IT revision, pages 26-32 (text book)

Textbook, pages 26-32

Transmitting data:

Data is transmitted or processed by computers either internally or externally. Internally, through the operating system. Externally, between digital devices.

Connectivity:

Connectivity is the ability to process digital data by connecting the operating system with applications and systems and with each other.

Wireless and wired methods of connecting devices and transmitting data within and between IT systems:

There are various ways in which devices can connect and transmit data between systems wirelessly and using wires. Different connection methods suit different devices, for instance, portable devices are expected to connect to networks or internets through wifi, wirelessly. Whereas a desktop computer may choose to connect to the internet through cable, meaning quicker connection speeds.

Some devices may still need connecting through a cable. For example, a mouse or a keyboard may be wireless or wired. This will commonly require a USB port into the corresponding device in order for it to work. However, some mouses and keyboards may connect to devices via Bluetooth.

Examples of connection types between devices:

• USB - This is the most common connection used for devices which require a cable. It is a 'bidirectional bus' which means it can both transmit and receive data. Not only can it connect devices but also be a form of charging devices.
• Bluetooth - This is the most common connection used for devices which connect wirelessly. Devices often include a mouse, keyboard, headphones, speakers. 
• VGA, HDMI, DisplayPort - These are video interconnects that allow the connection of some form of visual display or animation such as an LCD monitor, projector or TV. HDMI is becoming increasingly popular, with the possibility to also transmit digital sound.
• Parallel - This isn't commonly used now as it is an older form of connection. However, it was used to connect printers over short distances.
• Serial - This is a slower form of technology which is used for communication devices such as modems. 
• WiFi - The most used form of connection to connect devices such as computers, tablets and smartphones to the internet wirelessly in a certain area/range.

Some of our own devices will connect and collaborate with each other in order to sync data. Often, if you have a number of devices from the same brand/company it will do it automatically. e.g an iPhone, iPad and a Macbook. Syncing the devices together will often be done through cloud storage. 

Bandwidth - The available amount of data transmission capability.

The internet and digital devices have allowed us to do many things such as contact people all around the world, look up information on the go, a source of entertainment, a source of news. However, now the internet and digital devices can be used to control your home. For example, there are many devices in a home which connect to the internet and control services such as blinds, heating and lighting. These can be controlled through digital devices and certain applications with the connection to the internet.

How the features of connection types…