Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Your notes

ICT
ICT Applications
Contents
Communication
Computer Modelling
Computer Controlled Systems
School Management Systems
Online Booking Systems
Banking Applications
Computers in Medicine
Expert Systems
Computers in Retail Industry
Recognition Systems
Satellite Systems

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 Communication
Your notes

Communication Media
What is communication media?
Communication media describes the tools and channels for sharing of information
between a sender and a receiver
Communication media can be both electronic and physical

Newsletters
Periodic publications, often used to inform, educate, or entertain subscribers about
specific topics
Usually distributed through email or as printed copies
Suitable for organisations, schools, and clubs to keep members up-to-date

Advantages Disadvantages

Cost effective Low engagement

Measurable results SPAM filters can unintentionally block
Easy to personalise Limited interactivity
Targeted Can get lost in a busy inbox
Increases brand awareness

Posters
Visual presentations that convey information or promote events or products
Combine text, images, and graphics to grab attention

Advantages Disadvantages

Cost effective Limited information

Wide reach Lack of interactivity
Versatile Can be removed/defaced
Long shelf life in the right space Cannot update

Websites
Online platforms that provide information or services

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 Accessible through the internet using a web browser
Useful for businesses, educational institutions, and individuals to share information, Your notes
sell products, or offer services
Advantages Disadvantages

Media rich Can be hacked

Links to other websites Risk of pharming
Easy navigation Maintenance can be expensive
Global audience

Multimedia presentations
Digital presentations that combine various forms of media, such as text, images, audio,
and video
Used in education, business, and entertainment to present information in a visually
engaging way

Advantages Disadvantages

Media rich Special equipment required

Interactive Often required internet access
Transitions/animations to highlight key Easy to create a bad presentation
information
Visuals can take focus from the
overall message

Audio & Video

Sound recordings, such as podcasts, music, and radio shows
It can be streamed or downloaded for offline listening
Suitable for providing information, entertainment, or educational content
Moving images with or without sound, used for entertainment, education, or
promotional purposes
Can be streamed or downloaded for offline viewing
Typical platforms include YouTube, Vimeo, and social media websites

Media streaming
Real-time transmission of audio and video files over the internet
Allows users to access content without downloading it to their devices

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 Popular services include Spotify, Netflix, and YouTube
E-Publications Your notes
Digital versions of printed materials, such as eBooks, eMagazines, and eNewspapers
It can be read on electronic devices, such as eReaders, tablets, and smartphones
Offer benefits like portability, searchability, and adjustable text size

Mobile Communication
What is mobile communication?
Mobile communication involves transmitting information between people and devices
using radio waves
Smartphones use subscriber identity module (SIM) cards to link the devices to a
network carrier, allowing them to make phone calls and send messages
Smartphones include features such as:

Feature Description

SMS messaging Quick communication

Messages are stored on the device and can be read
at any time
Use virtual keyboards and predictive text

Phone calls Simple voice communication

Requires cellular reception

Voice over internet protocol Audio & visual communication via the internet
(VoIP)
Requires extra apps installed on the devices
Can make & receive calls via smartphone, tablet and
computers
Requires a forward facing camera for video calls

Accessing the internet Requires cellular reception to access on the move

Web pages are optimised for smartphone access
Automatically used Wi-Fi when in range and
connected

Mobile payments Uses NFC

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Camera Smartphones have built-in cameras for video calls
Camera can act as a barcode scanner for QR codes Your notes

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 Computer Modelling
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Computer Modelling
What is computer modelling?
Computer modelling is using a computer to simulate a real-life system in order to be
able to study the behaviour in different scenarios
The simulation uses a model to help predict how the system will work in unusual
circumstances
Examples of modelling application include:
Personal finance
Bridge and building design
Flood water management
Traffic management
Weather forecasting

Advantages and disadvantages of computer modelling

Advantages Disadvantages

Cheaper than having to build the real thing A computer model will never be
100% accurate
Easier to try out a range of different
scenarios Results are only as good as the
model designed and data entered
Safer, can simulate hazardous
environments e.g. power station Possibility of human error in the
design could skew results
Faster, can speed up variables that would
impact on results e.g. climate change
Testing can be done before real-life
construction begins

Modelling applications
Application Description

Personal finance Use of a spreadsheet to test 'what if' scenarios

Using spreadsheet functionality to change values and see what
impact is made e.g. the financial impact on a family if household
income was to go down

