Q.2.3 Describe 3 factors that contribute to the computing power of computers, and how these factors impact the technology choices for Nomsa's flower shop?
Note: Evidence of research is necessary
(6)
0.2.4
Use an infographic to summarise the historical development of computer
Hardware.
(11)
Q.2.5
Provide a list of the generations of computer languages and briefly explain how each generation has contributed to the development of software for Nomsa's flower shop.
2.3 Factors that contribute to the computing power of computers include:
1. Processor speed: The speed at which a computer's processor can carry out instructions greatly impacts its overall computing power. Faster processor speeds allow for quicker processing of tasks and improved performance. This factor impacts the technology choices for Nomsa's flower shop as she may need to consider computers with faster processors to handle tasks such as inventory management, order processing, and customer transactions efficiently.
2. Memory (RAM): The amount of random access memory (RAM) a computer has affects its ability to store and access data quickly. More RAM allows for smoother multitasking and faster data processing. Nomsa's flower shop may need computers with sufficient RAM to run multiple applications and process large amounts of data simultaneously, especially during peak business hours.
3. Storage capacity: The storage capacity of a computer, including hard drive or solid-state drive space, impacts the amount of data that can be stored and accessed. Higher storage capacity allows for storing larger files, databases, and applications. For Nomsa's flower shop, having adequate storage capacity is essential for managing inventory records, storing customer information, and saving digital resources such as images and marketing materials.
Considering these factors, Nomsa's flower shop may need to invest in computers with powerful processors, sufficient RAM, and ample storage capacity to support its operations effectively.
Infographic:
[Historical Development of Computer Hardware]
- 1st Generation: Vacuum Tubes
- 2nd Generation: Transistors
- 3rd Generation: Integrated Circuits
- 4th Generation: Microprocessors
- 5th Generation: Artificial Intelligence
2.5 Generations of computer languages and their contributions to software development for Nomsa's flower shop:
1. First Generation (1950s-1960s): Machine Language - Directly understandable by computers, low-level language.
Contribution: Laid the foundation for programming languages and software development.
2. Second Generation (1960s-1970s): Assembly Language - Symbolic representation of machine code.
Contribution: Enabled more efficient programming and better organization of code, leading to improved software development.
3. Third Generation (1960s-1970s): High-Level Language (e.g., COBOL, FORTRAN) - More abstract and closer to human language.
Contribution: Introduced concepts like structured programming, modularity, and data abstraction, enhancing software development processes.
4. Fourth Generation (1980s-Present): Domain-Specific Languages, Visual Programming Languages - Streamlined for specific applications or industries.
Contribution: Increased efficiency in software development for specialized tasks, such as inventory management or customer relationship management for Nomsa's flower shop.
5. Fifth Generation (Present-Future): AI Languages, Natural Language Processing - Focus on artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Contribution: Catalyzing advancements in technology such as automation, predictive analytics, and personalized customer experiences for businesses like Nomsa's flower shop.