Topic 1: Personal Digital Devices

Digital Devices
Digital devices include laptop (notebook) and netbook computers, along with devices such as the following:
 Mobile phones (including smartphones and
specialist phones)
 Personal computers (desktops)
 PDAs (personal digital assistant)
 Cameras and camcorders
 Games consoles
 Home entertainment systems
 Navigation aids (in-car and handheld)

A handheld digital device has a display screen with a keyboard or touch screen interface. Mobile digital
devices can connect to the Internet wherever there is a Wi-Fi hotspot, such as a shopping centre, hotel,
airport, etc.
User Interface
An interface is the front end of a program which allows a user to interact with an ICT device such as:
 the desktop in Microsoft Windows®
 the screen on a mobile phone or other mobile device
 an ATM machine (automatic teller machine, or cash dispenser)
Who Uses Digital Devices?
A manufacturer will aim advertisements for products at a specific target audience. Marketing will be targeted
at a specific age group, e.g. teenagers may be more likely to use certain features, such as gaming and social
networking, while an older age group may be more interested in usability. The target audience (end user) will
be selected by gender, age and disability and also will depend on whether the digital device is to be used for
leisure (e.g. home entertainment systems, media players, games consoles, etc.) or business (PDAs, GPS,
personal computers, etc.).
What are Digital Devices Used For?
Digital devices are used for the following.

Learning
 Technology has resulted in new types of qualification being created.
Technology has also affected the way we learn by offering flexible ways
of gaining qualifications. E-learning, or computer aided learning (CAL),
offers new ways of learning by providing interactive resources, flexible
hours (and locations) in which to study and computer-based assessment
(e-portfolios).

Earning
 Technology has created new types of job and also new ways of working, such as remote working
using mobile devices and wireless connectivity; this also results in flexible working hours making it

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 easier to fit work around family or other commitments. Technology has also resulted in changing
skills requirements which can lead to the need for more skilled staff, further training for existing staff,
outsourcing to specialised experts and potential job losses.

Leisure, Shopping and Money Management

 Home users can access a wide variety of services and information at the click
of a button. Holidays can be booked; groceries and fast food can be ordered;
online banking enables users to view and manage bank accounts; goods can
be purchased or sold directly or via an online auction. TV and music files can
be downloaded from a personal computer or mobile device and Internet-
enabled TV provides Internet access.
 Online living and increased accessibility features can be of benefit to disabled people, allowing them
the independence of shopping and learning without leaving their home. New technologies are
changing the way in which individuals operate and give all members of society improved access to
information and services.

Social Interaction
 Social networking sites – such as Facebook and Twitter, where users can
add information and photos and make it available to friends and family
 Internet forums – discussion groups about a variety of subjects; forums
are often created to discuss a topical or controversial subject to gain
opinions and/or votes
 Blogs (short for web logs) – these are web diaries; celebrities usually have blogs
to keep fans up to date with news, gossip, etc.
 Chat rooms – allow users to communicate in real time (instant messaging)
 Online computer games – enable users to play and compete against each other worldwide

Health and Well-Being

 There is a wealth of information about health and well-being available online. Information can be
accessed 24/7 and other users can share experiences and tips via forums. Patients can also book
appointments online. Technology is also used within the sports and leisure industry to track and
monitor performance and attendance.

Business
 New ways of communicating have opened up markets on a global scale.
Businesses around the world communicate with customers, suppliers
and the public via email, web forms, instant messaging / live chat, blogs
and forums.

The Digital Divide

The advent of technology means that more people have access to digital devices, such as home
entertainment and gaming systems, social networks, mobile communication methods and navigational aids.
Some people, such as low-income families, cannot afford the benefits that can be achieved with technology.
The ability or inclination to use technology is also a factor. The gap between those who enjoy the benefits of
technology and those who don't is called the digital divide.

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Mainframes
A mainframe computer is a large computer capab le of managing, processing and storing vast amounts of
data. These are used by large organisations, such as banks.
Personal Desktop Computer
A personal computer is also referred to as a PC. It comprises a box or tower unit which contains the 'brains'
of the computer (CPU or central processor unit). You can buy a PC from a retail organisation with peripherals
and accessories, such as a monitor, keyboard, mouse and printer, or buy just the base unit.

