Information and

Communication
Technology
DR . SAW MYAT SA N DA R

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1.1 Hardware and Software
A computer system is divided into two categories: Hardware
and Software.
Hardware is a general term for the physical components that
make up a computer system: the keyboard, mouse, monitor,
printer, and so on.
1. Keyboard
2. Mouse Input device

3. Camera
4. Monitor
5. Printer Output device
6. Plotter

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1.1 Hardware and Software
Hardware can be either external or internal.
Internal hardware devices:
1. Motherboard
2. Central Processing Unit (CPU)/processor
3. Random Access Memory (RAM)
4. Read only Memory (ROM)
5. Graphic card
6. Sound card
7. Network interface card
8. Internal storage devices (hard disk drive (HDD) and solid
state drive (SSD))

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Motherboard
• printed circuit board found
• allows the processor and other computer hardware to
function and communicate with each other.
• act as a kind of 'hub’
• consists of hard plastic
• Thin layers of copper or aluminium are printed onto
this sheet.
• Contains several sockets and slots to connect the other
components.
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Random access memory (RAM)
Random access memory (RAM) is an
internal chip where data is temporarily
stored when running applications.
This memory can be written to and read
from.
Since its contents are lost when power to
the computer is turned off, it is often
referred to as a volatile or temporary
memory.
RAM stores the data, files or part of the
operating system currently in use.

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Read-only memory (ROM)
Read-only memory (ROM) is a memory used to store information
that needs to be permanent.
It is often used to contain, for example, configuration data for a
computer system.
These chips cannot be altered and can only be read from (hence
their name).
One of the main advantages is that the information stored on the
ROM chip is not lost even when power is turned off to the computer.
They are often referred to as non-volatile memories.

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RAM ROM
1. RAM – Random Access 1. ROM – Read Only Memory
Memory
2. Permanent stored and can
2. When running application, only read from
contents temporarily stored
3. When computer is
3. Written to and read from turned/power off, data are
4. When computer is turned not lost.
off, contents are lost. 4. Non-Volatile Memory
5. Volatile/Temporary Memory

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Central processing unit
(CPU)/processor
A central processing unit (CPU) or processor is an electronic circuit
board in a computer that can execute instructions from a computer
program.
The two main components are:
• arithmetic and logic unit (ALU) where arithmetic and logical
operations are carried out
• control unit (CU) which takes instructions the decodes and
executes the instructions.

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Network interface card (NIC)
A network interface card (NIC) is a component that allows a
computer or any other device (for example, a printer) to be
connected to a network (for example, the internet); it can
be wired or wireless.
Each NIC is hard-coded with a unique MAC (media access
control) address code – refer to Chapter 4)

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Graphic Card
allows the computer to send graphical information
to a video display device (TV)
connects to the motherboard
Made up of
• a processing unit
• memory unit (usually RAM)
• a cooling mechanism (heat sink )
• connections to a display unit (monitor, TV or
projector).
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Sound card
• integrated circuit board
• to produce sounds
• sounds can be heard through speakers
or headphones.
• allow a user to record sound input
from a microphone

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Internal hard disk drive/ solid-state drive (HDD/SSD)
• Hard disk drives (HDDs) are magnetic storing data,
files (text, photos and music) and most of the
system and applications software.
• More modern computers use solid-state (SSD)
• Their function is the same as an HDD.

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 Software
Software is a general term for the programs that control the computer system.
Word
Processor
Two types of software: application and system.
Graphic
Application software are: Manipulation
Software
Spreadsheet

1. Word Processor
2. Spreadsheet
Application
3. Database Video Editing
Software Software
Database

4. Control and Measuring software (temperature, sensor)

5. Apps (GPS, Camera)
Control and
Measuring
6. Photo Editing Software Photo Editing
Software
software
(temperature,
sensor)
7. Video Editing Software Apps (GPS,
Camera)
8. Graphic Manipulation Software

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Application Software
WORD PROCESSING SPREADSHEET
▪used to manipulate a text document, such as an used to organize and manipulate numerical
essay or a report. data
▪Text is entered using a keyboard provides tools Numbers are organised on a grid of lettered
for copying, deleting and various types of
formatting. columns and numbered rows.

Some of the functions The grid itself is made up of cells, and each cell
is identified using a unique combination of
• creating, editing, saving and manipulating text columns and rows; for example: B6.
• copy and paste functions Some of the functions of spreadsheets :
• spell checkers and thesaurus
• use of formulae to carry out calculations
• import photos/images into a structured page
format • ability to produce graphs
• translation into foreign language. • ability to do modelling and 'what if’
calculations.
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Application Software
DATABASE (MANAGEMENT SYSTEM) APPS AND APPLETS
Database software is used to organise, Applets are small applications that perform a
manipulate and analyse data. single task on a device (they are usually
embedded in an HTML page on a website and
A typical database is made up of one or more can be executed from within a browser).
tables.
Apps refer to software which can perform a fairly
Tables consist of rows and columns. Each row is substantial task (such as, video and music
called a 'record’ and each column is called a streaming, banking application or social media).
'field.’
The term originally referred to software that ran
This provides the basic structure for the on a smartphone and could be downloaded from
organisation of the data within the database. an ‘app store’.
Some of the functions include:
• ability to carry out queries on database data
and produce a report (DBMS)
• add, delete and modify data in a table.
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Control and measurement software
Control and measuring software is designed to allow a computer or
microprocessor to interface with sensors so that it is possible to:
• measure physical quantities in the real world (such as
temperatures)
• control applications (such as a chemical process) by comparing
sensor data with stored data and sending out signals to alter process
parameters (for example, open a valve to add acid and change the
pH).

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Application Software
COMPUTER-AIDED DESIGN (CAD) SOFTWARE GRAPHICS EDITING SOFTWARE
This is software used to help in the creation, Graphics editing software allows bitmap and
manipulation, modification and analysis of a vector images to be changed.
drawing/design.
Bitmap images are made up of pixels which
It can be used to produce 2D or 3D diagrams contain information about image brightness and
which: colour.
• can be rotated to view the drawing from any Bitmap graphics editors can change the pixels to
angle produce a different image.
• can produce full dimensions Vector graphic editors operate in a different way
and do not use pixels.
• can be used to estimate manufacturing costs
of the final product This type of software manipulates lines, curves
and text to alter the stored image as required.
• predict any structural problems.
Both types of editing software are chosen
depending on the format of the original image.

