Class: 8 Science and Technology: (ICT)

 

Unit:2     Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Simply, ICT refers information and Technology. ICT is widely used in modern era.

ICT equipment or ICT tool:

Any devices that can process, store or communicate the electronic information is called ICT equipment or ICT tool. For eg. Telephone lines, software, data processing, audio visual devices, storage devices.

Application of ICT or Uses of ICT tools:

  1. They are used to access and store the information.
  2. They are used to transmit and operate the required information.

Equipments of ICT:

ATM:

ATM stands for automated teller machine. This machine allows the bank’s customer to perform cash transactions i.e. withdrawal, deposit, to know the transaction status using four digits personal pin (secret code) in the absence of staffs of bank.

Steps to withdrawal money from ATM:

  • Step 1: Insert the ATM card.
  • Step 2: Select preferred language.
  • Step 3: Enter four digits pin.
  • Step 4: select the type of transaction.
  • Step 5: Select the type of amount.
  • Step 6: Enter the withdrawal amount and press withdrawal option.
  • Step 7: Now the transaction is being processed and take out atm card.
  • Step 8: Collect the cash from the dispensary slot of ATM machine. Take a printed receipt, if needed.

Photocopy Machin and Printer:

Photocopy machine or simply called photocopier, is a device based on the light sensitive photoreceptor followed by the transfer of toner particles onto the paper in the form of image of letter.

Printer is a device used to convert digitally prepared documents into hard copies. There are different types of printers like laser printer, ink-jet printer, thermal printer etc.

Light, heat, pressure and chemicals etc. are used for copying or printing process.

Function:

A printer’s main function is to print text, images and other documents from a computer or mobile device onto paper. A photocopy machine, also known as a multifunction printer which can perform multiple tasks including copying, scanning, faxing and printing.

Scanner:

A scanner or image scanner is a device that captures the images, printed text, handwriting and so on and converts those materials into digital versions. Commercially, various types of scanners are available. A flatbed scanner is commonly used in the office. The scanner can digitalize the sharing of documents due to which the transfer and sharing of documents faster and easier.

Necessity to operate Printer, photocopy machine, ATM and Scanner:

Electricity and Operator or User

Wi-Fi device:

Wi-Fi stands for wireless fidelity. It is commonly used for local area networking of devices and the Internet access. It is shared with multiple devices in a home or business via wireless router within a range. It uses radio waves to transmit information.

Router:

A router is a networking device that connects multiple networks and allows devices to communicate with each other. It's a core component of internet connectivity and performs the following functions:

  1. Connects networks: A router connects two or more networks, such as a local area network (LAN) to a wide area network (WAN).
  2. Manages traffic: A router forwards data packets to their intended IP addresses, managing traffic between networks.
  3. Provides internet access: A router allows multiple devices to use the same internet connection.
  4. Security: A router provides network security features.

TV Set-Top-Box:

A TV set-top box (STB) is a device that receives and decodes digital signals from cable, satellite, or the internet, and converts them into analog signals for a television to display. STBs are also known as cable boxes, decoders, or TV consoles.

STBs can provide many benefits, including:

  1. Better picture quality.
  2. Access to more channels.

Search Engine:

A search engine is a software program that helps users find information on the internet or in a database. Search engines can vary in their scope, functionality, and the content types they index. The example of search engines are google chrome, Bing, Yahoo etc.

How it works?

Search engines index and catalog content from various sources, then provide a list of relevant results based on a user's search query.

 

 

Websites:

A website is a collection of web pages that are linked together and share a domain name. Websites are hosted on a web server and are typically dedicated to a specific topic such as news, entertainment or social media.

Cyber Law

Cyber law, also known as internet law or digital law, encompasses the legal regulations governing the use of the internet and digital technologies. It is a broad term that covers various areas of law, including:.

Cyber Ethics

Cyber ethics refers to the moral principles guiding individuals and organizations in the digital space. It involves distinguishing between acceptable and unacceptable behavior online and using technology responsibly and ethically.

Core Ethical Principles

  • Respect for Privacy: Individuals should respect the confidentiality and privacy of others, avoiding unauthorized data collection or sharing.
  • Honesty and Integrity: Users should be truthful and transparent in online interactions, avoiding deception, fraud, or the spread of false information.
  • Accountability: People should take responsibility for their digital actions and recognize the impact they have on others.
  • Fair Use: Understanding and adhering to the principles of copyright and fair use, especially when sharing or creating digital content.
  • Digital Citizenship: Being respectful, kind, and constructive while participating in online communities.

 

Examples of Cyber Ethics Issues

  • Data Collection and Surveillance: Companies must balance the benefits of data collection with respect for user privacy.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation: Ethical considerations around AI include job displacement, algorithmic bias, and data transparency.
  • Cyberbullying: The ethical obligation to speak out against and prevent harassment in online environments.
  • Digital Addiction and Well-Being: Promoting a balanced and healthy relationship with technology.

Cyber Crime:

Cybercrime encompasses illegal activities carried out using computers, networks, or the internet. These crimes can range from simple hacking to large-scale cyber-attacks that compromise national security.

 Impact of Cyber Crime

  • Financial Loss: Companies and individuals can suffer significant financial damage due to data breaches and theft.
  • Reputation Damage: Businesses can lose trust if sensitive data is compromised.
  • National Security Threats: Cyber attacks on critical infrastructure can have severe consequences for a country’s security.

Social Networking Sites

Social networking sites (SNS) are online platforms that allow users to create a public or semi-public profile and connect with other users to share content, communicate, and interact socially. These sites are designed to facilitate the building and maintenance of social networks and relationships among people who may share similar interests, backgrounds, or real-life connection.

Risks and Concerns

While social networking sites have many benefits, there are some associated risks, such as privacy concerns, the spread of misinformation, online harassment, and the potential for addiction. Users should be aware of these risks and take steps to safeguard their personal information and digital well-being.

Social networking sites have transformed the way people communicate and interact, playing a crucial role in both personal and professional aspects of life.