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Bridge and Architects will use 3D computer models of bridges and buildings
building design so that a number of scenarios can be tested
Your notes
In bridge design:
How much traffic can the bridge take
The effects of natural vibrations
The effects of different weather conditions
What impact on structural integrity would an accident cause
In building design:
The effects of different weather conditions
Simulating fire evacuation protocols
What impact on structural integrity would a fire cause

Flood water Computer models allow risk assessments to be made of high risk
management flooding areas
Using models and changing variables allows for the design of
automated flood defence systems
Variables would include:
different rivers and sea inlets
time of the day
previous flood behaviours
possible obstructions etc.
An automated system allows for:
Real-time monitoring
Data collection
Faster response to changing conditions e.g. advance
warning to people

Traffic Computer models allow users to see the effect of traffic and
management accidents on major road networks
The data collected can be used to optimise the traffic light times
at different junctions
Data collected could include:
Time of day
Number of vehicles passing the junction from all directions

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 Factors that effect the flow of traffic e.g. pedestrians
crossing, accidents etc.
After successful modelling has been completed, optimised Your notes
systems can be built and installed

Weather Sensors are used collect data and sent to a central computer
forecasting
Data collected could include:
Air pressure
Wind speed
Air temperature
Humidity
The computer model can then be used to predict weather
patterns for the next few days
Actual weather is compared to the modelled data to check for
accuracy and identify any areas in the model to modify

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 Computer Controlled Systems
Your notes

Computer Controlled Systems

What is a computer controlled system?
A computer controlled system uses computers and software to control, monitor, and
manage processes, machines, or devices
The effectiveness of computer controlled systems depends on the quality of software,
hardware, and input data

Advantages and disadvantages of computer controlled

systems
Advantages Disadvantages

Increased efficiency and productivity (due High initial investment and maintenance
to working 24/7) costs

Greater precision and accuracy Job displacement for human workers

Ability to operate in hazardous Dependency on reliable software and

environments hardware

Reduced human error and fatigue Lack of flexibility and adaptability to

unexpected situations

Can work with large or delicate items Requires costly backup systems

Robotics
What is robotics?
Robotics is the principle of a robot carrying out a task by following a precise set of
programmed instructions
Robots can be categorised into two groups:

Dumb robots Smart robots

Repeat the same programmed instructions Carries out more complex tasks and can
over and over again (no AI) adapt and learn (AI)

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 E.g. Car assembly line E.g. Assisting surgeons in delicate
procedures
Your notes

The development of artificial intelligence, including the increased use of machine

learning and robotics raises ethical and legal issues such as:
Accountability
Safety
Algorithmic bias
Legal liability

What is the role of robots?

Robots play a crucial role in many areas such as:

Scenario Role Advantages Disadvantages

Industry Quality Advanced vision to May not work on defects

inspector inspect products for that might require human
defaults, improving judgement
quality control

Transport Warehouse Efficiency in finding, High infrastructure costs

worker moving and packing, and potential safety
less reliable on manual concerns for human
labour workers sharing the same
space

Agriculture Planting & Precise planting High upfront costs, may

seeding (optimum depths and struggle with uneven
machine distances) terrain and changing
weather conditions

Medicine Rehabilitation Personalised physical Doesn't provide emotional

therapist therapy exercises to aid support
recovery

Domestic Sous chef Assists with meal prep Limited ability and
by doing basic duties capabilities
(chopping, measuring
and following basic
recipes)

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Entertainment Educational Interactive learning High cost, cannot replace
robot experiences for the guidance of human
Your notes
children, increased teachers
engagement

Worked Example
The European Space Agency (ESA) is building a new space telescope to orbit the
Earth and search for distant galaxies. The ESA is using computer controlled robots to
build the lens of the telescope.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using computer controlled robots
rather than humans to build the lens.
[6]
Answer
Max 4 of:
Advantages
Robots can work in sterile areas where humans would need protective clothing [1]
Robots can easily be used for transferring large delicate items [1]
Robots can work 24/7 / continuously [1]
Cheaper in the long run/robots not paid [1]
More accurate as the lens needs to be precise / higher quality of lens [1]
More frequent checking of the equipment/lens [1]
They do boring/laborious work [1]
Issues can be found more quicker [1]
Task/job can be carried out far quicker [1]
Max 4 of:
Disadvantages
Very expensive to buy / higher in the short term [1]
Maintenance is very expensive [1]
Difficult to re-program when changes are made [1]
Requires expensive backup systems [1]
They replace skilled workers, leading to de-skilling [1]
They need constant observation which increases the cost of maintenance crews [1]
If something goes wrong, it may be difficult to find the error [1]