Due to faster performance and larger screens with better quality screen resolution, desktops are suited to
working with more complex programs, such as video editing, and playing games. Desktops typically have
more hard drive space than laptops.
Laptops/Notebooks
A laptop/notebook computer is a portable computer which runs on batteries (typically with 2–3 hours
running time) that enables mobile working, e.g. a user can work away from the office. A laptop can be
connected to the Internet via Wi-Fi connectivity wherever it is available (an area with Wi-Fi is called a
hotspot). With laptops/notebooks it can be hard to upgrade internal parts (hardware) and they are usually
more expensive to buy than desktops.
Netbooks/Smartbooks
A netbook is a small, lightweight laptop computer which runs on batteries
with a smaller screen (typically about 10 inches or less) and a smaller hard
drive than a laptop (often using solid-state technology with no moving parts)
which is designed for portability. Netbooks use an Atom processor.
Netbooks are used primarily by travelling business people who need to stay
connected while mobile (some netbooks are able to connect to mobile
devices using 3G/4G). A smartbook is similar to a netbook but it also
combines features of a smartphone with those of a laptop/notebook
computer. Smartbooks offer embedded wireless connectivity (Bluetooth, Wi-
Fi and 3G/4G) along with GPS, video and 3D graphics and a full Internet
browser. As with laptops, it is harder to upgrade internal hardware in netbooks and smartbooks.
Tablets
A tablet computer is a small portable device (but larger than a mobile phone and a PDA) with the features of
a full-size personal computer and smartphone. Data input can be via a touch screen or digital pen (stylus).
Tablet computers with digital pen input typically use handwriting recognition software.

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Games Consoles
These can be specialised desktop computers used to play video games (such as Nintendo Wii, Sony PlayStation
or Microsoft® Xbox) or handheld, portable, battery-operated consoles such as Nintendo DS and Sony
PlayStation Vita, etc. Some games are available in 3-D and can be viewed on games consoles using 3-D glasses
or parallax 3-D, a barrier placed in front of an image to give the impression of viewing it in 3-D.
PDA
A personal digital (or data) assistant, also referred to as a palmtop, is a handheld digital device that can be
used as a web browser, portable media player, personal information manager and mobile phone. Some PDAs
provide Internet access via Wi-Fi or wireless wide area networks and access to an email client. PDA features
include a touch screen or keypad and memory card slots to expand the storage capacity. PDAs are typically
used for information and time management and include appointment and calendar software, to-do lists and
an address book. PDAs use Bluetooth to connect wirelessly to peripherals such as keyboards and headsets.

Mobile Phones
There are different types of mobile phone to suit different budgets and uses. For example, a business person
who travels extensively as part of their job and has a need for mobile connectivity, email and address storage
facilities will need a higher-specification phone than a person who only wants to send and receive calls and
texts.

Basic Phones
A basic mobile phone enables a user to send and receive calls and texts and have access to
options, such as a calculator, clock, alarm, contacts and calendar. Some basic phones also
include limited mobile games but generally this type of phone does not support multitasking.
A basic phone suits a user who is looking for a cheaper option and who does not need
Internet connectivity. Basic phones are available on both pay-as-you-go and monthly
contract tariffs.

Smartphones
A smartphone is a multifunctional phone which provides connectivity to the Internet and email, usually with a
larger viewing screen (using a graphical user interface), touch-screen keypad and application icons. Some
smartphones come with slide out keypads. A smartphone enables a user to surf the web and keep in touch
with other users via email and social networking. Other features include a camera, video, GPS navigation,
address storage facilities and document editing.
A smartphone combines the features of a mobile phone and a personal digital assistant (PDA), effectively
making it a portable computer system with operating system software that enables the user to manage files
while on the move. A smartphone has more memory and a higher resolution screen than a basic phone which
makes it capable of multitasking.