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Application Software
AUDIO EDITING SOFTWARE VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE
Audio editing software allows a user to edit, Video editing software allows a user the ability to
manipulate and generate audio data on a computer. It manipulate videos to produce a new video.
allows the user to alter:
It enables the addition of titles, colour correction and
• length of track altering/adding sound to the original video.
• start/stop time of track Essentially it includes:
• conversion between audio file formats • rearranging, adding and/or removing sections of
video clips and/or audio clips
• volume of track
• applying colour correction, filters and other video
• fading in/out enhancements
• combine multiple sound tracks • creating transitions between clips in the video
footage.
• noise reduction
• to create another version of the sound track (for
example, a continuous loop or phone ring tone).

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SYSTEM SOFTWARE
Programs that allow the hardware to run
properly and allow the user to communicate
with the computer

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System Software
COMPILER LINKERS
A compiler is a computer program that translates A linker (or link editor) is a computer program
a program written in a high-level language (HLL) that takes one or more object files produced by
into machine code (code that is understood by a compiler and combines them into a single
the computer) so that it can be directly used by a program that can be run on a computer.
computer to perform a required task.
The original program is called the source code For example, many programming languages
and the code after compilation is called the allow programmers to write different pieces of
object code. code, called modules, separately.
Once a program is compiled, the machine code This simplifies the programming task since it
can be used again and again to perform the same allows the program to be broken up into small,
task without recompilation. more manageable sub-tasks.
Examples of high-level languages include Java, However, at some point, it will be necessary to
Python, Visual Basic, Fortran, C++ and Algol. put all the modules together to form the final
program.
This is the job of the linker.

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Device driver Operating systems (OS)
A device driver is the name given to software The operating system (OS) is essentially software
that enables one or more hardware devices to running in the background of a computer system.
communicate with the computer’s operating It manages many of the basic functions.
system.
Without the OS, most computers would be very
Without drivers, a hardware device (for example, user-unfriendly and the majority of users would
a printer) would be unable to work with the find it almost impossible to work with computers
computer. on a day-to-day basis.
All hardware devices connected to a computer Operating systems allow:
have associated drivers. • input/output operations
As soon as a device is plugged into the USB port • users to communicate with the computer (for
of a computer, the operating system looks for the example, Windows)
appropriate driver.
• error handling to take place
An error message will be produced if it cannot be
found. • the loading and running of programs to occur
Examples of hardware devices that require •managing of security (for example, user
accounts, log on passwords).
drivers include printers, memory sticks, mouse,
CD drivers, and so on.

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Utilities
Utility programs are software that has been
designed to carry out specific tasks on a
computer.
Essentially, they are programs that help to
manage, maintain and control computer
resources.
Examples include:
• antivirus
• anti-spyware
• backup of files
• disk repair
• file management
• security
• screensavers
• disk defragmenter.

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Q&A
What are the two main categories of software?
A. Systems and Applications
B. OS and Office
C. Windows and Applications
D. Systems and Office

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Q&A
RAM is ……………… memory
A. volatile
B. voltage
C. Non volatile
D. Non voltage

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Q&A
ROM is ……………… memory
A. volatile
B. voltage
C. Non volatile
D. Non voltage

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Software
Application
_____________ software are designed to allow users to complete specific tasks.
System
_____________ software are normally involved in the running of the computer.

System Software

Application Mobiles Apps

Software

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1.1.3 Analogue and digital data
Computers can only understand data which is in a binary format (that is, a base 2 number
system where only the values 0 and 1 can be used).
This is often referred to as digital data (because it can only have discrete, discontinuous values).
However, data in the real world is actually analogue in nature.
Analogue data is physical data that changes smoothly from one value to the next, and not in
discrete steps as with digital data.

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Analogue and digital data

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Analogue and digital data
In Figure 1.5, the graph on the left shows analogue data; an infinite number of
values can exist between 0 and 6 (for example, 2.5, 4.652, and so on) because
the curve is smooth in shape.
The graph on the right shows digital data; notice only the exact values of 0, 1, 2,
3, 4, 5 or 6 can be taken.
If analogue data is being sent to a computer, it must first be converted into
digital data; this is done by hardware known as an analogue to digital converter
(ADC).
If the computer is controlling a device (such as a motor) then the digital output
from the computer needs to be converted into analogue form.
This is done by a digital to analogue converter (DAC).
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1.2 Main components of computer
systems

A typical computer
system is made up
of hardware and
software.

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A Typical Computer System
Internal Hardware

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU) – contain on

the motherboard
2. Internal Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
3. Random Access Memory (RAM)
4. Read Only Memory (ROM)

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1.2.1 CPU
The central processing unit (CPU) is the part of the computer that
interprets and executes the commands from the computer hardware and
software. It is normally part of the computer motherboard.
CPUs used to be made up of discrete components and numerous small
integrated circuits; these were combined together on one or more circuit
board(s). However, due to modern manufacturing techniques, the CPU is
now referred to as a microprocessor. (i3, i5, i7, i9)
This is a single integrated circuit which is at the heart of most PCs and is
also found in many household devices and equipment where some
control or monitoring is needed (for example, the engine management
system in a car).
The CPU/microprocessor is made up of a control unit, which controls the
input and output devices; an arithmetic and logic unit (ALU), which carries
out calculations and makes logical decisions, and small memory locations
called registers.
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1.2.2 Internal memory
RAM AND ROM

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RAM
Random access memory (RAM) is an internal chip where data is temporarily stored when
running applications. This memory can be written to and read from.
Since its contents are lost when power to the computer is turned off, it is often referred to as a
volatile or temporary memory. This was fully defined in Figure 1.3.

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ROM
Read Only Memory is a memory used to store
information that needs to be permanent.
It is often used to contain, for example,
configuration data for a computer system.
These chips cannot be altered and can only be
read from.
One of the main advantages is that the
information stored on the ROM chip is not
lost even when power to the computer is
turned off.
It is often referred to as non-volatile memory.

