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Chapter 1: Information Representation 


◈ Where BCD is used​; (-) 
String of digits on any electronic device displaying numeric values. 
 
◈ Character Set​; (-) 
List of characters and symbols recognized by the computer hardware and 
software. 
 
◈ ASCII vs Unicode​;
 
(--) 
ASCII  Unicode 

  Greater range of characters 

Used for English only  Represents  most  written  languages 


in the world 

One (1) byte per character  Four (4) bytes per character 

  Standardized 
 
◈ Bitmap Image​; (*--) 
An  image  of  pixels  where  each  pixel  has  one  color  and  the  color  is  stored  as  a 
binary number. 
 
◈ Vector Graphic Logo​; (-) 
Series  of  geometric  shapes  &  lines; A drawing list with commands to create each 
individual object and the attributes for it. 
 
○ Benefit​; (*-) 
1. Logo can be enlarged without pixelating because instructions to create 
a logo is stored. 
2. Smaller file size as only coordinates and calculations are stored. 
3. Image is recalculated using equations and commands with each 
adjustment. 
 
◈ Sampling​; (-) 
Amplitude of the analogue sound wave is recorded at set intervals. 
 
◈ Sampling Rate​; (*-) 
Number of samples per unit time. 

Increase would mean more samples → larger file size (and vice versa) 
 

 
P1 
 

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◈ Sampling Resolution​; (*--) 


Number of bits used to store each sample 

Increase means more bits per sample → larger file size (and vice versa) 
 
◈ Image Resolution​; (-) 
Number of pixels per unit measurement 
 
◈ Analogue to Digital​; (-) 
Amplitude of the sound wave is measured at set time intervals. Value of the 
sample is recorded as a binary number. 
 
◈ Encoding Images​; (-) 
Images  are  stored  in  bitmaps.  Each  image  is  made  up  of  pixels  and  each  pixel 
has  a  single  color.  Each  color  has  a  unique  binary  number  and  the  sequence  of 
binary numbers is stored for each image. 
 
◈ Encoding Sound​; (--) 
Measures  the  amplitude  of  the  sound  wave  at  regular  intervals.  Each  amplitude 
has  a  unique  binary  number  and  the  sequence  of  binary  numbers  is  stored  for 
each sample. 
 
◈ Sound Sampling for Encoding​; (-) 
Amplitude of the wave is measured at set intervals and the value is stored as a 
binary number. 
 
◈ Interlaced Encoding​; (*-) 
Data  from  a  single  frame  is  encoded  as  two  separate  fields.  One  field  contains 
data  for  even  numbered  rows  and the other field contains data for odd numbered 
rows.  Image  is  rendered  by  alternating  between  even  and  odd  fields  of  each 
successive  frame.  The  viewer  sees data from two frames simultaneously and the 
rate  of  picture  display is twice the frame rate. High refresh rate is produced while 
halving the bandwidth requirements. 
 
◈ Progressive Encoding​; (*--) 
Stores  the  data  for  an  entire  frame  and  displays  it  at  the  same  time.  The  rate  of 
picture display is the same as the frame rate. High bandwidth requirement. 
 
◈ Bit Streaming​; (-) 
Data  is  compressed  before  transmitting.  The  video  is  then  transmitted 
continuously  as  a  series  of  bits  hosted  on  a  media  server.  The  buffer  stores  the 
data from the server and the recipient receives bit stream from the buffer. 
 
○ Real-time vs On-demand​;
 
(-) 

 
P2 
 

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Real-Time  On-Demand 

Live-stream of an event taking place  Streaming an event that has already 


taken place 

Captured with video camera  Media encoded to bit streaming 


connected to a computer  format and uploaded to a server 

Cannot be paused  Can be paused 


 
◈ Multimedia Container Format​; (-) 
A meta file that contains various different types of data. 
 
◈ Temporal Redundancy​; (-) 
Pixels in a sequence of consecutive video frames have the same value in the 
same location. 
 
◈ Spatial Redundancy​; (-) 
A sequence of consecutive pixels in a single video frame have the same value. 
 
◈ Lossless Compression​; (-) 
 
○ Run-length encoding​; (*-) 
Lossless  method  of  compression;  Looks for runs of consecutive pixels of 
the  same  color  and  stores  the  color value along with the number of times 
it occurs. 
 
○ Huffman Coding​; (-) 
 
◈ Lossy Compression​; (-) 
Compression where data is lost and the original file cannot be obtained back. 
 
◈ File Header​; (--) 
Stores data about the file contents. Eg. File size, color depth, image resolution 
 
 
Chapter 2: Communication and Internet Technologies 
◈ Radio Waves​; (-) 
Carries  data  in  the  form  of  electromagnetic  waves  //  Carries  data  wirelessly, 
often known as Wi-Fi 
 
◈ Satellite​; (-) 
A communication device in Earth’s orbit that receives and transmits data. 

 
P3 
 

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◈ Benefit of wireless network over wired network​;
 
(-) 
Benefit  Drawback 

Devices can be mobile  Easier to Hack 

Easier to set up  Interference 

Add additional devices easily  Signal degrades quickly 

Different  devices  connected  at  the   


same time 
 
◈ Router​; (-) 
Connects devices to the internet // Transmits data between servers and Internet 
 
◈ Gateway​; (-) 
Connects  a  server  that  uses  a  different  protocol  to  the  Internet  //  Joins  two 
different types of network 
 
◈ Router vs. Gateway​;
 
(--) 
Router  Gateway 

Connect two networks 

Receive packs from a network and forward packets onto a network 

Connects two networks using the  Connects two networks using 


same protocol  different protocols 
 
◈ Modem​; (-) 
Connects the servers to the Internet over a telephone line. 
 
