Unit 17

INFORMATION AND
COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

. Simplified Overview

Let’s simplify these concepts in a more relatable and engaging way!

1. Information Technology: Information technology is like a toolbox filled with methods and tools we use to handle, sort, and share information. It’s our organized system to save, arrange, and tell others what we know.

2. Telecommunication: Telecommunication is our way of swiftly chatting or sending information to faraway places. It’s like having an instant talk with someone miles away.

3. Information and Communication Technology (ICT): ICT is the smart system we use to store, process, and zip out loads of information lightning-fast using electronic gadgets. It’s our speedy system to handle tons of info in a snap.

4. Flow of Information: The flow of information happens when it travels from one place to another using electronic tools like computers or devices. It’s like info taking a trip through wires, waves, or even light signals to reach where it’s needed.

5. How Information Travels: Imagine phones turning sounds into electrical signals and zipping them through wires to another phone, which turns them back into sound. Radios, TVs, and cell phones do a similar dance but use waves or light signals to share information.

6. Computer-Based Information System (CBIS) Components: A computer system needs five main parts: the physical stuff (hardware), programs (software), the information itself (data), how things are done (procedures), and, of course, the people using it.

7. Information Storing Devices: Devices like cassettes, CDs, or hard drives safely keep info for later. They’re like treasure chests for our valuable information.

8. How Phones Work: Telephones change sounds into electrical signals, sending them to another phone that changes them back into sound. It’s like a magical conversation traveling through wires!

9. Mobile Phones: A mobile phone is like a two-way radio. It sends and receives messages as waves travel through the air.

10. Fax Machines: Fax machines copy documents and whisk them over phone lines to a different place. It’s like a secret messenger carrying exact copies of your papers instantly.

These technologies might seem complex, but they’re basically like superheroes helping us store, share, and talk about information in all sorts of amazing ways!

11. Radio: Radios are like magic boxes bringing sound to us, using special waves for music or talk shows.

12. Computers: Computers are smart machines doing math for us, super-speedy with numbers!

13. Hardware: Hardware is the touchable parts of computers—keyboards, screens, printers, and mice.

14. Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is the computer’s brain, translating instructions and doing math—like the wizard making everything work!

15. Software: Software is the computer’s secret language—programs telling it what to do, like Windows or Linux.

16. Word Processing: Using a computer to write letters or reports is word processing, like seeing your words instantly on a screen.

17. Data Managing: Gathering and storing special info in files on a computer for later—that’s data managing, keeping a secret stash of info.

18. Internet: The internet is a giant web of computers where we find tons of info and talk to people worldwide like a massive library and chat room rolled into one!

Learning about computers and the internet is like discovering a whole new world of possibilities where we create, explore, and connect with others!

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

i. In computer terminology, information means

(a) any data (b) raw data (c) processed data (d) large data

ii. Which is the most suitable means of reliable continuous communication between an orbiting satellite and Earth?

(a) microwaves (b) radiowaves (c) sound waves (d) any light wave

iii. The basic operations performed by a computer are

(a) arithmetic operations (b) non-arithmetic operations (c) logical operations (d) both (a) and (c)

iv. The brain of any computer system is

(a) monitor (b) memory (c) CPU (d) control unit

v. Which of the following is not processing?

(a) arranging (b) manipulating (c) calculating (d) gathering

vi. From which of the following can we get information about almost everything?

(a) book (b) teacher (c) computer (d) internet

vii. What does the term e-mail stand for?

(a) emergency mail (b) electronic mail (c) extra mail (d) external mail

REVIEW QUESTIONS

17.1. Difference between Data and Information:

• Data refers to raw facts or figures. Information is processed data that provides context or meaning.

17.2. Information and Communication Technology (ICT):

• ICT refers to technologies used to manage and communicate information. It includes computers, the internet, and other digital tools.

17.3. Components of Information Technology and their Functions:

• Hardware: Physical parts like computers (processing), storage devices (memory), and routers (communication).
• Software: Programs and applications that enable tasks on computers.
• Networks: Infrastructure connecting devices for communication.

