A-Level Computing#BristolMet

Session Objectives#2

Must define the terms hardware, software, input device, storage device and output device;

Should describe the purpose of input devices, storage devices and output devices

Could explain the different roles and functions of systems software and applications packages

Assemble and boot Raspberry Pi using the ‘wheezy’ operating system.

A-Level Computing#BristolMet

3.1.1 Components of a computer systemA computer system consists of both hardware and software.

Hardware are the physical parts (or components) which you can touch. Software are the computer programmes which are installed onto to the hardware giving computers a useful function or purpose.

Let’s start with hardware...

TASK: How many pieces of computer hardware can you list in 30 secs???

A-Level Computing#BristolMet

3.1.1 Components of a computer systemHardware can be broadly split into 2 main categories: – processor components and peripheral devices

Can you explain the difference??

Peripheral devices can be sub-divided into input, output and storage devices.

TASK: With your partner sort the following peripherals into their correct category.

A-Level Computing#BristolMet

Peripheral DevicesMake notes of the purpose for each of the devices

Input devices – so that the computer can be told what to do and the data to be used.

Output devices – so that the computer can tell us what it has done or it can control some device to do something useful, such as alter the central heating because it is too hot.

Storage devices – so that the computer can remember what is meant to do after being switched off. NB storage devices do not need power to hold data unlike RAM (Random Access Memory) which is wiped when power is cut.

A-Level Computing#BristolMet

Types of SoftwareThere are 2 main groups of software:

Operating Systems (or systems software)- these are the programs that allow the hardware to work.

Applications Software – these are a set of programs which allow users to do something useful on a computer.

TASK a) List 5 generic applications software used in school. For each, explain its principle use b) Identify and explain the use of any non-generic applications used by the school.

Key Term – Kernel – the lowest level of an operating system that controls the hardware.

A-Level Computing#BristolMet

Operating SystemsGo For 5 – can you name 5 o/s’s in 30 secs??

Read and take notes from the Boardworks Presentation on Operating Systems – complete all activities as you go.