages like Python or Java , a translator is required to convert the source code into machine code ( binary ) so that it can be understood and processed by the CPU . A compiler is a type of translator that converts instructions into machine code (binary) in one go . An interpreter is a type of translator that converts instructions into machine code (binary) line by line . A debugger is used to test code and display errors . Other development tools aid programmers with developing and maintaining websites and apps for phones / tablets. An advantage of databases over spreadsheets is that data can be atomised - meaning it can be stored in separate tables (e.g. one for patients and one for doctors ) with records linked through relationships . This minimises data redundancy (duplication ), meaning there is a lower chance of making errors , and it is easier to search through the table as each record will only appear once . A search through a database is called a 'query '. Business Software This is specialist software for businesses , often made bespoke for an organisation based on their needs . Types of business software: Project management software allows teams of workers to collaborate and split large projects into manageable tasks with clear deadlines and assigned roles . A management information system (MIS ) processes a large amount of data and organises it for use in decision-making and general data analysis . See more about an MIS in section 3.5 . Multimedia programs such as video editors or animation suites can be used to create high-quality videos with images , audio and video clips . Collaboration tools for businesses allow employees to share ideas and resources in real-time . Publishing software allows users to implement text and images into eye-catching designs such as posters , leaflets or static adverts to include on a website. Expert systems use large databases for automatic decision-making , often making use of AI to quickly solve complex problems . A healthcare example of an expert system is a medical diagnosis program that may suggest possible illnesses when a patient's symptoms are input . CAD / CAM One example of business software used for the design and manufacture of a product is CAD / CAM (C omputer-A ided D esign / C omputer-A ided M anufacturing). CAD is used to create highly detailed digital designs and CAM translates these designs into instructions for manufacturing machines to make the product physically. These software packages use 3D modelling and image rendering along with exact measurements to create precise designs ready to be manufactured . Engineers use them to design and make mechanical parts and architects use them to create detailed building models and blueprints . Q uesto's Q uestions 2.2 - Applications Software: 1. State four different kinds of productivity software and briefly describe how each could be used . For example: "Word processors can be used to type up a letter in an office or write an essay for school." [8 ] 2. Describe two differences between database and spreadsheet software. [2 ] 3a. What is an Integrated Development Environment ? [1 ] 3b. Describe three tools used in an IDE. [6 ] 4. Giving brief examples of how they can be used, state four different types of business software . [8 ] 5. Suggest how a website design company could use each of the three types of applications software (Productivity Software , Development Tools and Business Software ). [ 6 ] 2.1 - Types of Software Topic List 2.3 - Utility Software

A complete list of tags required for students to know how to use in the 2016 Eduqas GCSE specification. Follow the links on each tag to see how to use them. Here you can find a list of tags. Click a tag to see how to use it. Tags for Eduqas GCSE:

Learn about the elements of a data flow diagram and factors that may disrupt them. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification for Unit 2 (Global Information). 5.2 - Data Flow Diagrams Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 2 A data flow diagram is a visual representation of how data is transferred within a system or organisation . Data flow diagrams are often abbreviated to just 'DFD '. You will need to recognise the symbols , understand the diagrams and explain how data flow can be affected . Data Flow Diagram Symbols The common symbols used in a DFD are shown below: External Entity (e.g. Employee, Customer) Alternative DFD symbols you may see on the exam paper (both sets of symbols have been accepted in previous exam papers): Process (e.g. Calculate Pay, Review Application) Data Store (e.g. Staff Database, Customer Database) External Entity Process Data Store Data Flow Level 0 data flow diagrams show the transfer of data in a simple manner . Processes may be generalised and not shown separately , for a more basic overview . Below is an example of a Level 0 DFD to show the process of an employee submitting an application to be promoted : Level 1 data flow diagrams show the transfer of data in a more detailed manner . Processes are shown separately , for a more complex and realistic overview . Below is an example of a Level 1 DFD to show the process of an employee submitting an application to be promoted . The individual processes have been expanded from the Level 0 DFD above to show how the application must first be signed off by an administrator before it is reviewed by management: Rules for Drawing a Level 1 DFD Data flows only in one direction . Every data flow is labelled (with the data itself , not the action). Every data flow connects to at least one process . At least one input or output for each external entity . Impacts Affecting the Flow of Information There are several reasons why the flow of information within an organisation may be delayed or inefficient , such as: Information characteristics e.g. information is entered incorrectly, causing delays. Human error e.g. information is lost or staff don't follow protocol. Hardware failure e.g. network connection breaking or system failure. Communication breakdown e.g. meetings postponed or emails unread. Q uesto's Q uestions 5.2 - Data Flow Diagrams: 1. Draw the symbols for the four parts of a data flow diagram . [4 ] 2. Look at the image of the Level 1 DFD . State one example of: An external entity A process A data flow A data store [1 each ] 3. Give one difference between a Level 0 and Level 1 DFD . [2 ] 4. State three rules for drawing a correct data flow diagram . [3 ] 5. After heavy snow, a school has decided to shut for the next two days. Many parents were not informed of this decision and are angry that they brought their children in. Give three reasons why the transfer of data (the data being a message about school closure) might not have flowed efficiently in this example. [6 ] 1 Level 0 Data Flow Diagram Level 1 Data Flow Diagram 5.1 - Data Types & Sources Topic List 6.1 - Security Principles

Learn about the three main types of memory in a computer system - RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory) and Cache Memory. Memory What is memory? Memory is where a computer stores information , instructions and data so it can use them quickly when needed . There are three main types of memory : RAM Random Access Memory ROM Read Only Memory Cache Memory What is Random Access Memory? RAM is volatile (this means that when power is lost, the data is deleted ). Every program that is being run by the computer (such as Google Chrome, Spotify or Microsoft Word) is stored in RAM . RAM is made up of a large number of storage locations , and each is identified with a unique address . What is Read Only Memory? ROM is non-volatile (this means that data is saved, even when the power is off ). The start-up instructions (for when a computer is switched on ) are stored in ROM . ROM is read-only, which means that it cannot be edited or changed . What is Cache Memory? Cache memory is fast to access because it is built into the CPU (or very close to it) . Cache memory stores data that needs to be accessed very frequently . Cache memory is very expensive , so there is only a small amount in most computers. How can a computer run faster? There are many reasons why a computer may be running slowly . Here are some methods related to memory that can help speed up a system : Close unnecessary programs to free up RAM so it doesn't run out of memory space . Add more RAM so the computer can run more programs at once without slowing down . Increase the cache size so the CPU can access important data more quickly . KS3 Home Note: Only larger systems like desktop computers can have their components easily upgraded and replaced.

Navigate between all Unit 2 (Global Information) topics in the OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT 2016 specification. OCR Cambridge Technicals IT Level 3 Unit 2: Global Information These pages are based on content from the OCR Cambridge Technicals 2016 Level 3 IT specification . This website is in no way affiliated with OCR . This qualification stopped in July 2025. The pages on the site will remain for at least two years. LO1 (Devices & The Internet ) 1.1 - Holders of Information 1.2 - Storage Media 1.3 - Access & Storage Devices 1.4 - Internet Connections 1.5 - WWW Technologies 1.6 - Information Formats 1.7 & 1.8 - Internet Pros & Cons LO2 (Information Styles & Quality ) 2.1 - Information Styles 2.2 - Information Classification 2.3 - Quality of Information 2.4 - Information Management LO3 (Categories & Analysis ) 3.1 - Data vs. Information 3.2 & 3.3 - Information Categories 3.4 - Stages of Data Analysis 3.5 - Data Analysis Tools 3.6 - Information Systems LO4 (Legislation ) 4.1 - UK Legislation 4.2 - Global Legislation 4.3 - Green IT LO5 (Flow of Information ) 5.1 - Data Types & Sources 5.2 - Data Flow Diagrams LO6 (Security & Protection ) 6.1 - Security Principles 6.2 - Risks 6.3 - Impacts 6.4 - Protection Measures 6.5 - Physical Protection 6.6 - Logical Protection

