LearnITWithMrC

Computer Systems

Lesson Video

57

Lesson Tasks

Watch the Lesson video
Make notes if needed.
Open your Learning Journal
Complete Task 1 in your Learning Journal
Complete the learning activities
Make sure you complete the book tasks in your Unit Booklet
Complete End of Task Assessment
Update your learning objectives

What do I need to Learn?

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I need to learn how to define the terms hardware and software and understand the relationship between them.

I need to learn how to understand the term 'embedded system' and explain how an embedded system differs from a non-embedded system

Key Terms

Inputs Processing Outputs Dedicated system Embedded system General purpose system Interface

Task 1 - Getting organised Click to see more

Task: Learning Journal

Open your Learning Journal by clicking on the image below

Good notes will help you organise and process data and information

Task 2 - Hardware and Software Click to see more

Hardware and software

Any computer system is made up of two parts. These parts are called ‘hardware’ and ‘software’.

Hardware is a generic term for any physical part of the computer system which you can physically touch, pick up or move.

The physical parts of a computer system are often referred to as ‘hardware devices’.

Examples of External Hardware (peripherals)

Examples of Internal Hardware (components)

Software

A computer needs to be told what to do, otherwise it will just sit on your desk collecting dust and taking up space.

Software are the applications and programming instructions that tell your computer what to do and enable you to use it for things such as playing games, writing an essay or listening to music.

There are two main types of software which you will learn about in detail later on. They are ‘systems software’ which basically controls the way the computer works and tells it what to do.

Examples include:

Operating System

Utilities

User Interface (GUI)

The other type of software is called ‘application software’ and it is this type of software that you use to do your work and have fun.

Some examples include:

Word Processors such as Microsoft Office

Spreadsheets such as Microsoft Excel

Databases such as Microsoft Access

Games Applications such as Half Life, Call of Duty etc.

So software depends on hardware and hardware depends on software. Together they make a computer system.

Task:

Open your student workbook at page 6 Read through the notes then complete the following task in your book.

Task 1

When you are finished screenshot your answer into your Learning Journal

Task 3 - Embedded Systems Click to see more

An embedded system is a computer system designed to perform specific tasks or functions within a larger device or product. It is "embedded" because it is built into the device and works behind the scenes, often without the user realizing it.

Imagine a smartphone. While you use it to make calls, send messages, and browse the internet, there are many embedded systems working inside it. For example, the touchscreen interface, camera, sensors, and even the software that controls these components are all part of embedded systems. They are programmed to perform specific functions seamlessly, making the smartphone work smoothly.

Another example is a smartwatch. It tracks your steps, monitors your heart rate, and displays notifications. These functions are possible due to embedded systems designed to handle these tasks efficiently.

Embedded systems are also found in many other devices like home appliances (microwaves, washing machines), automotive systems (engine control units, anti-lock braking systems), and even medical devices (pacemakers, blood glucose monitors).

In summary, embedded systems are specialized computer systems integrated into various devices, enabling them to perform specific functions and enhance the overall user experience.