Examiner Tips and Tricks

Some of the advantages/disadvantages listed above don't always apply depending
on the scenario. Choose the ones appropriate for the scenario in the question

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You can't get full marks by only focusing on advantages or disadvantages - make sure
you know both
Your notes
Don't use short answers like 'it's expensive' - explain your answer

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 School Management Systems
Your notes

School Management Systems

What is a school management system?
A school management system is a software solution designed to centralise and
streamline schools administrative tasks
Data is stored centrally to improve efficiency
Processes that can be included in a school management system include:
Registration & attendance
Recording learner performance
Computer aided learning (CAL)

Advantages Disadvantages

Streamlined administration and record-keeping Cost

Improved communication between teachers, Transition can be time
students, and parents - this can be automated consuming and complex
Centralised access to information and resources Training is required
Data-driven decision-making and insights for Dependant on technology
teachers and administrators
Data security concerns
Information is more up to date
Information can be obtained quickly in an
emergency
Patterns of absence can be found quickly which
helps to tackle truancy/lateness

Registration & attendance

Traditional ways of recording attendance and registration involve a teacher manually
inputting data
The use of IT systems makes other methods possible, for example magnetic stripe cards
and/or biometrics

Recording learner performance

Using IT systems gives teachers a plethora of information which can be analysed to
identify class and individual strengths and areas for development
Data can be used to inform teaching strategies

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 Data can be used to provide individual progress reports
Data can be used to critically analyse class/teacher performance Your notes
Computer aided learning (CAL)
The use of computer aided learning is designed to enhance and not replace traditional
classroom teaching
CAL allows students to work on individual development areas
CAL can provide interactive revision resources to aid exam performance

Worked Example
A school is setting up a new computerised system to manage many aspects of the
school administration.
a. Describe how this system can be used to manage student registration and
attendance.
[3]
b. Describe the benefits of using this system.
[2]
Answers
a. three of:
Student scans a card // teacher records the student as present on the computer
system [1]
The system records the time of arrival [1]
The system sends the data to the school administration database [1]
The data is searched in the database [1]
If a student arrives after a certain time the student’s attendance record is flagged as
late/absent [1]
Attendance/lateness records are automatically printed/sent to parents [1]
Letters/texts are automatically sent to parents to show the absenteeism/lateness of
students [1]
Parents can log in into the system to check student’s attendance/lateness records [1]
b. two of:
The information is more up to date [1]
Information about the student can be obtained quickly after a fire/emergency [1]
Information regarding patterns of absence can be found quickly [1]
Helps to tackle truancy/lateness [1]
Parents can be informed automatically about patterns of lateness/attendance [1]
Lateness is entered consistently in the school [1]
Automatic lateness reports for the form tutor can be generated [1]

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Accurate/up to date records if there is a fire [1]
Speeds up the process as attendance is not marked manually [1]
Your notes

Examiner Tips and Tricks

It is vital that you read the question carefully and any answers relate directly to the
context in the question

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 Online Booking Systems
Your notes

Online Booking Systems

What is an online booking system?
An online booking system is a computer system that allows customers to purchases
tickets for events online
Examples of industries that make use of these systems include:
Travel - booking flights, hotels and package holidays
Music - Reserving tickets for live music events
Film - Booking cinema tickets, allowing customers to pick a seat
Sport - Purchasing tickets to sporting events, choosing their view

Advantages and disadvantages of online booking systems

Advantages Disadvantages

Convenience and accessibility (24/7 Potential for technical issues and downtime
booking)

Instant confirmation and ticketing Possible security and privacy concerns

Ability to compare prices and options Transaction and booking fees

Promotions and personalised offers Impersonal and less tailored customer

service

Faster to change/cancel Internet connected devices required

Automated reminders via email/text Staff may lose their job

Repeated bookings can easily be made

Staff are freed up to do other things

Case Study
Reserving a seat to watch a film at the cinema.

