AS IT

Cambridge International AS and A level IT

Key frame: a frame that has a change in the animation, for Normal form: the extent to which a database has been
example a drawing has changed, or the start or end of a normalised
tween
Normalisation: process of structuring data in a
Knowledge: information to which human experience has database
been applied
Object: an image, or combination of images, that is
LAN: local area network which connects devices in a manipulated as one item
single building or campus
Off-the-shelf: general purpose software available to a
Laser: an intense beam of light used for transmitting data large market

Layer: an object or image given its own timeline for Opacity: the lack of transparency in an image, or part of
independent manipulation an image

Legitimate: looks like the real standard a document would Operating system: software that manages the hardware
have within a computer system

Mail merge: the automatic addition of data, such as Operator: a symbol, or set of symbols that performs an
names and addresses, from a source file into a master image
document, such as a letter
Orientation: the direction of text, for example horizontal
Maintenance: changes made to a system after its or vertical
implementation
Output device: a device used to communicate data or
Malicious code: code that is intended to harm a information from a computer system
computer
Packet: a set of bits which represent data to be
310 Malware: malicious software transmitted

Management information system: a system that provides Packet switching: data that is broken down into packets
summary data for management to enable them to make are sent through different routes and reassembled by the
decisions recipient

Master document: the main document that will be used Parameter: data used within the criteria for a query
for all records
Peer: a computer in a network that is not connected to a
Message switching: a method of transmitting data server and does not control another computer
through intelligent nodes
Photoresistor: this is a light controlled resistor
Microprocessor: an integrated circuit used in monitoring
and control technologies Piezoresistance: a specific level of electrical charge that is
linked to a specific level of resistance or pressure
Microwave: an electromagnetic wave of energy
Pitch: the highness or lowness of a tone
Model: a representation of a process
Pixel: a very small square of one colour that is illuminated
Morphing: another term for shape tweening. One image on a display screen. These are combined to create a
changes into another image bitmap image

Network: a set of computers and devices connected Pixelate: when a bitmap image is enlarger, the pixels are
together so they can communicate and share enlarged and become visible causing the image to appear
resources blurry

Network architecture: the design of a network Predecessor: a task in a project that must be completed
before another task can start
NFC: near field communication

NIC: network interface card which connects the Primary key: a field that contains the unique identifier for
motherboard of a device to a network cable a record

Non-volatile: data remains when there is no power Private key: used in encryption to decrypt data

Glossary

Prompt: a question asked to the user which requires a Storage device: a device used to store data onto storage 311
response medium

Proof reading: checking information manually Storage medium: the medium on which data is stored

Protocol: a set of rules that ensure data is transferred Streaming: a method of displaying sound or video without
between devices correctly waiting for the whole file to be downloaded

Prototype: a ‘mock-up’ of a software or manufactured Switch: connects devices on a network in an active
solution manner

Public key: used in encryption to encrypt data System flowchart: an overview of how a system works in
a diagrammatic format
Query: a question used to retrieve data from a
database System specification: the hardware and software needed
to run the system
RAD: rapid application development
Table: a set of similar data (about people, places, objects
Record: a common word for entity or events)

Referential integrity: data in the foreign key of the table TCP/IP: a communication protocol used by the Internet
on the many side of a relationship must exist in the
primary key of the table on the one side of a relationship Teleworking: working from home using technologies to
keep in contact with an employer
Relationship: the way in which two entities in two
different tables are connected Test data: data that will be used for testing a system

Rendering: combining the effects created in a video file to Track: a single audio section in a sound or video file
create an output video file
Transaction: a collection of data that is exchanged; the
Repeater: amplifies the signal on a network cable action of buying or selling an item or service

Requirements specification: what a user needs a new Transition: the movement from one clip to the next
system to do
Tunnelling protocol: a tunnel between two points on a
Resolution: the number of pixels per measurement of the network that is governed by a set of rules
image, for example DPI
Tween: an animation where the start and end points are
RFID: radio-frequency identification set. The computer generates the actual changes to make
the animation smooth
Router: a switch which can forward data to the correct
location in the most efficient manner User interface: communication between the user and the
computer system
Satellite: an object in space that follows an orbital path
Utility software: software that performs some sort of
Sensor: a device that records data about the physical maintenance on the computer system
environment that surrounds it
Validation: the process of checking data matches
Server: a computer on a network which provides acceptable rules
resources that can be used by client devices
Variable: a space in memory that is given an identifier
Simulation: using a model to predict real-life behaviour where data can be stored and changed

