Computer Controlled Systems (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE ICT)
Revision Note
Computer Controlled Systems
What is a computer controlled system?
A computer controlled system uses computers and software to control, monitor, and manage processes, machines, or devices
The effectiveness of computer controlled systems depends on the quality of software, hardware, and input data
Advantages and disadvantages of computer controlled systems
Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
Increased efficiency and productivity (due to working 24/7) | High initial investment and maintenance costs |
Greater precision and accuracy | Job displacement for human workers |
Ability to operate in hazardous environments | Dependency on reliable software and hardware |
Reduced human error and fatigue | Lack of flexibility and adaptability to unexpected situations |
Can work with large or delicate items | Requires costly backup systems |
Robotics
What is robotics?
Robotics is the principle of a robot carrying out a task by following a precise set of programmed instructions
Robots can be categorised into two groups:
Dumb robots | Smart robots |
|---|---|
Repeat the same programmed instructions over and over again (no AI) | Carries out more complex tasks and can adapt and learn (AI) |
E.g. Car assembly line | E.g. Assisting surgeons in delicate procedures |
The development of artificial intelligence, including the increased use of machine learning and robotics raises ethical and legal issues such as:
Accountability
Safety
Algorithmic bias
Legal liability
What is the role of robots?
Robots play a crucial role in many areas such as:
Scenario | Role | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
Industry | Quality inspector | Advanced vision to inspect products for defaults, improving quality control | May not work on defects that might require human judgement |
Transport | Warehouse worker | Efficiency in finding, moving and packing, less reliable on manual labour | High infrastructure costs and potential safety concerns for human workers sharing the same space |
Agriculture | Planting & seeding machine | Precise planting (optimum depths and distances) | High upfront costs, may struggle with uneven terrain and changing weather conditions |
Medicine | Rehabilitation therapist | Personalised physical therapy exercises to aid recovery | Doesn't provide emotional support |
Domestic | Sous chef | Assists with meal prep by doing basic duties (chopping, measuring and following basic recipes) | Limited ability and capabilities |
Entertainment | Educational robot | Interactive learning experiences for children, increased engagement | High cost, cannot replace the guidance of human teachers |
Worked Example
The European Space Agency (ESA) is building a new space telescope to orbit the Earth and search for distant galaxies. The ESA is using computer controlled robots to build the lens of the telescope.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using computer controlled robots rather than humans to build the lens.
[6]
Answer
Max 4 of:
Advantages
Robots can work in sterile areas where humans would need protective clothing [1]
Robots can easily be used for transferring large delicate items [1]
Robots can work 24/7 / continuously [1]
Cheaper in the long run/robots not paid [1]
More accurate as the lens needs to be precise / higher quality of lens [1]
More frequent checking of the equipment/lens [1]
They do boring/laborious work [1]
Issues can be found more quicker [1]
Task/job can be carried out far quicker [1]
Max 4 of:
Disadvantages
Very expensive to buy / higher in the short term [1]
Maintenance is very expensive [1]
Difficult to re-program when changes are made [1]
Requires expensive backup systems [1]
They replace skilled workers, leading to de-skilling [1]
They need constant observation which increases the cost of maintenance crews [1]
If something goes wrong, it may be difficult to find the error [1]
Exam Tip
Some of the advantages/disadvantages listed above don't always apply depending on the scenario. Choose the ones appropriate for the scenario in the question
You can't get full marks by only focusing on advantages or disadvantages - make sure you know both
Don't use short answers like 'it's expensive' - explain your answer
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