Objectives for this topic

By the end of this topic you should be able to:

describe the binary number system;
convert from decimal to binary.

You might also be able to:

discuss advantages and disadvantages of a range of IoT devices and related hardware.

Introduction

The great thing about the IoT is it is a whole network of things – there are many different types of devices which are now IoT enabled, from 3D printers to mass storage devices, and from WiFi kettles to autonomous delivery robots.

Not all hardware is useful for all purposes, however, and sometimes things may be IoT enabled for the sake of it or as a gimmick, rather than to add useful functionality. In this topic you will look at some of the additional hardware that may be used in IoT, and both the advantages and disadvantages of them.

Working through your coursebook

Read pages 18-21 in your Computing Stage 8 book.

Make sure you follow the examples on pages 18 and 19.
Make sure that you understand the key words described on page 19. Add them to your cram.com flashcards.
Complete the practice task on page 19.
Pay extra attention to the red boxes with key concepts in them.

Read pages 22-23 in your Computing Stage 8 book.

Pay extra attention to the red boxes with key concepts in them.
Complete the practice task on page 23.

Review

Reflect upon the four pages you have just covered. In your notes summarise:

what you have learnt;
what you already knew;
what surprised you;
what you are curious to know more about.

Support activity for this topic

The following video will help you convert between decimal and binary:

Extension activity for this topic

Draw a flowchart of the process to convert from decimal to binary. Use this as a revision tool.