Software: programs which give instructions to the Vector: an image that uses geometric points and shapes.
computer Calculations are used to draw the image

Source file: the file containing the data that will be merged Verification: ensuring data entered into the system
into the master document matches the original source

Spyware: malicious software that records what a user is Verify: to check that data matches the original data
doing on a computer system

Static data: data that does not normally change

Cambridge International AS and A level IT

Virus: software that replicates itself between computer White box testing: testing the whole system in terms of
systems and is designed to cause disruption to a structure and logic covering all paths through the system
computer system
Wi-Fi: wireless Ethernet which allows devices on a LAN to
Volatile: data is lost when there is no power connect wirelessly

WAN: wide area network which connects devices that are Wireless access point: connects Wi-Fi enabled devices to
geographically remote a network

Web browser: a software application for retrieving and WNIC: wireless network interface card which enables a
presenting information on the World Wide Web device to use Wi-Fi

312

Cambridge International AS and A level Travel and Tourism Answers

Answers

Chapter 1 - Data, information, type but it may be that the date should have been 313
knowledge and processing 29/1/03). Data can be checked against the source,
but the source maybe incorrect (e.g. the name
1 For example 000000 (there must be no explanation, ‘Siohan’ is written on the original source and is
just the data). visually checked to have been entered as ‘Siohan’,
but the actual spelling should have been ‘Siobhan’).
2 For example, context is added to 000000 because
we are told it is a colour code. Meaning is added by Review questions
telling us it is the colour code for black.
1 E.g. 573dds [1]. If further explanation given then 0
3 Knowledge is applying experience to information so marks.
that the information can be interpreted.
2 Either of the following [1]: Understanding
4 Area calculator, Length =, Width=, Area=, m, m2 information [1] a person’s experience/learning [1].
(not 3, 5 or 15).
3a Any combination of the following [4]: Static data
5 15 (not 3, 5). does not change [1] whereas dynamic data changes
automatically [1].
6 Measure it himself.
Static data can get out of date [1] whereas dynamic
7 Accept measurements given by the customer. data updates when the data source is updated [1].

8 He can rely on the measurements he has taken Static data can be viewed offline [1] whereas
himself to be accurate. dynamic data requires network connectivity [1].

9 Accuracy, relevance, age, level of detail, Static data is more likely to be accurate [1] whereas
completeness. dynamic data may contain errors if produced
quickly [1].
10 The user guide could be written for an old operating
system that has since been updated. 3b Any two of the following [4]: accuracy [1] data that
contains errors is not of good quality [1].
11 Saving storage space, enables validation, can help
with presentation of lists, speed of input, speed of Relevance [1] data must be useful for the purpose it
processing, confidentiality. will be used [1].

12 Computers can only understand on and off (1 and Age [1] data must be up to date [1].
0), so text needs to be encoded into a standard
character set that uses numbers represented by Level of detail [1] too much detail makes it difficult
binary. to find the required information [1].

13 Sample rate, bit depth, number of channels. Completeness [1] missing data such as a postcode
for an address [1].
14 WELL DONE.
3c E.g. FT for full-time [1].
15 To ensure data that is input matches the source
data. 3d The video will be downloaded over the internet [1]
so file size needs to be reduced as bandwidth will
16 Presence, range, type, length, format, check digit, be limited [2].
lookup.
3e Any three from the following [1]: Width/height/
17 Data can match the rules but still be incorrect (e.g. resolution; frame rate; audio sample rate; audio bit
date of birth of 29/1/13 matches the rule of a data depth; audio channels; compression.

