ICT Applications

Communication
Newsletters and posters
 Paper-based communication is used to inform people about their interests
 Schools use these to inform parents about events/dates
Advantages Disadvantages
Released regularly Requires distribution
The recipients have a permanent copy There are no special effects, sound/video/animation

There are printing costs, paper/ink

The targeted audience may or may not receive the
information

Websites
 Collection of webpages, text, graphics, video, and sound
 Hosted on a web server on the internet
 Need to write code or use a web authoring application
 Hyperlinks to other pages can be added
 Interactive websites require programming knowledge
 Can use a camera, scanner, and microphone to input data
 Usually, hire space from the web hosting company

Advantages Disadvantages
Ability to add sound/video/animation Can be hacked and modified, or viruses
introduced
Links to other websites/hyperlinks Need for a computer and internet connection
The use of hot spots Lack of portability compared with the paper-
based system
Buttons to navigate/move around the website Need to maintain the website once it is set up
Hit counters to see who has visited the websites
worldwide advertising capability

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 Multimedia Presentations
 Uses a mixture of media to present information: animations, video, sound, transitions, hyperlinks
 Produced using software packages
 Used with a projector so a large audience can view
Advantages Disadvantages
Use of sound and animation/video effects Need for special equipment – expensive
Interactive/hyperlinks built into presentations It may require internet access
More likely to hold the audience’s attention Distracts the audience from the sole content
of the presentation
It is very easy to make a presentation with too
many features

Media streaming
 Real-time transition of audio and video files over the internet
 allows users to access content without downloading it to their devices
 popular services include Spotify, YouTube, and social media websites
 uses buffering, which makes sure the video plays back smoothly without freezing. While the
buffer receives data packets, it sends previously received ones to the playback device so that
there are no gaps in the played data
 Advantages  Disadvantages

Users can access any information at any time Heavily relies on a stable and high-speed
and from any location internet connection.
Offers an extensive library of content Not all content is available on every
streaming platform due to licensing
agreements and exclusivity deals.
Compared to traditional cable or satellite TV You don’t own the media when streaming
subscriptions, media streaming can be more media, so if the streaming service removes a
cost-effective movie or a TV show from its library, it may
no longer be accessible to you.

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 ePublications
 digital versions of printed materials, such as eBooks, eMagazines, and eNewspapers.
 It can be read on electronic devices.
Advantages Disadvantages
aid portability reading from an electronic device for a
prolonged time can cause eyestrain
they are often more affordable than paperback ePublications lack the tactile experience and
books. physical presence that some readers enjoy
Offer interactive elements that enhance the compatibility issues can arise if the
reading experience. ePublications is in a format that is not
supported by the reader's device or software

Mobile Communication
Mobile devices support many forms of communication, such as:
1. Short message service (SMS) messaging: permits extremely quick communication with
another person via typing on a keyboard (a mobile phone or tablet's keyboard is frequently
virtual). Its benefit is that the recipient can get the text whenever they choose without being
available.
2. Phone calls: Making calls while on the go is among the most fundamental applications of a
mobile phone. Mobile phones are the perfect method to stay in correspondence anywhere there is
a network signal because they are compact and have an independent battery.
3. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP): a communication technique for Internet users. VoIP
transforms sound captured by the built-in mic of the cell phone into individual data packets that
may be transmitted via the internet to their intended recipient.
4. Video calls: enables real-time video conversing between multiple participants with a camera-
enabled device. Uses an internet connection or cellular data. Software that may be used for video
calling includes FaceTime, Skype, and Zoom.
5. Accessing the Internet: Another helpful feature is accessing the net from a mobile device.
Any mobile device with a wireless broadband connection or a mobile phone network can link to
the internet.

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Modelling Applications
Advantages of using models: Disadvantages of using models:
using models is less expensive than having a model can’t be completely reliant as the
to build the real thing output is entirely based on the input
safer to use a computer model frequently, computer modelling can be a very
costly option
allows you to try out various different human reluctance is a common problem in this
scenarios in advance technology
nearly impossible to try out some tasks in
advance in real life due to high risk
faster to use a computer model than to do
the real thing

Some of the applications of computer modelling include:

1. Personal finance: Computer modelling involves using mathematical algorithms and data
analysis to simulate various financial scenarios, such as investment strategies, retirement
planning, and risk assessment, aiding individuals in making informed decisions and optimizing
their financial goals.
2. Bridge and building design: Computer modelling is crucial in bridge and building design. It
allows engineers to simulate and analyze structural behaviour, assess load capacities, and predict
the response to external forces. It aids in optimizing designs, ensuring structural integrity, and
minimizing potential risks before construction begins.
3. Flood water management: Computer modelling plays a vital role in flood water management
by simulating water flow behaviour, predicting flood extents, and assessing potential flood risks.
It helps design and optimise flood mitigation measures, such as levees and floodplain zoning,
allowing authorities to make informed decisions, develop effective emergency response plans,
and minimize the impact of flooding on communities.
4. Traffic management: Computer modelling simulates and analyses traffic flow, predicts
congestion patterns, and optimises traffic control strategies. It aids in designing efficient road
networks, optimizing signal timings, and evaluating the impact of transportation infrastructure
projects. This enables authorities to make informed decisions, alleviate congestion, and improve
overall traffic efficiency for better urban mobility.

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 5. Weather forecasting: Computer modelling plays a pivotal role in weather forecasting by
simulating the Earth's atmosphere, oceanic conditions, and other environmental factors. These
models use complex algorithms to predict weather patterns, including temperature, precipitation,
wind speed, and storm systems. By assimilating real-time data, computer models provide
forecasts that aid meteorologists in predicting weather conditions, issuing warnings, and helping
society prepare for potential hazards.
Advantages of using computer modelling Disadvantages of using computer
rather than humans: modelling rather than humans:

It can provide more precise and accurate It may overlook nuanced factors or intangible
results than human-based methods, elements that humans can consider, leading to
minimizing errors and increasing reliability. potential gaps or inaccuracies in the analysis.
Can analyze large amounts of data and Based on assumptions and simplifications,
perform complex calculations faster than introducing a level of uncertainty.
humans
It can be reused and updated easily, reducing Their programmed algorithms and data inputs
the need for repetitive manual analysis and bind models. They may struggle to adapt to
potentially lowering costs in the long run. unforeseen circumstances or rapidly changing
conditions that humans can more readily
navigate and respond to.

Computer-controlled Systems
 Robotics in manufacturing: involves using automated machines to perform tasks such as
assembly, welding, and packaging. These robots are designed to mimic human actions with
precision and speed, increasing productivity and quality control. They offer benefits like
enhanced worker safety, improved efficiency, and the ability to handle repetitive tasks,
revolutionizing the manufacturing industry.

Advantages: Disadvantages:

can work in environments that may be harmful to robots find it difficult to do unusual tasks
humans
can work non-stop can cause higher unemployment
low running costs, majorly due to reduced robots do many of the tasks once done by humans,
employees; thus less wages need to be given leading to deskilling
have higher productivity robots are independent of the skills base; factory

pg. 5
 headquarters can be moved internationally
provide greater consistency initial set-up and maintenance of robots can be
expensive
can do long, boring, tedious tasks
can carry out different tasks by fitting them with
different-end effectors

 Production line control: Computer-controlled systems in production line control involve using
computers and software to monitor, coordinate, and optimize manufacturing processes. These
systems ensure efficient coordination of machinery, manage inventory, track production metrics,
and automate tasks. They enable real-time data analysis, error detection, and adjustment,
improving productivity, reducing downtime, and enhancing overall operational efficiency in the
production line.
 Autonomous vehicles: Self-driving cars and drones guided by computer algorithms.
o enhance safety
o reduce traffic congestion
o increase fuel efficiency
Advantages of using computer-controlled Disadvantages of using computer-
systems rather than humans: controlled systems rather than humans:
increased efficiency and productivity very high instalment costs
greater consistency very high maintenance costs
ability to work in any environment dependency on reliable
reduced human error lack of flexibility
can work with large or delicate items requires costly backup systems

School Management Systems

pg. 6
 Computer-controlled School Management Systems: Comprehensive software applications
that automate administrative tasks, such as attendance tracking, grading, scheduling, and student
information management, improving educational institutions' efficiency, accuracy, and
organization.
 Advantages:  Disadvantages:

Absenteeism can be addressed more quickly. Operating the software will require training.
Parents are kept updated. The initial cost of the software is very high.
Reduced workload for teachers. Unauthorized access will have to be
prevented as there is lot of personal
information

 Learner registration and attendance

o ID cards with magnetic tapes: The students will have to swipe their ID cards, which contain
the student’s name, school’s name, date of birth and the registration ID when they enter and
leave the school; this way, time is saved, and the attendance is more accurate.
o Biometrics: Every student’s fingerprint is stored on a database along with their personal
information, the students must put their finger on a fingerprint scanner to enter or leave the
school premises.
Advantages of biometrics over magnetic ID Disadvantages of biometrics over magnetic
cards ID cards
Unique fingerprints disable attendance It is time-consuming for all fingerprints to be
forgery individually collected
Portability makes them easy to lose Expensive equipment is required to read
fingerprints
Easy to be stolen due to small size If the finger is cut/damaged, the fingerprint
won’t be readable, and access will be denied.
ID cards can be easily cloned There is an invasion of privacy in storing
fingerprints on a school database.

