Activity 5: Unit 6 Mac Controllers Exam Guide

Objectives

• Complete the test plan started in Activity 2 after the main program.
• Spend no longer than 1.5 hours on this activity (similar to other 9 mark activities).
• Test your system against the test plan from Activity 2, including unexpected events.
• Record the outcome of each test in the provided template.
• Analyze test results and evaluate system conformance against the client brief.

Test Plan Table

• Columns:
  • Test number
  • Purpose of the test
  • Test conditions
  • Expected result
• Start with 8 or so rows from Activity 2.

Integration with Activity 4

• Perform testing alongside programming (Activity 4).
• Alternate between making and testing small sections of the program.

Additional Table Columns

• Actual result: Document what actually happened during the test.
• Comments and Justification: Important for receiving high marks. Use technical knowledge here.

Example: Timer Test

• Test Condition: Start calculator, compare displayed charge to computer clock.
• Expected Result: Fare increases by 25 pence every 20 seconds; £3 after 2 minutes.
• Actual Result: Clock was slightly slow, took 2:05 to reach £3.
• Comments: Adjust delays from 1000ms to 950-980ms to compensate.

Unexpected Events

• Example: Driver presses reset button while timer is running.
• Expected Result: Reset button should not affect the timer.
• Actual Result: Nothing happened.
• Comments: Test is successful; button does not cause unexpected action.

Evaluation Against Client Brief

• Include a qualitative comparison to the device described in the brief.
• Discuss how well the device meets the brief in a paragraph or two.

Key Takeaways

• This activity continues from Activity 2's test plan, not the specification.
• You may modify the test plan from Activity 2 if needed.
• Demonstrate technical knowledge to earn marks.
• Include unexpected events to access top mark tiers.

Tips

• Sharing knowledge on Showworks Twitter (@showworkstem).
• Stay updated for Activity 6.

Conclusion

• Ensure to include all technical details in your submissions.
• Best of luck to all exam takers.
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