Compilation of GCE 'O' Level Computer Studies ICT terms
BY: MUSTAFA MAHMOUD
Below is a compilation of terms from past year GCE 'O' Level Computer Studies (7010) papers. The definitions of the terms were obtained from the following books and documents besides personal definitions: Understanding Computer Science For Advanced Level by Ray Bradley Computer Terms Document by Mrs. Bethsaida Ruiz ICT Glossary Document obtained from the Internet GCSE Computer Studies for You by Stephen Doyle Revise GCSE ICT Study Guide by Steve Cushing School Certificate Computer Studies Year-By-Year Past Examination Questions by Web Publications. 7) GCE 'O' Level Computer Studies Past Year Papers Mark Schemes 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6)
1. 2. 3. 4. AI – Artificial Intelligence Algorithm – A formula or set of steps for solving a particular problem. Alphabetic Data – Data that consists of Alphabetic characters (A – Z) ONLY. Alphanumeric Character – Data that consists of alphabets, numbers and might include characters such as punctuation characters. 5. Amend – To make changes or improvements. 6. Analogue Data – signal which does not vary in discrete steps, but continuously from one level to another. E.g. an analogue watch. 7. Analysis – A step in the process of development of a system where the required functions of the system are found out. 8. Array – Set of storage locations referenced by a single identifier. 9. Assembler – A program or software that converts assembly language mnemonics into machine code. 10. Assembly language – A programming language where mnemonics are used instead of machine code. 11. ATD Conversion – Analogue-to-Digital Conversion. The conversion of analogue signals to digital signals using an ATD converter.
1. Backing Store – Storage media such as disk or cartridge. 2. Bar Code – A code using lines of varying thickness to represent a unique produce code. 3. Batch Processing – A type of processing where the processing of files starts or occurs only after all the data is collected. This type of processing does not require user interaction. E.g. Payroll system. 4. Bit – Binary Digit. A '1' or a '0'. 5. Buffer – An area of memory used to temporarily store data to compensate for speed difference of CPU and device during transfer of data between peripheral devices and CPU. E.g. Printer buffer to store the data that is to be printed. 6. Byte – Binary Term. Equivalent to 8 bits. Takes up a character.
1. CAD – Computer Aided Design. 2. CD-ROM – Compact Disk Read Only Memory. An optical disk that can store video, audio and computer data. Usually used as a backing store. 3. Check Digit – See Check Sum. 4. Check Sum – Extra data, derived by applying some suitable algorithm, is sent along with the message as a check on the integrity of the received message. 5. Command Driven – A type of user-interface where the user has to enter a command to get something done. (Commands are usually entered using a keyboard)
6. Compiler – A program that converts high level language into machine code. Converts the whole program before execution all at once, e.g. Turbo Pascal. (See Interpreter for clearer understanding) 7. Computer Fraud – The act or process of using a computer to carry out criminal or illegal activities. 8. Control Character – A character which is not printed but causes some other action to take place. E.g. Insert Enter, Delete, Escape and Control keys.
1. Data logging – The automatic capture and storage of data readings obtained or received from sensors over a period of time. E.g. Weather forecasting, temperature, rainfall, wind speed, CO2, wind direction, pressure. 2. Data Protection Act – The government act that lays down guidelines for personal information stored in computer systems. *Refer pages 135 & 136 of Revise GCSE ICT book (ISBN 1-84315-511-7) for details about the 1998 Data Protection act*. 3. Data Structure – The organising of data in special ways so that efficient processing may take place. 4. Data...
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