◈ Internet vs World Wide Web (WWW)​;
 
(--) 
Internet  World Wide Web 

Infrastructure of networks  Multimedia pages / contents 

Uses IP protocol  Accessed over the Internet 

  Web pages written in HTML  

  HTTP protocol used to transfer web 


pages 

 
P4 
 

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◈ Network Interface Card (NIC)​; (-) 
Enables the servers to connect to the (company) network. 
 
◈ Public Switched Network Telephone (PSTN)​; (-) 
PSTN  consists  of  many  different  types  of  communication  lines;  duplex  data 
transmission; communication passes through different switching centers. 
 
◈ IP Address​; (-) 
Gives each device on a network an identifier; each address is unique within the 
network; Allows a device to send data to the correct destination. 
 
◈ Need for IPv6 Addresses​; (-) 
Number of IP addresses needed will exceed the number available using IPv4. 
 
◈ Benefits of Private IP Addresses​; (-) 
1. Improved security because IP addresses are not available outside the network. 
2. Reduces number of public IP addresses required. 
3. Only the router has a public IP address and is visible externally. 
 
◈ URL converted to IP​; (*-) 
URL  is  parsed  to  obtain  the  Domain  name  which  is  sent  to  the  nearest  Domain 
Name  Server  (DNS)  →  DNS  name  resolver  searches  the  database  of  Domain 
names  and  matching  IP  addresses  to  provide  a  rest  → If Domain name is found, 
the  IP  address  is  returned,  otherwise  the  request  is  forwarded  to  a  higher  level 
DNS → If still not found then an error message is generated. 
 
◈ Accessing a web page without DNS​; (-)| 
Enter the IP address directly 
 
◈ Benefit & Drawback of Dedicated Lines​;
 
(-) 
Benefit  Drawback 

Faster data transmission  Expensive to maintain 

Consist transmission speed  Disruption to line = no alternative 

Improved security   
 
◈ Copper Cable​; (-) 
Carries data as electrical signals and can consist of a twisted pair. 
 
◈ Fiber-Optic Cables​; (-) 
Uses a bundle of glass threads to transmit data as light. 
 
 
P5 
 

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○ Benefits and Drawbacks​; (--) 
Benefit  Drawback 

Faster data transmission  High cost for new hardware 

More stable connection  Expertise required for installation 

More secure  Fibers can break when bent 

Less interference  Transmits data in one direction 


 
◈ Use of Client-side Scripting​; (-) 
Depending on the situation...​Interactive features (Text box, buttons), validates 
input-client side, handles data returned from server-side script. 
 
◈ Use of Server-side Scripting​; (-) 
Data is held on the server which only sends the results of the query to the client. 
The client does not have access to all of the data which keeps data secure. 
 
○ User request with PHP Code​; (--) 
Browser  requests  a  web  page  from  the  web  server  which  accesses  the 
page  and  processes  the  PHP  code  to  produce  HTML  for  the  web  page. 
Web server returns the HTML web page to the client web browser. 
 
◈ Client-server Model​;  
 
○ Use of Key Features​; (--) 
[Role of server and data held there]; [Company]’s server performs 
requested tasks and computers used by [Customer]’s are clients who 
send requests to the server and get a result. 

File is made available from a server and the user’s browser is the client. 
Client requests a file from the server and the desired file is returned to the 
client computer. 
 
○ Access of same files from different devices​; (-) 
Server  hosts  shared  files,  an  individual  can  request  a  file  from  the server 
from  any  of the client computers, several people can access the same file 
at the same time. 
 
○ Other applications that use this model​; (-) 
Sending and receiving emails; Using a print server; Using a file server 
 

 
P6 
 

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◈ How is JavaScript translated using an interpreter​; (-) 


Code is translated one at a time and executed immediately. Interpreter stops as 
soon as an error is found. 
 
◈ Client-Side vs Server-Side​;
 
(-) 
Client-Side  Server-side 

Computer makes the request  Run on web server 

Data received by computer  Results are sent to the computer 


 
◈ PHP and JavaScript​; (*) 
JavaScript runs client-side 
PHP runs server-side 
 
 
Chapter 3: Hardware 
◈ Diagram of Components in a Personal Computer​; (--) 

 
 
◈ Clock Speed​; (-) 
Clock  sends  out  a  number  of  pulses  in  a  given  time  interval.  Each  processor 
instruction  takes  a  certain  number  of  clock  cycles  to  execute.  The  higher  the 
clock frequency, the faster the execution time for the instruction. 
 

 
P7 
 

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◈ Solid State Memory​; (-) 


Makes use of blocks and arrays of integrated circuits; has no moving parts; 
non-volatile 
 
○ Features​; (-) 
1. Large capacity to store large files. 
2. Fast access speeds so users will not have to wait for files to load. 
3. Reliable as it can be dropped and will likely still work. 
4. Quiet as it has no moving parts. 
 
◈ Hard Drive​; (--) 
Hard disk has one or more platters made of aluminium or glass. The platters are 
mounted on the central spindle and the disks are rotated at high speeds. Surface 
of the platter is divided into concentric tracks and sectors. One track in one 
sector is the basic unit of storage called a block.  
 