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Specialist Phones
A specialist phone is designed for a specific target user and has features that make
it easier to handle and operate for the hard of hearing, the visually impaired, people
with limited dexterity or elderly users. Features include large push buttons, a large
text and viewing screen, hearing-aid compatible loudspeakers and preset buttons
which can be programmed to call specific numbers (such as emergency and alert
numbers).
Specialist phones which are made of durable, leakproof and shockproof materials to resist
water or dust are designed for users operating in a challenging/harsh environment.
Ease of Use
Mobile phones can be adapted to make them easier to use with the following:
 Louder ringtone
 Larger keys
 Larger/clearer display
 Hearing aid support
 Simplified functions / only makes calls
 Quick keys
 Touch keypad

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Mobile Phone Peripherals and Features
Compatibility
It is important that digital devices and peripherals are compatible, e.g. the device recognises the peripheral,
thereby enabling connection. It is important to ensure that file formats – e.g. AAC, AMR, 4A, MID, MP3 – can
be supported by your device.
Phone peripherals are accessories or items that can be used
with compatible mobile phones, such as:
 In-car chargers and mains chargers, portable batteries
and powermats
 Other methods of charging (wireless/USB, etc.) –
wireless or inductive charging allows short-distance
wireless energy transfer between two devices
 Speakers and music docks
 Sensors (such as accelerometers) are often found in personal digital devices. Data from them is used
by the device’s software to enhance the user experience
 NFC (near field communication), e.g. contactless payment debit cards and smartphone NFC chips
which help to speed up payment processes

Multifunctional Devices and Convergence

A smartphone is a type of mobile phone, which means that its primary function is to make phone calls. It can
also be used to take photographs or to function as a navigation aid, fitness tracker, music player or handheld
games console. Because a smartphone can perform such a range of different functions, it is classed as a
multifunctional device.
As they develop, devices like smartphones often adopt technologies and features from other types of
device. This is called convergence.
Or

Convergence: When one device is developed to carry out functions that were previously carried out by a
range of different devices e.g. mobile phones have GPS capabilities, include cameras, have web browsers etc.

Convergence blurs the distinction between different types of device. For example, smartphones and tablet
devices are very similar. They are different in that a smartphone has mobile phone network connectivity and
is smaller than a tablet device. However, newer smartphones are getting bigger to look more like tablets,
while tablet devices can now connect to mobile phone networks. Similarly, most smartphones have digital
cameras, while some digital cameras have wi-fi and mobile phone network connectivity.

Cameras and Camcorders

Camera Phones
It is important to look for the following specifications when buying a camera phone, such as amount of
pixels (shown as MP or megapixels). The resolution of an image refers to the amount of pixels (picture
elements) or tiny squares that make up the picture. More pixels mean better quality, but also higher file

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sizes. Camera phones can be used to create and share media instantly. Camera phones usually have video
capability.
Digital (Stills) Camera
A digital camera's picture quality is defined by the amount of megapixels it contains. For example, a 12 MP
camera will take better photographs than a 4 MP camera. Information, such as file size, image resolution and
date and time when the photograph was taken, is downloaded along with the picture file and this is called
metadata. The metadata may also include the make/model of camera and other technical specifications
(shutter speed, focal length, etc).
Digital Camcorders
Digital camcorders can record directly onto the internal hard disk, a DVD or a
memory card. Standard definition (SD) video uses a standard
resolution with fewer pixels and so has a lower picture quality than
high-definition devices (but lower file sizes). High definition (HD)
means higher resolution and better display (more pixels) resulting in
higher file size.

Mobile Phone and Camera Removable Storage

Bits 'n' Pieces

A bit is an item of data.
A byte = 8 bits
A megabyte = 1,024 bytes
A gigabyte = 1,024 megabytes
A terabyte = 1,024 gigagbytes

FireWire: a serial bus interface created by Apple Inc. provides high-speed connection and data transfer
between a computer and a digital device.
USB: universal serial bus interface for connecting devices and providing data transfer. Most digital devices
have USB ports to connect peripherals.

