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Explain the difference between system software and application software. 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. 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. To synchronise the Fetch-Decode-Execute Cycle

Explain how cache memory is used by the CPU. 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. [Fetch] The next instruction is retrieved from main memory [Fetch] and placed into the Instruction Register in the CPU [Fetch] The Program Counter register is incremented [Decode] The CPU splits the instruction up [Decode] and works out what needs to be done [Execute] The instruction is carried out by the CPU [Execute] Main memory may be updated in the process [Execute] Data may be sent to and from the ALU in order to carry out the instruction

Compare and explain the RAM and ROM requirements in an embedded system and a general-purpose system. 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. 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. [+] 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 [-] 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

State and describe three functions of an operating system. 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.