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After the user logs in the following process takes place
1. Customer selects the film they want to watch Your notes
2. Customer chooses a date
3. The database is searched and times and availability are displayed on the screen
4. Customer chooses a suitable time
5. The screen seating chart is displayed, showing available/taken seats
6. Customer clicks on an available seat
7. Total price is displayed on the screen
8. Customer can choose another seat or click confirm to continue to payment
9. Seat(s) are temporarily made unavailable for booking by any other user
10. Customer checks personal details are correct and enters payment information
11. Payment is taken and confirmation message is displayed
12. Payment receipt and QR code (e-ticket) are emailed
13. Database is updated to make seats unavailable

Worked Example
RockIT Airlines representatives use a computer booking system to book flights for
customers. A representative from the airline types in the customer reference number,
the number of passengers, departure time, departure date, departure airport and the
destination airport.
Describe the processing and outputs involved in making the booking.
[6]
Answer
Six of:
Display flights available [1]
The booking database is searched for the customer reference number [1]
A matching record is retrieved [1]
Details of the customer are displayed on the screen [1]
The booking database is searched for matching departure airports [1]
The booking database is searched for matching destination airports [1]
If the flight correct, the date/time found [1]
Search if seats/tickets/flights available [1]
If unavailable error message output [1]
Outputs the price [1]
If seats are available, flags seat as booked [1]
If not booked then the flag removed [1]
Reduces the number of seats/tickets available by the number booked [1]
E-ticket/ticket details are output [1]
E-ticket/ticket details sent to customer [1]
A receipt is printed//Verification email sent [1]

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 Banking Applications
Your notes

ATM
What is an ATM?
An Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) is used in the banking industry to provide customers
with convenient access to financial transactions 24/7
Characteristics and uses of ATMs:
Withdrawing cash: Obtain money from a bank account
Depositing cash or cheques: Add funds to a bank account
Checking account balance: View the current balance of a bank account
Mini statements: Obtain a summary of recent transactions
Bill paying: Settle utility bills and other payments
Money transfers: Sending funds to another bank account

Advantages and disadvantages of ATMs

Advantages Disadvantages

Convenient access to banking Cash withdrawal limits

services
Risk of theft or fraud
Available 24/7
Limited services compared to bank
Reduced waiting time branches
Global access to funds Technical issues and machine downtime
Some banks charge for using ATMs

EFT
What is EFT?
Electronic Funds Transfer is a way of moving money from one account to another
EFT is used primarily for:
Salary deposits
Bill payments
Online purchases

EFTPOS

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 Electronic Funds Transfer Point Of Sale (EFTPOS) is used by retailers to allow customers
to make purchases using a debit/credit cards
Your notes
The process involves:
Data being read from the chip (using RFID / NFC if it's a contactless payment)
The business bank's computer contacts the customer’s bank's computer
The card is checked if it is valid
If the card is valid the transaction continues
If it is not valid the transaction is terminated
An authorisation code is sent to the business
The price of the item is deducted from the customer’s account
This money is added to the business' account

Advantages and disadvantages of EFT

Advantages Disadvantages

Fast and efficient Risk of online fraud

Reduces paperwork Technical issues
Lower transaction costs Requires internet connection
EFT transactions can be disputed for up to 60 Requires immediate funds
days available

Internet Banking
What is internet banking?
Internet banking is a secure online platform for accessing and controlling a persons
bank account
Internet banking can be accessed via the internet through a secure website or by using
the bank's official app on a smartphone
Internet bank allows for transfers, bill payments, account management and much more

Advantages and disadvantages of Internet banking

Advantages Disadvantages

Convenience and 24/7 access Security of transactions

Easy account management Requires a reliable internet connection
More risk of fraud

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 Reduced need for branch visits Easier to make errors (typing in the
(saving time and money) wrong information)
Your notes
Interest rates may be better Physical cash can't be
deposited/withdrawn
Easier to shop around for the best
account

Examiner Tips and Tricks

Sometimes the question will be about advantages and disadvantages of going to the
bank rather than using online banking. Read the question carefully (you can reverse
the statements in the table above)

Worked Example
Adam is paying his bill in a restaurant using a contactless debit card.
Describe the computer processing involved in Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) using
contactless cards.
[4]
Answer
Four of:
The reader checks the amount to pay is less than the contactless limit [1]
The data is read from the chip using RFID / NFC [1]
The restaurant’s bank's computer contacts the customer’s bank's computer [1]
The card is checked if it is valid [1]
If valid the transaction continues [1]
If not valid the transaction is terminated [1]
An authorisation code is sent to the restaurant [1]
The price of the meal is deducted from the customer’s account [1]
Added to the restaurant’s account [1]