○ Features​; (--) 
1. Large capacity to store large files. 
2. Slower access speeds 
3. Inexpensive per unit storage so low cost when large amount needed 
4. Moving parts that can be damaged from dropping 
5. Slower degradation of data so it will last longer 
 
◈ Random Access Memory (RAM)​; (*) 
Stores currently running parts of files and programs. 
 
◈ Read Only Memory (ROM)​; (*) 
Stores boot up instructions; stores data permanently; stores operating system / 
firmware. 
 
◈ RAM vs ROM​;
 
(--) 
Random Access Memory (RAM)  Read Only Memory (ROM) 

Volatile  Non-volatile 

Can change  Cannot be changed 

Read and write  Read only 


 
◈ Dynamic RAM vs Static RAM​;
 
(*) 
Dynamic RAM (DRAM)  Static RAM (SRAM) 

Used in main memory  Used in cache memory 

 
P8 
 

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Slower access time  Faster access time 

Less expensive  More expensive 

High storage density  Lower storage density 


 
◈ Keyboard​; (-) 
Uses  switches  and  circuits  to  translate  keystrokes  into signals the computer can 
understand.  Each  circuit  is  broken  beneath  the  keys,  so  when  a  key  is  pressed, 
the circuit is complete and a signal is sent.  
 
◈ Optical Disc​; (-) 
A  drive  motor  is  used  to  spin  the  disc.  Track  on  the  disc  has  a  sequence  of  pits 
and  lands  and the surface of the disc has a reflective metal layer. A laser beam is 
shone  onto  the  disc  to  read  or  write.  The  reflected  light  is  encoded  as  a  bit 
pattern. 
 
◈ Operation of a trackerball mouse​; (-) 
The  ball  touches  horizontal  and  vertical rollers. When the ball moves, one or both 
of  the  rollers  rotate  as  well.  Each  roller  connects  to  a  shaft  which  spins  a  disk 
with  holes.  Infrared  beams  shine  through  the  holes  and  as  the  ball  moves  the 
roller,  the  beam  is  broken  by  the  space  between  the  holes  creating  pulses  of 
lights.  The  distance  and  speed  of  the  mouse  is  determined  from  the  rate  of  the 
pulses by an on-board processor chip. 
 
◈ Optical Mouse​; (-) 
A  laser  shines  onto  a  surface  through  a  polished  ring  at  the  base.  A  sensor 
detects  the  reflected  light  from  the  surface  and  captures  details  of  the  surface. 
As  the  mouse  moves,  the  sensor  detects  the  changes  in  the  surface  details  and 
translates  into  movement.  The  processor  then  updates the position of the cursor 
on the screen. 
 
◈ Scanner​; (-) 
Contains  a CCD array that is a collection of light sensitive diodes. A laser beam is 
shone  onto  the  source  document  and  the  scanned  image  reaches  the  CCD 
through  mirrors  and  lenses.  The  sensors  detect  levels  of  reflected  light  which  is 
converted by software to a digital value. 
 
◈ Resistive Touchscreen​; (--) 
Consists  of  two  charged  plates;  Pressure  causes  the  plates  to  touch  and 
complete  the  circuit.  The  point  of  contact  is  registered  and  the  coordinates  are 
calculated. 
 
◈ Capacitive Touchscreen​; (--) 
Screen  has  a  layer  that  stores  an  electrical  charge;  When  the  user  touches  the 
 
P9 
 

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screen,  the  charge  transfers  to  the  finger  and  the  sensors  at  the  corners  detect 
the change. The point of contact is registered and the coordinates are calculated. 
 
◈ Laser Printer​; (-) 
Revolving  drum  is  given  an  electric  charge  →  Laser  beam  scans  back  and  forth 
across  the  drum  discharging  certain  points  →  Drum  is  coated  with  oppositely 
charged  toner  which  rolls over electro-statically charged paper → ‘pattern’ on the 
drum  is  transferred  to  the  paper  which  is  passed  through  the  fuser  to  seal  the 
image.  →  The  electric  charge  is  removed  from  the  toner  and  excess  toner  is 
collected. 
 
◈ Inkjet Printer​; ( ) 
 
○ Print Head​; (-) 
Print  head  contains  a  large  number  of  very  small  nozzles;  ink  is  fed  to 
each  nozzle  from  a  reservoir;  print  head  fires  droplets  of  ink  onto  the 
paper; print head moves horizontally across the paper. 
 
○ Stepper Motor​; (-) 
Stepper  motor  is  connected  to  the  print  head  by  a  belt  and  moves  the 
print  head  across  the  paper;  it  parks  the  print head assembly when not in 
use and also turns the rollers that provide the paper feed. 
 
◈ 3D Printer​; (-) 
Object  is  designed  using  Computer  Aided  Software  (CAD)  software  →  Software 
splits  object  into  splices  →  Data  about  the  splices  is  sent to the printer → Solid 
plastic  is  melted  and  transferred  to  the  nozzle  →  Stepper  motor  moves  the 
nozzle  into  position  →  Nozzle  extrudes  the molten plastic → Layer is completed 
→ Fan cools the layer → Steps are repeated for each subsequent layer. 
 
◈ Microphone​; (--) 
Incoming sound waves cause vibrations of the diaphragm → Moves a coil past 
the magnet. → An electrical signal is produced 
 
◈ External Speaker​; (--) 
Electric  current  is  sent  to  the speaker and passes through a coil → Current in the 
coil  creates  an electromagnetic field → Changes in audio signal causes direction 
of  electric  current  to  change  to  determine  polarity  of  the  electromagnet  → 
Electromagnet  is  repelled by, or attracted to the permanent magnet → Movement 
of the coil causes the diaphragm to vibrate which creates sound waves. 
 