 Learner’s performance

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o Spreadsheets can be used to record students’ performances. It is easier to compare each other’s
performances and an individual student’s performance over the academic year.
 Computer-aided learning
o The use of computer-based technologies to help students acquire academic material is known as
computer-aided learning (CAL). They are meant to supplement classroom instruction, not serve
its purpose. Students will take online assessments to track their progress while learning on
computers. Although CAL cannot consistently assist a student with an issue, in certain
circumstances, students would need to get other aid.

Booking Systems
These web-based platforms and applications allow users to reserve and purchase tickets or
services for various events and industries. Some of the applications for online bookings include:
1. Travel industry: Booking flights, hotels, and holiday packages provides a convenient
platform for travellers to plan and book their trips.
2. Concerts: Reserving tickets for live music events allows music fans to secure their spot at
popular concerts.
3. Cinemas: Booking movie tickets in advance enables cinema-goers to reserve seats and avoid
queues.
4. Sporting events: Purchasing tickets for sports matches and competitions offers sports
enthusiasts an easy way to attend their favourite events.
Advantages: Disadvantages:
convenience and accessibility potential for technical issues
instant confirmation and ticketing possible security and privacy concerns
ability to compare prices and options transaction and booking fees
promotions and personalized offers impersonal customer service
faster to change/update dependent on a stable internet connection
automated reminders via email/text can lead to unemployment
repeated bookings can be easily made
cost-saving as there are fewer wages due to
reduced staff requirements

Banking Applications

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 Online banking systems depend on the ability to update files instantly to avoid double
scheduling, which might occur if the system reaction time is slow.
 The use of computer technology has revolutionized how we do our banking transactions, for
example:
o Internet banking
o The use of automated teller machines (ATMs)
o Chip and PIN technology
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs)
Automated teller machines (ATMs) are places where customers can get cash (or carry out certain
other banking activities, such as ordering a statement) using their credit or debit card.

Sequence at ATM What goes on behind the scenes

Customer puts card into ATM Contact is made with bank’s computer

PIN is checked to see if it is correct

Card is checked to see if it is valid
PIN is entered using the keypad
The transaction is closed if the card is stolen or the number
of PIN attempts allowed is exceeded.

Several options are given: change PIN,

pay in cheques, pay a bill, see balance,
get money
The customer selects the cash option &
several cash options are shown
The customer’s account is accessed to see if they have
sufficient funds, it is checked to see if they are
The customer accepts one of the withdrawing more than their daily limit.
options or types in a different amount If the limit is not exceeded and all other checks are OK,
then the transaction is authorized, and the machine then
counts out the cash

The customer is asked if they want a

receipt
The card is returned
Money is dispensed Customer’s account is updated

pg. 9
 Advantages:  Disadvantages:

possible to withdraw at any time of the day often in places where theft can take place at
night
offer many banking services without having potential for shoulder surfing
to go to the bank
possible to access an account from anywhere some banks charge customers for using
in the world ATMs
usually provides quicker service than waiting cash withdrawal limits are often imposed on
in a queue at a bank people

Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT):

It is possible to send money transfer instructions directly to a bank's computer system via
electronic funds transfer (EFT) technology. The system depends on electronic money transfers
between accounts; no cash is moved. The computer system automatically moves the requested
amount from one account to another when it receives an EFT command.
Advantages:  Disadvantages:
very secure payment method the bank transaction can’t be reversed without
full dispute investigations
very quick payment method customer needs to have funds available
immediately
less expensive than cheques cannot guarantee the recipient’s identity
the customer has the right to dispute an EFT
payment for up to 60 days

Credit/debit card transactions

Several credit/debit cards come with a magnetic stripe and a chip; the chip houses essential data
like the PIN. This technique is intended to increase security because it is superior to a signature.
A chip and PIN card to make purchases is an example of an electronic funds transfer (EFT).

