Computer Systems in the modern world

Computing GCSE – A451

Candidates should be able to:

a) Define a computer system

b) Describe the importance of computer systems in the modern world

c) Explain the need for reliability in computer systems

d) Explain the need for adherence to professional standards in the development, use and maintenance of computer systems

e) Explain the importance of ethical, environmental and legal considerations when creating computer systems.

Introduction

We’re surrounded by a multitude of computer systems in every day life that:› Keep us safe› Enable us to do our jobs› Entertain us› Run our homes› Enable us to communicate with other

people

Computers in the home - Appliances Apart from obvious (laptops\PCs)

Embedded computer system to control functions. Handles complex wash cycle Ensures correct amount of water is

used Water heated to correct temp.

Computers in the home (cont.) Embedded computer systems –

invisible Developed by engineers – Easy life

Computers in the home - entertainment

Set top satellite box Contains a computer system that:

› Checks subscriber account is valid – reads inserted smart card

› Handles channel decryption› Electronic Program Guide› Handle recording & playback

Blue Ray\DVD player TV – stream content from internet Smart Phone

Computers in the office

Heavily reliant on CS’s to do job effectively

Help to create professional work Hopefully mistake free Collaboration – work with people on

other side of the world, from home & on the move. Share documents

Teleworking

Computer systems in large organisations

Computer systems in large organisations

ATM – cash & other services Keeping accounts secure (1995- 20

million credit card details stolen – poor security)

Keep track of customer accounts Online banking

Computer systems in large organisations

X-Rays, CAT\MRI scanners, blood analysis

IV & radiotherapy machines Monitoring: blood pressure & heart rate Admin systems: patient booking stock

control NHS wasted £12 billion on computer

system that was never used

Computer systems in large organisations

School network – hot desking Library system Attendance system (SIMS) Biometric systems

Computer systems in large organisations

Online ticket booking system Touch screens – ticket printing Projector & audio system Air conditioning system

Computer systems & the military

Very complex supply chain – where correct item needs to be in right place at right time. (from bread rolls to a tank)

Logistics handled by systems that track items using barcodes & RFID

Computer systems & the military

Weapon systems with sophisticated on-board CS – pin point accuracy

Connects to GPS satellites to work out its current path in real time

Computer systems & the military

Command & control – chain of command (Iraq – 120,000 US troops)

General issues orders to officers – officers to troops etc

Requires reliable, tough comms. System

Military systems include:› Digital radio backpack› Sophisticated satellites

Computer systems & the military 21st century soldier “situational awareness” is key term Imagine platoon where all soldiers

know where their comrades are in real-time – through helmet mounted graphical display.

Connect to RT video feeds from hovering cameras. Becoming reality – computer systems are at the heart

Reliability – When computers go wrong

Almost 100% reliant on CS’s we need to be able to trust that they will be reliable. When they go wrong it can range from being an inconvenience to life threatening.

Reliability – When computers go wrong

Tesco Bank – customers still unable to access online accounts – several days – computer glitch.

Vodaphone mobile network disrupted after break-in at its exchange

Facebook says its suffering its worst shutdown in 4 years

Reliability

Many computer systems have thousands \ millions of lines of code

Limitless pathways through them Testing is vital to ensure systems are

reliable Testing very expensive & time

consuming – many bugs are missed

Conclusion

They’re everywhere Take for granted their impact on our

lives