Cambridge IGCSE ICTThe Effects of Using IT
This chapter looks at how microprocessor-controlled devices affect everyday life and transport, and the health problems that may result from prolonged use of IT equipment.
Smart devicesCybersecurity & social effectsTransport systemsAutonomous vehiclesHealth & ergonomics
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5.1 Microprocessor-controlled devices
A microprocessor-controlled device contains a microprocessor that controls some or all of its functions.
Examples used in the home
Automatic appliances
- automatic washing machines
- microwave ovens
- dishwashers
- robotic vacuum cleaners
Smart household systems
- smart fridges/freezers
- televisions
- central heating and air-conditioning systems
Personal devices
Some of these are labour-saving devices, because they carry out tasks that people would otherwise have to do manually.
Effects of microprocessor-controlled devices in the home
Microprocessor-controlled devices can affect:
lifestyleleisure timephysical fitnessdata securitysocial interaction
Positive effects
Household tasks can be completed automatically.
People have more free time for hobbies, shopping or social activities.
Some devices can be controlled remotely using smartphones.
Devices can be more energy efficient because they can automatically switch off when not needed.
Smart devices can make everyday tasks easier.
Negative effects
Less physical activity may reduce fitness.
People may become dependent on technology.
Some traditional household skills may be lost.
Devices can be difficult for people who are not confident with technology.
Electronic devices may be thrown away rather than repaired, increasing waste.
Data security issues
When household devices are connected to the internet, they can become vulnerable to cybersecurity attacks.
For example, a hacker may access:
personal information
information about when the owner is away from home
payment or credit card details
Security problems are greater when devices still use their default passwords.
Ways to improve security
use a different strong password for each device
change default passwords
install software and security updates
Effects on social interaction
Smartphones, tablets and other devices make it possible to communicate through:
VoIPemailchat rooms
Positive effects
easier to communicate with people
easier to meet people with similar interests
cheaper to stay in contact over long distances
Negative effects
less face-to-face communication
possible social isolation
people may behave more aggressively online
cyberbullying can occur
Monitoring and controlling transport
Microprocessors are widely used to monitor and control transport.
smart motorwaysautomatic traffic lightsANPRrailway signallingair traffic controlcongestion monitoring
Smart roads and traffic control
On a smart motorway, a central computer monitors traffic conditions.
If there is:
an accident
heavy congestion
another road problem
the system can change electronic road signs, alter speed limits or redirect traffic. Computer-controlled traffic systems can therefore keep traffic moving more efficiently.
Advantages
reduces traffic congestion
shortens journey times
allows transport systems to operate more efficiently
reduces human error
ANPR can identify stolen vehicles or traffic offences
Disadvantages
hackers could disrupt the system
failure of the computer system could stop the transport network
poor system design could create safety problems
ANPR can be used to track people's movements, creating privacy concerns
Autonomous vehicles
Autonomous vehicles
An autonomous vehicle is a vehicle that can operate without a human driver.
Examples include:
carsbusestrainspotentially pilotless aeroplanes
They use combinations of:
sensorscamerasmicroprocessorsactuatorscomputer algorithms
How an autonomous car works
Sensors and cameras collect information about the surroundings. The microprocessor processes this information and sends instructions to actuators.
Actuators may then:
apply the brakes
change gear
move the steering wheel
control acceleration
Red traffic light detected → computer processes information → actuators slow and stop the vehicle
Advantages
fewer accidents caused by human error
improved traffic flow
potentially shorter journey times
vehicles can operate more efficiently
parking may become easier
Disadvantages
expensive technology
vulnerable to hacking
software failures could cause serious accidents
sensors may not work properly in difficult conditions
some driving-related jobs may be lost
Autonomous trains
Driverless trains use:
sensorscamerasactuatorsmicroprocessorsLiDaRGPS
LiDaR (Light Detection and Ranging) uses lasers to create a 3D image of the surroundings.
Advantages
improved punctuality
fewer staff needed
reduced human error
more efficient energy use
trains can run more frequently
Disadvantages
systems could be hacked
high setup costs
passengers may not trust the technology
busy stations still require careful monitoring
Pilotless aeroplanes
Modern aeroplanes already use autopilot systems. A completely autonomous aeroplane would use even more sensors, microprocessors and actuators.
Examples include:
sensors detecting turbulence
GPS for navigation
sensors detecting cabin pressure problems
actuators controlling the throttle, wings and rudder
Advantages
reduced human error
lower staffing costs
potentially improved passenger comfort
Disadvantages
hacking could threaten safety
emergencies may be harder to handle without pilots
software errors could have serious consequences
passengers may be reluctant to fly without pilots
Important Chapter 5 comparison: benefits vs problems of microprocessor-controlled devices
| Benefits | Problems |
|---|
| Save time | May reduce physical activity |
| More leisure time | Dependence on technology |
| Automatic operation | Cybersecurity risks |
| Can improve efficiency | More electronic waste |
| Can be remotely controlled | Some users find them difficult |
Autonomous transport: basic system
Sensors / Cameras → Microprocessor → Decision → Actuators → Vehicle action
For example:
Obstacle detected → computer processes data → brakes activated
5.2 Potential health problems related to the prolonged use of IT equipment
Using computers and other IT equipment for long periods can cause health problems. The main health risks covered in the book are back and neck strain, repetitive strain injury (RSI), eyestrain, headaches and ozone irritation.
Back and neck strain
Cause
Sitting in front of a computer for long periods, especially with poor posture.
Ways to reduce the risk
use an adjustable chair
maintain correct posture
use a footrest if necessary
place the monitor at the correct height
Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
RSI is damage to the fingers, hands or wrists caused by repeatedly carrying out the same movements.
It can result from:
continuous keyboard use
repeatedly clicking a mouse
Ways to reduce RSI
use correct posture
use a wrist rest
take regular breaks
use an ergonomic keyboard
use voice-activated software where suitable
Eyestrain
Causes
staring at a screen for too long
poor room lighting
reflections or glare from the screen
Ways to reduce the risk
take regular breaks
use suitable lighting
use blinds or anti-glare screens
have regular eye tests
Headaches
Headaches may be caused by:
poor lighting
screen reflections
flickering screens
prolonged computer use
Ways to reduce the risk
reduce glare and reflections
take regular breaks
use suitable lighting
have regular eye examinations if problems continue
Ozone irritation
Some laser printers can produce ozone.
Exposure may cause:
dry skin
respiratory problems
Ways to reduce the risk
ensure good ventilation
keep laser printers in a separate printer room
use inkjet printers where appropriate
Health problems summary
| Health problem | Main cause | Prevention |
|---|
| Back/neck strain | Poor posture | Adjustable chair, correct screen position |
| RSI | Repeated keyboard/mouse use | Breaks, wrist rests, ergonomic equipment |
| Eyestrain | Long screen use/glare | Breaks, suitable lighting |
| Headaches | Glare/flicker | Reduce reflections, take breaks |
| Ozone irritation | Laser printers | Ventilation/separate printer room |
Chapter 5 revision checklist
Students should be able to:
explain how microprocessor-controlled devices affect lifestyle and leisure
give advantages and disadvantages of using these devices at home
explain the security risks of internet-connected household devices
describe their effects on social interaction
explain how computers monitor and control transport systems
give advantages and disadvantages of smart roads
explain how autonomous vehicles use sensors, microprocessors and actuators
know the basic uses of technology in driverless cars, trains and aeroplanes
identify the main health risks of prolonged computer use
explain the causes and prevention of RSI, back/neck strain, eyestrain, headaches and ozone irritation