Advantages of credit cards: Disadvantages of credit cards:

pg. 10
 customer protection if ordered goods don’t can be charged high interest rates
arrive
internationally accepted payment method annual fees often apply
interest-free loan if money is paid back within easy to end up with credit damage
the agreed time period
can make purchases online security risks in online transactions

Advantages of debit cards: Disadvantages of debit cards:

money comes from the user’s current account, less customer protection if goods don’t arrive
there is no interest
safer than carrying cash no credit allowed; funds are needed at the
time of purchase
can make online purchases security risks in online transactions

Cheques

Individuals and organizations use cheques as a form of payment. When issuing a cheque, the
payer writes the recipient's name, the payment amount, and the date on the cheque. The recipient
then deposits or presents the cheque to their bank for processing. The payer's bank verifies the
fund’s availability, and upon clearance, the specified amount is transferred from the payer's
account to the recipient's account, completing the transaction.

Advantages: Disadvantages:
more convenient and safer than cash aren’t legal tender and can be refused
can be post-dated slow method of payment
can be traced if they are lost easier for fraudsters than other methods
relatively expensive payment method

Internet Banking

pg. 11
 Enable online access to banking services via a secure website or app, allowing for transfers, bill
payments, account management, and more.

Advantages: Disadvantages:
convenience and availability security of transactions
easy account management requires a reliable internet connection
branch visiting won’t be a requirement More risk of fraud
interest rates may be better Easier to make errors
more accessible to shop around for the best Physical cash can't be deposited/withdrawn
account

Computers in Medicine
Information Systems in Medicine

 Patient records: Healthcare professionals maintain databases to communicate information

between them and pharmacists (for instance, to guarantee no medications are administered that
interact dangerously with one another).
 Pharmacy records: Pharmacy records maintain a comprehensive record of patient prescriptions.
This includes details like the prescribed medication, dosage, quantity dispensed, prescribing
physician's information, and the date of dispensing. These records help track medication usage
and can be used to verify prescription accuracy and detect potential drug interactions or allergies.
3D Printers
 Using 3D printers in medicine:
o Prosthetics: 3D printers print out artificial body parts such as false teeth, artificial limbs, hearing
aids, etc. This is a less expensive method of replacing body parts.
o Tissue engineering: it is the field of combining cells, biomaterials, and engineering principles to
create functional tissues or organs, aiming to repair or replace damaged or diseased tissue in the
human body.
o Artificial blood vessels are synthetic structures designed to mimic the function of natural blood
vessels, facilitating the flow of blood and nutrients throughout the body to support tissue repair
and regeneration.
o Customized medicines are personalized drug formulations tailored to individual patients'
specific needs. They utilize advanced technology and precise measurements to create
medications with accurate dosages and unique compositions, optimizing treatment outcomes.

Expert Systems

pg. 12
 It is an AI-based computer program that emulates the decision-making capabilities of human
experts. It uses knowledge and rules to provide accurate advice or solutions in a specific domain.
Examples include:
 Diagnostics
 Mineral prospecting
 Tax and financial calculations
 Strategy games
 Identification of plants, animals and chemical compounds
 Route scheduling for delivery vehicles

Components of an Expert System

1. User Interface
 This is the only thing that the end user sees
 Allows the user to interact with the system
 Often requires training to operate effectively
2. Explanation system
 Informs the user of the reasoning behind the expert system’s conclusions
 It will supply a conclusion and any suggested actions to take
 It will also give the percentage probability of the accuracy of its conclusions
3. Inference engine
 The main processing element of the system
 It acts like a search engine examining the knowledge base

pg. 13
 Responsible for gathering information
 This is the problem-solving part of the system
 Attempts to use information gathered from the user to find a matching object
4. Knowledge base
 It is a repository of facts
 stores all the knowledge about an area of expertise
 a collection of objects and their attributes
5. Rules base
 The rules base is a set of inference rules.
 Used by the inference engine to draw conclusions
 They follow logical thinking

How an expert system is used to produce possible solutions

Below is an example of how an expert system works to diagnose a medical issue:

 The interactive screen asks questions for the doctor to answer using a keyboard or a touch
screen.
 The inference engine compares the symptoms with the knowledge base, using the rule base to
find matches.
 The system suggests the possible illness with a probability of each, cures, and recommendations
on the next step.
 The explanation system will explain how that particular diagnosis was suggested.