Learn about the advantages and disadvantages to individuals and organisations when using the internet. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification for Unit 2 (Global Information). 1.7 & 1.8 - Internet Pros & Cons Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 2 The internet has become easier and cheaper to access since the mid 1990s and today it is almost taken for granted. The rise of the internet, and the services it provides, has lead to advantages and disadvantages for both individuals and organisations . Advantages for Individuals Increased speed of personal communication Allows for instant messaging, emails and video chats across the world. Easy access to information The internet has free resources such as CSNewbs and Wikipedia, plus academic journals for research & study. 24/7 access to services Shopping, browsing and banking can be completed when convenient for the user. Social interaction with others Social media, discussion forums and online games provide entertainment and social interaction. Disadvantages for Individuals Potential for identity theft Uploading personal data and storing sensitive information risks hackers obtaining and utilising it. Cost of connection & services Internet service providers (ISPs) charge a monthly fee and equipment like a router needs installation. Cyberbullying & trolling The abuse of others on social media is possible. Anonymisation makes it harder to catch offenders. Spreading misinformation 'Fake news' or biased information can be easily spread on social media and lead to incorrect assumptions. Source of distraction Staff and students may neglect their work and study for entertainment or social media. Advantages for Organisations Share data quickly globally Files and information can be sent instantly to locations across the world. Cloud storage can store data. Online services always available E-commerce businesses can operate 24/7 globally, permit users to browse and accept payments. Easy internal communication Staff can use emails, video calls or instant messages to communicate. Open up the workplace Staff can work from home, on the commute to/from work and outside of the office. Disadvantages for Organisations Malicious attacks & threats Websites can be hacked / taken offline with DDoS attacks. Data can be stolen or corrupted. Cost of maintaining services Most companies require an IT department to oversee device installation and maintenance. Reputation and controversies Companies that leak data will damage their reputations. Social media posts could backfire. Q uesto's Q uestions 1.7 - Internet Pros & Cons: 1. List 5 points for the following categories (you may need to include researched / your own points for some): a. Advantages of the internet for individuals [5 ] b. Disadvantages of the internet for individuals [5 ] c. Advantages of the internet for organisations [5 ] d. Disadvantages of the internet for organisations [5 ] 1.6 - Information Formats Topic List 2.1 - Information Styles

Learn how to add a counter to Greenfoot to keep track of the score. Learn how to add and subtract points to the counter. Part 6 of the Greenfoot Tutorial for the Eduqas / WJEC GCSE 2016 specification. 6. The Counter Greenfoot Tutorial 1. Import the Counter The counter class can be imported into your Greenfoot world. Select Edit in the main Greenfoot window then ' Import Class... ' and choose Counter . Watch on YouTube: The Counter class will appear in the Actor classes list . Right-click on the Counter, choose the ' new Counter() ' option and drag it into the world. Now right-click on the background and select 'Save the World' once you have dragged the counter into the world. 2. Increase the Counter by 1 Two lines of code are required to increase the counter . Add this code when your main character is removing the collectible object . This code allows your main character to access the 'add' method from the Counter class . The method 'add ' just increases the value of the counter by the number in the brackets . To decrease the counter , type a negative value in the brackets, such as -1 . < Part 5 - Play Sounds 3. Compile and Run Click the Compile button at the top of the code editor . Then you can go back to the main Greenfoot window and click Run to test if your counter increases . Click on me if you've got an error that you're stuck with. Part 7 - Extension Ideas >

