Introduction to Computer Systems

This unit is expiring
The expiry date of this unit is 31/07/2024.

Overview

Framework:
Access to HE
Level:
Level 3
Unit No:
QU026127
Credits:
6
Guided learning hours:
Not available

Qualification Grading Type

Graded

Grade Descriptors

  • GD1-Understanding the subject
  • GD3-Application of skills
  • GD7-Quality

Unit Learning Outcomes

1.

Understand the characteristics of computer hardware components

Assessment Criteria

  • 1.1

    Describe and illustrate the five main components of a computer 

  • 1.2

    Explain how these components are connected and communicate via data and address buses

  • 1.3

    Explain the flow of data to and from these components (fetch-decode-execute)

2.

Understand the use of Input/Output devices.

Assessment Criteria

  • 2.1

    Analyse a variety of I/O devices and their use for specific purposes.

3.

Understand the function and range of storage media.

Assessment Criteria

  • 3.1

    Evaluate the effectiveness of a range of storage media devices for specific purposes.

4.

Understand how data is represented on a computer.

Assessment Criteria

  • 4.1

    Explain how data is represented on a computer including:

    • bits and bytes
    • different methods used to represent text, numeric and other information.
5

Understand the start up procedures of a computer

Assessment Criteria

  • 5.1

    Explain the role of the following in relation to a specific computer system:

    (a) BIOS routines

    (b) the POST procedure

    (c) the role of the CMOS RAM

  • 5.2

    Summarise the operating system files and the order in which they are loaded for a selected operating system.

  • 5.3

    Explain the role of Plug-and-Play in a selected operating system:

    • at startup
    • whilst the system is in use.
6

Understand computer specifications for a given purpose.

Assessment Criteria

  • 6.1

    Explain how ports are used to connect external devices.

  • 6.2

    Where a choice of different types of port exists, justify the preference for one port over another.

  • 6.3

    Explain the function of three cards that could be used in a computer system.

  • 6.4

    Analyse when different cards might be chosen.