Module 1.2: Hardware Devices
Information Processing Cycle
Computers take data (raw) and process it → info (useful + meaningful)
• Input: provides the data that needs to be processed to generate info
• Processing: collection of steps, decisions + calculations taken to convert data → info
• Output: proof that processing is taking place, comm. to ppl (e.g. monitors)
• Storage: where data, software + comp. results are kept when comp. is not busy w/ specific task / switched off
• Comm: allows ICT devices to connect with each other
Input:
− planning the data that needs to be collected
− deciding on the best way to capture data (type, scan barcode, read RFID tag)
− planning and creating data capture forms or instructions
Output
− sent directly to storage
− communicated directly to other computers
− used as input for other programs, systems or parts of same program
− used to control equipment or devices (signal)
Combining input sources and output destinations
• Most ICT systems use multiple input sources and output destinations
1
, • Most desktop systems use >= 3 output devices: improves efficiency of how system communicates with user.
Examples:
− Smartphone/ tablet may have → sensors to detect movement and allow you to touch
• → on-screen controls
− POS system may use: specialised till keyboard, barcode scanner, card reader + fingerprint scanner
− Musicians may connect: MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) piano keyboard to comp using USB cable +
mouse
e.g. Uber (combo of input devices): GPS, cellular data, touch screen tech
Processing (relies on software)
− takes place only when software and data are loaded into RAM
− uses a step‑by‑step solution (algorithm) to solve problems
− uses input data, creates information that can be output
Typically involves tasks such as:
o searching
o sorting
o comparisons and decisions
o mathematical calculations
Storage – not just phys. hardware used to store data, but also:
− Choose correct storage media
− Use security to protect sensitive data [encryption (need password to decode data) and physical safe-keeping]
− Create and implement good backup policies
− Create and use storage of non-IT related media (e.g. filing system, store printed matter manual input forms)
Input devices
• Allows ICT device to receive data + instructions
• 1st step in Info Processing Cycle
✓ Keyboard
✓ Mouse
✓ Touch screen
✓ Touchpad
✓ Scanner
✓ Digital camera
✓ Webcam
✓ Microphone
2
Information Processing Cycle
Computers take data (raw) and process it → info (useful + meaningful)
• Input: provides the data that needs to be processed to generate info
• Processing: collection of steps, decisions + calculations taken to convert data → info
• Output: proof that processing is taking place, comm. to ppl (e.g. monitors)
• Storage: where data, software + comp. results are kept when comp. is not busy w/ specific task / switched off
• Comm: allows ICT devices to connect with each other
Input:
− planning the data that needs to be collected
− deciding on the best way to capture data (type, scan barcode, read RFID tag)
− planning and creating data capture forms or instructions
Output
− sent directly to storage
− communicated directly to other computers
− used as input for other programs, systems or parts of same program
− used to control equipment or devices (signal)
Combining input sources and output destinations
• Most ICT systems use multiple input sources and output destinations
1
, • Most desktop systems use >= 3 output devices: improves efficiency of how system communicates with user.
Examples:
− Smartphone/ tablet may have → sensors to detect movement and allow you to touch
• → on-screen controls
− POS system may use: specialised till keyboard, barcode scanner, card reader + fingerprint scanner
− Musicians may connect: MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) piano keyboard to comp using USB cable +
mouse
e.g. Uber (combo of input devices): GPS, cellular data, touch screen tech
Processing (relies on software)
− takes place only when software and data are loaded into RAM
− uses a step‑by‑step solution (algorithm) to solve problems
− uses input data, creates information that can be output
Typically involves tasks such as:
o searching
o sorting
o comparisons and decisions
o mathematical calculations
Storage – not just phys. hardware used to store data, but also:
− Choose correct storage media
− Use security to protect sensitive data [encryption (need password to decode data) and physical safe-keeping]
− Create and implement good backup policies
− Create and use storage of non-IT related media (e.g. filing system, store printed matter manual input forms)
Input devices
• Allows ICT device to receive data + instructions
• 1st step in Info Processing Cycle
✓ Keyboard
✓ Mouse
✓ Touch screen
✓ Touchpad
✓ Scanner
✓ Digital camera
✓ Webcam
✓ Microphone
2
