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EnglandDesign and TechnologyQuick questions
Topic 1.3 to 1.7 Energy, mechanical devices and systems
Quick questions on Electronic systems, sensors and programmable components - Edexcel GCSE Design and Technology
3short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What are inputs?Show answer
A sensor detects a physical change and converts it to an electrical signal. Edexcel names the light-dependent resistor (LDR), whose resistance falls as light increases (used to sense dark), and the thermistor, whose resistance changes with temperature (used to sense heat or cold).
What are process and control devices?Show answer
The process block makes the decision. Edexcel names switches (which open or close a circuit to start an action), transistors (which act as electronic switches or amplifiers, turning a small signal into a larger one) and resistors (which limit current to protect components such as LEDs).
What are outputs?Show answer
An output turns the decision into an action. Edexcel names the buzzer (an audible warning) and the light-emitting diode (LED) (a visual indicator that needs a series resistor to limit current).
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