Lecture Notes on Theory Paper Discussion

Introduction

• Lecture by Nicholas from Cyprus focusing on a theory paper (202023 June paper one).
• Aim: Not just solving the paper but covering the theory on topics related to questions.
• Encourages audience to engage (like, subscribe).

ISBN Number and Data Types

• ISBN: International Standard Book Number, unique identifier for books.
• Data Types: Options include numeric/integer, text, boolean, and date.
  • Chosen type: Text since ISBN can have numbers and letters (e.g., 'X').
  • Not suitable as numeric/integer due to letter presence.
  • Text is preferable for non-mathematical, long numbers.

Identifying Hardware

• Keywords for identification (e.g., volatile memory, CPU on PCB).
• Volatile Memory: RAM (Random Access Memory), loses data when powered off.
• Motherboard: PCB with CPU and components; essential for device operation.
• Graphics Card: Controls monitor output; can be basic (on motherboard) or advanced.
• Network Interface Card (NIC): PCB for network connection.

Communication Methods for File Upload

• Questionable use of term "communication methods".
• Suggested methods:
  • USB connection to computer.
  • Upload via cloud/Wi-Fi.
• Criticism of confusing question wording.

Purpose of Web Browsers

• Web browsers interpret HTML, CSS code, and display web pages.
• Allow user interaction with web pages.
• Avoid using brand names in explanations.

Internet vs. Extranet

• Internet: Global access, public.
• Intranet: Restricted to organizational access (e.g., internal hospital data).
• Extranet: Extends intranet access to specific external parties.

Safety Issues in ICT

• Focus on physical safety and ergonomic issues:
  • Trailing cables, food/drink near equipment, poorly placed items.
  • Overloading electrical outlets can cause fires.
• Health issues from ICT usage: RSI, back/neck pain, eye strain.

Password Security

• Attributes of a secure password: length, varied characters, no personal info or sequences.
• Discussion includes drawbacks like memorability, entry time.

Two-Factor Authentication

• Biometric methods: Fingerprint, face recognition.

System Life Cycle

• Stages: Analysis, design, testing, implementation, documentation, evaluation.
• Analysis methods: Observation, interviews, questionnaires, document analysis.
• Implementation methods: Direct changeover, parallel running, phased implementation, pilot running.

Cloud in Software Development

• Sharing documentation via cloud allows collaborative editing, syncing.

Video Conferencing

• Advantages: Accessibility, reduced travel.
• Disadvantages: Equipment cost, internet dependency, timezone issues.

Automated Data Entry

• OMR vs. OCR: OMR reads marks, OCR reads text.
• OMR uses: Multiple-choice testing, voting ballots.

File Path Differences in Web Design

• Absolute vs. Relative Paths: Absolute uses full path, relative uses current directory context.

HTML Anchors vs. Hyperlinks

• Anchor: Specific location in a webpage.
• Hyperlink: Link to a webpage, URL, or anchor.

Dialog-Based User Interfaces

• Used for hands-free interaction (e.g., car audio systems).
• Benefits: Safety while driving.
• Drawbacks: Requires training, background noise issues.

SSD vs. HDD

• SSD Advantages: No moving parts, energy-efficient, faster.
• HDD Disadvantages: Moving parts, less portable, energy-demanding.

Media Streaming

• Media played in real-time without full download.
• Requires stable internet, no offline access.

Image File Formats

• JPEG: Lossy, high color depth.
• GIF: Lossless, supports animation, limited colors.
• Methods to reduce image file size: Lower resolution, reduce color depth.

Data Entry Error Reduction

• Proofreading: Manual check after entry.
• Verification: Double entry or comparison.
• Validation: Automated checks during entry.