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3.4 Computer systems

6 dot points across 6 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do logic gates make decisions inside a computer?

Understand the AND, OR and NOT logic gates, construct and interpret truth tables, and build and read simple logic circuits.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Computer Science 3.4.2, covering the AND, OR and NOT logic gates, constructing and interpreting truth tables, and building and reading simple logic circuits.
8 min answer →

What are the two parts that make up a computer system?

Understand the difference between hardware and software, and the relationship between them in a computer system.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Computer Science 3.4.1, covering the difference between hardware and software and the relationship between them in a computer system.
6 min answer →

Where does a computer keep data while it works?

Understand the difference between RAM and ROM, the purpose of each, and the need for virtual memory and cache.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Computer Science 3.4.4, covering the difference between RAM and ROM, the purpose of each, and the need for virtual memory and cache.
8 min answer →

How does a computer store data permanently?

Understand the need for secondary storage and compare the three types: magnetic, optical and solid state.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Computer Science 3.4.5, covering the need for secondary storage and comparing magnetic, optical and solid-state storage.
8 min answer →

What software manages the computer itself?

Understand the role of the operating system and its functions, and the purpose of common utility software.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Computer Science 3.4.6, covering the role and functions of the operating system and the purpose of common utility software.
8 min answer →

How does the processor run a program?

Understand the purpose and components of the CPU, the fetch-execute cycle, and the factors that affect CPU performance.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Computer Science 3.4.3, covering the purpose and components of the CPU, the fetch-execute cycle, and the factors that affect CPU performance.
8 min answer →