CSEC Information Technology Notes

1. Fundamentals of Hardware and Software

**Basic Computer Components:**

- **CPU (Central Processing Unit):** Brain of the computer; performs calculations and
processes data.

- **Motherboard:** Main circuit board connecting all components.

- **Memory (RAM):** Temporary storage used for active processes.

- **Storage Devices:** Hard drives, SSDs store data permanently.

- **Input/Output Devices:** Input (keyboard, mouse), output (monitor, printer).

**Input Devices and Media:**

- **Input Devices:** Tools to enter data (e.g., scanners, keyboards, microphones).

- **Input Media:** Physical objects like USB drives or SD cards that store data.

**Primary and Secondary Storage:**

- **Primary Storage:** RAM (volatile, temporary), ROM (non-volatile, permanent).

- **Secondary Storage:** Hard drives, SSDs, external storage, cloud storage (non-volatile).

**Application and System Software:**

- **System Software:** Operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS) that manage hardware
and software.

- **Application Software:** Programs for users like word processors, web browsers, games.

2. Information Processing
**Data vs. Information:**

- **Data:** Raw facts and figures (e.g., '25, John').

- **Information:** Processed, meaningful data (e.g., 'John is 25 years old').

**Validation and Verification:**

- **Validation:** Ensures data entered is sensible (e.g., range checks, data type checks).

- **Verification:** Confirms data accuracy, e.g., double-checking entries.

**Types of Computer Systems:**

- **Supercomputers:** Very powerful, used for complex tasks (e.g., weather forecasting).

- **Mainframes:** Large, used by organizations for bulk processing.

- **Personal Computers (PCs):** Commonly used desktops/laptops.

- **Embedded Systems:** Found in appliances like microwaves or cars.

**Common Hardware Problems:**

- **Overheating:** Caused by poor cooling; use fans or cooling pads.

- **Hardware Failure:** Faulty components like hard drives; requires repair or replacement.

3. Computer Networks and Web Technologies

**Computer Networks:**

- **LAN (Local Area Network):** Small area, e.g., a home or office.

- **WAN (Wide Area Network):** Covers large areas, e.g., the Internet.

- **Network Components:** Routers (connects networks), switches (manages data flow).

**Web Technologies:**

- **Internet:** A global network connecting millions of devices.

- **World Wide Web:** A collection of websites accessible via the Internet.

- **HTTP/HTTPS:** Protocols for transferring web pages.

**Cybersecurity in Networking:**
- **Firewalls:** Block unauthorized access to networks.

- **Encryption:** Secures data by converting it into a coded format.

4. Implications of Ethics and Cybersecurity

**Computer Vulnerabilities:**

- **Malware:** Software designed to harm (e.g., viruses, ransomware).

- **Phishing:** Fraudulent emails tricking users to reveal personal information.

**Data Protection Laws:**

- Protects individuals’ private data. Examples include GDPR (Europe) and Data Protection
Acts.

**Ethics in ICT:**

- Use ICT responsibly, avoid piracy, plagiarism, and unethical data collection.

5. Word Processing
**Introduction to Word Processing:**

- Software like MS Word for creating text documents.

- Features include formatting, inserting images, and templates.

**Document Creation and Formatting:**

- **Formatting:** Adjust text alignment, fonts, margins, and spacing.

- **Page Layout:** Customizing headers, footers, and page orientation.

**Tables and Columns:**

- Insert and format tables for structured data.

- Use columns for newspapers or newsletters.

6. Webpage Design
**Introduction to Web Design:**
- Web design involves HTML (structure), CSS (styling), and JavaScript (interactivity).

**Creating a Web Page:**

- Use basic tags like <h1> (heading), <p> (paragraph), <a> (links), <img> (images).

**File Management:**

- Organize files into folders, name files appropriately, and ensure links work.

7. Spreadsheets
**Introduction to Spreadsheets:**

- Software for organizing, analyzing, and visualizing data (e.g., Excel).

**Developing a Spreadsheet:**

- Input data into cells, use basic formulas like `=SUM(A1:A5)` or `=AVERAGE(B1:B5)`.

**Charts and Graphs:**

- Create pie charts, bar graphs, or line charts to visualize trends.

8. Databases
**Database Management:**

- A database stores and organizes data. Examples: MS Access, SQL.

**Database Features:**

- **Fields:** Single pieces of data (e.g., Name).

- **Records:** A collection of fields (e.g., one customer).

- **Primary Key:** Unique identifier for records.

**Querying and Sorting Data:**

- Use SQL or database tools to filter and organize data (e.g., `SELECT * FROM Students
WHERE Age > 15`).

**Developing Database Applications:**

- Build simple forms, input data, and create reports for analysis.

9. Problem Solving and Program Design

**Introduction to Problem Solving:**

- Define the problem, break it into smaller parts, and develop solutions.

**Algorithm Design:**

- Use **flowcharts**: Diagrams that outline processes using symbols.

- Write **pseudocode**: Text-based steps to outline a solution, e.g.:

```

START

Input: Number1, Number2

Output: Sum

Sum = Number1 + Number2

PRINT Sum

END

```