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Cont’d
It is worth noting that that ROM also contains some coding known as the boot
file.
This code tells the computer what to do when it first starts up; it is often
referred to as the BIOS (basic input/output system).
When the computer is turned on, the BIOS carries out a hardware check to find
out if all the devices are present and whether they are functional.
Then it loads the operating system into the RAM.
The BIOS stores the date, time and system configuration in a non-volatile chip
called a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) – this is usually
battery powered.

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Table 1.2 provides a summary of the main
differences between RAM and ROM.

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1.2.3 Input and output devices
Input devices are hardware that allows data to be entered into a computer (these are covered in
detail in Chapter 2).
They use either manual entry (such as a keyboard or a mouse) or direct data entry (such as sensors or
optical character readers).
Essentially, these devices turn input into a form the computer can understand – for example, a mouse
turns hand movements into cursor movements on the screen.
As mentioned earlier, sometimes the data has to go through an ADC before the computer can make
any sense of it.
When a computer processes data, and the human operator wants to see the results of the processing,
then the computer sends the data to an output device.
An output device shows the computer’s output in a form that is understood by a human – for
example, as text on a printer or moving images on a monitor.
Some devices can act as both input and output. For example, a touch screen can do both, as can a
DVD writer/player; but most devices are only capable of either inputting data into a computer or
displaying the results of computer processing (output device).

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Table 1.3 Comparison of input and output devices

Input devices Output devices

An input device is any hardware device that An output device is any hardware device that
allows a user to enter data or instructions takes the output data from a computer and puts it
into a computer directly. into a human-readable format or uses it to control
another device.
An input device can send data to another An output device is capable of receiving data from
device, but it cannot receive data from another another device in order to generate an output,
device. but it cannot send data to another device.
Input devices are necessary for a computer Output devices are needed by a computer
to receive commands from its users and data to so it can share the results of its processing
process; the devices are under the control of the with a human; output devices are under the
user or can be direct data entry. control of the computer.
Input devices can be fairly complicated Output devices are less complex than input
because they have to ensure that the user devices because they only have to turn
can interact with the computer correctly. computer signals into an output.

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1.2.4 Backing storage
The main memories in a computer are RAM and ROM. However, to permanently store
large amounts of data it is necessary to use backing storage.
This normally takes the form of the internal hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive
(SSD).
This is the computer’s main internal storage where the applications software, disk
operating system and files (for example, text, photo or music) are stored.
A key feature of a backing store is that it must store data permanently – that is, it must
be non-volatile.
Unlike RAM and ROM, backing storage is not directly addressable (that is, it cannot be
read directly by the CPU).
The data access time for RAM and ROM is much shorter than it is for backing storage.
Backing storage is considerably larger than RAM because it is considerably less
expensive per byte.

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Cont’d
Backing storage can either be fixed (very often internal to the computer) or removable.
The advantage of removable backing storage is that it can be used as a backup in case of
data loss or corruption.
Data from the main HDD or SSD can be copied onto another device (such as a pen drive
or portable HDD) and then stored in a separate location.
If the original data on the HDD/SSD has been lost or corrupted, it can be restored from
the backup device.
Examples of removable storage include external hard disk drives (HDD), external solid-
state drive (SSD) and Blu-ray discs.
Table 1.4 summarises the differences between backing storage and internal memory.

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 Table 1.4 Comparison of internal
memory and backing storage
Internal memory Backing storage
RAM contents are lost when computer is Backing storage devices hold their contents
powered down; ROM contents are readable only. permanently, even when powered down.
RAM and ROM are much smaller memories Have considerably larger capacity to store
than backing storage. data than RAM or ROM.
Data access time on RAM and ROM is Has much slower data access time than
extremely fast. RAM and ROM.
Much more expensive per byte than backing storage Is much cheaper per byte than RAM or ROM.
devices.
RAM and ROM are fixed inside the computer (internal Backing storage can either be fixed
memories). (external or internal) or it can be removable.
RAM and ROM can be read directly by the Before data on a backing storage device can be read by
CPU. the CPU, it must first be moved into RAM; this means
backing storage is not directly addressable by the CPU.

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Q&A-1
What is BIOS?
A. basic input/output system
B. basic internal/output system
C. basic input/outside system
D. basic input/output software

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Q&A-2
When the computer is turned on, the BIOS carries out a hardware check.
A. True
B. False

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Q&A-3
When the computer is turned off, the BIOS carries out a hardware check.
A. True
B. False

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Q&A-4 Place the correct devices in the appropriate category

Input Hardware Devices – Input Output Hardware Devices – External Storage Devices – Provides
data into a Computer Outputs data from a computer external storage or backup
solutions

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Q&A-5

• The CPU is the ________

brain
of the computer.

• It is where all the searching, sorting, _________

Calculating

and _________
Decision making takes place.
Gigahertz
• The speed of the CPU is measured in _________
(GHz).
Billion Instructions
• A 1 GHz CPU can carry out 1 ________ _________
per second!

• Intel and AMD are the most popular CPU brands.

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Q&A-4
Device Name Input () Output ()

Keyboard 

Monitor 

Mouse 

Scanner 

Speaker 

Printer 

Web camera 

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1.3 Operating systems
CPU, RAM, ROM,
Internal
HDD
Hardware
Monitor, Printer,
External Speaker, Mouse,
Keyboard

Computer MS Word, Excel,

Application Photoshop,
Database

Software CLI

OS

System GUI

Device Driver, Uti

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1.3 Operating Systems
To enable computer systems to function and
To allow users to communicate with computer systems, special software know as Operating
System (OS) has been develop.

General task for a typical OS

• Control of the operation of the input, output and backing storage devices
• Supervising the loading, running and storage of applications programs
• Dealing with errors that occur in application programs
• Maintaining security of the whole computer system
• Maintaining a computer log (which details computer usage)
• Allowing communication between the user and the computer system (user interface)

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Example User Interface
Computer users need to be able to communicate with the Operating System.
This is called the user interface.
Eg. GUI - 40GB Vs CLI-10 GB
CLI & GUI

GUI CLI
User Interfaces

Command Line Graphical User

Interface (CLI) Interface (GUI)

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1.3.1 User interfaces
Operating systems offer various types of user interface.
We will consider four different types:
» command line interface (CLI)
» graphical user interface (GUI)
» dialogue-based user interface
» gesture-based user interface.

