Warm-Up:
The components of a computer system from the list are:
* RAM
* Graphics Card
* Hard Disk Drive
* Optical Drive
* Motherboard
* Cooling Fan
*(Note: ROM is also technically hardware, but often categorized separately in basic quizzes. The items listed above are the primary physical components shown.)*
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1. Computer systems consist of hardware and software that work together.
a) Define what is meant by hardware. Give one example.
*
Definition: Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer that you can touch and see.
*
Example: Mouse (or Keyboard, Monitor, Hard Drive).
b) Define what is meant by software. Give one example.
*
Definition: Software is the set of instructions or programs that tell the computer hardware what to do. You cannot physically touch software.
*
Example: Microsoft Word (or Windows, Google Chrome, Fortnite).
***
2. A microwave contains an embedded system which controls its cooking modes.
a) What is an embedded system?
An embedded system is a small computer system designed to perform one specific task or function within a larger device.
b) Give two other examples of devices that may contain an embedded system.
1. Washing Machine
2. Digital Watch (or Car Engine Control Unit, Smart TV, Dishwasher)
c) Explain two benefits of using an embedded system in a microwave instead of a general purpose computer.
1.
Cost: Embedded systems are much cheaper to manufacture than full general-purpose computers because they use simpler, specialized parts.
2.
Reliability/Simplicity: Because they are designed for only one job (cooking), they are less likely to crash or have errors compared to a complex computer that runs many different programs. They also start up instantly.
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Final Answer:
Warm-Up Components:
RAM, Graphics Card, Hard Disk Drive, Optical Drive, Motherboard, Cooling Fan.
1a)
Definition: The physical parts of a computer system that you can touch.
Example: Keyboard.
1b)
Definition: The programs and instructions that run on the computer hardware.
Example: Web Browser.
2a)
A computer system built into a larger device to control specific functions.
2b)
1. Digital Camera
2. GPS Navigation System
2c)
1. They are cheaper to produce.
2. They are more reliable and efficient for their specific task.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of computing worksheet.