Mobile phones have an internal storage of up to 8 GB but this can be expanded by using removable storage
devices such as SD and SDHC memory cards (also referred to as flash memory). This type of memory is
referred to as solid-state technology as there are no moving parts (unlike a disk).
 SD (Secure Digital) memory cards are available (at time of print) at up to 4 GB for compatible digital
devices (mobile phones, cameras, PDAs and MP3 players). This is the most commonly used card.
 SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) memory card has a minimum storage capacity of 4 GB and can
store up to 32 GB of data (there may be some compatibility issues with some older devices which
may not recognise SDHC). The SDXC (Extended Capacity) offers storage from 32 GB to 2 TB
(terabytes) with faster transfer speeds.

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  CF (CompactFlash) is larger than SD cards with faster read and write speeds.This is the second most
commonly used card and can store up to 64 GB. This was the first memory card available to
consumers and was used in the first DSLR cameras.
Memory cards are used for extra storage and also for the following uses:
 To back up data to another device
 To transfer data from the phone to another device
 To use with another digital device
Memory Card Readers
Card readers are input devices with a USB interface or
FireWire cable that read data from a memory card making it
easier to transfer data, such as photos, from a mobile phone to a computer without having to directly attach
the mobile phone to the computer.
Hands-Free Connection
Wireless (Bluetooth) hands-free headsets enable a user to make a call without having to handle the phone
(current legislation means that drivers must not handle a phone while driving). Other types of hands-free
connection include:
 USB/cable
 Infrared headphones
 Built-in microphone and loudspeaker

Mobile Phone Security Features

It is important that mobile phones are kept secure from theft and unauthorised access (unauthorised access
to a digital system is called 'hacking').
 Never leave your phone unattended in a classroom or any
public place, such as a cafe.
 Use a PIN, set password protection and lock the SIM card.
 Mark your phone battery with a UV pen and write down the
15-digit code.
 If your phone is stolen, report it to your network and the police
immediately.
 Internet-enabled smartphones are at danger from viruses and other
online threats – be careful about clicking links or opening attachments in
emails as both of these actions could result in malicious software being downloaded.
 Use antivirus software designed for mobile devices.
 Download upgraded security software for your phone and only buy official apps from a reputable
app store (to prevent malware threats).
 Use data encryption software for sensitive data.
 Turn off Wi-Fi or Bluetooth when you are not using it.

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GPS (Satnav's)

GPS technology in satellite navigation systems can be used to:

Give directions to a destination
• Give travelling time to a destination
• Give directions to local Points of Interest e.g Petrol Stations

Metadata: provides information about the content of a digital item e.g. data and time it was taken, camera
type etc.

Geotag: Data added to a digital image that records the geographical coordinates of where an image was
taken giving the location of where it was taken. Uses GPS technology Geotags can be used by social
networking websites to for example, display images taken in the same location.

GPS Tracking (Used by businesses)

GPS Tracking: GPS Tracking devices are used in lots of ways by businesses because they allow the exact
location of, for example delivery vehicles to be pinpointed. This means that that the speed of a vehicle as
well as the time it is on the road can be monitored.

Advantages for businesses: Increase in efficiency as the time that the vehicle spends on the road can be
monitored , this means that the time for example an employee spends on a lunch break can be monitored.

Disadvantages for businesses: Loss of trust between employer and employee. May encourage risk taking
e.g. speeding if employees think they are being monitored.

Using Digital Devices away from home

Roaming: Using a mobile phone outside the UK - something that you generally switch off if you travel
abroad because it can be expensive

Connections: You can choose to connect to a network via a cable or wireless connection. Cable connections
are faster and more secure than wireless connections

Hotspot: A venue that offers a wireless internet connection.

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Communication Methods
VoIP
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) enables calls to be made over the Internet, such as through
Skype or Google. Voice signals are converted from
analogue to digital format. VoIP is cheap or free to
subscribers of the same service from PC to PC.

To communicate using VoIP, a user needs the following:

• Internet access
• Microphone
• Speakers
• Webcam (to make video calls)

SMS and MMS

SMS (Short Message Service) enables mobile phone users to send and receive
short text messages. SMS also allows short messages to be transmitted from a
phone to an email address. When used in mobile phone technology, it is
referred to as text messaging. SMS can send short messages to mobile devices
such as a PDA. Messages are sent via a computer using an SMS gateway.
MMS (Multimedia Message Service) enables users to send messages containing
multimedia content, such as images, videos and ringtones.

