Computer-controlled systems Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology revision
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In plain words
Give a computer sensors to see with and motors to move with, and it can run a machine by itself. Factories are full of such systems, and the roads are starting to be.
4 things to know
- A computer-controlled system uses sensors for input, a microprocessor to process the readings and decide, and actuators to carry out the action.
- Robots in manufacturing weld, paint, assemble and move heavy parts. Production lines are controlled by computer so that each stage happens at the right moment. Autonomous vehicles drive themselves using sensors, cameras and satellite positioning.
- Advantages over people: they work continuously without breaks, they are faster and more accurate, their work is consistent, and they can work where it is dangerous, hot or dirty. Over time they cost less than wages.
- Disadvantages: they are expensive to buy, set up and maintain. They cannot think for themselves or deal with something unexpected. People lose jobs or need retraining. If a system fails, the whole line stops.
Worked example
A car factory uses robots to spray paint. Give two advantages and one disadvantage compared with human painters.
- Advantage: paint fumes are harmful, and robots are not affected by them.
- Advantage: every car gets the same thickness of paint, so quality is consistent.
- Disadvantage: the robots are expensive to buy and to maintain.
Tips and tricks
- Compare with humans every time: "robots do not need breaks, but people do".
- "Cheaper" needs care. Robots cost a lot to buy. Say they reduce labour costs in the long run.
It lands in your notebook with its questions as flashcards.
Computer-controlled systems: 5 questions and answers
These are the quiz’s questions. Do the quiz first, then come back here for the ones that got you.
Which components does a computer-controlled system use?
Input, decision, action.
Which is an advantage of robots over human workers?
People need rest. Robots do not.
Which is a disadvantage of using robots in a factory?
The saving comes later, in lower labour costs.
What does an autonomous vehicle use to find out about its surroundings?
They detect the road, other vehicles and obstacles.
Why are robots used for welding and paint spraying?
Heat, sparks and fumes do not harm a robot.
Quiz
5 questions
Tap an answer and you’ll see straight away whether it’s right, and why.
Worksheet
2 questions, 5 marks. Write your answers on paper, then check them.
Computer-controlled systems
Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology 0417 · 5 marks · papermunch.org
Name ______________________________ Date ______________
Give three advantages of using robots in manufacturing compared with human workers.[3]
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They can work continuously without breaks. Their work is more accurate and consistent. They can work in conditions that are dangerous for people.
Give two disadvantages of using computer-controlled systems in a factory.[2]
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They are expensive to buy and maintain. They cannot deal with unexpected situations. (Also: workers may lose their jobs.)
Answers: Computer-controlled systems
- 1. They can work continuously without breaks. Their work is more accurate and consistent. They can work in conditions that are dangerous for people.
- 2. They are expensive to buy and maintain. They cannot deal with unexpected situations. (Also: workers may lose their jobs.)