17.4. Primary Memory vs. Secondary Memory:

• Primary Memory (RAM) stores data temporarily for quick access by the CPU.
• Secondary Memory (Hard Drives, SSDs) stores data permanently, even when the computer is off.

17.5. Information Storage Devices and Uses:

• Devices include Hard Drives (large storage), SSDs (fast storage), USB drives (portable), and CDs/DVDs (archiving).

17.6. Transmission of Radiowaves through Space:

• Radiowaves travel through space as electromagnetic waves emitted from transmitters, reaching receivers on Earth or in space.

17.7. Transmission of Light Signals through Optical Fibre:

• Light signals are sent through optical fibers using total internal reflection. Light bounces within the fiber, transmitting data.

17.8. Computer and its Role in Everyday Life:

• A computer is a device that processes data. Its roles include communication (email, social media), work (word processing, spreadsheets), entertainment, and education.

17.9. Difference between Hardware and Software; Different Software:

• Hardware comprises physical components; Software refers to programs. Software includes Operating Systems (Windows, macOS), Productivity (Microsoft Office, Google Suite), and Design (Adobe Creative Suite).

17.10. Word Processing and Data Managing:

• Word Processing involves creating, editing, and formatting text documents. Data Managing refers to organizing, storing, and manipulating data efficiently.

17.11. Internet’s Role as a Source of Knowledge:

• The internet provides vast information resources, educational content, and diverse perspectives through websites, articles, videos, and online courses.

17.12. Role of Information Technology in School Education:

• IT in education enhances learning through interactive tools, access to information, online resources, and distance learning programs. It facilitates a more engaging and comprehensive learning experience for students.

CONCEPTUAL QUESTIONS

17.1. Why is optical fiber a more useful tool for the communication process?

• Bandwidth: Optical fibers have a much higher bandwidth compared to traditional copper wires, allowing for the transmission of more data over longer distances.
• Less Signal Loss: They experience minimal signal loss over long distances due to reduced attenuation.
• Security: Fiber optics are less susceptible to interference from electromagnetic radiation and are more secure for transmitting sensitive data.
• Lightweight and Small: Optical fibers are lighter and thinner than copper wires, making them easier to install and manage.
• Less Maintenance: They are less prone to damage from environmental factors and require less maintenance compared to traditional cables.

17.2. Which is more reliable: a floppy disk or a hard disk?

• Hard Disk: Hard disks are generally more reliable than floppy disks. Floppy disks are more susceptible to physical damage, data corruption, and magnetic interference due to their design and construction. Hard disks have more advanced technology, greater storage capacity, and better data integrity mechanisms, making them more reliable for storing and retrieving data.

17.3. Difference between RAM and ROM memories:

• RAM (Random Access Memory):
  • Volatile memory is used for temporary storage.
  • Data can be both read from and written to RAM.
  • Faster access compared to ROM.
  • Loses data when power is turned off.
• ROM (Read-Only Memory):
  • Non-volatile memory is used for permanent storage.
  • Data is read-only, and cannot be modified or overwritten easily.
  • Stores firmware, boot instructions, and essential system programs.
  • Retains data even when power is turned off.

RAM is used for short-term memory storage, allowing the computer to access data quickly for ongoing tasks. ROM, on the other hand, contains permanent instructions needed to start a computer and is crucial for the system’s basic operations.

“Embark on a Digital Odyssey: Empowerment through Knowledge”

As we close this journey through the technological cosmos, remember: these aren’t just devices; they’re gateways to boundless opportunities. Each click, each transmission, and each interaction is a step into a world where the impossible becomes attainable. Embrace this digital evolution, and let it be the cornerstone of your empowered tomorrow. With every byte of information, with each new discovery, you step closer to mastering the digital tapestry that weaves us all together. The power is in your hands; wield it wisely, for in this digital age, knowledge truly reigns supreme. Welcome to the future you shape—a realm where innovation knows no bounds.

“Welcome to the future you shape—a realm where innovation knows no bounds“.

Syeda Naqvi