○ Components​; (-) 
Diaphragm; coil of wire; spider / suspension; magnet; basket; dust cap; 
outer frame 
 

 
P10 
 

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◈ Purpose of a Port​; (-) 


Provides  connection  to  a  peripheral  device  and  interface  between  computer  and 
other devices. 
Types​ ​- USB, HDMI, SCSI, Firewire, Ethernet 
 
 
Chapter 4: Logic Gates and Logic Circuits 
◈ Placeholder​; (-) 
 
Chapter 5: Processor Fundamentals 
◈ Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)​; (-) 
Performs arithmetic and logical operations 
 
◈ Control Unit (CU)​; (-) 
Sends and receives signals; synchronizes and controls operations 
 
◈ Data Bus​; (-) 
Carries data between processor and memory. 
 
◈ Control Bus​; (-) 
Transmits signals between the control unit and the other components. 
 
◈ Benefit of increasing bus width​; (-) 
Increases the number of directly addressed memory locations 
 
◈ Macro​; (--) 
Sequence of instructions that are given an identifier and may need to be executed 
several times. Can be called whenever it is needed to be used. 
 
◈ Directive​; (--) 
An instruction that tells the assembler to do something. It is not a program 
instruction. 
Eg. Including an external file; state the start address for the program 
 
◈ Processor Instruction Sets​; (*) 
Data  movement;  Input  and  Output;  Arithmetic  Operations;  Jump  instructions; 
Compare instructions; Modes of addressing 
 
◈ Benefits of USB Port​; (-) 
1. ​Fast data transfer​ - useful for transferring large files such as videos 
2. ​Automatic Connection​ - no need to install separate device drivers 

 
P11 
 

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3. ​Standard by all manufacturers​ - new computers come equipped with it 


4. ​Device powered by USB​ - external devices charged while working  
 
◈ Register​; (-) 
Small piece of memory that temporarily stores data which is about to be or has 
been processed. 
 
◈ Fetch-Execute Cycle Registers​; (*--) 
Program Counter (PC)​ - Stores address of next instruction to be fetched. 
Memory  Address  Register  (MAR)  -  Stores  address where instruction is to be read 
from or saved to 
Memory Data Register (MDR)​ - Stores data that has just been read from memory. 
Current  Instruction  Register  (CIR)  -  Stores  instruction  that  is  currently  being 
decoded. 
Status  Register  -  Interpreted  as  independent  flags  that  are  set  depending  on  an 
event. 
 
◈ Interrupt​; (-) 
Signal from a source telling the processor its attention is needed. 
 
◈ Handling an Interrupt​; (--) 
Processor  checks  for  interrupt  at  the  end  or  start of each Fetch-execute cycle → 
If  an  interrupt  flag  is  set,  the  processor  identifies  the  source  of  interrupt  and 
checks  priority.  →  If  high  enough,  processor  saves  current  contents  of registers 
and calls Interrupt Service Routine (ISR) → Address of ISR is loaded into Program 
Counter  (PC)  →  Once  interrupt  is  complete,  processor  restores  registers  and 
continues with the cycle. 
 
◈ Tasks by Operating System to manage Main Memory​; (-) 
Reads  data  from  RAM  so  CPU  can  access  instructions  from  program;  Allocates 
virtual  memory  when  there  is  insufficient  RAM  to  run  a  program;  Allocates  RAM 
to optimize performance through paging and segmentation. 
 
 
Chapter 6: Assembly Language Programming 
◈ Two Pass Assembler​; (--) 
Assembler  reads  assembly  language  instructions  →  Encounters  symbolic 
address and checks to see if already in the symbol table → If not, adds to symbol 
table  →  If already in symbol table, checks to see if absolute address is known → 
If known, it is entered → If not known, it is marked as unknown. 
 
○ Second Table needed for Second Pass​; (-) 
Op code table / instruction table 

 
P12 
 

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◈ Relative Addressing​; (-) 
A number is added to the base address to give the actual address. 
 
◈ Indexed Addressing​; (--) 
The contents of the index register are added to operand to give the actual 
address. 
 
◈ Direct Addressing​; (-) 
Operand is the address where the data is stored. 
 
◈ Indirect Addressing​; (-) 
Operand is an address that holds another address where the data is stored. 
 
◈ Immediate Addressing​; (-) 
Operand is the actual value to be loaded 
 
◈ Absolute Addressing​; (-) 
Operand is a numeric address 
 
◈ Symbolic Addressing​; (-) 
Operand is a word/symbol 
 
◈ Machine Independent​; (-) 
Program can be translated to run on any processor or platform. 
 
◈ How is Java Source Code translated​; (-) 
Uses  a  two-step  translation  process  where  code  is  translated  first  into 
intermediate  code  using  the  java  compiler.  The  bytecode  is  finally interpreted by 
the Java Virtual Machine. 
 
 
Chapter 7: System Software 
◈ Operating System​; (--) 
Provides an interface between user and hardware; hardware unusable without 
one; provides software platform 
 
◈ Utility Program​; (-) 
Additional program that helps to maintain or configure the system. 
 
◈ Library Program​; (-) 
Provides a ready-built routine that can be imported into a program. 
 