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Command Line Interface (CLI)
A command line interface (CLI) requires a user to type in instructions to choose
options from menus, open software, etc.
There are often a number of commands that need to be typed in, for example, to
save or load a file.
The user has to learn a number of commands just to carry out basic operations.
It is also slow, having to key in these commands every time an operation has to be
carried out.
However, the advantage of a CLI is that the user is in direct communication with
the computer and is not restricted to a number of pre-determined options.
For example, Windows has a CLI called the ‘command prompt’.
The following command opens the desktop folder in Windows Explorer:
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%windir%\explorer.exe
C:\Users\SMSD\Desktop

Pictures

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GUI (Graphical User Interface)
A graphical user interface (GUI) allows the user to interact with a computer (or MP3
player, gaming device, mobile phone, etc.) using pictures or symbols (icons) rather than
having to type in a number of commands. For example, the whole of the CLI code in
Figure 1.7 could have been replaced by clicking on the Desktop icon within Windows
Explorer.
Simply selecting this icon would automatically execute all the commands shown in
Figure 1.7 without the need to type it in.
GUIs use various technologies and devices to provide the user interface. One of the
most common is WIMP (windows icons menu and pointing device) which was
developed for use on personal computers (PC). Here, a mouse is used to control a cursor
and icons are selected to open/run windows. Each window contains an application and
modern computer systems allow several windows to be open at the same time. An
example is shown in Figure 1.8 (here, a number of icons can be seen on the on the
bottom of the screen ‘window’):
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Cont’d
A window manager looks after the interaction between windows,
the applications and window system (which handles the pointing
devices and the cursor’s position).
In recent years, devices such as touch screen smartphones and
tablets use post-WIMP interaction, where fingers are in contact with
the screen allowing actions such as pinching and rotating, which
would be difficult to do using a single pointer and device such as a
mouse.
Table 1.5 summarises the main advantages and disadvantages of CLI
and GUI.

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Figure 1.8 Screen image showing icons

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Advantages and disadvantages of CLI and
GUI interfaces : CLI
ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES

1. The user is in direct 1. The user needs to learn a

communication with the number of commands to carry
computer. out basic operations.
2. The user is not restricted to a 2. All commands need to be
number of pre-determined typed in, which takes time and
options. can be error prone.
3. It is possible to alter computer 3. Each command must be typed
configuration settings. in using the correct format,
spelling, and so on.
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Advantages and disadvantages of CLI and
GUI interfaces : GUI
ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES

1. The user does not need to learn any 1. This type of interface uses up
commands. considerably more computer
2. It is more user-friendly; icons are memory than a CLI interface.
used to represent applications. 2. The user is limited to the icons
3. A pointing device (such as a mouse) provided on the screen.
is used to click on an icon to launch 3. Needs a more complex operating
the application – this is simpler than system, such as Windows, to
typing in commands.
operate, which can be slower to
execute commands.

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Who would use each type of interface?
CLI: a programmer, analyst or GUI: the end-user who does not
technician; basically, somebody who have to (or does not need to) have
needs to have direct communication any great knowledge of how the
with a computer to develop new computer works; a person who uses
software, locate errors and remove the computer to run software, play
them, initiate memory dumps games or store/manipulate
(contents of the computer memory photographs, for example.
at some moment in time), and so
on.

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Dialogue-based user interfaces
Dialogue-based user interfaces use the human voice to give commands to a computer system.
An example of its use is in some luxury modern cars, where voice activation is used to control
devices such as the in-car entertainment system or satellite navigation system.
By speaking certain commands, such as ‘Hey BMW, drive me to the nearest airport’, the system
allows natural speech to enable the driver to intuitively interact with the car.
The satellite navigation system will automatically direct the driver to their chosen destination (in
this case, the nearest airport).
This type of interface could also be used in the home; by using voice commands, it is possible to
switch on/off lights, operate electronic equipment and so on.
In recent years, devices such as Amazon Alexa, Google Now, Apple Siri and Microsoft Cortana
have all been developed to interact with a human by recognising verbal commands.
These devices act as a personal assistant.

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Figure 1.9 Smart voice activated devices

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Gesture-based interfaces
Gesture-based interfaces rely on human interaction by the moving of hands, head or even the feet.
Gesture recognition allows humans to interface with a computer in a more natural fashion without the
need for any mechanical devices.
This type of interface uses techniques known as computer vision and image processing. For example, using
our car example again, the following gestures can be used to carry out certain functions:
» rotating a finger clockwise near the radio will increase the sound volume (rotating the finger anti-
clockwise will reduce the sound volume)
» opening the thumb and next finger will change the track being listened to (for example, in a playlist)
» moving the foot under the rear bumper of the car automatically opens the boot lid
» moving a hand near a window switch automatically opens a window.
There are many other examples. Either a sensor or a camera is used to pick up the gesture and a signal is
sent to an on-board computer to carry out the required action. It eliminates the need for an array of
buttons and dials on the dashboard.

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Table 1.6 summarises
the main advantages
and disadvantages of
dialogue-based and
gesture-based
interfaces.

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Q&A-1
Two types of OS are:
A. LCI and GUI
B. CLI and GIU
C. CLI and GUI
D. CLI and IUG

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Q&A
CLI stands for
A. Command Line Interest
B. Command Line Interface
C. Cammnd Line Interface
D. Common List Interface

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Q&A
GUI stands for
A. Graphical User Interface
B. Graphic User Interface
C. Graphical User Interact
D. Graphical Using Interface

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 WIMP (Windows, Icons, Menus and Pointers)

Explain the benefit:

Q&A-4 W Windows:

Icons:
I

Menus:
M

P Pointers:

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Q & A-5 : GUI Vs CLI
1) Why is it easier to learn to use a GUI interface?
User friendly due to icon (OR)
user-friendly as icons are used to represent applications.

2) Give one example of a GUI interface and one feature that you like?

Icon ( Microsoft Office Word, Save file, Open file)

3) Why would you not recommend a user to use a CLI interface?

Complex, learn large number of commands (OR)

All commands must be typed in, which is time consuming and also prone to errors.