Computers in the Retail Industry

pg. 14
 Point of sale (POS) terminals: Computerized systems used at checkout counters to handle
purchases and oversee stock. It is extensively used in retail stores to process sales transactions.
They enable quick and secure payment processing through various methods, including cash,
credit/debit cards, mobile payments, and digital wallets. POS terminals calculate totals, generate
itemized receipts, update inventory, and provide real-time sales data for effective business
management.
 Some features include:
o update stock files immediately
o track inventory levels in real-time
o prevent stock discrepancies and ensure accurate records
o monitor inventory levels and reorder when stock is lower than a predefined value
o streamline supply chain management and minimize stockouts
Electronic funds transfer at Point of sale (EFTPOS) terminals: Devices for processing
electronic payments; they allow customers to make payments using debit or credit cards by
securely transferring funds from their bank accounts. EFTPOS terminals authenticate and
authorize transactions in real-time, providing convenience and security for customers and
businesses during retail purchases.
The process of checking credit and debit cards at a supermarket EFTPOS is much the same as
was described for paying a restaurant bill in Section 6.6.
Some functions of EFTPOS include:
 Use of chip and PIN cards:
o Enhance security with two-factor authentication
o Require customers to enter a personal identification number (PIN)
 Use of contactless cards:
o Allow for faster transactions
o Enable customers to tap their card on the terminal
 Use of Near Field Communication (NFC):
o Facilitate payments through smartphones and other devices
o Increase convenience for customers
 Communication between supermarket computers and bank computers:
o Share transaction details securely

pg. 15
o Enable instant payment processing and verification

Internet Shopping

Characteristics of Internet Shopping:

 Online stores accessible through web browsers
 A wide variety of products and services are available
 Convenient and often open 24/7
Advantages (To customer): Disadvantages (To customer):
access to the global market security concerns
comparison between different products can’t correctly examine products before
effortlessly purchase
can shop from anywhere in the world occasionally, products may take weeks before
being delivered
able to avoid queues and busy stores additional shipping and handling costs
lack of face-to-face interaction with staff

Advantages (To business): Disadvantages (To business):

can target prices and services based on buying increased competition
data
can update stock availability and prices more digital fraud and security concerns
quickly than a physical store
cheaper to publicize special offers technical issues and downtime
international customer base costs of delivery and return
increased profits due to lower staff fake negative reviews can lead to a lousy
company reputation

Recognition Systems
1. Optical Mark recognition (OMR) media in schools:
 School registers: Paper-based registers are fed into OMR to be scanned and stored in a database.
 Multiple-choice examination papers: The position of a mark is stored in a computer’s memory
after being read by the OMR, a device using a template that maps out the X-Y coordinates of
each tablet (pen/pencil mark).
 Used at POS terminals for scanning and reading the information stored in barcodes.
 Many digital devices have OMR scanners, which may be used to scan QR codes.
 Advantages:  Disadvantages:

pg. 16
 very fast way of inputting the results of a designing the forms is a very complex job
survey
more accurate than keying in data there can be problems if they haven’t been
filled correctly
more accurate than OCR methods often only work with black pens or pencils

2. Optical Character Recognition (OCR)

 Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems:
o The sensor sends a signal to instruct a camera to capture an image of the front of the vehicle
o An algorithm is used to locate and isolate the number plate from the image taken by the camera.
o The brightness and contrast of the number plate are first adjusted. Each character on the number
plate is then segmented.
o Each character is then recognized using OCR software. The characters are converted into a string
of editable text by the software.
o This text string is then stored in a database.
o A barrier is raised, and the motorist is issued with a ticket. The ticket shows the date and time of
entering the car park.
o When the car returns to the car park, they insert their ticket into a machine that calculates their
charges and registers the payment into the database.
Advantages: Disadvantages:
Used to automatically monitor the average speed of vehicles A lack of manned security car park
over a stretch of road. surveillance could lead to vandalism.
There is no need to employ a car park or security guards. There could be an invasion of privacy
due to recording drivers’ number plates.
It's a much faster system than checking a ticket at the exit. Damaged or very dirty number plates
will not be recognized.
It can automatically control the entry and exit to a car park or The ANPR system only recognizes the
private roads. number plate and not the car so that a car
can be fitted with a cloned number plate,
thus bypassing car park security, for
example.
It can be used as a security system to prevent illegal parking.
It can be used to analyze driver behaviour.