Learn about the different protocols used on networks - HTTP, HTTPS, TCP, IP, FTP and SMTP. Also learn about protcol layers in the 4-layer TCP/IP model. Based on the J277 OCR GCSE Computer Science specification (first taught from 2020 onwards). 3.2b: Protocols & Layers Exam Board: OCR Specification: J277 Watch on YouTube : IP & MAC Addresses Protocols & Standards Common Protocols Protocol Layers Protocols A protocol is a set of rules that allow devices on a network to communicate with each other . TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) TCP / IP is actually two separate protocols that combine together. TCP is a protocol that allows packets to be sent and received between computer systems. It breaks the data into packets and reorders them back into the original data at the destination. IP is a protocol in charge of routing and addressing data packets . This ensures data packets are sent across networks to the correct destination . It is also an addressing system - every device on a network is given a unique IP address so data packets can be sent to the correct computer system. HTTP is used to transfer web pages over the Internet 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 (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) Transfer Protocols FTP ( File Transfer Protocol ) is used to transfer files across a network. It is commonly used to upload or download files to/from a web server . SMTP ( Simple Mail Transfer Protocol ) is a protocol used to send emails to a mail server and between mail servers . POP ( Post Office Protocol ) and IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol ) are both protocols for receiving and storing emails from a mail server. POP will delete an email from the email server once it has been downloaded to a device . Pop! IMAP syncs the message with an email server so it can be accessed by different devices . IP Address & MAC Address There are two versions of IP addressing currently used - IPv4 and IPv6 . IPv4 is a 32-bit address , represented in denary , that allows for over 4 billion unique addresses . It has four 8-bit segments of denary values (from 0 to 255) separated by full stops . IPv4 example: 145.13.218.102 IPv6 is a 128-bit address , represented in hexadecimal , that allows for an undecillion unique addresses . It has eight 16-bit segments of four hexadecimal values (0000 - FFFF), separated by colons . IPv6 example: 736E:1029:A4B3:902D:77B2:72FF:AE62:0912 A MAC address is a unique hexadecimal number assigned to each network interface card/controller inside a networked device such as a router or laptop . A MAC address is a 48-bit address made up of six 8-bit pairs in hexadecimal , separated by dashes . While an IP address may change , the MAC address can’t be changed . MAC stands for Media Access Control . Network Interface Card (NIC) MAC example: 19-C2-D1-47-AA-38 Networking Standards Networking standards are rules that allow computer systems to communicate across networks . Standards have been created to ensure devices can exchange data and work together by interpreting signals in the same way , regardless of the manufacturer . TCP/IP Stack & Layers What is TCP/IP? TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol ) is a set of protocols that operate on different layers . These two protocols are used together to allow computers to communicate on a network . What is a protocol layer? A layer is a division of network functionality - each layer provides a specific function to assist the transmission of the data that is being sent. TCP/IP is split into four layers (named Application , Transport , Internet and Link ). Important Note: You do not need to know any layer names or the purpose of any specific layers in the OCR GCSE J277 specification , just what layers are and why they’re used . Why are protocol layers used? Layers are self-contained , so they allow different developers to concentrate on one aspect of the network at a time . A layer can be taken out and edited without affecting other layers . Protocol layers are used to visualise the different parts of a network , as each of the four layers of TCP/IP has a specific role and is associated with different protocols . Protocols are broken down into well-defined , specific layers to simplify design , making it easier to identify errors (known as troubleshooting ). Each layer uses specific protocols , so layering ensures these protocols are applied in a specific order . This process uses abstraction and layers only communicate with adjacent layers for easy compatibility . Q uesto's Q uestions 3.2b - Protocols & Layers: 1. Describe each of the following protocols . It might be helpful to also draw an icon or small diagram for each one: a. TCP [ 2 ] b. IP [ 2 ] c. HTTP & HTTPS [ 3 ] d. FTP [ 2 ] e. SMTP [ 2 ] f. POP3 & IMAP [ 2 ] 2. State which protocol would be used in the following scenarios : a. Transferring a music file to a friend over the internet. [ 1 ] b. Sending an email to a family member in America. [ 1 ] c. Using a webpage to enter a password securely. [ 1 ] d. Receiving an email from a bank. [ 1 ] 3a. What are networking standards ? [ 2 ] 3b. What is TCP/IP ? [ 2 ] 3c. What is a protocol layer ? [ 2 ] 3d. Give at least two reasons why protocols are split into layers . [ 4 ] 3.2a - Wired & Wireless Networks Theory Topics 4.1 - Security Threats