IM
Instant messaging is immediate and enables users to identify whether another user is online; it is a low-cost
means of instant communication between two or more users. Instant messaging also allows users to
communicate for free over the Internet and use webcams to transmit real-time images and transfer files. IM
is a great way of communicating via simultaneous conversations, providing speedy communication and ease
of use.

Email Protocols
Email systems on mobile phones use either POP3 or IMAP to transfer emails from a server to a
client device (e.g. phone, computer).

IMAP4 (Internet Message Access Protocol) – emails are pushed directly to the mobile phone
and a copy of the email is kept on both the server and the client device (phone,
computer). IMAP allows simultaneous access by multiple clients.

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POP3 (Post Office Protocol) requires users to access email via an Internet mail account and the
email is then deleted from the server once it is sent to the client device.
Computers
Computers are used in all walks of life, from home, office and leisure use to advanced technology systems
for medicine, traffic control or flight simulation. Hardware is the term used for the physical computer
components which the user can touch. These include the actual computer and computer screen and the
keyboard, mouse and printer (the latter three components are referred to as peripherals).

USB ports on a computer or other digital device make it easier to connect multiple peripheral devices.

Embedded Computer Systems

An embedded computer system is a built-in system dedicated to a specific purpose such as in air traffic
control and traffic lights and in smaller portable devices such as digital watches and MP3 players.
An embedded computer is a single chip that contains all of the elements that are essential for any computer
i.e.
• RAM & ROM
• CPU
• Input
• Output
• Clock
Another term often used for an embedded computer is a 'micro controller'. This is because the main purpose
of an embedded computer is to control something.
For example, the Raspberry Pi is an extremely popular single board computer that is intended to help school
students learn about computer programming.
All of the following also contain an embedded computer:
• telephones
• televisions
• cameras
• washing machines
• microwave cookers
• dishwashers
• cars

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Home Entertainment Systems
Technology enables home users to access entertainment systems such as the following:
 Televisions – HD ready (high definition – higher resolution than SD
or standard TV), flat wide screens, surround sound and 3-D capability
help to enhance the viewing experience.
 Projectors – home cinema projectors (can be widescreen, HD ready
or with 3-D capability). Projectors can be connected to games
consoles, DVD players, digital satellite / TV boxes and PCs/laptops.
Some come with energy-saving features making them more
environment friendly.
 DVD players/recorders – enable a user to play and/or record DVDs.
 Blu-ray players – enable a user to play HD Blu-ray optical discs (a Blu-ray disc holds up to 25 GB of
data).
 Personal video recorders (PVR) – an interactive TV recording device similar to a set-top box but
with the ability to record. A PVR may also be described as HD – this means it has hard disk storage
not high definition.
 Set-top boxes (STB) – connects to a TV enabling digital signals to be received.
 Media stations – devices that provide video/audio to a television, e.g. Apple TV. This could be by
streaming from a remote source or from local storage
 Sound systems (hi-fi) – a sound system for playing high-fidelity audio output.
 Digital photo frames – LCD display used for framing digital pictures and providing a slide show of
downloaded photos. A digital photo frame comes with a memory card (either SD, Compact Flash or
memory stick) which can be inserted into a memory card reader or memory card slot on the
computer to enable the transfer of photographs. Some frames are Wi-Fi enabled which means that
pictures can be streamed from a computer.The resolution of the display is measured in pixels. More
pixels means a better picture.

Some devices may fall into multiple categories, e.g. a Sky+ box is both a STB and a PVR.

Media Players
A media centre is a computer that plays music, movies and video. Media players
enable a user to listen to music, purchase tracks, download them and make
playlists of favourite mixes/tracks; they also enable the user to download and
view video. Microsoft® Windows Media Player can be downloaded free from
www.microsoft.com to play music. Many other music sites have their own
media players to play the music you download from them, e.g. Apple has
iTunes.
Personal portable video and music players include the iPad, MP4 and some
smartphones.
Portable media centres record and store digital media (audio, TV, video, photos) to play while on the move.
These have a smaller viewing screen (e.g. 3.5 inches TFT LCD display) and can usually be connected to a TV
via the A/V output.

