Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Your notes
ICT
Effects of Using IT
Contents
Microprocessor-Controlled Devices
Health Issues
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Microprocessor-Controlled Devices
Your notes
What is a microprocessor?
A microprocessor is an integrated circuit (IC) that contains a central processing unit
(CPU)
The microprocessor is responsible for executing instructions
Data security issues
Any device fitted with a microprocessor is open to cybercriminal activity
Microprocessor controlled devices give hackers more opportunities, for example:
Hacking smart home systems to control security devices such as cameras and locks
Hacking smart controlled heating systems to monitor patterns of when heating is on
and off, data which can be used to track when people are at home or not
Monitoring & Controlling Devices
Microprocessors are used in a home to monitor and control devices such as:
Central heating systems
Security alarm systems
Home entertainment system etc.
The use of microprocessors in the home can have a positive and negative impact on:
Lifestyle
Leisure
Physical fitness
Advantages and disadvantages of monitoring and controlling
devices
Lifestyle Leisure Physical fitness
Less manual tasks More time to do other things Loss of fitness due to
lack of manual tasks
Devices can be controlled Connected activities (e.g. People become lazy as
outside of the home (e.g. fitness trackers can connect they depend on devices
turn on the heating on the with friends for virtual
way home) competition
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Live security alerts sent Integrated entertainment (e.g. Unrealistic expectations
straight to a smartphone or Smart TV offer voice control (e.g. comparing a users
Your notes
computer and personalisation) progress to others data)
Less manual tasks can lead Users can become tech Biometric data not
to unhealthy lifestyle dependant and put limits on always accurate
creativity
Social interactions
The use of smart devices such as tablets, TVs and phones allows for better
communication
There positive impacts of using technology, such as:
Less expensive to stay connected (comparted to telephone, post etc.)
Easier to make new friends
Easier to find people with similar interests
There are also negatives of using technology, such as:
Social isolation
Increased anxiety from a lack of interaction
The way people behave online compared to offline
Monitoring & Controlling Transport
Microprocessors are used to monitor and control transport systems such as:
Traffic management (smart motorways etc.)
ANPR
Air traffic control in airports
Railway signalling
Advantages and disadvantages of monitoring and controlling
transport
Advantages Disadvantages
Less human error, reducing number of If the system fails, whole
accidents transport system is stopped
Efficient scheduling means more Open to be attacked by
trains/aeroplanes can run cybercriminals
ANPR can automatically penalise ANPR is collecting data
offences/check for insurance and cars (privacy concerns)
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reported stolen Design flaws can lead to safety
Smart motorways can real-time adapt to traffic concerns
and reduce journey times/delays Your notes
Autonomous vehicles
Autonomous vehicles make use of sensors, cameras, actuators and microprocessors to
get a vehicle from point A to point B without human intervention
Autonomous vehicles rely on complex algorithms to work alongside the hardware
Advantages Disadvantages
Better for environment due to efficiency Expensive
Safer, no human error Security concerns, software
updates and patches
Reduced traffic congestion due to more
efficient speed, braking and lane capacity Higher maintenance
Could lead to unemployment
User reluctance to new
technology
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]
Answer
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]
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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] Your notes
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Health Issues
Your notes
Health Issues
What are health issues?
Health issues are a common side affect of the prolonged use of IT at home or in the
workplace
There are strategies that should be in place to help prevent health issues such as:
Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
Back/neck problems
Eye strain
Headaches
Repetitive strain injury (RSI)
Repetitive strain injury is damage to the fingers, wrists and joints, traditionally cause d
by prolonged use of a keyboard and mouse
The effects of RSI include:
Pain
Numbness
Weakness
Stiffness
To eliminate or reduce the risk of RSI, a user should:
Have the correct posture (angle of arms to the keyboard and mouse)
Use a wrist support if necessary
Take regular breaks
Make use of ergonomic keyboards
Back/neck problems
Back and neck problems are caused from sitting in front of a computer screen for
prolonged periods of time
The effects of back/neck problems include:
Pain
Stiffness
Muscle spasms
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Weakness
Numbness or tingling Your notes
Sciatica
Difficulty sleeping
To eliminate or reduce the risk of back/neck problems, a user should:
Use adjustable chairs
Take regular breaks
Use a foot rest
Eye strain
Eye strain is caused by staring at a computer screen for prolonged periods of time or
incorrect lighting causing reflections
The effects of eye strain include:
Headaches
Vision problems (blurred, double, light sensitivity)
Discomfort
To eliminate or reduce the risk of eye strain, a user should:
Take regular breaks
Use anti-glare screen filter
Change from CRT to LCD monitor
Headaches
Headaches are caused by a combination of factors, including:
Poor lighting
Flickering screens
Reflections
Fatigue
To eliminate or reduce the risk of eye strain, a user should:
Take regular breaks
Have regular eye tests
Use an anti-glare screen filter
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