Cambridge International AS and A level IT

3f Any of the following [4]: Image size, the wider and picture. A digital camera is mainly used to take
taller the image the higher the file size. photographs, whereas a scanner is mainly used
to digitise 2D documents. A digital camera can
4a Any combination of the following [4]: Credit card zoom into objects, whereas a scanner can only
information is sensitive [1] because it could be take images at a set distance. A digital camera uses
used for fraud [1] HTTPS is an encrypted method a focal point, whereas a scanner takes an even
of passing information over the web [1] which will focus across the whole document. A digital camera
mean the credit card information will be scrambled captures an image in one go, whereas a scanner has
[1] and unusable by anybody without a key [1]. to digitise an image by moving across it.

4b The sender and receiver use the same encryption/ 6 An OMR will be able to read multiple choice
decryption key [1]. answers that have been completed in specified
positions and will read them accurately with very

4c Any two of the following [2]: The sender uses the little margin of error. An OCR would also be able

public key of the recipient to encrypt the message to read multiple choice answers, but the process

[1] The message is sent in an encrypted format would be slower using a conventional scanner. An

[1] The recipient uses their private key to decrypt OMR would not be able to read written answers

the message [1] The sender and recipient need to to questions as it relies on marks being given. An

exchange digital certificates [1]. OCR could read written answers to questions and

4d Either of the following [1]: The user could be asked turn them into text, but poor handwriting could be
illegible and the OCR would not be able to interpret

to enter their password twice [1] the user could type the answers.
their password and then visually check it [1]. In conclusion, a specially designed scanner that

314 5a To ensure that data matches a given set of rules [1]. can detect when it needs to read lozenge marks
for multiple choice answers combined with more

5b Any of the following [3]: E.g. presence check [1] detailed scanning for OCR of text would be suitable.

to ensure news story [1] is present [1]. E.g. format 7 System software maintains or operates the
check [1] to ensure email address [1] contains @ computer system whereas application software
symbol [1]. carries out tasks for the user.

Chapter 2 - Hardware and 8 Allocating memory to software; sending data
Software and instructions to output devices; responding
to input devices such as when a key is pressed;
1 A physical component of a computer system. opening and closing files on storage devices;
giving each running task a fair share of processor
2 Carries out calculations/logical operations; time; sending error messages or status messages
executes instructions; processes data. to applications or users; dealing with user logins
and security.
3 Generates signals needed to display output to a
monitor. 9 Users are usually already familiar with word
processing software so they can create a
4 RAM is volatile meaning that data is lost when website quickly using tools with which they have
power is disconnected, whereas storage is experience. However, some tools required for
non-volatile so data is retained when power website features will not be available, for example
is disconnected. RAM stores currently active forms validation, and so the web page will be
programs and data, whereas storage stores both limited to the capability of the word processor.
active and non-active programs and data. RAM is Web authoring software can be quite complex
much faster than storage devices; storage devices to use but there are plenty of user friendly
can store more data than RAM. applications available to use now. Web authoring
software will include specialist tools such as
5 Both a digital camera and a scanner can take setting up the website structure and creating a
pictures of objects and turn them into a digital

Answers

navigation bar automatically, whereas using a Review questions 315
word processor will require a lot of work to set up
all the navigation on each page. Web authoring 1a Connects the main components of the computer
software will include a file transfer feature to together [1].
publish and update the information, whereas in a
word processor this would have to be done using 1b HDD or SSD [1].
separate file transfer software. In conclusion,
although web authoring software can take a while 1c Any from [2]: So she can connect a monitor to the
to master, it is the only suitable tool for creating computer [1] in order to see the display output that
a full website because of the specialist features it is generated from the computer [1].
includes.
2 Any combination of the following [4]: She can
10 To carry out additional tasks that the original purchase as little or as much backup storage as
software is not capable of doing, to simplify tasks necessary [1] based on the amount of data she has
that are complex using the original software. stored [1]; the back-up process can be automated
[1] as long as she is always connected to the internet
11 Light text on a dark background or vice versa, [1]; she will not need to transport data off-site [1]
such as white on dark blue, should be used because it will already be off-site in the cloud [1].
so that users can easily read the text against
the background; bright colours can be used to 3 Any combination of the following [6]: Magnetic
highlight important information so that the user’s tape can store several terabytes of data [1] which
attention is drawn to it; colours in the user’s is required for all the servers [1] and user data from
mental model should be used appropriately, such 500 employees [1]. Magnetic tape is small and
as green for go or yellow for warning, so that the lightweight which means it is portable [1] so it can
user is not confused by colours they expect to be taken off-site [1] so it is not at the same location
mean something different. as the original data [1]. Magnetic tape is the
cheapest storage medium [1] meaning that several
12 Anti-virus; backup; data compression; disk tapes can be used [1] to backup data using a tape
defragmentation; format; file-copying; deleting. rotation system [1].

