Explain the difference between system software and application software. [2]
Explain the difference between system software and application software. [2]
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Application software is designed to help the user perform specific end-user tasks. ✓
System software is run by the system to help control or maintain the computer. ✓
Explain two benefits of embedded systems over general-purpose systems. [4]
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Any two benefits stated and explained from:
- They are cheaper to produce ✓
because most of their memory is ROM, which is cheaper than RAM. ✓
- They are more reliable ✓
because they have less code, and so usually have less bugs. ✓
- They are more energy-efficient ✓
because they don't need to perform as many tasks. ✓
Describe how the CPU uses the clock signal. [1]
Tap/click to reveal To synchronise the Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle. ✓
Explain how cache memory is used by the CPU. [2]
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Cache stores regularly used data and instructions, ✓
which can be accessed by the CPU faster than from RAM. ✓
Describe what happens in each stage of the Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle. [5]
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NOTE: reject the words "fetch", "decode", and "execute" in explanations.
You are NOT allowed to describe the stages using these words in an exam.
Fetch (max. 2 marks):
- The next instruction is retrieved from main memory ✓
- and placed into the Instruction Register in the CPU. ✓
- The Program Counter register is incremented. ✓
Decode (max. 1 mark):
- The CPU splits the instruction up, ✓
- and works out what needs to be done. ✓
Execute (max. 2 marks):
- The instruction is carried out by the CPU. ✓
- Main memory may be updated in the process. ✓
- Data may be sent to and from the ALU in order to carry out the instruction. ✓
Compare the RAM and ROM requirements in an embedded system and a general-purpose system. [4]
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In an embedded system there is more ROM than RAM ✓
because the software does not need to be changed (it is hard-coded) ✓
In a general-purpose system there is more RAM than ROM ✓
because the software is replaceable and is thus programs are run from RAM ✓
State and explain which type of storage would be used in an action camera. [3]
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Flash storage ✓
because it is the most resistant to impacts ✓
and can be very compact and lightweight ✓
A company stores all of their file backups on magnetic tape. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of
switching to cloud storage. [6]
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At least three advantages and three disadvantages required for full marks.
Advantages:
- The backups can be accessed from any internet-connected device ✓
- It is easy to increase the amount of available storage. ✓
- The company will not need to hire their own IT staff to manage the hardware ✓
- The backups will be safe in the event of a fire at the company's building ✓
Disadvantages:
- An internet connection would be required to access the files ✓
- The firm is dependent on the host company to manage the security ✓
- Using cloud storage might be against data protection laws ✓
- Subscription fees may be expensive in the long term ✓
Describe three functions of an operating system. [6]
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Any three functions named and described from:
- Processor Management ✓
The OS divides up processor time between applications. ✓
- Memory Management ✓
The OS manages which sections of RAM each application can control. ✓
- I/O Device Management ✓
The OS communicates with input/output devices connected to the computer. ✓
- Application Management ✓
The OS provides an interface through which applications can be accessed. ✓
- Disk Management ✓
The OS keeps track of where each file is stored in secondary storage. ✓
- Security Management ✓
The OS encrypts files in secondary storage and manages login details ✓