Microprocessor-Controlled Devices (Cambridge International IGCSE ICT)

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

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

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

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:

Final answer: 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]