 
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○ Benefits & Drawbacks (for routine as well)​;


 
(--) 
Benefit  Drawback 

Routines are pre-written and  Compatibility issues.. May not 


save developers time  work with other programs 

Routines are pre-tested so they  Not guaranteed thorough testing 


are reliable  so may have bugs 

Complex algorithms so do not  Library routine may not meet 


need to know the code  exact needs...  

Can be written in a different  If the library routine is changed, 


programming language to make  there may be unexpected errors. 
use of special features 

Performs complex tasks    


 
◈ Library Routine​; (-) 
Pre-compiled  code  that  can  be  linked  into  a  program  to  perform  common  or 
complex tasks. 
 
◈ Defragmentation Software / Defragmenter​; (-) 
Reorganizes  files  on  a  disk  to  improve  efficiency;  Moves  split  files  so  they  are 
contagious; Creates a larger area of free space. 
 
◈ Disk Repair Software​; (--) 
Scans  a  hard  disk  to  identify  bad  sectors,  marks  them,  and  resolves  any  errors. 
Also retrieves files from a damaged disk. 
 
◈ Disk Formatter​; (*) 
Makes existing data inaccessible; Partitions the disk into logical drives; Prepares 
a hard disk for initial use. 
 
◈ Disk Formatter, Disk Contents Analysis, and Disk Repair together​; (-) 
Disk  contents analysis checks for errors/problems with disk. Disk repair attempts 
to fix the errors. Disk formatter prepares disk for initial use again. 
 
◈ Purpose of Firewall​; (-) 
Prevents  unauthorized  access  to  the  data,  monitors  incoming  and  outgoing 
traffic,  blocks  transmission from unauthorized sources, maintains and allow list / 
deny list of IP addresses. 
 

 
P14 
 

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◈ Dynamic Link Library (DLL)​; (--) 


Collection  of  self-contained  programs  that  are  already  compiled.  Separate  from 
.exe file and only loaded when required to run 
 
○ Benefits & Drawbacks​;
 
(*-) 
Benefit  Drawback 

Routines are pre-written and  Does not function if DLL is 


save developers time  corrupted 

Routines are pre-tested so they  External change could stop the 


are reliable  program or change the way it 
works 

Same DLL file can be used in  DLL must be present at run-time 
multiple programs at same time  otherwise there is an error 

Changes and updates in the DLL   


file are independent of the main 
program so the program will be 
updated automatically. 

Performs complex tasks  


 
◈ Language translator​; (-) 
Converts high-level programming language to a different form. 
 
◈ Interpreter​; (*-) 
Used  during  development;  translates  and  executes  line  by  line,  stops  translation 
when  error  is  found  and  resumes  from  there  once  error  is  corrected,  there  is  no 
need for an executable file. 
 
◈ Compiler​; (*) 
Used when development completely; produces an executable file and does not 
need to be present for the program to be run; converts source code into a 
low-level language. 
 
◈ Why High-Level Languages do not need a Compiler/Interpreter​; (-) 
Software  built  using  a  compiler  so  it  is  already  pre-compiled;  Software  is  an 
executable  file  and  already  in  machine  code;  Source  code  is  not  provided  so  no 
need for compiling or interpreting. 
 
◈ Compiler over Interpreter​; (*) 
Compiler  prepares  an  executable  file;  Source  code  is  not  visible  to  a  client  or 
customer; It is faster to run the executable file than to interpret source code. 

 
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◈ Interpreter over Compiler​; (--) 
Easier debugging because errors can be corrected in real-time; Parts of program 
can be tested; any change is seen immediately 
 
◈ Features of Bitmapped Graphics Software​;
 
(--) 
Feature  Description 

Color Select  Select all pixels of the same color 

Add Text  To show the name of... 

Select  ‘Grab’ a number of pixels to perform a task with 

Copy  Replicate a number of pixels 

Resize  Increase or decrease the size of images 

Crop  Remove part of the image 

Blur  Reduce the focus 

Red Eye Reduction  Reduces red light reflected from human eyes 
 
◈ Features of Sound Editing Software​;
 
(*) 
Feature  Description 

Amplify  Increases the volume for a particular section 

Change Pitch  Increase/Decrease frequency of a section 

Change Sampling  Change accuracy of the sound file 


Resolution 

Cut / Delete  Remove part of the sound file 

Copy and Paste  Replicate part of the sound 

Fading  Change  the  volume  of  a  section  of  the  sound  for 
it to get louder or quieter 
 
◈ Process Management​; (*) 
Manages  the  scheduling  of  processes  by  allowing  multi-tasking,  ensuring  fair 
access,  and  handling  priorities.  Manages  resources  required  by  the  processor 
and prevents any interference between them. 

 
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○ Tasks​; (*) 
Resource management; scheduling of processes; resolution of conflicts 
when two or more processes require the same resource. 
 
◈ Memory Management​; (*) 
Handles  allocation  of  memory  to  processes  and  ensures  a  fair  usage. Organizes 
and makes use of virtual memory while keeping processes separate. 
 
○ Tasks​; (*) 
Allocates RAM to programs; keeps track of allocated and free memory 
locations; handles virtual memory; memory protection prevents a process 
from accessing memory not allocated to it. 
 
◈ Peripheral Management Tasks​; (*) 
Installation  of  device  driver  software,  Managing  interrupts  from  device,  Sending 
control signals to the device, Control of buffers, Management of queues. 
 