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Media centre audio output is through built-in speakers or external peripheral speaker devices (surround
sound). Headsets allow a user to listen to media output privately without disturbing anyone else.
Streaming v Downloading
Streaming means playing media as it downloads (such as watching
movies or listening to music from an online source).
An example is when a video is viewed on YouTube.
Downloading means copying a file from the Internet to a
computer so that it can be viewed at a later date.
Streaming happens in real time and is quicker as the file is not
downloaded onto the computer, but it requires a faster connection to
prevent pauses and interruptions in video transmission.
E-readers and E-books
E-readers are handheld devices that are similar in appearance to tablets and enable a user to read digital
books. Important considerations when buying an e-reader/e-book include the following:
 Screen size – these are typically six inches or less (some come with touch screens)
 Battery life – how many page turns can be made in the life of the battery?
 Storage – how many digital books can be downloaded onto the internal storage (memory cards can
be used for extra storage)?
Navigation Aids
Satellite navigation aids include in-car satnavs (either as a separate unit,
or integrated into the dashboard) and specialist satnavs, such as handheld
devices for walkers and cyclists.
GPS
GPS is used in vehicle navigation. It stands for Global Positioning System
and it uses satellite technology to find locations. Long-distance lorry
drivers, emergency services, taxis and delivery vans benefit from GPS. GPS
is also used out at sea for navigation.
GPS does the following:
 Getting to a destination: Gives directions from the current
location to a specified location to help find the way
 Safety: Gives the current location so you know where you are and others can locate you
 Distance: Gives a distance from the current location to the specified location
 Estimated time of arrival: Gives an estimated time from the current location to a specified location
 Services: Gives the location of key services, e.g. nearest train station, ATM
 Geotag: Adds location data to files which can be used for searching, filtering or display purposes.
Allows users to tag images / locations of interest to other phone users

Home Automation devices and smart assistants

One type of emerging technology is a group of devices that can be used to create smart homes. For example,
home automation devices can connect a range of digital devices which sense and control functions in the home,
such as temperature and lighting. These functions can be controlled from apps on smartphones or the Internet.

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Performance
Central Processing Unit
The CPU or microprocessor is the brains of a computer that carries out stored program
instructions. The speed of a processor is measured in gigahertz (GHz), also referred to as the
clock speed. There are different processors for different types of computer, such as laptops
and desktops. For high performance and handling multiple tasks and applications, a computer
requires a dual or quad processor.

Memory
RAM (random-access memory; also referred to as volatile memory) is a temporary
memory store which loses data when the computer is switched off. A software
program is stored using RAM. The CPU loads each program into the RAM before
running each line of the program consecutively. This means that more temporary
memory is required for each software program that is run, which can result in slower
performance. To ensure that your computer runs quickly and smoothly when
handling multiple software programs, you should ensure that there is enough RAM
(memory upgrades can be purchased and installed easily). Installing more memory
is the easiest way to increase computer performance without changing the processor.
Virtual memory - storage used by the processor once the space in RAM has run out.

Connectivity
Devices, such as mobile phones and digital cameras, can be
connected to other devices, such as a computer, in order to
transfer data. This can be done using cables (wired) that insert
into a USB port, or via wireless connection methods (using a
card reader with a USB or FireWire interface means that the device does not have to be directly attached to
the computer to transfer data). Internet-enabled devices can also connect wirelessly to the Internet using 3G
and 4G (mobile broadband connectivity) and Wi-Fi. A device can also be connected wirelessly to peripherals
over a short distance using Bluetooth (see below).
Device to Peripherals
Bluetooth (referred to as a personal area network or PAN) enables connectivity over a short distance, using
a short-range radio frequency bandwidth, to mobile devices such as mobile phones, laptops and GPS among
many others (both devices need to be compatible). Bluetooth enables hands-free use of a mobile phone by
use of a Bluetooth headset. Because Bluetooth uses connectivity over a short-range radio frequency
bandwidth, it is vulnerable to security threats.
Device to Internet
3G (third generation) is the wireless network standard used in mobile phone technology which provides
wireless mobile telephone and mobile Internet connectivity. 4G is the next generation of faster mobile
broadband.
Wi-Fi is a wireless connection that enables connectivity to the Internet via a portable
device, such as a laptop or mobile phone. Wi-Fi exists in hotspots in public places, such as
shopping centres, restaurants and airports, and is a convenient way of gaining access to
the Internet while on the move. Wi-Fi Direct enables two devices to easily transfer data.