Learn about the motherboard, graphics processing unit (GPU), sound card, embedded systems and input / output systems. Based on the 2020 Eduqas (WJEC) GCSE specification. 1.6: Additional Hardware Exam Board: Eduqas Specification: 2020 1.6a - Internal Hardware Motherboard The motherboard is the main circuit board of a computer , unique for each device. It holds and connects the different components together , allowing data to be transferred between them. Components such as the CPU and ROM are directly attached to the motherboard. The motherboard has expansion slots for additional cards (i.e. sound cards) and ports (i.e. USB). Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Sound Card A GPU is a microprocessor that performs complex calculations to generate graphical images to be displayed on a monitor . There are two types of GPU, integrated GPUs within the motherboard circuitry or dedicated GPUs on an additional card (known as a 'graphics card'). An integrated GPU is cheaper and generates less power because it uses the RAM of the computer . Integrated GPUs are used in tablets and laptops as they generate less heat and are optimal for general computing uses (e.g. web browsing or watching movies). A dedicated GPU is more expensive and generates more heat, often requiring a fan because it contains its own memory . Dedicated cards are used by animation professionals and professional gamers who require the best graphics. Sound cards convert analogue sound waves into digital data (binary) when inputting audio through a microphone. 0010 1011 0101 0101 0110 0111 0101 0001 0101 0010 1011 0101 0101 0110 0111 0101 0001 0101 Sound cards also convert digital data (binary) into analogue sound waves to output audio through speakers or headphones. 1.6b - Embedded Systems Example: A washing machine has a control chip that manages the different program cycles. An embedded system is a computer system built into a larger machine to provide a means of control . Embedded systems perform a specific pre-programmed task which is stored in ROM . An embedded system uses a combination of hardware and software . Example: A traffic light has a control chip that determines when to change to a green or red light. 1.6c - Input & Output Devices Input devices are used by humans to interact with a computer system , through methods such as text , voice or touch . Output devices show the result of computer processing , such as sound , printed text or a visual display on a monitor. Storage devices , such as a USB stick or an external hard drive, are neither input nor output devices - see 1.4 . Input Devices These are just some of the more common input devices . A mouse and a keyboard have been described in further detail. Are there any devices below you haven't heard of before? Mouse Benefits: Easy to navigate a graphical user interface. A wireless mouse takes up less space . Faster to select options (e.g. in a video game). Drawbacks: Difficult to use for people with restricted hand movement . Difficult to use on some surfaces . Other input devices: Scanner Controller Microphone Webcam Chip Reader OCR Scanner OMR Scanner Barcode Scanner Graphics Tablet Sensors (e.g. light or temperature) Touch Screen Remote Control Biometric Scanner (e.g. fingerprint or iris) Concept Keyboard Sip / Puff Switch Keyboard Benefits: Quick to input text . Easy to use with a familiar layout on most keyboards. Keys can be customised and shortcuts can be used . Drawbacks: Takes up a large amount of space on a desk. Difficult for people to use with restricted hand movement or poor eyesight . Output Devices Monitor These are just some of the more common output devices . A monitor and a printer have been described in further detail. Are there any devices below you haven't heard of before? Other output devices: Plotter Speakers Projector Alarm Light Headphones Touch Screen Braille Terminal What is it? A monitor is required to see the result of human input and computer processing . Monitors can be bought in different sizes and resolutions for a range of purposes such as video editing or playing games . Monitors settings can be changed to alter the brightness or contrast . Printer What is it? A printer uses ink or toner to print a document (such as text or images) onto paper . Inkjet printers use ink cartridges , are generally slower and print in a lower quality . Laser printers use toner cartridges and are generally quicker and print to a higher quality . Q uesto's Q uestions 1.6 - Additional Hardware: 1.6a - Internal Hardware 1. What is the purpose of the motherboard ? [2 ] 2a. What is the purpose of the GPU ? [ 2 ] 2b. Describe two differences between integrated and dedicated expansion cards . [ 4 ] 3. Explain how a sound card works. [ 4 ] 1.6b - Embedded Systems 1. What is an embedded system ? [3 ] 2a. Give two examples of an embedded system. [ 2 ] 2b. Research and describe another example of an embedded system. [ 2 ] 1.6c - Input & Out[ut Devices 1. Choose four input devices and describe at least two benefits and two drawbacks of using each one. [ 8 ] 2. Describe three output devices . [ 3 ] 3. Justify which input and output devices would be most suitable in the following scenarios: a. A teacher needs to take the class register . [ 4 ] b. A family want to communicate with their cousins in Australia. [ 4 ] c. The school movie club wants to play Star Wars in the assembly hall. [ 4 ] d. An e-sports player is taking part in an online multiplayer tournament . [ 4 ] e. A laboratory needs security so that only registered scientists can enter. [ 4 ] 1.5 - Performance 2.1 - Logical Operators Theory Topics

