Aims: To be able to define a computer system To describe the importance of computer systems in the modern world

Why are we learning this? This topic introduces computer systems and provides a foundation for the remaining topics in this unit This will be part of the exam and you will have to answer questions on it

Computer Systems A computer is an electronic, programmable data processing machine A system is a collection of parts that work together for some defined purpose A computer system is a collection of hardware and software that works together to achieve some data processing task Systems receive inputs from the outside. They process these inputs. They output the results of the processing

Importance of Computer Systems Improved quality in manufacturing – robotic machinery is more accurate than humans Cheaper manufacturing – automation reduces wage costs and allows 24/7 working Faster access to information – many jobs can be done more quickly Better decision making – with lots of facts organised and available, decisions can be better informed New ways of doing business – more buying online, more choice, cheaper goods; facilities such as the internet and ATMs would not be possible without computer systems New ways of communicating – email, SMS, mobile phones are being developed all the time.

Examples of Computer Systems Input (examples) Outputs (examples) Processing Car engine management Temperature, CO2 levels, speed Signals to carburettor, data to engine diagnostics Check values against set parameters, produce fault codes Holiday booking Dates, destinations, credit card details Itineraries, air tickets, hotel reservations Check availability, produce documents Washing machines Temperature, water levels, dirtiness Signals to motor, heater, timer Check values, determine washing parameter

Task In pairs: Choose one of these items: MP3 player, SAT Nav, ATM, TV Set Top Box, Digital Camera, Mobile phone, Photocopier, Microwave State the inputs, outputs and processing of it Research and find out how their function was carrie4d out before computer technology was available and report this back to the class. You need to present this creatively and as a learning resource. Use whatever resources you can find in the room and make it interesting.

Literacy and Numeracy opportunities SPAG Space, shape and measure Key words Logic Writing for an audience Computational thinking Using the convention of standard English

Chips with everything… http://www.st-thomasmore.cheshire.sch.uk/Subjects/ICT/video2.htm

Homework Make a list of electronic equipment that you have at home which would qualify as a computer