COMPUTER APPLICATIONS TECHNOLOGY
SYSTEM TECHNOLOGIES
Information Processing Cycle
Problem-solving (Keyboard/Mouse)
Keyboard
• The keys are sticky: Switch off the computer, unplug the keyboard, and clean it with a damp cloth.
• The keyboard is not responding:
- Wireless keyboard - the batteries probably need to be replaced.
- Wired keyboard – Disconnect and re-connect the keyboard. If this doesn’t work, try another
port. Another solution is to reboot the computer. If it still doesn’t work, the keyboard may need
to be replaced.
Mouse
• Sticky mouse: Check that there is no dust or lint underneath the mouse and make sure that you
are using a smooth, non-reflective surface.
• Not responding:
- Wireless mouse - the batteries may need to be replaced.
- Wired mouse – Disconnect and re-connect the mouse. If this doesn’t work, try a different port.
As a final solution, reboot the computer.
Upgrading of Hardware
Desktop/Laptop/Tablet Specifications
Storage: SSD vs HDD
• SSD
- No moving parts (less chance of damage from drops or bumps/shock resistant)
- Faster (boot times, file transfers, app loading)
- Silent (no spinning disks or mechanical noise)
- Uses less power (longer battery life – especially in laptops)
- More expensive per GB
• HDD
- Slower
- Less durable
- Higher power consumption
- Cheaper per GB
- More storage (ideal for backups or archiving)
, • Storage stores files and programs permanently
• Data is kept even when the computer is turned off
Processing: CPU
• Speed measured in GHz (Gigahertz)
• Brand name example: Intel
• Model example: Intel i7
Memory: RAM
• Stores data currently being used by the CPU (stores temporary data)
• Data is lost when the computer is turned off
802.11
• Wireless communication between devices without cables. Uses radio frequency bands.
• Enables wireless internet connection in schools, homes, businesses, etc.
• Allows mobility.
EXAMPLE OF SPECIFICATIONS OF A DESKTOP COMPUTER
Component Computer
Processor (CPU) Intel Core i3, 2.4 GHz, Dual-core
Memory (RAM) 4 GB
Storage 1 TB HDD
Graphics Integrated Graphics
Operating System Windows 10 Home
Price R6000
When buying a computer, consider the following hardware specifications:
• Storage
• Memory (RAM)
• CPU
Printer Specifications
Laser Printer
• Faster and better for high-volume text printing.
• More expensive to buy, but low running costs (cheaper in the long run).
Inkjet Printer
• Good for photos and colour prints.
• Slower and more expensive to run.
• Cheaper to buy.
SYSTEM TECHNOLOGIES
Information Processing Cycle
Problem-solving (Keyboard/Mouse)
Keyboard
• The keys are sticky: Switch off the computer, unplug the keyboard, and clean it with a damp cloth.
• The keyboard is not responding:
- Wireless keyboard - the batteries probably need to be replaced.
- Wired keyboard – Disconnect and re-connect the keyboard. If this doesn’t work, try another
port. Another solution is to reboot the computer. If it still doesn’t work, the keyboard may need
to be replaced.
Mouse
• Sticky mouse: Check that there is no dust or lint underneath the mouse and make sure that you
are using a smooth, non-reflective surface.
• Not responding:
- Wireless mouse - the batteries may need to be replaced.
- Wired mouse – Disconnect and re-connect the mouse. If this doesn’t work, try a different port.
As a final solution, reboot the computer.
Upgrading of Hardware
Desktop/Laptop/Tablet Specifications
Storage: SSD vs HDD
• SSD
- No moving parts (less chance of damage from drops or bumps/shock resistant)
- Faster (boot times, file transfers, app loading)
- Silent (no spinning disks or mechanical noise)
- Uses less power (longer battery life – especially in laptops)
- More expensive per GB
• HDD
- Slower
- Less durable
- Higher power consumption
- Cheaper per GB
- More storage (ideal for backups or archiving)
, • Storage stores files and programs permanently
• Data is kept even when the computer is turned off
Processing: CPU
• Speed measured in GHz (Gigahertz)
• Brand name example: Intel
• Model example: Intel i7
Memory: RAM
• Stores data currently being used by the CPU (stores temporary data)
• Data is lost when the computer is turned off
802.11
• Wireless communication between devices without cables. Uses radio frequency bands.
• Enables wireless internet connection in schools, homes, businesses, etc.
• Allows mobility.
EXAMPLE OF SPECIFICATIONS OF A DESKTOP COMPUTER
Component Computer
Processor (CPU) Intel Core i3, 2.4 GHz, Dual-core
Memory (RAM) 4 GB
Storage 1 TB HDD
Graphics Integrated Graphics
Operating System Windows 10 Home
Price R6000
When buying a computer, consider the following hardware specifications:
• Storage
• Memory (RAM)
• CPU
Printer Specifications
Laser Printer
• Faster and better for high-volume text printing.
• More expensive to buy, but low running costs (cheaper in the long run).
Inkjet Printer
• Good for photos and colour prints.
• Slower and more expensive to run.
• Cheaper to buy.