13 To stop viruses or malware from being executed 4 Any combination of the following [4]: The surveys
and causing damage to files and programs. could use multiple choice questions [1] which can
be read by an optical mark reader by identifying the
14 Software that already exists and is readily available dark areas [1]. There will be lots of surveys [1] and
to be purchased. an OMR will have an automatic document feeder to
input all the surveys in one go [1].
15 The client has to wait a long time for it to be
developed; it is expensive because the client 5 Any combination of the following [6]: Custom-
has to cover the whole development cost; written software will meet all of the requirements
the software won’t have been used by other for waste management [1] because it is written
customers before so bugs are likely to be found especially for the council [1]. Custom software
when the software is used; the only support can be designed especially to be compatible with
available will be from the company that existing systems [1] such as the web interface used
developed the software. by residents [1]. Custom-written software will be
very expensive [1] compared with off-the-shelf
16 To translate source code into object code ready for software [1]. The council will have to wait a few
execution. months [1] for the system to be developed for them
[1]. There may be very good alternative off-the-
17 When testing a program, an interpreter can shelf solutions [1] which would be able to be used
translate just the code that is being tested which instantly [1] at a much lower cost [1] and with a lot
saves translation time; source code can be of support available [1]. In conclusion, the council
translated into object code for more than one should investigate existing off-the-shelf solutions
operating system. before committing to the cost and development
time of a custom written solution [1].

Cambridge International AS and A level IT

6a Both of the following [2]: Videos can be clipped [1]; The information will be relevant, clear, organised
Titles can be added [1]. and presented in a structured and coherent format.

6b Both of the following [2]: The council could remove Level 2 [3–4 marks]
parts of the raw footage that contained mistakes
[1]; The council could put a title of the information Candidates will address a limited range of
video at the beginning [1]. household appliances and look at their use in terms
of monitoring and controls systems, although
Chapter 3 - Monitoring and control development of some of the points will be limited.
There will be a conclusion. For the most part the
Review questions information will be relevant and presented in a
structured and coherent format.
1 Any combination of the following [2]:
Level 1 [1–2 marks]
• An input device that records data about the
environment or surroundings. Candidates may only give reference to a single
household appliance, with limited reference to
• Automatically inputs the data into a computer monitoring and control systems. Answers may be
system to be processed. simplistic with little or no relevance.

• Can monitor a range of aspects such as light, 0 marks for a response with no valid comments.
temperature, pressure, moisture and humidity.

2 Any two of the following [4]: Possible points:

• An infrared (motion) sensor can be used … • Increased safety for appliances.
• … monitors infrared energy emitted and can • Appliances can be made more efficient.
• It may be possible to remotely control devices.
detected an increase from an intruder.
316 • A pressure sensor (switch) can be used …

• … can sense a change in weight of an intruder 5 Any combination of the following [4]:

entering a building. • Motion sensors could be used to control light

3 Any two from the following [4]: systems …

• Sensors can be placed in areas that are • … this would mean that lights would turn off
dangerous for a human to enter … automatically when a room is unused, making it
more energy efficient.
• … this means that crucial elements of the
system, such as areas of radiation, can be • Temperature sensors could be used to control
measured and controlled from a safe distance. the air conditioning system …

• Sensors can take readings 24/7 … • … the system could be turned off when the
• … this means that humans do not need to room reaches the desired temperate and
turned back on again when it falls outside
be present in the plant at all time to monitor of this, making it more energy efficient.
processes and can just be alerted to a crisis
situation, should one arise. • Pressure sensors could be used on
• Sensor readings will have a higher level of windows …
accuracy and consistency …
• … in an environment where the accuracy of • … this would detect if a window is open and
readings is paramount due to safety, this is turn off an air conditioning system to save
energy if it is.

vital.