◈ Security Management​; (--) 
Provides user accounts and passwords. Ensure privacy of data 
 
○ Tasks​; (*) 
Sets up user accounts; authenticates; implements access rights; 
automatic backup; system restore / roll back; prevents unauthorized 
access 
 
◈ File Management Tasks​; (--) 
Specifies tasks that can be performed on files; maintains and creates directory 
structures; provides file naming conventions; controls access to files 
 
◈ Printer Management Tasks​; (-) 
Installs printer driver; sends data to the printer to print; receives and handles 
error messages from the printer. 
 
◈ Secondary Storage Management​; (*) 
Storage space divided into file allocation units, allocating space to particular 
files, providing file naming conventions, controlling access 
 
◈ Interrupt Processing​; (-) 
Handles the signals sent when the attention of the processor is required 
elsewhere. 
 
◈ Software Platform​; (-) 
Provides an environment within which the programs can be run. 
 

 
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◈ User Interface​; (--) 


Allows  a  user  to  communicate  with  the  hardware  by  making  navigation  around 
the  system  easier.  It  provides  a  facility  for  user-inputting  data  and  outputting  to 
the user. Eg. Command line, GUI, menu-driven 
 
 
Chapter 8: Data Security, Privacy, and Integrity 
◈ Encryption​; (*-) 
Source  code  is  scrambled  using  an  encryption  key  or  algorithm.  It  will  be 
meaningless to access a file without the decryption key to unscramble it. 
 
◈ Disk Mirroring​; (--) 
Data is written on two or more disks simultaneously. Copy available if one of the 
disk fails or is damaged. 
 
◈ Virus Checker​; (--) 
Scans  files  stored  on  a  computer system for malicious code and when they enter 
a system; Sets up schedule for virus-checking; Quarantines viruses 
 
◈ Data Backup Software​; (*) 
Creates  a  copy  of  the  contents  of  a  disk.  Can  be  set up to automatically backup; 
Allows  the  user  to  decide  what  is  backed up; Allows the user to set up an off-site 
backup; May encrypt the backup files; Restores the data if necessary. 
 
◈ Data Validation​; (-) 
Checks that the data entered is reasonable. 
 
○ Validation Checks​; (-) 
Uniqueness; Length; Presence; Format  
 
◈ Data Verification​; (-) 
Checks that the data entered is the same as original; compares two versions of 
the data; user re-enters data if there is an error. 
 
◈ Copyright​; (-) 
Formal or legal recognition of ownership of the program. 
 
◈ Prevent illegal copies of a Software​; (-) 
Encryption; Product Key; Limit number of time software can be installed; Set a 
time limit within which the software must be installed 
 
◈ Security​; (*) 
Keep data safe from accidental or malicious damage. 

 
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◈ Privacy​; (*) 
Keep data confidential so it is only seen by authorized personnel. 
 
◈ Password // Biometrics​; (-) 
Prevents unauthorized access 
 
◈ User Accounts​; (--) 
User  has  a  username  and  password;  Access to resources can be limited for each 
account; Prevents unauthorized access to the system 
 
◈ Firewall​; (*) 
All  incoming  and  outgoing  traffic  goes  through  a firewall that blocks signals that 
do  not  meet  requirements;  Keeps  a log of signals; Applications can have network 
access restricted 
 
◈ Anti-Malware​; (--) 
Scans for malicious software and quarantines any that is found; Scans can be 
scheduled at regular intervals 
 
◈ Auditing​; (-) 
Logs  all  actions  or  changes  to  the  system  in  order  to  identify  any  unauthorized 
use. 
 
◈ Parity Check​; (--) 
Each  byte  of  data  has  a  parity  bit  and  there  is  another additional parity byte sent 
with vertical parity. Each row and column must have an even/odd number of 1s. If 
there  is  an  error,  it  can  be  identified  by  the  intersection  of  the  incorrect  row  and 
column. 
 
◈ Check Sum​; (-) 
Calculation  is  done  on  a  block of data and the result is transmitted with the data. 
Calculations  are  repeated  at  the  receiving  end  and  results  are  compared.  If 
different, then an error has occurred. 
 
 
Chapter 9: Ethics and Ownership 
◈ Ethics​; (-) 
System of moral principles based on philosophical or religious views that guide 
behavior and decision making. 
 

 
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◈ Commercial License / Software​; (*) 


Program is purchased for a fee; Software key required to install; Source code is 
protected; Anyone can purchase it if they agree to the terms;  
 
◈ Benefits of Commercial License​; (--) 
1. Charge a fee for program 
2. Copyright so program cannot be re-distributed without permission 
3. Better support because a fee is charged 
4. Likely to have less bugs  
5. Redress available if program doesn’t function properly 
 
◈ Open Source License​; (*) 
Program is free of cost; source code is released with program; users can change 
and edit the source code enhance the program; Users may re-release the program 
under same terms 
 
◈ Shareware License​; (*) 
Program is free for a trial period with limited features; source code protected; 
software may be redistributed. 
 
◈ Freeware License​; (--) 
Program is free of cost; software could still be copyrighted; restrictions can be 
set on what a user can do. 
 
◈ How to distribute software without source code​; (-) 
Provide an .exe file // Use a compiler 
 
 
◈ Code of Ethics​; (--) 
Principle  Description 

Product  Ensure that products and related modifications meet 


the highest professional standards. 

Judgement  Maintain integrity and independence in professional 


judgement. 

  Managers and leaders shall subscribe to and promote 


Management  an ethical approach to the management of software 
development and maintenance. 

Profession  Advance the integrity and reputation of the profession 


consistent with the public interest. 