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 Computers in Medicine
Your notes

Information Systems
What is an information system?
An information system is a purpose built system designed to collect, store, process,
distribute and use information
In a hospital an information system would be used to:
Access patient medical records
Appointment scheduling
Manage medication dispensing
Facilitate communication between doctors, nurses and other healthcare
providers
Public health reporting
Information systems are used by healthcare professionals for making informed
decisions about patient care

3D Printers
What is a 3D printer?
A 3D printer is a machine capable of outputting three-dimensional objects from a
digital file
3D printing starts with the creation of a 3D model using computer aided design (CAD)
The benefits of 3D printing include:
3D models can be fully customised on the computer before printing
Prototyping

3D printers in medicine
Printing of prosthetics Custom-made prosthetic limbs or body parts
Can be tailored to a patient's specific needs
Faster and more affordable than traditional methods

Tissue engineering 3D printing of living cells to create functional tissues

Can be used to repair or replace damaged organs
Potential to reduce the need for organ donations

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Artificial blood 3D printed blood vessels made of biodegradable materials
vessels
Can be used in surgeries to replace damaged vessels Your notes
Allows for improved blood flow and faster healing

Customised 3D printed pills with precise doses and drug combinations

medicines
Tailored to a patient's specific needs and conditions
Potential to improve medication adherence and
effectiveness

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 Expert Systems
Your notes

Expert Systems
What is an expert system?
An expert system mimics human knowledge and experience and uses a combination of
the two to solve problems or answer questions
Examples of expert systems include:
Equipment troubleshooting and repair
Technical support
Medical diagnosis system
Expert systems share five key characteristics

Knowledge A database of facts to generate rules that are used to solve

base problems and make decisions

Rule base A set of rules or logic that is used to apply the knowledge in the
knowledge base to specific problems

Inference A program that applies the rules in the rule base to the facts in the
engine knowledge base to solve problems

Interface A way for users to interact with the system and provide input

Explanation Provides the users with explanation and reasoning behind

system decisions or recommendations
Gives a percentage probability of the accuracy of its conclusions

Case Study
Movie recommendation system
Inputs
Indicate favourite genres/directors
Rate movies watched (stars/thumbs up, thumbs down etc.)
Previous movie searches (keywords)
Inference engine

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 Matching similar movies to users history (based on director/genre/actor/reviews
etc.)
Filtering movies with similar characteristics as previously watched Your notes
Filtering movies based on what users with similar tastes have watched/liked
Output
Display a personalised list of movie recommendations

Advantages and disadvantages of expert systems

Advantages Disadvantages

Consistent results Only as good as the data entered

Faster responses Responses can be cold and lack human
emotion
Can store large amounts of
data Requires training to use correctly
Unbiased

Worked Example
Expert systems are used by doctors.
a. Describe how an expert system can be used to diagnose illnesses.
[5]
b. Name two other applications of expert systems.
[2]
Answers
a. five of:
An Interactive user interface appears [1]
Questions are asked about the illness [1]
Yes and No type answers to the questions [1]
Answers lead to other questions [1]
The inference engine searches the knowledge base [2]
Using the rules base [1]
Probabilities/possibilities of diagnoses and treatments are displayed [1]
Displays the ways it achieved the solutions/conclusions / explanation [1]
b. two of:
Mineral prospecting [1]
Car engine fault diagnosis [1]
Chess games [1]
Tax queries [1]

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Careers recommendations [1]
Movie recommendations on streaming platforms [1]
Your notes

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 Computers in Retail Industry
Your notes

POS & EFTPOS

What is POS & EFTPOS?
Point of Sale (POS) is a computer terminal used to read product barcodes
Barcodes are used in an automatic stock control system in shops
A barcode is part of a process that involves:
Every barcode being assigned to a product in stock
Each product record contains its price, stock level and a description
When a barcode is matched with a record the information is transferred to the
POS terminal and the price is displayed on the screen
The stock level is reduced by one
If the current stock level falls below a minimum reorder stock level it triggers a
restocking process automatically
Electronic Funds Transfer at the Point of Sale (EFTPOS) is how a payment is made to
purchase good or services using a card or electronic devices such as smartphones
Examples of EFTPOS include:
Chip and Pin
Contactless
Near field communication devices (NFC)