4) Who do you think would use a CLI interface and give one reason?

Programmer - directly communicate with the computer

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1.4 Types of Computer
There are many types of computers in existence

PC/Desktop
Laptops Tablets
Computers

Smart Smart Mainframe

Phones Watches Computers

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1.4.1 Desktop computers
Desktop usually refers to a general-purpose
computer that is made up of separate monitor,
keyboard, mouse and processor unit.
It is distinguished from, for example, a laptop
computer by the fact that it is made up of a
number of separate components, which makes
them not very portable.
Because laptop and desktop computers tend to be
used for very similar purposes, it is worth making a
comparison between the two types of computer.

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Advantages of desktop computers over
laptop
1. Spare parts and connections tend to be standardised, which usually results in lower costs.
2. Desktop computers are easier, and less expensive, to upgrade or expand.
3. The desktop tends to have a better specification (for example, faster processor) for a given
price (often due to size and construction constraints in laptops).
4. Power consumption is not critical because they usually plug straight into a wall socket, and
the larger casings allow a better dissipation of any heat build-up.
5. Because they are usually fixed in one location, there is less likelihood of them being damaged
or stolen.
6. Internet access can be more stable because a desktop computer is more likely to have a
wired internet connection (the user will always have the same data transfer rate); however,
due to their portability, laptop computers usually use wireless internet connectivity where
the signal can be very variable (giving variable data transfer rate).

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Disadvantages when compared to laptop
1. The most obvious is that they are not particularly portable since they are made up of
separate components.
2. They tend to be more complicated because all the components need to be hooked up by
wiring, which also clutters up the desk space.
3. Because they are not particularly portable, it is necessary to copy files on, for example, a
memory stick, when you want to do some work elsewhere (for example, doing office work at
home); although cloud storage has diminished this disadvantage recently, it still may not be
possible to save sensitive data files on the cloud.

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The main uses of desktop computers
include:
» office and business work (word processing, spreadsheets, finance software
and databases being the main use)
» educational use (using interactive software to teach or learn from)
» use as a gaming device (for example, games such as chess, crossword puzzles,
fantasy games, and so on)
» general entertainment (for example, live or ‘catch-up’ streaming of television
programmes).

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1.4.2 Mobile computers
Mobile computers, by their very name, suggest a group of computers which are considerably
more portable than desktop computers. Such computers fall into four categories:
» laptop computers
» smartphones
» tablets
» phablets.

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Laptops
Laptop (or notebook) refers to a type of computer where the
monitor, keyboard, pointing device and processor are all
together in one single unit.
This makes them extremely portable.
Key features:

✓lightweight (to aid portability)

✓low power consumption (and also long battery life)
✓low heat output (cooling is very important).

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Laptop computers do have advantages when
compared to desktop computers:
1. The most obvious is their portability; they can be taken anywhere since the monitor,
pointing device, keyboard, processor and backing store units are all together in one
single unit
2. Because everything is in one single unit, there are no trailing wires (only one single cord
is used).
3. They take up much less room on a desk, so they can be used anywhere (for example, in
a café).
4. Their portability allows them to take full advantage of Wi-Fi features.
5. Because they are portable, they can link into any multimedia system.

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Laptop computers also have disadvantages
when compared to desktop computers:
1. Because they are easily portable, they are also easier to steal
2. They have limited battery life, so the user may need to carry a heavy adaptor
3. The keyboards and pointing devices can sometimes be awkward (uncomfortable) to use.
4. It is not always possible to upgrade them, for instance by adding more RAM.

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The main uses of laptop computers
include:
» office and business work (word processing, spreadsheets, finance software
and databases being the main use)
» educational use (using interactive software to teach or learn from)
» used as a gaming device (for example, games such as chess, crossword puzzles,
fantasy games, and so on)
» general entertainment (for example, live or ‘catch-up’ streaming of television
programmes)
» used in control and monitoring (because they can be operated anywhere using
their internal battery, it is possible to use laptops to gather data directly from
the environment – for example, they can be plugged into a gas boiler during
maintenance to monitor its performance).
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Smart Phones
Smartphones allow normal phone calls to be made but also have an
operating system (such as iOS, Android or Windows), allowing them to
run a number of computer applications.
They allow users to send/receive emails, use a number of Apps, use a
camera feature (to take photos or videos), MP3/4 players (for music and
videos), and so on.
Smartphones communicate with the internet either by using Wi-Fi hot
spots or by using 3G/4G/5G mobile phone networks.

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Some of the typical features of
smartphones include:
» high-definition, anti-glare displays
» front- and back-facing cameras (which are used to take photos, videos or act as a webcam when doing video
calls over the internet)
» lower weight and longer battery life than laptops
» use Bluetooth for connection to printers and other devices
» make use of flash (solid state) memory and cloud storage facilities to back up and synchronise (often just
referred to as ‘sync’) data sources
» they use a number of sensors to carry out the following functions:
– proximity sensors to detect if the device is close to, for example the ear, which allows it to block unintended
‘touches’
– accelerometers, which detect movement and orientation of the device (for example, move the display from
portrait to landscape to view videos, or allow it to be used as a ‘steering wheel’ in-car racing games)
– can use sophisticated speech recognitions systems (such as Siri) to enable the user to ask the device to look for
things (such as search the address book).

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New Generation of Smartphone
The new generation of smartphones are becoming even thinner and
lighter, because they make use of OLED (organic light emitting
diode) touch screens.
Future smartphones will also use OLED touch screens that are
coated with a crystalline layer that allows the phones to be partially
solar powered; this allows them to use Li-Fi (similar to Wi-Fi, except
communication uses visible light rather than radio waves).
Communication using Li-Fi is considerably faster than with Wi-Fi
(much higher data transfer rate); it is also more secure (by stopping
internet ‘piggybacking’).
The Li-Fi system can also be used during aeroplane flights because it
does not use radio waves and therefore does not interfere with
flight control systems.

