Automated Systems (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Computer Science)
Revision Note
Written by: Robert Hampton
Reviewed by: James Woodhouse
Automated Systems
What is an automated system?
An automated system is a computer system that collects information and can react and perform tasks based on the data
Automated systems are made using three components:
Sensors
Microprocessors
Actuators
A sensor collects information (link here to 3 Sensors) and provides the microprocessor with it as an input
A microprocessor processes the information and makes decisions based on pre-programmed rules
An actuator makes physical changes based on instructions given by the microprocessor (outputs)
Examples of physical changes include:
Opening/closing a door/valve
Activating an alarm
Advantages & Disadvantages of Automated Systems
There are general advantages and disadvantages of automated systems
Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
Cost - long-term cost saving | Cost - short-term expensive to set up |
Safer - timely interventions | Testing - significant testing must be done before being used |
Safer - keeps humans away from hazardous environments | Security - open to cyber attacks |
Efficient - materials and resources | Flexibility - will only react to programmed scenarios |
Consistent - results are repeatable | Maintenance - needs to be well maintained |
Unethical - can result in major job losses |
There are also scenarios where specific advantages and disadvantages are important such as:
Scenario | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
Industry |
|
|
Transport |
|
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Agriculture |
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Weather |
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|
Gaming |
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Lighting |
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Science |
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|
Worked Example
A theme park has a game where a player tries to run from the start to the finish without getting wet.
The system for the game uses sensors and a microprocessor to spray water at a player as they run past each sensor.
Describe how the sensors and the microprocessor are used in this system
[8]
Answer
A motion sensor collects data [1]
This data is converted to digital using ADC [1]
The sensor sends data to the microprocessor... [1]
... where the data is compared to stored data [1]
If the value is outside range, water will be sprayed [1]
A signal is sent to the actuator to spray water [1]
If the value is within range no action is taken [1]
This runs in a continuous loop [1]
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