Chip and Pin Contactless NFC

Enhance security with Allow for faster Facilitate payments

two-factor authentication transactions through smartphones
and other devices
Require customers to Enable customers to
enter a personal tap their card on the Increase convenience
identification number terminal for customers
(PIN)

Internet Shopping
What are the advantages and disadvantages of
internet shopping?
Internet shopping is the act of purchasing good or services online through a website or
mobile application

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 Characteristics of Internet Shopping
Online stores accessible through web browsers Your notes
Wide variety of products and services are available
Convenient and often open 24/7
Advantages and disadvantages to the customer
Advantages Disadvantages

Time-saving and convenient Security concerns

Shop from home or on the go Risk of fraud or identity theft
Avoid queues and busy stores Need to provide personal and
financial information
Greater product variety
Limited physical interaction
Access to the global market
Can't touch or try products before
Compare products and prices purchasing
easily
This may lead to dissatisfaction or
Customisation options returns
Personalise items or services Delivery delays and fees
Tailor purchases to individual Wait for items to be shipped and
preferences delivered
Potential cost savings Additional costs for shipping and
Competitive pricing due to lower handling
overheads Impersonal customer service
Take advantage of online sales Difficulty resolving issues or
and promotions returning items
Lack of face-to-face interaction
with staff

Advantages and disadvantages to the business

Advantages Disadvantages

Can target prices, products and services at Increased Competition

specific groups based on buying data
Digital Fraud and Security
Can update stock availability and prices more Concerns
quickly than a physical store through their website
Technical Issues and
Cheaper to publicise special offers rather than mail Downtime
shots

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 International customer base Costs of Delivery and
Returns
Increased profits due to lower overheads (e.g. Your notes
fewer staff) Customer Trust
Inventory Management
Depersonalisation
Online Reviews
Dependency on Internet
Infrastructure
Logistical Challenges
Legal and Regulatory
Compliance
Increased Customer
Expectations

Worked Example
Modern supermarkets have automated stock control systems, which use data from
the checkouts.
Describe how food items can be ordered by an automated stock control system so
they are delivered before the stock in the supermarket runs out.
[4]
Answer
four of:
Each item is scanned/bar code is read at the POS terminal [1]
Bar code is searched in the database [1]
The quantity of products is reduced [1]
The stock database is updated [1]
When the minimum stock number/level/reorder level is reached [1]
Reads re-order quantity [1]
Goods flagged as ordered [1]
The automated stock system sends a signal to the warehouse computer to order new
items [1]
The warehouse sends the items to the supermarket [1]
Re-order quantity is found in the database [1]
Flags removed [1]
The stock control system updates the stock levels in the stock control database with
the new stock [1]

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 Recognition Systems
Your notes

What is a recognition system?

A recognition system is a way of using computer technology to automatically identify
something
Common examples of recognition systems include:
Facial recognition
Speech recognition
Optical character recognition

OMR & OCR

What is OMR?
Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) detects marked areas on paper by using a special
machine to read the marks
Examples include:
Multiple-choice examination
Barcodes
QR codes
Automates data collection and entry

An OMR form being filled in

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Advantages Disadvantages
Your notes
Fast and efficient data collection Limited to predetermined responses
Reduces manual entry errors Sensitive to poor marking or smudging

What is OCR?
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) converts printed or handwritten text into digital
format
Useful for digitising documents
Assists in searching and editing text
Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) is an example of OCR
For example, reading number plates and controlled entry and exit at airport parking

Advantages Disadvantages

No staff required Privacy concerns as number plates

are recorded
Faster, no need to stop and take tickets etc
Number plates can be cloned
Stops cars parking illegally, cannot enter
without authorisation Dirty or broken number plates can
not be read
Lack of staff could lead to
vandalism

RFID & NFC

What is RFID?
Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFIDs) use radio waves to identify and track
objects
Examples of where RFID can be used is:
Stock tracking
Passports
Vehicles
Contactless payment
RFID tags are made of a microchip and antenna and can be either:
Passive - uses energy from the reader

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 Active - has it's own power source
Stock tracking Livestock tracking on a farm
Your notes
Keeping track of animals
Location
Medical data
Active tags would be used due to the distance involved

Passports Passive chips in passports

Read by a reader to decrypt data stored on the chip
Personal details
Photo
Fingerprints