4 Level of response: Chapter 4 - E-safety and health
Level 3 [5–6 marks] and safety

Candidates will address a range of household Review questions
appliances and evaluate their use in terms of

monitoring and controls systems. The points raised 1. Mention six points from the following (maximum

will be justified. There will be a reasoned conclusion. four marks for each term) [6]:

Answers

Phishing Level 1 [1–2 marks] 317

• A legitimate-looking email is sent to the user. Candidates may only give reference to a single
• The email contains a link for the user to click. aspect of safety. Answers may be simplistic with
• The link will redirect the user to a legitimate- little or no relevance.

looking website. 0 marks for a response with no valid comments.
• The website will request personal data that will
Possible points:
be stolen when entered.
• Personal data is very valuable and for this reason
Pharming people will put a lot of effort into stealing it.

• Malicious code is installed on the user’s hard • A perpetrator can steal a person’s identity
drive or server. through collecting their personal data/identify
fraud.
• A user will type in a common web address, but
will be redirected to a fake website instead. • A person could also suffer personal attacks such
as blackmail or cyberbullying if they reveal, or
• Unaware, the user enters their personal have stolen, certain personal information that
details in the fake website and the details are could be used against them.
stolen.
• Even small amounts of data released on social
2. Any two of the following two points [2]: media over a period of time can be pieced
together for criminal activity.
• It restricts a user’s access to the files on their
computer. 5. Any two of the following injuries and prevention
methods [4]:
• It restricts the files access to the files either by
locking the system or encrypting the files. • Repetitive strain injury can occur from repetitive
moments such as clicking a mouse …
• A ransom message will appear when access is
attempted requesting payment for access. • … this can be prevented through the use of
support devices such as wrist rests.
3. Answer must include the following points [3]:
• Carpel tunnel syndrome can occur through
• It is a bot that is automated to carry out a simple repetitive or continual movements …
or repetitive task.
• … this can be prevented by taking regular
• The tasks it carries out will be party to criminal breaks in work sessions/varying the position
activity, such as bombarding mail boxes with used for work.
SPAM email.
• Back ache can occur from poor posture …
4. Level of response: • … this can be prevented by sitting on an

Level 3 [5–6 marks] adjustable chair with added support.
• Eye strain can occur as a result of looking at a
Candidates will discuss in detail the need to keep
personal data safe. The points raised will be monitor for long periods of time …
justified. There will be a reasoned conclusion. • … this can be prevented by using any
The information will be relevant, clear, organised
and presented in a structured and coherent settings a monitor has to aid prevention/
format. focussing on points away from the screen
periodically.
Level 2 [3–4 marks] • Deep vein thrombosis can occur when
pressure is put on the legs from sitting for
Candidates will provide limited discussion of points long periods …
about keeping personal data safe, the development • … this can be prevented by standing regularly
of some of the points will be limited. There will be and moving around periodically.
a conclusion. For the most part the information
will be relevant and presented in a structured and 6. Any two of the following safety issues and
coherent format. prevention methods [4]:

• Fire can occur from equipment overheating/
overloaded socket …

Cambridge International AS and A level IT

• … this can be prevented by keeping the room Level 1 [1–2 marks]

well ventilated. Candidates may only give reference to a single
• … this can be prevented by not plugging in too aspect of the digital divide. Answers may be
simplistic with little or no relevance.
many devices to a socket, especially those that
require lots of power. 0 marks for a response with no valid comments.
• Trailing wire can cause injury to a person who

trips over them … Possible points:

• … this can be prevented by securing wires in a • Can prevent access to further education such as
cable management system. online courses and training.

• Electric shock can occur from spilt drinks/ • Can affect entertainment experiences if
touching wires together … connections are too slow.

• … this can be prevented by not eating or • Can prevent effective communication.
drinking at a computer. • Can prevent the ability to be competitive in

• … this can be prevented by an inexperienced trading and ecommerce.
user not handling wires.
3. Any two of the following strategies with explanation [4]:
• … this can be prevented by having regular

electrical safety checks carried out. • Improving the infrastructure that is currently in

place …

Chapter 5 - The Digital divide • … this will provide better access for more
people and improve the level of aspects, such

as using technology for entertainment.

