CAIE IGCSE ICT (0417)
Stores data/information & programs not being used at
current time
Backing store device = reader or recorder
Example: Hard disk drive
Backing store media = hardware containing data
Example: Hard disk
Basic Computer Model
1.3. Operating Systems
Enables users to communicate with computer systems
Controls operation of input, output & backing storage
Supervises loading, running & storage of application
program
Deals with error in application programs
Maintains security of whole computer system
Maintains a computer log
Two main types of interfaces: CLI & GUI
CLI - Command Line Interface
Types commands to tell the computer what to do
The user must know all the commands
Must not make typing errors
Used by technicians
Can access everything on the computer system
GUI users can only access places they have icons for
Advantages
Knowing the correct commands, this can be much
faster than any other interface type
Uses much less RAM than any other interface type
Low resolution, cheap monitors can be used
CLI does not require Windows to run
Disadvantages
Can be confusing
Commands must be typed precisely, if there is a
spelling error the command will fail
If you mistype an instruction, it is often necessary to
start all over again
Large number of commands need to be learned
GUI - Graphical User Interface
Uses graphics to stand for the complicated actions
Uses icons
WWW.ZNOTES.ORG
Uses a mouse to select the icons
Screen divided into windows allows different things on
each
WIMP - Windows Icons Menus Pointers
Advantages
Easy to use because requires little IT knowledge
Easy to explore and find your way around the system
Do not have to learn complicated commands
Exchange data between different software
Good help facilities provided with GUIs
Disadvantages
Larger amount of hard disk space than other
interfaces
Significantly more memory (RAM) to run than other
interface type
GUI use more processing power than other types of
interfaces
GUI can be slow for experienced programmers to use,
they find CLI much faster
1.4. Types of Computers
Desktop/Personal Computers
Refers to general purpose computers
PC refers to IBM compatible computers, distinguishing
them from the Macs
Made up of separate monitor, keyboard, mouse and
processing unit
Advantages
Spare parts standardized results in low costs
Tend to have better specifications
Large casing allows good dissipation of heat build up
Disadvantages
Not portable since they are made up of separate
components
Wiring clutters up desk space
Necessary to copy files as they aren't portable
Laptop/Notebook Computers
Refers to computers where monitor, keyboard, pointing
device and processor together in a single unit
Extremely portable systems
Low weight
Low power consumption
Processor doesn't generate too much heat
Advantages
Portable because monitor, pointing device, keyboard,
processor & backing store units are together in one
box
No trailing wires
Full advantage of Wi-Fi
Can link into any multimedia system
Disadvantages
Easy to steal
Limited battery; need to carry charger