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A dongle is a portable device (an adapter which looks similar to a USB memory stick) that connects to a USB
port on a computer to enable connectivity with 3G networks (enabling access to wireless broadband).
GPRS (general packet radio service) is used with 2G and 3G network services for mobile communication
providing Internet access, a multimedia messaging service and IM (instant messaging). GPRS sends and
receives data at higher speeds and at the same time as making a voice call.
EDGE (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution) has been replaced by 3G although some networks will
switch between 3G, EDGE and Wi-Fi if the 3G signal is weak (it provides slower data transfer rates but with a
stronger signal than 3G).
WAP enabled – Wireless Application Protocol supports most wireless networks and is used to connect
digital devices to the Internet.

Latency
This is the time delay between sending and receiving data over a network. Transmission speed can be
affected by the medium by which data is sent, such as wirelessly or via optical fibre. The data size will also
contribute to latency.

Buying a Computer
There are several important considerations when buying a computer.
What is it to be used for?
 Light use for word-processing letters and emailing
 Entertainment for playing films, video and music
 Game playing or using complex programs, such as video editing
 Business use only
 Mobile communication – email and Internet on the move

Who will be using it? The age, gender and ability of the user will be important points when choosing a new
computer. For example:

Who are they? What do they need?

Hardeep is 16 and uses a computer to
keep in touch with friends (social
networking and instant messaging)
and for playing online games.
Shappi is 75 and has never used a
computer before but would like to
keep in touch with family abroad
using VoIP such as Skype for low-cost
calls.
A high-performance computer with fast
processor speed (preferably quad core),
graphics/video card, lots of RAM and a high-
resolution screen is needed so that Hardeep
can play the latest games.
A low-performance basic computer is required
with broadband connection, microphone and
speakers.

Ben is 48 and uses a computer for Ben needs a portable computer with Wi-Fi
business to help him keep in contact capability, such as a PDA or smartbook.
with head office and clients while on
the move and to collaborate with
colleagues while managing his time
effectively using calendar and
appointment features.

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Some things to look out for:
 Usability – e.g. user interface and keypad
 Portability – e.g. laptop, netbook, etc. For a device to be portable, it needs to be easy to carry and
move around. This means that the portability of a device directly related to its size and weight. For
some devices, such as a television or a desktop computer, portability is unlikely to be a priority.
 Performance
A high performance device performs its job or tasks quickly. The speed at which a device performs is
determined by the speed at which it can carry out instructions from its software. Software instructions
are carried out by the processor, which means that a faster processor will increase performance.
The instructions are loaded into the processor from RAM, which means that faster RAM will also allow
instructions to be loaded into the processor more quickly. RAM holds all software instructions to be
carried out, so more RAM will allow the system to have more programs running at the same time. In
addition, because instructions are loaded into RAM from storage, such as a hard disk, faster storage
will enable faster loading of instructions to RAM.
When the space in RAM runs out, storage is used as overflow, and this is known as virtual memory.
This means faster access to instructions in virtual memory.
The software itself can also be written in an efficient way that makes the most of the processor’s
capabilities. Inefficient software can slow down the whole system and therefore has an impact on a
device’s performance.
 Expansion capability – e.g. laptops and netbooks are difficult to upgrade
 Connectivity – amount of USB ports, Wi-Fi enabled
 Media support – mobile phone apps or software applications
 Energy consumption – battery power
 Security features