Review questions • Getting the technologies of those upgrading

318 1. Answer must include the following points [3]: recycled for use by those who do not have
access …

• The technology divide between countries, • … this will improve the access to online services

demographic groups and areas. such as education and training.

• It concerns the availability of modern • Setting up cyber cafes in both urban and more

technology. remote areas …

• It can include the divide caused by age, status • … this can provide some access to those who

and location. cannot afford regular access to the benefits

2. Level of response: of technology, such as online learning.
• Setting up community teach programs …

Level 3 [6–8 marks] • … this can help those who do not know how to

Candidates will discuss in detail a range of use the technology gain an understanding in a
points describing how a country can be affected friendly environment.

by the digital divide. The points raised will be Chapter 6 - Using networks
justified. There will be a reasoned conclusion. The

information will be relevant, clear, organised

and presented in a structured and coherent Review questions

format. 1. Any four of the following points [4]:

Level 2 [3–5 marks] • LAN covers a small geographical area …

Candidates will provide limited discussion of • … WAN covers a large geographical area.

points describing how a country can be affected • LAN normally uses infrastructure owned by the

by the digital divide, the development of some individual or organisation …

of the points will be limited. There will be a • … WAN can often use infrastructure owned by a

conclusion. For the most part the information will third party.

be relevant and presented in a structured and • LAN will normally have a faster data transfer

coherent format. rate, up to 16Gb …

Answers

2a Both of the following [2]: Apartment ID [1] ; • … this can be used to pass time quickly in a 323
Customer ID [1]. scene.

2bi Alphanumeric or text or string [1]. • … it can add a comedy effect to certain
actions.
2bii Boolean [1].
• If the timing of the video is slowed down, this
2biii Integer [1]. can add a calming effect …

2c Any combination of the following [4]: Query would • … this can be used to enhance and show the
include all three tables [1]; dynamic parameter would beauty of an action scene.
be used for the Apartment ID or Apartment Name
[1]; dynamic parameters would be used to compare • … this can also be used to create a solemn
the start date and end date [1]; the names of the feeling, creating almost a tedious effect.
customers would be included as fields in the query [1].
2. Answer must include both of the following
2d Both of the following [2]: Complex queries have explanations [2]:
two or more criteria [1]; there are three criteria for
Apartment ID, start date and end date [1]. • a single still image.
• the individual parts of a video that are joined
2e Any three of the following [6]: Field names [1] to
identify each field [1]; validation rules [1] to restrict together to create the video.
data entry for each field [1]; relationships [1]
between each table [1]; primary keys [1] which are 3. Answer must include both of the following
unique to each table [1]; data types [1] to define explanations:
the type of data that is stored in each field eg
alphanumeric [1]. • a single audio section in a sound file.
• they can be layered together to create a more
3 All of the following [4]: STUDENT (Student ID,
Forename, Surname, Address 1, Address 2, Address complex/interesting sound file.
3, ZIP, Telephone, Tutor Group) [1].
4. Any four of the following points [4]:
TUTOR (Tutor Group, Forename, Surname) [1]
• It provides a voice over …
LOAN (Book ID, Student ID, Return Date) [1] • … without removing the noise or sound in the

BOOK (Book ID, Title) [1]. clip that is already present.
• The voice over is recorded as a spate track …
4 Both of the following [2]: Proprietary formats are • … it is then layered over the original sound
used by manufacturers of software applications
for their applications only [1] whereas open-source clip.
file formats can be used by any application that
supports them [1]. 5. Answer must include all four of the following points
[4]:
Chapter 10 - Sound and video
editing • The number of samples taken of recorded
sound …
Review questions
• … normally per second.
1. Choose any four of the following [4]: • It is measured in Hz or kHz.
• If the time of the video is sped up, this can create • A sample rate of 20 Hz means that 20,000
a rushed effect …
samples were taken in a second.

Chapter 11 - Emerging
technologies

Review questions

1. Level of response:

Level 3 [6–8 marks]

Candidates will discuss in detail a range of points
relevant to the impact 3D printing has had on

Cambridge International AS and A level IT

medicine. The points raised will be justified. There Level 1 [1–2 marks]
will be a reasoned conclusion. The information will
be relevant, clear, organised and presented in a Candidates may only give reference to a single
structured and coherent format. aspect of artificial intelligence and self-driving
cars. Answers may be simplistic with little or no
Level 2 [3–5 marks] relevance.

