A CLASS FOR ICSE, IGCSE

A LEVEL & IB DP
(Contact : 8355921875)

NAME : DATE :

ICT NOTES - THE EFFECTS OF USING IT

MICROPROCESSOR CONTROLLED DEVICES

A microprocessor is a small computer chip that can be used to control devices. It is made up
of a central processing unit (CPU), memory, and input/output (I/O) devices. The CPU is
responsible for carrying out instructions, the memory stores data, and the I/O devices allow
the microprocessor to communicate with the outside world.

Microprocessor controlled devices are used in a wide variety of applications, including:

 Household appliances, such as washing machines, refrigerators, and ovens

 Office equipment, such as printers, scanners, and photocopiers
 Industrial machineries, such as robots and assembly lines
 Transportation, such as cars, aeroplanes, and trains
 Medical devices, such as pacemakers and insulin pumps

Impact of Microprocessors on Home Life

 Positive effects on lifestyle, leisure, physical fitness, and data security include:
o Convenience
 Devices such as smart thermostats, lights, and appliances can be
controlled remotely, saving time and effort
 People have more time to spend on the things they want
 Smart fridges automatically order fresh food and therefore reduce food
waste
o Fitness tracking
 Devices like smart watches monitor physical activity and health data,
encouraging healthier lifestyles
o Security
 Smart security systems provide real-time surveillance, adding an extra
layer of protection to homes
 Negative effects include:
o Privacy risks
 These devices can be vulnerable to hacking, risking the security of
personal data.

ICT NOTES – THE EFFECTS OF USING IT AFEEFA MISS NOTES : 91522 65122
CLASS - IGCSE I & II A CLASS FOR ICSE, CBSE, IGCSE AND IB DP
 o Social interaction
 Over-reliance on these devices can decrease face-to-face interaction,
impacting social skills
o Physical fitness
 Despite fitness tracking, sedentary behaviour may increase due to the
convenience of smart devices

Impact of Microprocessors on Transport

 Positive effects on data security, autonomous vehicles, and transport safety include:
o Efficiency
 Autonomous vehicles optimise routes, reducing travel time and fuel
consumption
o Safety
 Advanced safety features, like automatic braking and lane assist, can
reduce accidents
o Data security
 Real-time tracking and encryption help protect against theft or loss
 Negative effects include:
o Privacy issues
 Data collected by these vehicles could be misused or hacked
o Job losses
 Autonomous vehicles could replace jobs in transport industries, leading to
unemployment
o Safety risks
 Malfunctions in autonomous vehicle systems could lead to accidents.

ICT NOTES – THE EFFECTS OF USING IT AFEEFA MISS NOTES : 91522 65122
CLASS - IGCSE I & II A CLASS FOR ICSE, CBSE, IGCSE AND IB DP
WORKED EXAMPLE

Microprocessor-controlled devices in the home have had positive effects on people’s

lifestyles. One of the positive effects of using these devices is that we can now set a cooker to
switch on whilst we are out so that we arrive home to a cooked meal. Describe the positive
effects of using other microprocessor-controlled devices in the home. [4]

Four of:

Microprocessor-controlled devices reduce the need for people to do manual tasks at home [1]
People can use microprocessor-controlled devices for physical fitness tracking in the home [1]
People have more time to spend on leisure activities/shopping/socialising [1]
Increased sense of security as homes are protected with burglar alarms/ smoke alarms/fire
alarms [1]

Smart fridges can be used to improve healthy lifestyle//Smart fridges automatically order
fresh food//Smart fridges reduce food waste [1]
Microprocessor-controlled devices can be set remotely using a smartphone [1]
Saves fuel as the heating/air conditioning is not on all day [1]
Reduces injuries by using microprocessor-controlled lights outside [1]

ICT NOTES – THE EFFECTS OF USING IT AFEEFA MISS NOTES : 91522 65122
CLASS - IGCSE I & II A CLASS FOR ICSE, CBSE, IGCSE AND IB DP
HEALTH ISSUES

Health Issues When Using Computers

Common health issues related to extensive ICT use include:

 Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

o A condition affecting muscles and nerves, often caused by repetitive movements
and overuse
 Back problems
o Poor posture while using devices can lead to back pain and other related issues
 Eye problems
o Strain and fatigue from staring at screens for long periods can harm vision
 Headaches
o Overuse of ICT devices can cause headaches, usually due to eye strain or poor
posture

Health Causes Prevention Strategies

Issue

Repetitive Repeated physical movements do Regular

Strain damage to tendons, nerves,
Injury (RSI) muscles, and other soft body
tissues.
Back Poor posture, particularly when
problems using devices for long periods.
Eye Prolonged screen time leads to
problems digital eye strain, characterised by
dryness, irritation, and blurred
vision.
Headaches Factors such as poor posture, eye
strain, or stress from overuse of
devices.
breaks, ergonomic equipment, and
correct typing techniques.
Correct posture, ergonomic furniture,
and regular movement.
Regular breaks from the screen,
appropriate screen brightness, and
maintaining an appropriate distance
from the screen.
Regular breaks, maintaining good
posture, and ensuring proper screen
brightness.

ICT NOTES – THE EFFECTS OF USING IT AFEEFA MISS NOTES : 91522 65122
CLASS - IGCSE I & II A CLASS FOR ICSE, CBSE, IGCSE AND IB DP