CAT theory
Hardware Components
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
* Known as the "brain" of the computer.
* Executes instructions from software.
* Key components: Control unit, arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and registers.
SSD (Solid State Drive)
* Faster than traditional HDDs.
* Uses flash memory; no moving parts.
* Benefits: Quick boot times, fast file access, more durable.
USB Hub
* Expands a single USB port into multiple ports.
* Allows connection of multiple USB devices at once.
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface)
* Transfers high-quality video and audio between devices.
* Used to connect computers to monitors, TVs, or projectors.
Data Projector
* Projects visual output onto a screen or wall.
* Used for presentations, teaching, or group viewing.
3D Printer
* Turns digital 3D models into real physical objects.
* Used in design, engineering, medical fields, etc.
Plug and Play
* Technology that allows devices to be used immediately after connecting.
* No need for manual driver installation.
🧠 Software & Licensing
Operating System (OS)
* Manages hardware and software resources.
* Provides a user interface (UI).
* Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android.
Site Licence
* Allows software installation on multiple computers in one location (e.g., a school).
* More cost-effective for large organizations.
Single Licence
* Limits software use to one computer.
* Usually for personal use.
Add-on Software
* Extensions or plugins that add functionality to existing software.
* Example: Grammar checkers in Word or browser extensions.
Web-based Software
* Runs on internet browsers without installation.
* Examples: Google Docs, Canva, Microsoft 365 Online.
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🌐 Networking and Internet
Network
* Collection of interconnected devices that share data and resources.
* Types: LAN (local), WAN (wide), WLAN (wireless).
WAN (Wide Area Network)
* Covers large geographic areas.
* The internet is the largest WAN.
NIC (Network Interface Card)
* Hardware component that connects a computer to a network.
* Can be wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi).
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
* Encrypts internet connection.
* Protects privacy and bypasses geographical restrictions.
Bandwidth
* Maximum data transfer rate of a network.
* Measured in Mbps (megabits per second).
Mbps
* Unit for measuring data transfer speed.
* 1 Mbps = 1 million bits per second.
Capped Internet
* Has a monthly data limit (e.g., 100GB/month).
* Slows down or stops after reaching the cap.
Shaped Internet
* Internet speed is reduced for specific services (e.g., streaming) to manage traffic.
Unshaped Internet
* No preference or limitation on types of traffic.
* Consistent speed across all services.
Throttling
* ISP slows down speed after excessive usage, especially on uncapped plans.
FUP (Fair Use Policy)
* Protects network resources from overuse.
* Common in uncapped internet plans.
☁️ Storage & File Handling
Online Storage
* Cloud-based storage accessible from any internet-connected device.
* Examples: Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox.
Compress Files
* Reduces file size for easier storage/sharing.
* Formats: .zip, .rar.
Protect Personal Files
* Use passwords, encryption, or secure cloud platforms.
* Avoid sharing sensitive data over insecure networks.
Default
* Pre-set value or setting used by a program unless changed by the user.
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Information Processing Cycle
1. **Input** – Capturing raw data (e.g., keyboard, scanner).
2. **Processing** – CPU processes the data using instructions.
3. **Storage** – Data is saved for future use (temporary or permanent).
4. **Output** – Results displayed to the user (e.g., monitor, printer).
5. **Feedback** – Output used to adjust or refine the input.
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🛠️ Troubleshooting & Maintenance
Troubleshooting Hardware
* Steps: Check power supply, connections, reboot system, test components.
* Use of diagnostic tools and LED indicators.
Plug and Play
* Automatically detects and configures new hardware.
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🧷 Digital Safety & Ethics
QR Codes
* Machine-readable code that stores URLs or other information.
* Scanned using smartphone cameras.
Identity Theft
* Stealing personal data (ID numbers, passwords) for fraud.
* Prevention: strong passwords, avoid sharing personal info.
Clickjacking
* Trick that makes a user click on something different than what they think.
* Avoid unknown links or pop-ups.
AUP (Acceptable Use Policy)
* Rules for ethical and safe use of technology resources.
* Common in schools and workplaces.
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## 📚 **Digital Literacy & Document Handling**
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How to Check a Source
* Evaluate the **author**, **URL domain**, **date**, **bias**, and **references**.
* Prefer academic, government, or reputable websites.
Referencing in Word
* Use the “References” tab → choose citation style (APA, Harvard).
* Insert citations and bibliography automatically.
Track Changes (Word)
* Shows edits, comments, and changes by different users.
* Useful for group work or editing.
Hyperlink
* Clickable text/image that links to another location or webpage.
* Insert → Hyperlink → add URL or document section.
Bookmark
* Marks a location in a document for quick navigation.
* Insert → Bookmark → Name and save it.
Heading Styles
* Helps structure documents.
* Used for navigation pane and automatic table of contents.
📉Spreadsheets (Excel)
Graphs
* Visual display of data (bar, pie, line graphs).
* Use Insert tab → Charts.
NOW()
* Returns current date and time.
* \=NOW()
TODAY()
* Returns current date only.
* \=TODAY()
AVERAGE()
* Calculates mean of selected cells.
* \=AVERAGE(A1\:A10)
COUNTIFS()
* Counts cells based on multiple criteria.
* \=COUNTIFS(A1\:A10, ">10", B1\:B10, "<5")
Conditional Formatting
* Changes cell appearance based on value.
* Example: highlight cells greater than 80 in green.
Data Validation
* Controls the type of data entered in a cell (e.g., dropdowns).
* Prevents errors and enforces consistency.
Input Mask (Access)
* Controls how data is entered (e.g., phone numbers: (000) 000-0000).
Freeze Panes
* Keeps rows/columns visible when scrolling.
* View → Freeze Panes.
📱 Learning & Technology Use
e-Learning
* Learning through electronic platforms, typically online.
* Used in schools, universities, workplaces.
*m-Learning*
* Mobile learning; using smartphones/tablets for education.
* Encourages flexible, on-the-go learning.