Candidates will provide limited discussion of 0 marks for a response with no valid comments.

points relevant to the impact 3D printing has had Possible points:
on medicine, the development of some of the
points will be limited. There will be a conclusion. • It can make the experience of travelling from
For the most part the information will be relevant one place to another a more pleasurable
and presented in a structured and coherent experience.
format.
• It can increase the level of safety on the roads
Level 1 [1–2 marks] because a computer can have a faster reaction
time to safety issues that may occur.

Candidates may only give reference to a single • It can affect the current legislation and

aspect of 3D printing in medicine. Answers may be insurance process in place for driving a car on

simplistic with little or no relevance. the road.

0 marks for a response with no valid comments. • More powerful algorithms will cost more to
Possible points: develop, so this could add to the digital divide.

• Some decisions can be more ethical rather than

• Used to create casts for broken bones that are a logical, such as would a person swerve to avoid
a pedestrian if it meant putting themselves in
lot more flexible that conventional casts. danger, in comparison to how a computer would
react to this.
324 • Used to create complex and intricate prosthetic
limbs that have improved the mobility of the

user. 3. Level of response:
• Used to create artificial organs and blood Level 3 [6–8 marks]

vessels allowing access to replacements without

the need for others to have suffered loss. Candidates will discuss in detail a range of points

• The artificial organs created are not subject to about the impact of emerging technologies on our

life expectancy or blood type. personal entertainment. The points raised will be

2. Level of response: justified. There will be a reasoned conclusion. The
information will be relevant, clear, organised and

Level 3 [6–8 marks] presented in a structured and coherent format.

Candidates will discuss in detail a range of Level 2 [3–5 marks]
points about the impact of artificial intelligence
being used to create self-driving cars. The points Candidates will provide limited discussion of points
raised will be justified. There will be a reasoned about the impact of emerging technologies on
conclusion. The information will be relevant, clear, our personal entertainment, the development of
organised and presented in a structured and some of the points will be limited. There will be
coherent format. a conclusion. For the most part the information
will be relevant and presented in a structured and
Level 2 [3–5 marks] coherent format.

Candidates will provide limited discussion of points Level 1 [1–2 marks}
about the impact of artificial intelligence being
used to create self-driving cars, the development Candidates may only give reference to a single
of some of the points will be limited. There will be aspect of emerging technologies and personal
a conclusion. For the most part the information entertainment. Answers may be simplistic with little
will be relevant and presented in a structured and or no relevance.
coherent format.
0 marks for a response with no valid comments.

Answers

Possible points: Possible points: 325

• Virtual reality can give users an experience of a • It can be much more convenient for both the
situation that they may not able to do otherwise, customer and the trader.
such as flying a plane.
• Customers can shop on the go with their mobile
• Ultra-high definition can enhance the user device and an internet connection.
experience of watching movies.
• It is easier for a customer to see the range of
• It is difficult to be able to stream data at ultra- choices offered to compare products.
high definition, so this may prevent users being
able to take advantage of the technology. • Customers who do not enjoy public places are
able to enjoy shopping for products from the
• Wearable technology has allowed an element comfort of their home.
of gamification to everyday tasks or exercises,
people can compete against each other or their • Customers can shop around different
own previous records. companies more easily to get the best price for
their product.
Chapter 12 - Role and impact
3. Level of response:
Review questions
Level 3 [5–6 marks]
1. Choose from any three of the following points [3]:
Candidates will discuss in detail the effect that
• It is an internet based form of money. social networking has on our social patterns.
• It is a currency that can be used The points raised will be justified. There will be
a reasoned conclusion. The information will be
internationally … relevant, clear, organised and presented in a
• … without the need for exchange rates. structured and coherent format.
• A good example would be bitcoin/litecoin.
• They are often anonymous in their use, so Level 2 [3–4 marks]

cannot be tracked. Candidates will provide limited discussion of points
about the effect that social networking has on our
2. Level of response: social patterns, the development of some of the
points will be limited. There will be a conclusion.
Level 3 [5–6 marks] For the most part the information will be relevant
and presented in a structured and coherent format.
Candidates will discuss in detail the impact of
online shopping for the customer. The points Level 1 [1–2 marks]
raised will be justified. There will be a reasoned
conclusion. The information will be relevant, clear, Candidates may only give reference to a single
organised and presented in a structured and aspect of social networking. Answers may be
coherent format. simplistic with little or no relevance.