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Advantages of smartphones
1. they are very small in size and lightweight - therefore very easy to carry round and have on
your person at all times (this is more difficult with laptops since they are much bulkier and
also much heavier)
2. can use them to make phone calls as well as connect to the internet while on the move
3. because they use Wi-Fi and mobile phone networks, they can be used almost anywhere
(this is not the case with laptops or PCs, although tablets also use the same technology)
4. They have apps which make use of sensor data provided by the smartphone, for instance
location data for maps – this can provide services that are not available on desktops or
laptops.
5. they have a reasonable battery life compared to laptops.

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 Disadvantages of smartphones:
1. the small screens and keyboard make pages difficult to read
2. It is more difficult and slower when typing things in (laptops and desktops have much bigger
screens and much larger keyboards).
3. web browsing and photography can drain the battery quickly (video, game)
4. memory size in most phones isn't very large when compared to laptops and desktops although it
is comparable with tablets (however, the latest generation smartphones come with 1 TiB
memories).
5. not all website features are compatible with smartphone operating systems (fb page-post-pin
button – not include in mobile phone version, include in laptop version)
6. because of their small size, it is much easier to lose a smartphone (or for it to be stolen) than
Laptops or desktops
7. the data transfer rate using mobile phone networks is slower than with Wi-Fi- this makes
streaming of video or music for example, Jess than satisfactory at times.

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Tablets
Tablets are becoming an increasingly used type of mobile
computer.
They work in a similar way to a smartphone.
Tablets use touch-screen technology and do not have a
conventional keyboard
The keyboard is virtual; that is, it is part of the touch screen and keys
are activated by simply touching them with a finger or a stylus.
However, it is possible to buy tablet cases which contain a normal-
sized keyboard.
Internet access is usually through Wi-Fi or 3G/4G/5G (mobile
phone) connectivity.
Tablets are equipped with a series of sensors including
cameras, microphones, accelerometers and touch screens.
The typical features of tablets are identical to those of a smartphone (described earlier).
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Advantages of tablets compared to
laptops
1. very fast to switch on (no time delay waiting for the 'windows' system to load up)
2. fully portable - they are so lightweight that they can be carried anywhere
3. touch screen technology means they are simple to use and do not need any other input
devices
4. can use several Apps as standard (such as built-in camera, MP3/4 players and so on)
5. not much heat- they use solid state technology
6. battery life of a tablet is a lot longer
7. when the power button is pressed it goes into standby but remains connected to the
internet, so the user still bears alerts when emails or other 'events’ are received.

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Disadvantages of tablets compared to
laptops
1. tend to be rather expensive when compared to laptops (but this will probably change with
time as they become more common)
2. they often have limited memory or storage compared to a laptop (1TiB)
3. if 3G/4G/5G mobile phone networks are used, they can be expensive to run if the internet is
being accessed frequently
4. typing on a touch screen can be slow and error-prone compared to a standard keyboard
5. transferring of files often has to be done through an 'Apps store'; the lack of an App 'drag
and drop' facility can prove irritating for users
6. laptops tend to support more types of file format than tablets, and are also better
equipped to run different types of software.

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Some of the latest tablet devices have
been designed as a hybrid between
tablet and smartphone - sometimes
referred to as a phablet.
They have much larger screens than a
smartphone but are smaller than a
tablet.
All the features of a smartphone
(described earlier) also apply to
phablets together with the typical
features of a tablet.

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6/4/2022 DR. SAW MYAT SANDAR 98
The main uses of smartphones, tablets
and phablets include:
» entertainment (streaming of music, videos and television programmes)
» gaming (including group games)
» as a camera or video camera (the quality of videos and photos now matches a good digital cameras)
» internet use (online sales, social networks, using QR codes, and so on)
» sending/receiving emails
» global positioning system (use of maps to navigate to a location)
» calendar functions
» telephone banking (sending and receiving money using the banking apps)
» Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) – telephone network using the internet which also allows video calling
» instant access to social networks (social contact with friends no matter where you are in the world) » instant messaging
» office and business management (particularly the features that allow rapid voice and video communication)
» education use (using interactive software to teach or learn from)
» remotely control devices (it is possible to remotely operate devices in the home, such as microwave ovens, which contain embedded
microprocessors; by using internet-enabled smartphones or tablets, it is possible to start/stop the oven even while several kilometres
away from home by using an App and the internet).

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6/4/2022 DR. SAW MYAT SANDAR 100
1.5 Impact of Emerging Technology
Artificial intelligence
There are many definitions of artificial intelligence (AI).
Essentially, AI is a machine or application which carries out a task
that requires some degree of intelligence. For example:
– the use of language
– recognising a person’s face
– the ability to operate machinery, such as a car, aeroplane, train,
and so on
– analysing data to predict the outcome of a future event, for
example weather forecasting.
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Artificial intelligence
AI duplicates human tasks which require decision-making
and problem-solving skills.
Eventually, many tasks presently done by humans will be
replaced by robots or computers, which could lead to
unemployment.
However, the positive side includes improvements in safety
and quality of services and products.
Some examples are detailed below.

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The impact of AI on everyday life
Whenever AI is mentioned, people usually think of science fiction
fantasies and think of robots.
The science fiction writer Isaac Asimov even went as far as producing
his three laws of robotics:
» robots may not injure a human through action or inaction
» robots must obey order given by humans without question
» a robot must protect itself unless it conflicts with the two laws
above.

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Many science fiction movies continue to fuel people’s imagination with slightly
sinister interactions between humans and machines.
However, AI goes way beyond robotics and covers many areas, such as those
shown in Figures 1.15–1.11

There are many more examples and the list becomes longer and longer
with time.

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Negative impacts of AI
All of the above examples give a very favourable view of the effect of AI on our
everyday lives. However, in any balanced argument, we should also consider the
drawbacks of the new technology:
» could lead to many job losses in a number of areas (although it is true to say
that new technical jobs would also be created); many jobs could be lost in
manufacturing, but other roles are likely to be affected (such as bus, taxi, lorry
and train drivers)
» dependency on technology and the inability to carry out tasks done by robots,
for example, could be an issue in the future
» loss of skills – even now, skills from previous generations have been lost as
humans have been replaced by machines and software applications.

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Extended reality
Extended reality (XR) refers to real and virtual combined environments, and is a
‘catch all’ term for all immersive technologies.
The three most common examples at the moment are:
» augmented reality (AR)
» virtual reality (VR)
» mixed reality (MR).
All these immersive technologies extend the reality we experience by either
blending the virtual and real worlds or by creating a fully immersive experience.
In this chapter, we will only consider the first two examples.

