Fig. 1 shows the devices used at a small airport check-in desk. A staff member uses a desktop computer to check passenger information, a barcode scanner to ...
Question 1 Report
Fig. 1 shows the devices used at a small airport check-in desk. A staff member uses a desktop computer to check passenger information, a barcode scanner to read boarding passes and a networked printer to produce baggage labels. The devices send data to the airport computer network. The desktop has software for booking records and a hard disk for long-term storage. The scanner is designed mainly for one task, while the computer can run several different programs. The airport is deciding which devices should be replaced first during a refurbishment.
(a) Which type of digital device is the barcode scanner? [2]
(b) Describe two uses of the desktop computer at this check-in desk. [2]
(c) Explain why the desktop computer is described as a general-purpose device but the barcode scanner is not. [4]
Answer Details
(a) The barcode scanner is an input device and a dedicated-purpose (special-purpose) device. It captures barcode data and is designed mainly for that one task. [2]
(b) The desktop can access passenger booking information and enter or amend passenger data. Displaying flight or seat details and printing baggage labels/documents are also valid uses. [2]
(c) A desktop is general-purpose because it can run different application programs and perform unrelated tasks such as booking, printing and communication. Its functions can be changed by installing or changing software. The scanner has the fixed main function of reading barcodes, so it is not general-purpose. [4]
Download The App On Google Playstore
Everything you need to excel in your exams