Learn about the denary, binary and hexadecimal number systems and how to convert between them. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification. 1.8 & 1.9 - Number Systems & Conversion Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 1 What is binary? What is denary? Denary (also known as decimal ) is the number system that you've been using since primary school. Denary is a base 10 number system. This means that it has 10 possible values - 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 . How to convert from binary to denary: How to convert from denary to binary: What is hexadecimal? Hexadecimal is a base 16 number system. This means that it has 16 possible values - 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, A, B, C, D, E and F . Hexadecimal is used as a shorthand for binary because it uses fewer characters to write the same value . This makes hexadecimal less prone to errors when reading or writing it , compared to binary. For example, 100111101011 is 9EB. Hexadecimal only uses single-character values. Double-digit numbers are converted into letters - use the table on the right to help you understand. How to convert from binary to hexadecimal: How to convert from hexadecimal to binary: Converting from denary to hexadecimal / hexadecimal to denary To convert from denary to hexadecimal or the other way round you must convert to binary first . Denary > Binary > Hexadecimal Hexadecimal > Binary > Denary Use the videos on this page if you need help converting to or from binary. The most common number systems question in exams are from denary to hexadecimal or from hexadecimal to denary so make sure that you practice these conversions. Q uesto's Q uestions 1.8 & 1.9 - Number Systems: 1. Explain why hexadecimal numbers are used as an alternative to binary . [ 2 ] 2. Convert the following values from binary to denary : a. 00101010 b. 11011011 c. 01011101 d. 11101110 e. 01011111 [1 each ] 3. Convert the following values from denary to binary : a. 35 b. 79 c. 101 d. 203 e. 250 [1 each ] 4. Convert the following values from binary to hexadecimal : a. 11110101 b. 01100111 c. 10111010 d. 10010000 e. 11101001 [1 each ] 5. Convert the following values from hexadecimal to binary : a. C2 b. 8A c. DE d. 54 e. F7 [1 each ] 6. Convert the following values from denary to hexadecimal : a. 134 b. 201 c. 57 d. 224 e. 101 [1 each ] 7. Convert the following values from hexadecimal to denary : a. 32 b. A5 c. 88 d. C0 e. BE [1 each ] Watch on YouTube Watch on YouTube Watch on YouTube Watch on YouTube By now you should know that computer systems process data and communicate entirely in binary . Section 1.7 explained different binary storage units such as bits (a single 0 or 1), nibbles (4 bits) and bytes (8 bits). Binary is a base 2 number system. This means that it only has 2 possible values - 0 or 1 . Click the banners above to try self-marking quizzes (Google Form) on these topics. Denary to Binary: Binary to Denary: Binary to Hexadecimal: Hexadecimal to Binary: 1.7 - Units of Measurement Topic List 2.1 Software Types

Learn about data structures including arrays, records, lists, tuples, linked-lists, graphs, stacks, queues, trees, binary search trees and hash tables. Based on the OCR H446 Computer Science A-Level specification. Exam Board: OCR A-Level 4.2 - Data Structures Specification: Computer Science H446 Watch on YouTube : Arrays Records Lists & tuples Stacks Queues Linked lists Trees Graphs Hash tables Data structures are used to organise and store data so it can be accessed and processed efficiently , often through the use of an index or reference . They can be static , meaning their size is fixed during program execution , or dynamic , allowing them to grow or shrink as data changes . Arrays An array is a data structure that stores a collection of items of the same data type , with each item accessed using an index . A one-dimensional (1D ) array is a simple sequence of values , such as test scores for a single person : scores = [12, 15, 18, 20] . A two-dimensional (2D ) array is like a table or grid , made up of rows and columns - for example, storing a timetable or test scores for a class . A three-dimensional (3D ) array stores data in multiple layers , like a series of 2D grids . For example, test scores for a class across multiple subjects . This page is under active development. Check here for the latest progress update. YouTube video uploading soon Records A record groups together related but different types of data under one name . Each individual piece of data within a record is called a field and each field can have a different data type (e.g. string , integer , Boolean ). For example, a student record might include fields such as Name (string ), Age (integer ) and Enrolled (Boolean ). Records are often used in databases or