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Augmented reality (AR)
The features of augmented reality include:
» allow the user to experience the relationship between digital (virtual) and physical
(real) worlds
» virtual information and objects are overlaid onto real-world situations
» the real world is enhanced with digital details, such as images, text and animation
» the user can experience the AR world through special goggles or via
smartphone/phablet screens
» the user is not isolated from the real world and is still able to interact and see what is
going on in front of them
» examples include the Pokémon GO game which overlays digital creatures onto real-
world situations.

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In the future, augmented reality will have
an impact on all the following areas:
» safety and rescue operations (for example, it is possible to provide 3D images of an
area where a rescue mission is to take place, giving the team the opportunity to interact
with the environment and try out rescue procedures before doing the real thing)
» entertainment (for example, AR takes users into a virtual environment where it is
possible to interact with the characters; imagine the characters of your favourite film
interacting with you at home)
» shopping and retail (this is one of the big areas – for example, using your smartphone
camera you can try out make-up and see how it looks on you before buying it, or you
can experience a virtual tour of a new car where you can ‘sit’in the interior and try out
the driving experience before buying the car)
» healthcare (doctors can make use of AR to have a better understanding of a patient’s
body; software, such as Echopixel enables doctors to use CT scans from patients to build
up a 3D image of their body to help with surgery and diagnosis).
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Virtual reality (VR)
The features of virtual reality include:
» the ability to take the user out of the real-world environment into a virtual
(unreal) digital environment
» in contrast to AR, the user is fully immersed in a simulated digital world
» users must wear a VR headset or a head-mounted display which allows a 360°
view of the virtual world (this ‘fools’ the brain into believing they are walking on
an ocean bed, walking in an alien world or inside a volcano)
» this technology can be used to good effect in: medicine (teaching operation
procedures), construction, engineering and the military.

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Virtual reality is used in all of the
following areas:
» military applications (for example, training to operate a new tank)
» education (for example, looking inside an ancient building as part of a history lesson)
» healthcare (for example, as a diagnostic tool to recommend treatment)
» entertainment (for example, games where gloves, goggles or helmets are worn to fully immerse
players and make it seem very real)
» fashion (for example, to do fashion shows before doing the real thing – see the clothes on people,
check out the venue and so on)
» heritage (for example, allowing users to walk around and close up to monuments like Stonehenge)
» business (for example, training courses and role-playing scenarios for staff)
» engineering (for example, seeing how new designs like bridges will look in an existing environment)
» sport (for example, a golfer trying to improve his swing can use this technology and get feedback to
improve his game)
» media (for example, interactive special effects in movies)
» scientific visualisation (for example, part of a molecular structure in chemistry, or a cell in biology).

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Exam-style questions
1 There are a number of different types of computer. Write down the type of
(a) PC/desktop [1]
computer that best fits the following descriptions.
(b) Laptop [1]
a A computer that is difficult to move and has a separate monitor and keyboard. (c) Tablet [1] (
[1] (d) Smartphone [1]
b A portable computer that includes a physical keyboard.
[1]
c A thin portable computer that has a touch screen and a battery in a single unit,
not normally used to make phone calls.
[1]
d A mobile phone that can be used as a computer.
[1]
Cambridge IGCSE Information and Communication Technology (0417) Paper 12
Q1, February/March 2016

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2 Tick (✓) whether the following are features of operating
systems containing a command line interface (CLI) or a
graphical user interface (GUI). [2]

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3 Most smart phones can carry out many functions which, until
recently, only a computer could perform. Explain why computers of all
types are still needed. [7]
Cambridge IGCSE Information and Communication Technology (0417) Paper 12 Q10, February/March 2015
10 Seven from:
Mainframes/PCs/laptops needed for applications which require high speed processing
Mainframes/ PCs/laptops needed for applications which require greater internal memory capacity
Mainframes/ PCs/laptops needed for applications which require greater backing storage capacity
Mainframes/ PCs/laptops/tablet computers needed for applications which require bigger displays
Mainframes/ PCs/laptops needed for applications which require more manageable keyboards
Mainframes/ PCs/laptops needed for applications which require easy navigation from screen to
screen
Mainframes/ PCs/laptops have access to wider range of application software
Still need mainframes to carry out complex mathematical functions
Mainframes/ PCs/laptops are easier to monitor use [7]

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4 Computer operating systems have developed since early computers used
Command Line Interfaces (CLI). Many computers now use Graphical User Interfaces
(GUI), some of which are capable of using touch screen
technology. Compare and contrast CLI and GUI. [8]
Cambridge IGCSE Information and Communication Technology (0417) Paper 11 Q14, May/June 2017

1. CLI and GUI both carry out file management

2. CLI and GUI use similar utilities
3. Both are operating systems
4. Both control the hardware and software
5. Due to graphics GUI uses a lot of memory, CLI is a lot smaller program
6. GUI allows the use of touch screen but a CLI does not allow for this
7. GUI more user friendly CLI the commands have to be memorised
8. In a CLI several commands have to be typed in rather than one command in GUI

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5 Nine statements about random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory
(ROM) are given below. By putting a tick (✓) in the appropriate box, indicate
whether each statement refers to RAM or ROM. [9]

✓
✓
✓
✓

✓
✓
✓

✓
✓

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6 a Describe what is meant by augmented reality and virtual reality. [4]
b Describe how augmented reality and virtual reality could affect
society in the near future. [4]
AR
VR

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7 Six descriptions are shown on the left and six computer terms are
shown on the right.
Draw lines to link each statement to its correct computer term. [6]

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6/4/2022 DR. SAW MYAT SANDAR 118
Artificial intelligence (AI) – Facial
Recognition
Facial recognition systems have the same problem.
A human being is still able to recognize a face even if the person has grown facial
hair, how wears glasses or has aged.
Computerised facial-recognition systems are confused by such soft biometric
changes.
New systems use AI to learn from scanning a number of faces and can pick out
these soft biometric features.
This means the system can still recognize faces and cross-reference these attributes
with corresponding images stored on the database.
Other AI biometric technologies are being developed, so these security system
become increasingly more reliable.
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Vision Enhancement
1. LVES:
1. Low Vision Enhancement systems use video technology through a headset connected to a
computer
2. The system allows images to be projected inside a headset in front of the user’s eyes.
3. Brings the objects closer for the viewer.
2. NVE:
1. Night Vision Enhancement: amplifies infrared light and visible light so that an image can still be
seen in apparent darkness. (eg. Surveillance at night)
2. The dim light source is captured and passed through image intensifier tube which converts light to
electrons.
3. These electrons pass through another tube where they are amplified to produce several times the
original number of electrons.
4. A screen at the end of the tube is coated in phosphor dots that glow when electrons collide with
them – the results in an image that is considerably clearer than the original.