Colleagues  Be fair and supportive of your colleagues 

 
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  Participate in life-long learning regarding the practice of 


Self  your profession and promote an ethical approach to the 
practice of the profession 
 
 
 
 
Chapter 10: Database and Data Modelling 
◈ Tasks using DBMS Developer Interface​; (--) 
1. Creating tables and set up relationships between them 
2. Create outputs 
3. Friendly Features - Forms, Report, and Queries 
4. Interactive Features - Buttons and Menus 
 
◈ Tasks using DBMS Query Processor​; (*) 
1. Create SQL queries 
2. Search up data that meets user entered criteria 
3. Perform calculations on extracted data 
 
◈ Data Redundancy​; (-) 
Repeated or duplicated data. 
 
◈ Referential Integrity​; (--) 
Make sure tables do not try to reference data that does not exist; primary key 
cannot be deleted or updated unless all dependent record are already deleted or 
updated. 
 
◈ Data integrity​; (-) 
Ensures data is consistent and accurate. 
 
○ Role of Relational Database in reducing...​; (-) 
Each record stored once and referenced by a primary key; Referential 
integrity enforced; Going through normalization process  
 
◈ Benefit of Relational Database​; (*-) 
1. Reduced Data redundancy and dependency 
2. Improved data integrity and privacy 
3.  Program-data  independence  so  structure  of  data  or  programs can be changed 
without affecting data or programs. 
4. Different access rights for different types of viewers to maintain data privacy. 
 
◈ Schema of Database​;
 
(-) 

 
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Schema  Description 

External  The individual’s view of the database 

Conceptual  The view seen by users of the database 

Physical / Internal  Data stored on the physical media 

Logical  Relationships  will  be  implemented  in  the  logical 


structure of the database 
 
◈ Primary and Foreign key in database relationships​; (-) 
Primary  key  uniquely  identifies  each  tuple  and  can  be  used  as  a  foreign  key  in 
another table to link the two tables.  
 
◈ Table / Relation​; (-) 
All the data about one entity. 
 
◈ Tuple / Record​; (-) 
The data in one row of a table. 
 
◈ Attribute​; (-) 
A column or field in a table. 
 
◈ Data Dictionary​; (-) 
Stores  all  the  information  about  the  database.  Eg.  Fields,  data  types,  validation, 
keys 
 
◈ Normalizations​; (*) 
1NF - No repeating groups 
2NF - No partial dependencies 
3NF - No non-key dependencies // No transitive dependencies  
 
 
 

Chapter 11: Algorithm Design and Problem Solving 


◈ Algorithm​; (*) 
Solution to a problem expressed as a s​ equence​ of defined s​ teps 

Used when designing a ​solution​ to a problem 
Purpose is to describe solution as a ​sequence of steps 
 

 
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○ Stages​;
 
(--) 
Stage  Description 

Input  Enter data into the system 

Process  Manipulate data in some way 

Output  Send data out from the system 


 
◈ Basic Constructs of an Algorithm​;
 
(**) 
Construct  Description 

Selection  Line of code executed in a fixed order // Testing a 
condition to determine the sequence of execution 

Sequence  Lines of code are executed in a fixed order 

Assignment  A value is given to a variable 


 
◈ Declaration​; (-) 
Assigns a data type to a variable 
 
◈ Contents of an Identifier Table​; (-) 
List of identifier / variable names; explanations of what they are used for; data 
types 
 
◈ Pseudocode Features for Ease​; (--) 
- Indentation 
- Blank Lines / White Space 
- Sensible identifier names (Use of CamelCase) 
- Capitalized Keywords 
 
◈ Features of Code easy to recognize​; (*--) 
- Selection, Iteration, or Assignment statements 
- Data declarations / structures / data types 
- Modular structure 
- Subroutine parameters 
- Code Format 
- Operators 
 
◈ Transferable Skill​; (*) 
Experience of one programming language can be applied to an unknown 
language. 
 

 
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◈ Comments​; (-) 
Explain the functionality of the code 
 
◈ Indentation​; (-) 
Easier to identify block of code 
 
 
Chapter 12: Stepwise Refinement and Structure Charts 
◈ Features of a Structure Chart​; (*--) 
-P​ arameters​ passed between modules 
- Module Iteration 
- Module Selection 
- Module Sequence 
- Module heirarchy 
 
◈ Stepwise Refinement​; (*--) 
Breaking down a ​problem​ into smaller steps until it is easier to solve and be 
programmed​ from. 

Increases the level of detail of the algorithm 
 
 
Chapter 13: Programming and Data Representation 
◈ Bubble Sort Algorithm​; (--) 
Reduces  the  number  of items to be checked by one after each pass. Use of a flag 
variable  which  stops  the  outer  loop  after  no  swaps  made  in  the  inner  loop  and 
resets again before the start of inner loop. Set again if swap is made. 
 
○ Effectiveness​; (-) 
Prevents unnecessary iterations through the array 
 
◈ Advantage of 1D Array​; (-) 
- Same data type using a single identifier 
- Access of individual elements 
- Easier to search data and understand it 
 
◈ Advantages of built-in functions​; (-) 
- Saves development time 
- Pre-compiled and tested 
- Available to all programs 
 

 
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◈ Types of Loop​;
 
(-) 
Loop  Description 

Count Controlled  The number of iterations is known or fixed 

  The number of iterations depends on the 


Post-Condition  condition being tested at the end or before the 
loop is repeated. 