Impact of Digital Devices on the Way Organisations Operate

Technology has resulted in flexible working methods as more people
work from home on a personal computer or via a laptop from remote
locations using high-speed broadband connections and Wi-Fi. This can
have a beneficial effect on the environment as less travel is required.
File-sharing sites and virtual computing makes it easier to work from
remote locations.
New ways of working using technology often me ans that more training
is required and this can be a cause of concern to some workers who are
resistant to new technologies. Some companies use experts with specialist
knowledge and skills from external sources rather than training existing staff. This is called outsourcing.
Technology also means that users have access 24/7 to online retailers and businesses. Instant messaging is a
means of communicating with other users instantly. Live chat can be used effectively in customer service by
enabling a customer to talk to an advisor in real time.
An offshore company operates from a different country from the one in which it is doing business.
Offshoring is a cheaper way of doing business as the cost of living and wages are often cheaper in other
countries.

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Health and Safety Risks
There are various health and safety risks associated with using digital devices:
 RSI – repetitive strain injury from overuse of a device (can affect
wrists from typing, forearms from using a mouse and thumbs from
handheld games consoles)
 Posture problems and eye strain – sitting slumped over a
computer or other device can cause headaches, eye strain and
backache. Taking frequent breaks and ensuring that you are sitting
correctly can help.
 Cyberbullying and harrassment – cyberbullying is hostile behaviour carried out against a user
online or via a mobile phone. This can range from petty insults to harrassment by repeatedly sending
unwanted messages and using threatening language

Responsible Use of Digital Devices

There are many issues connected with the irresponsible use of digital devices which range from being a
nuisance to becoming a danger to others.
 Public places – be considerate of other people when using mobile phones and use headphones
when listening to music
 Camera phones – ask permission before taking photos or videos
 Hands-free and driving legislation – due to road safety legislation the use of a handheld phone or
similar handheld device while driving is prohibited. Hands-free equipment is required when driving
and using a mobile phone
 Social networks – ask permission before uploading information or photographs of another person
and never provide personal information about anyone else on a social network
 Recycling and energy consumption – recycle your old equipment (computers, mobile phones) by
giving it to charity, e.g. www.computeraid.org, www.recycle4charity.co.uk or trade it in for a new one.
Follow energy-saving tips to cut down on energy consumption:
 Use energy-saving settings on devices
 Use a headset rather than speakers
 Turn off peripheral devices when not in use
 Disconnect from the Internet (turn off Bluetooth)
 Text speak – texting can affect spelling
 Spam and scams – don't pass on spam or scam emails to other users
 Etiquette – be careful about using bad language on forums or social networks

RFID Systems
In a basic RFID system, small tags are attached to all items that are to be tracked. These tags are made
from a tiny tag-chip, sometimes called an integrated circuit (IC), that is connected to an antenna that can
be built into many different kinds of tags including clothing tags, labels, and security tags, as well as a
wide variety of industrial tags. The tag chip contains memory which stores the product's electronic product
code (EPC) and other variable information so that it can be read and tracked by RFID readers anywhere.

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An RFID reader (sometimes known as an interrogator) is a device attached to a computer system (either
by wires or wirelessly) with an antenna that sends power as well as data and commands to the tags. The
RFID reader acts like an access point for RFID tagged items so that the tags' data can be made available
to business applications.

RFID tags are very cheap to make, robust and do not require any batteries as they receive the small
amount of power they need to from the reader. They can only store small amounts of data and can be
read by anyone with an RFID reader.

One example use of RFID tags is in the delivery of products worldwide. An RFID tag is added to the
container and it is read at each stage of the journey to decide where the products need to be shipped to
next.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) readers: used to read data wirelessly from RFID chips, or tags,
using an electromagnetic field.

• Data chip can be read within a specified area, without a line of sight.
• Can be used as a security device, allowing access based on the chip data.
• Chip can be damaged when colliding with other objects.
• Security concerns; chips could be illegally accessed and data compromised.

Near Field Communication

Near field communication (NFC) is a wireless technology that allows a device to collect and interpret data
from another closely located NFC device or tag.
NFC employs inductive-coupling technology, in which power and data are shared through coupled
inductive circuits over a very close proximity of a few centimeters. NFC is often employed through mobile
phones or credit cards, where information may be read if it is passed very close to another such device
or NFC tag.

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