Level 2 [3–4 marks] 0 marks for a response with no valid comments.

Candidates will provide limited discussion of Possible points:
points about online shopping, the development
of some of the points will be limited. There will be • Many forms of social networking now exist to
a conclusion. For the most part the information suit the individual.
will be relevant and presented in a structured and
coherent format. • They have allowed many people to stay in touch
over long distances, with greater ease.
Level 1 [1–2 marks]
• Some argue they can help develop greater social
Candidates may only give reference to a single skills through encouraging communication.
aspect of online shopping. Answers may be
simplistic with little or no relevance. • Some argue they have a negative effect on
social skills as people do not act as they should
0 marks for a response with no valid comments. in many situations.

Cambridge International AS and A level IT

• There is concern that young people may see the pixelating until the full transmission rate is available

way many act on social media and believe this is again, even if it was only for a split second. A buffer

normal behaviour. downloads parts of the video in advance of it being

• Some believe this had led to greater issues such watched so the user is always watching video that

as online bullying. has already been downloaded while the next part

4. Any combination of four from the following points [4]: of the video is added to the buffer.

• Sorting through large sets of data … 5 Packet switching; message switching; circuit
• … to identify patterns and trends. switching.

• … to establish relationships between the 6 Fibre optic strands are very fine so lots can be

data. fitted into a small space to enable more data to be

• Extracting information from sets of data to transmitted at once; fibre optics carry data at the

inform and instruct future decisions. speed of light, meaning there is negligible latency;

• Can involve three stages, exploration, validation light signals in fibre optics are not susceptible to
and deployment. interference or hacking.

• Used to try and predict changes before they occur. 7 Hands-free operation in a car/headset; linking to a

5. Any combination of four from the following smartwatch; linking to biometric devices; streaming

points [4]: videos to a display; streaming music to speakers;

• Learners can learn at their own pace … transferring files.

• … this means that they may have more confidence 8 Wi-Fi is susceptible to interference from other radio

and can revisit areas with which they struggle. devices and microwaves; Wi-Fi signals deteriorate

• Training can be given in many forms, such as over distance, especially when transmitting through

326 text based, videos and podcasts … walls and other obstacles; Wi-Fi can be easily
• … this can help allow for different learning styles intercepted and hacked if encryption is not set up

between people. correctly.

• A bespoke course can be created depending on 9 A video conference is a live transmission of data
a learner’s needs … and so it is critical that the data arrives in real time.
The bandwidth needs to be sufficient to provide a
• … this can be automated by the software

adapting the training to weaknesses highlighted transmission rate capable of transmitting the video

by the learner. and audio immediately. If the transmission rate is

• Software can be designed to automatically mark insufficient, then there will be delays in the delivery

any assessment … of the video and audio, or parts of video and audio

• … this can provide the learners with instant will be missing.

feedback. 10 Both IMAP and POP allow emails to be downloaded

Chapter 13 - Networks to client email software; POP removes the email
from the server by default when it has been

1 It boosts a signal along a network cable by receiving downloaded, whereas IMAP leaves a copy of the
data packets and then retransmitting them. email on the server; IMAP supports multiple folders
on the server, whereas POP only supports one

2 File server; print server; mail server; application folder on the server.

server; proxy server. 11 Unauthorised access; DoS attack; malware.

3 Bandwidth measures the frequencies available 12 The user would be expected to log on using
on a communications channel in Hz, whereas bit their username/banking number and password/
rate measures the amount of data that can be PIN; the user could provide additional personal
transferred in bps. information such as specific characters from

4 A buffer is used to keep a video running smoothly. their mother’s maiden name; the user could be

Without a buffer, any data congestion would be asked to put their debit card into a card reader

noticed by the video pausing, missing out frames or and provide a code issued by the card reader;