Vehicles Track progress on assembly line

Used on toll roads to automate payment and raise barriers
Entry and exit to carparks

What is NFC?
Near field communication (NFC) is a subset of RFID which allows communication
between two devices in very close proximity
NFC can be either:
Passive - uses energy from the reader
Active - has it's own power source
Smartphones use active NFC to allow contactless payments by tapping a smartphone
on a reader
Smartphones can also exchange data using NFC by tapping together (usually back to
back)

Worked Example
A farmer has purchased a computerised feeding system for her goats. A goat has an
RFID tag
attached to its ear, which is recognised by the computer. The system uses a passive
RFID tag.
a. Describe how the RFID tag can be activated.

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 [3]
b. Describe how RFID technology will be used to give the correct feed to the animal. Your notes
[3]
Answers
a. three of:
The RFID reader sends radio waves / signals to the RFID antenna in the tag [1]
The tag sends radio wave/signal back to the reader [1]
The radio waves move from the tag’s antenna to the microchip [1]
A signal is generated and sent back to the RF system [1]
The RF wave is detected by the reader which interprets the data [1]
b. three of:
The goat passes the RFID reader [1]
The RFID reader extracts data from the tag [1]
The ID is compared with data stored in the database [1]
The feed for the goat is then selected/identified / read from the database [1]

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 Satellite Systems
Your notes

GPS
What is GPS?
Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite system used to track the exact location of
an object
GPS uses orbiting satellites to receive, amplify and transmit signals
Radio frequencies are used to communicate between satellites and ground stations
GPS requires a direct line of sight

Case Study
Sat nav in a car
The position/location of the car is calculated using GPS software
Data is transmitted every few seconds
An algorithm calculates the speed/location of the car
The map is updated every few seconds

Advantages Disadvantages

Wide coverage area Expensive setup and maintenance

Real-time data transmission Signal interference due to weather or
obstacles
Improved communication in remote
locations Limited bandwidth and capacity
Accurate location tracking Privacy concerns and potential for
Surveillance

GIS
What is GIS?
A geographic information system (GIS) is a powerful computer system that acts as a
database for geographic data
Any data that contains a location component can be stored, such as:
Physical features - Rivers, mountains and roads
Man-made - Buildings, utilities (electricity, water, gas)

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 Social and economic - demographics, crime rates and/or property value
Two main features of a GIS are:
Your notes
Analyse geographic data to find patterns/trends/relationships
Visualise geographic data using maps (easier to understand)
Examples of where a GIS may be used include:
Assigning closest emergency services to an emergency
Businesses analysing customer demographic, competitors and possible gaps in
the market
Tracking deforestation, monitoring pollution and mapping wildlife habitats
Advantages Disadvantages

Overlaying data based on location to Cost

reveal hidden patterns
Only as good as the data it uses
Visual representations allows for better
decision making Need specialised training to
understand visual elements properly
Automation
Data privacy concerns
Better communication & collaboration

Media Communication
What is media communication?
Media communication is a system of creating, transmitting, storing and delivering
media content using a global network of satellites
Media transmission includes:
TV signals
Radio signals
Internet data
Media communication systems can also act as relays, bouncing signals over a large
distance, for example:
Broadcasting live events to a global audience
Ensuring a wider reach to geographically hard to reach places

Advantages Disadvantages

Global coverage Tine delays can cause audio/video sync issues

High bandwidth

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 Cheaper, no cables required Bad weather can affect quality of signal
received
Secure encrypted Your notes
transmissions Satellites need regular monitoring and
maintenance

Worked Example
Modern-day drivers rely less on paper maps and more on satellite navigation systems
(satnav).
Describe the inputs, outputs and processing of a satnav when used by a driver to
reach a destination.
[4]
Answer
Four of:
Destination is input by driver [1]
Exact position of motor vehicle is continually calculated using GPS [1]
Using data transmitted from 3 / 4 satellites [1]
The on board computer contains pre-stored road maps [1]
The car’s position is displayed on the map/route displayed [1]
The algorithm calculates the route from the current car’s position to the destination [1]
Makes allowances for traffic jams/roadworks [1]
The car system receives regular updates on traffic conditions [1]
Outputs the journey time/ETA of journey/voice output [1]
Calculates the journey time / ETA of journey time [1]
Outputs speed limits/cameras / warning speed limit [1]

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