programming to represent real-world entities where multiple attributes need to be stored together . YouTube video uploading soon Lists & Tuples A list stores an ordered collection of items , which can be changed (mutable ) after creation. Items in a list can be added , removed or modified , and they can be of different data types . For example, in Python : myList = [10, "apple", True] . A tuple is similar to a list but is immutable , meaning its contents cannot be changed once created . Tuples are often used for fixed sets of data that should not be altered , such as coordinates or dates . For example: myTuple = (3, 5, 7) . YouTube video uploading soon Stacks A stack stores data in a last in , first out (LIFO ) order, meaning the most recently added item is the first one to be removed . It works much like a stack of plates - you can only add or remove from the top . Two integral functions are push and pop . The push operation adds (or “pushes”) a new item onto the top of the stack . The pop operation removes (or “pops”) the item from the top of the stack . Stacks are commonly used in undo features , function calls and expression evaluation , where tracking the most recent item first is important . YouTube video uploading soon Queues A queue stores items in a first in , first out (FIFO ) order, meaning the first item added is the first one removed . New items are added at the rear of the queue using an enqueue operation, and items are removed from the front using a dequeue operation. Queues are often used in task scheduling , print spooling and data buffering , where operations must occur in the same order they were requested . YouTube video uploading soon Linked Lists A linked list is a dynamic data structure made up of a series of elements called nodes , where each node contains data and a pointer to the next node in the sequence . Unlike arrays, linked lists do not store elements in contiguous memory locations , making it easy to insert or delete items without having to shift other elements . The head is the first node in the list , and the last node usually points to null , indicating the end of the list . YouTube video uploading soon Trees A tree is a hierarchical data structure made up of nodes connected by branches , starting from a single root node . Each node can have child nodes , and nodes without children are called leaf nodes . Trees are useful for representing data with natural hierarchies , such as file systems or organisational charts . A binary search tree is a special type of tree where each node has at most two children - a left and a right . All values in the left subtree are smaller than the parent node , and all values in the right subtree are larger . This structure allows for efficient searching , insertion and deletion of data , often much faster than in lists or arrays . YouTube video uploading soon Graphs A graph is made up of nodes (also called vertices ) connected by edges and is used to represent relationships between items. Graphs can be directed , where edges have a specific (one-way) direction , or undirected , where connections go both ways . They can also be weighted , where edges have values such as distance or cost , or unweighted , where all connections are equal . Graphs are widely used in computing, for example, in social networks (users and friendships ), maps (locations and routes ) and network routing algorithms . YouTube video uploading soon Hash Tables A hash table stores key–value pairs and allows for very fast data access . It uses a hash function to convert a key (such as a name or ID ) into an index (hash value ), which determines where the associated data (value ) is stored in memory . When retrieving data , the same hash function is applied to the key to find the value’s location instantly , making lookups close to constant time complexity on average . If two keys produce the same hash (a collision ), techniques such as chaining or linear probing are used to handle it . Hash tables are commonly used in databases , caches and programming languages for tasks like fast searching and indexing . YouTube video uploading soon Q uesto's K ey T erms Arrays: array, 1-dimensional, 2-dimensional, 3-dimensional, static Records: record, field, data type, primary key Lists and Tuples: list, tuple, mutable, immutable, dynamic Stacks and Queues: stack, queue, last in first out (LIFO), first in first out (FIFO), push, pop, enqueue, dequeue, pointer Linked Lists: linked list, null Trees & Graphs: tree, binary tree, binary search tree, root node, branch, graph, weights, directions Hash Table: hash table, key, value, collision, linear probing, chaining D id Y ou K now? Trees are used for dialogue options in narrative video games , displaying possible paths based on the player’s previous choices . The final ' suicide mission ' of Mass Effect 2 has hundreds of possible variations depending on ship upgrades , squad member loyalty , and assigned roles during the last mission . 4.1 - Data Types A-Level Topics 4.3 - Boolean Algebra