pg. 17
It can be used in inner-city congestion charging systems

3. RFID in tracking stock:

 Tracking of stock using RFID involves either tracking livestock (on a farm) or goods in a shop,
supermarket, or distribution centre.
 RFID in passports:
o The data on the RFID chip is read when the passport is scanned.
o Your photo is clicked and compared to the RFID chip image.
o If face recognition passes, some checks are made to ensure you are eligible to enter the country,
and if you are, the gate opens automatically.
 RFID in automobiles:
o Tags allow or deny access to parking in a secure, private car park.
o RFID tags in lorries and delivery vans can be used at weigh stations to ensure the vehicle is not
carrying too much weight.
o RFID tags can be used on a car production line to track its progress through assembly.
 RFID in contactless payments:
o The embedded chip on credit/debit cards and the antenna enable customers to wave their card
over a reader at the point of sale terminals to make payments
o Smartphone apps can also be used to make contactless payments.
Advantages:  Disadvantages:
No line-of-sight contact is necessary. Tag collision is when the signals from two or
more tags overlap, interfering with each other.
It is a very robust and reliable technology. Because RFID uses radio waves, they are
relatively easy to jam or interrupt.
Tags are much more difficult to forge than barcodes. It is relatively easy to hack into the data/signal
transmitted by the tag.
RFID tags can reduce the number of staff needed in, for The initial cost of an RFID system is more
example, a warehouse because tracking items is expensive than a comparable barcode system.
automatic (thus reducing costs).
It provides a very fast read rate.
It allows bi-directional data transfer.
Bulk detection is possible.

pg. 18
 4. Near Field Communication (NFC):
 Enables short-range wireless communication between devices.
 Allows payment using a smartphone.
Advantages: Disadvantages:
Convenient and secure method of payment Limited range
allows for contactless transactions compatibility issues with some devices
5. Biometric recognition:
 Usually refers to automated technologies for authenticating and verifying human body
characteristics such as face, iris, retina, finger, thumb, hand and voice.
Advantages: Disadvantages:
very high accuracy it can make mistakes if the skin is dirty or
damaged
very easy to use very expensive to install and set up
very fast verification time uses a lot of memory for the data to be
stored
non-intrusive method a person’s voice can be quickly recorded
and used for unauthorized access
relatively inexpensive technology an illness, such as a cold, can change a
person’s voice, making absolute
identification difficult or impossible

Satellite Systems
Global Positioning Systems (GPS)

pg. 19
 Used to determine the exact location of several modes of transport
 Cars usually refer to GPS as satellite navigation systems
 Satellites surrounding the Earth transmit signals to the surface
 Computers installed in the mode of transport receive and interpret these signals
 Knowing their position on the Earth depends on very accurate timing – atomic clocks are used in
the satellites, which are accurate to within a fraction of a second per day
 Each satellite transmits data indicating its position & time
 The computer on board the mode of transport calculates its exact position based on the
information from at least three satellites
Satellite Navigation (satnav):
 Used to determine the exact location of a car.
 The computers onboard can be used to show directions to a destination.
Advantages: Disadvantages:
Better focus as there isn’t a need to constantly If the maps are not updated, they can give
check paper maps. incorrect instructions.
Reduces fines by warning drivers about Road closures due to accidents or
upcoming speed changes. roadworks can cause problems.
The system shows an Estimated Time of Arrival The loss of satellite signals can cause
(ETA). problems.
It is possible to program in the fastest route to The system will give incorrect
avoid towns. information if an incorrect start-point or
end-point is keyed in.
The system can also give helpful information
such as the location of petrol stations.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

 Used to capture, manage, analyze, and display geographically referenced information.
 Use to determine the distance between two places.
 Used to find the nearest petrol station or restaurant, etc.
 To protect animal and plant life in certain vulnerable places.
 It can be used in geography, science, or engineering lessons.
Advantages: Disadvantages:
Allows geographical and thematic data of any The learning curve on GIS software can
kind to be combined to show how they are be very long.
connected to each other.
It allows the handling and exploration of vast GIS software is very expensive.
amounts of data.
It allows data to be integrated from a wide range GIS requires enormous amounts of data to
of very different sources. be input.

pg. 20
 Media Communication Systems
 Using satellite signals for communication.
 Used by media companies when sending stories/videos/pictures from remote locations.
Advantages: Disadvantages:
They have good global coverage. There is a time delay in receipt of the
signals.
They are cheaper, faster, and safer than laying The signals received can be affected by
cables in difficult or treacherous terrain. bad weather.
They have very high bandwidth. Sunspot activity can affect the
performance of a satellite.
It is relatively easy to expand the network. They must be monitored and controlled
regularly to remain in the correct orbit.
Security in satellite transmission is very good
because data is coded, and the receiver requires
decoding equipment.
During emergency situations, it is relatively easy
to move stations on the ground from one place to
another.
They are well-suited for broadcasting.
Enable mobile communication in very remote
locations.

pg. 21