Microprocessor-Controlled Devices (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE ICT)
Revision Note
What is a microprocessor?
A microprocessor is an integrated circuit (IC) that contains a central processing unit (CPU)
The microprocessor is responsible for executing instructions
Data security issues
Any device fitted with a microprocessor is open to cybercriminal activity
Microprocessor controlled devices give hackers more opportunities, for example:
Hacking smart home systems to control security devices such as cameras and locks
Hacking smart controlled heating systems to monitor patterns of when heating is on and off, data which can be used to track when people are at home or not
Monitoring & Controlling Devices
Microprocessors are used in a home to monitor and control devices such as:
Central heating systems
Security alarm systems
Home entertainment system etc.
The use of microprocessors in the home can have a positive and negative impact on:
Lifestyle
Leisure
Physical fitness
Advantages and disadvantages of monitoring and controlling devices
Lifestyle | Leisure | Physical fitness |
|---|---|---|
Less manual tasks | More time to do other things | Loss of fitness due to lack of manual tasks |
Devices can be controlled outside of the home (e.g. turn on the heating on the way home) | Connected activities (e.g. fitness trackers can connect with friends for virtual competition | People become lazy as they depend on devices |
Live security alerts sent straight to a smartphone or computer | Integrated entertainment (e.g. Smart TV offer voice control and personalisation) | Unrealistic expectations (e.g. comparing a users progress to others data) |
Less manual tasks can lead to unhealthy lifestyle | Users can become tech dependant and put limits on creativity | Biometric data not always accurate |
Social interactions
The use of smart devices such as tablets, TVs and phones allows for better communication
There positive impacts of using technology, such as:
Less expensive to stay connected (comparted to telephone, post etc.)
Easier to make new friends
Easier to find people with similar interests
There are also negatives of using technology, such as:
Social isolation
Increased anxiety from a lack of interaction
The way people behave online compared to offline
Monitoring & Controlling Transport
Microprocessors are used to monitor and control transport systems such as:
Traffic management (smart motorways etc.)
ANPR
Air traffic control in airports
Railway signalling
Advantages and disadvantages of monitoring and controlling transport
Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
|
|
Autonomous vehicles
Autonomous vehicles make use of sensors, cameras, actuators and microprocessors to get a vehicle from point A to point B without human intervention
Autonomous vehicles rely on complex algorithms to work alongside the hardware
Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
|
|
Worked Example
Microprocessor-controlled devices in the home have had positive effects on people’s lifestyles. One of the positive effects of using these devices is that we can now set a cooker to switch on whilst we are out so that we arrive home to a cooked meal.
Describe the positive effects of using other microprocessor-controlled devices in the home.
[4]
Answer
Four of:
Microprocessor-controlled devices reduce the need for people to do manual tasks at home [1]
People can use microprocessor-controlled devices for physical fitness tracking in the home [1]
People have more time to spend on leisure activities/shopping/socialising [1]
Increased sense of security as homes are protected with burglar alarms/ smoke alarms/fire alarms [1]
Smart fridges can be used to improve healthy lifestyle//Smart fridges automatically order fresh food//Smart fridges reduce food waste [1]
Microprocessor-controlled devices can be set remotely using a smartphone [1]
Saves fuel as the heating/air conditioning is not on all day [1]
Reduces injuries by using microprocessor-controlled lights outside [1]
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