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Robotics
Robotic has been around for many years, mostly in the manufacturing industry.
They are used in car factories to weld car bodies, spray body panel and fit items such as
windscreens.
No human intervention is required.
There are areas outside manufacturing where robotics is evolving rapidly, and we could see
robots appearing in many areas of our livers in relatively short space of time.
One application is the use of drones.
These are unmanned flying devices that are used by both the military and civilians.
Military – missions & Civilians – surveying the landscape in 3D for use with GPS, investigating
weather or search and rescues (fire fighting) in natural disasters.
All of these currently under evaluation and many more applications could evolve over the
coming years.

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Robotics
Surgical procedures – to
perform complex procedures
with more precision,
flexibility and control than
standard surgical techniques.
With this, surgeons use
robotics equipped with a
camera arm and several
interactive mechanical arms –
these have joins that work like
a human’s wrist.

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Quantum Cryptography
Cryptography is the science of making a message unintelligible to any unauthorized user (a
hacker).
This technique is often referred to as encryption. Cjjkajkdtl;s
There are many methods of cryptography in existence but all of them have a limited life as
computers become faster and faster at number crunching.
A consequence of this is that, over the next few years, a hacker is increasingly likely to decipher
encrypted messages unless computer designers can further strengthen security systems.
Quantum cryptography is based on the use of photons (light) and their physical quantum
properties to produce a virtually unbreakable cryptography system.
This helps protect the security of data being transmitted over fibre-optic cables.
The technology relies on the fact that photons oscillate in various directions and produce a
sequence of random bits (0s and 1s) across the optical network, It is based on the laws of
physics rather than mathematics.

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Computer-assisted Translation
Existing online language translators have a very limited use.
Consider the insect called a fruit fly, which particularly enjoys eating bananas. What if we typed in the
phrase: 'fruit flies like a banana'. This could be translated into German using a free online translator as
'fruchtjliegen wie eine banane'. The statement in German only refers to the banana-shaped flight path of
a piece of fruit thrown through the air! Imagine a whole page being translated that is full of such double
meanings of words and phrases.

Google Translate is an example of computer

assisted translation.
The human user can either type or speak into a
microphone.
The information will then be translated in to the
selected language.

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Computer-assisted translation ( CAT) goes some way to overcome these issues. CAT is a type of
language translator that uses specific software to help in the translation process. In particular,
CAT uses two tools:
•terminology databases - linguistic databases that grow and 'learn' from translations being
carried out
•translation memories - these automatically insert known translations for certain words,
phrases or sentences.
AU CAT software needs some post-editing by the user to remove errors from the translation
process. “While not perfect, they are certainly more accurate than existing free online
translators.

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 3D and holographic imaging
Holography is a technology that allows 3-D images (known as holograms) to be produced. The technology
involves the use of:
▪a source of laser light
▪interference of light
▪light diffraction, and
▪light intensity recording.
As a holographic image is rotated, it appears to move in the same way as the original object, thus appearing to be
in three dimensions (3-D).
The hologram is produced by first splitting a laser beam.
Half of the light (known as the object beam) is reflected off the object on to a photographic plate.
The other half of the light (known as the reference beam) is reflected off a mirror and on to the same
photographic plate.
The holographic image is produced where the two light beams meet on the photographic plate.

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Holograms have the following
applications:
•engineering design (CAD)
•architecture ( ability to rotate design through 360 degrees)
•simulations
•medical imaging (see inside organs in 3-D - links into tomography, which is the same technology behind 3-D
printers)
•cinema (special effects)
•gaming ( special effects)
•advertising
•holographic televisions (expected by around 2025, these should give a full 3-D experience without the need for
special glasses)
•holographic computer memories (a new type of optical storage - a crystal the size of a sugar cube can hold up to
1 TB of data)
•optical computers ( these will operate at speeds that are trillions of times faster than-current technology
computers).

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Virtual Reality
Virtual reality is an artificial environment created by software.
The user makes use of data goggles, sensor snits, data gloves or helmets to get a feeling of
reality ( that ,is, the feeling of 'being there ).
The technology is used in training (for example, in a nuclear reactor where the user can see all
the walls, pipes, vessels and valves as if they were inside the reactor, so that they can be trained
safely to deal with certain events), education ( for example, to explore the inside of a building
such as a castle in a history lesson) or in games (where the user can interact as if they were
there, such as a driving simulator where the road ahead is output on to a visor in a helmet
strapped to the user's head).
▪Artificial environment created by software.
▪Goggles, sensor, gloves, helmets
▪Training, education, games

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Virtual reality is used in all of the
following areas:
•military applications (for example, training to use a new tank)
•education (for example, looking inside an ancient building as part of a history lesson)
•healthcare (for example, as a diagnostic tool)
•entertainment (for example, games where gloves, goggles or helmets are worn to give realism to the scenario and even to give images or
sound to make it seem very real)
•fashion (for example, to do fashion shows before doing the real ti-ling to see tl1e clothes on people, check out the venue and so on)
•heritage (for example, showing monuments such as Stonehenge)
•business (for example, training courses and role-playing scenarios for staff)
•real estate (for example, allowing people to 'look around, houses that are for sale)
•engineering (for example, seeing how new designs will look)
•sport (for exan1ple, a golfer trying to improve tl1eir swing can use tl-lis technology and get feedback to improve tl1eir game)
•media (for example, special effects in films such as The Matrix)
•scientific visualisation (for example, looking at molecular structures in chemistry).

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