Pre-Condition   
 
◈ Storing Data in File over Array​; (-) 
Retain data when the computer shuts down or the program ends. 
 
◈ File Modes​;
 
(-) 
Mode  Description 

READ  Used to read data from a file 

APPEND  Used to add data 

WRITE   
 
◈ Use of parameters with subroutines​; (-) 
Pass values to and from subroutines; produce reusable code; avoid global 
variables; avoid recursions 
 
 
Chapter 14: Structured Programming 
◈ Advantages of Subroutines​; (*-) 
1. Code can be called from multiple places 
2. Code can be independently tested and debugged 
3. Change only needs to be made once if the subroutine task changes 
4. Reduces unnecessary program lines 
5. Enables sharing of development between programmers 
 
◈ Use of Subroutines​; (-) 
Makes a more manageable and understandable solution 
 
◈ Use of Parameters in Subroutines​; (-) 
- Pass values to/from the subroutine 
- Produce reusable code 

 
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- Avoid global variables 


- Allow recursion 
 
◈ Modular Approach Features of High-level programming languages​; (-) 
- Parameters 
- Procedures 
- Functions 
- Local / Global Variables 
 
◈ Advantages of Decomposing Programs to Modules​; (-) 
- Easier to solve & implement the solution 
- Easier to debug as each module can be tested separately 
- Tasks shared among a team of programmers 
*Include reference to given scenario for each point above* 
 
◈ Advantage of constructing using Modules​; (-) 
- Manageable and understandable solution 
- Subroutine may be independently tested and debugged 
- Program is easier to maintain 
 
◈ Problem Decomposition​; (-) 
Breaking down a problem into sub tasks to make it easier to solve.  
 
◈ Minimize program faults during design and coding stages​; (-) 
1. Use of tried and tested library subroutines 
2. Use of modular programming to break the problem down and make it easier to 
solve. 
3 Use of programming practice to make the code easier to read 
 
◈ Passing By Reference​; (-) 
Address of the parameter is passed to the subroutine 
 
 
Chapter 15: Software Development 
◈ Features of Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for​:
 
(*-) 
For  Features 

  Context-sensitive help; syntax checking; 


Coding  automatic indentation; type checking; 
PrettyPrinting 

  Context sensitive prompts; dynamic syntax 


Initial Error Detection  checking; pretty printing; formatting; text editor; 

 
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built in functions 

Presentation  PrettyPrint; Expand and collapse code blocks; 


Automatic indentation 

Debugging  Breakpoints; Single-stepping; Watch window 


 
◈ Using an IDE to Write, Translate, and Test​; (--) 
Use  an  editor  to  write  the  source  code.  A  translator  will  convert  the source code 
into object code. A debugger is used to find and help to correct errors. 
 
◈ Ways to minimize errors​; (-) 
- Meaningful variable names 
- PrettyPrint 
- Indentation 
- Dynamic Syntax Checking 
 
◈ PrettyPrint​; (-) 
Color coding of command and key words 
 
◈ Expansion and Collapse of code blocks​; (-) 
Allows programmer to focus on a section of code 
 
◈ Automatic Indentation​; (-) 
Allows programmer to clearly see the different code sections 
 
◈ Types of Program Maintenance​;
 
(*-) 
Maintenance  Description 

Corrective  Amend the algorithm to eliminate errors 

Adaptive  Change in code due to change in program 


requirements; Affects data structure & program 
algorithm 

Perfective  Make improvements to the program 


 
◈ Stub Testing​; (*-) 
Testing  may  be  carried  out  before  modules  are developed. Module stubs contain 
simple code to return a fixed and known value. 
 
◈ Single Stepping​; (-) 
Executes  a  line  of  code  each  time;  used  to  trace  the  path  of  execution;  tracks 
variable values using a watch window. 

 
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◈ White-box Testing​; (--) 
Tests every path through the algorithm. 
 
◈ Black-box Testing​; (-) 
Data is chosen to test that the program does what it is supposed to. 
 
○ Errors revealed​; (-) 
Run-time; Logical; incorrect algorithm 
 
◈ Program Errors​;
 
(*-) 
Error  Description 

Syntax  Statement in the source code that breaks the 


rules of the language 

Logic  An error in the algorithm that causes the program 


to not behave as intended. 

Run-time  Program performs an invalid operation or enters 


an infinite loop. Eg. divide by zero 
 
◈ Program Fault​; (-) 
Something that makes the program not do what it is supposed to do under 
certain circumstances. 
 
◈ Features of a program​; (-) 
- Indentation 
- Blank lines 
- Capitalization of keywords 
- Sensible variable names 
- Functions 
- Comments 
- Pretty print 
 
◈ Program-Development Cycle​; (-) 
Source  code  represents  an  algorithm  expressed  in  a  high  level  language.  Object 
code  is  produced  by  the  compiler  during  the  translation  stage.  Corrective 
maintenance occurs to fix faults or errors revealed from testing the program. 
 
○ Stages​; (-) 
- Problem definition 
- Design 
- Coding  
- Testing 
 
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- Documentation 
- Implementation 
- Maintenance 
 
○ Features that assist in cycle​; (-) 
- Context-sensitive prompts 
- Dynamic syntax checking 
- Pretty Printing 
- Formatting 
- Single-stepping; Allow program statements to be executed one at a time 
- Breakpoints; Stop the program at a specific statement 
- Watch window; Monitor value of variables as program is run 
- Text Editor 
- Compiler / Interpreter 
 
 

 
P29 

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