Differences between a WP and a DTP
WP – deals with words, text based, good for letters/memos/reports/essays, smaller file size
DTP – deals with graphics, What You See Is What You Get, frame based, good for magazines/business cards/catalogues/leaflets, larger file size
Stages of the Systems life cycle
Analysis, design, implementation, evaluation
Databases
Main features of a database: Primary key, data validation, search filters, produces reports,
2 kinds of database: flat file and relational database
Benefits of relational database: reduces data redundancy, minimises data entry time, smaller file size
Types of Operating System
Multi-tasking, real time, multi-user
Main features of a GUI
Icons, pointer, the closing and opening of windows, toolbar, scrollbar, user customisation, resolution, contrast, set date and time
Data types
Numerical/number formats – integer, currency, percentages, fractions
Alphanumeric/text
Date/time
Limited choice – drop down list, tick lists
Boolean – yes/no male/female
Features of presentation software
Insert slide, sound effects, animation, print handouts, colour schemes, hyperlinks, inserting of images, slide timing
Features of we design software
User friendly instead of HTML, hyperlinks, navigation bars, forms, marquee, counters
Features of email software
Inbox, spam filter, add and open attachments, cc, email folders, draft facility, mailing lists
Social networking software
Advantages – Multipurpose, keeping in touch, sharing files, free, spread of information
Disadvantages – addictive, advertising, reduces face-to-face contact, invasion of privacy, confidential information can be leaked
Open source software
Advantages – free, easy to use, can be adapted, can be used to open Microsoft documents
Disadvantages – not as advanced as Microsoft, not as much online support, not industry standard
Proprietary software
Advantages – industry standard, online support, regular upgrades
Disadvantages – expensive, can’t be shared, more difficult to use
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Test It!
What is automatic data logging and what are its advantages and disadvantages?
What is a weblog?
What are the common features of a web browser?
What are some of the common features of a presentation software package?
What are the main differences between a word processor and a desktop publisher?
Identify five different data types.
What is the difference between proprietary and open source software? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?
What are the functions of an Operating System?
What is a GUI?
Identify the four stages of the systems life cycle. What is involved in each of these four stages?
What are the limitations of the spell check function?
What kind of tasks can be carried out using a graphics package?
What is a relational database and what are its advantages?
What is a control feedback loop? How does it work?