1.

6 Electronic Systems
Key Terms
• Input device: something that can give an input signal to the system.
• Output device: something that responds to an instruction of change in control elements.
• Input signal: information given to the system by an input device.
• Output signal: an instruction the system gives to an output device.
• Program: a set of instructions the system controller has been given to make the electronic
system do what it is supposed to do.
• Resistance: an electrical quantity that is a measure of how the device or wire reduces the
electric current flow through it.
Explain what is meant by INPUT – PROCESS – OUTPUT
Electronic systems can have singular or multiple input and output devices, sometimes with a
controller between them. The system reads the input signals and controls the output signals
according to the instructions in the program it has been given: INPUT DEVICE → CONTROL
OUTPUT DEVICE
Write down a clear example of INPUT – PROCESS – OUTPUT:
For example, when you use a computer, you move a mouse or press buttons on a keyboard.
These are input devices that give information to the computer. The computer controller reads
the inputs, and its program tells it what to do. The output devices could be the screen, a printer,
a laser cutter, or a very complicated robot in a huge factory.
Why are symbols used in electronics when producing circuit diagrams, not pictures?
Symbols are used in electronics for circuit diagrams instead of pictures because they are simple
and easy to understand, making it clear what each part of the circuit does. They are recognized
worldwide, so anyone can understand the circuit, regardless of language. It takes up less space,
making it easier to show complex circuits on one page. It shows the function of components, not
their physical appearance, which helps in understanding the circuit's operation. Diagrams with
symbols are easy to update if components need to be changed or rearranged
1.6 Electronic Systems
Sensors:
Explain, in detail, how the following two sensors work:
Light Dependent Resistor (LDR): When light falls on the sensing area of a light-dependent
resistor (LDR) its resistance changes. In the light, resistance is low, electricity flows whereas in
the dark, resistance is high, and not much electricity flows.
Thermistor: A thermistor is a temperature-dependent resistor. Its resistance changes with
temperature. When it is hot, the resistance is low and when it is cold, the resistance is higher.
Some electronic thermometers use a thermistor. As the temperature changes, the system
measures the resistance of the thermistor and turns it into a number to display on a screen.
Exam Question
A thermistor can be used in the thermostat of a central heating system. Describe how you think
the electronic system that controls central heating keeps a room at the correct temperature.
A thermistor in a thermostat helps keep a room at the right temperature by measuring the
room's temperature. When the temperature changes, the thermistor's resistance changes too.
The system reads this change and checks if the room is at the set temperature. If the room is
cooler than the desired temperature, the system turns on the heating. The heating unit turns
on, warming the room. The thermistor keeps monitoring the temperature. When the room
reaches the set temperature, the Control
systemDevices
turns offand
theComponents
heating. It repeats this process to keep
the room at the desired temperature.
Single Throw Switch Resistors Transistors
A transistor is a semiconductor that
acts as a tiny electronic switch with
A single-throw switch has a button A resistor is a component used in a
three connections. A small voltage at
circuit to limit the flow of electricity. It
that switches between on and off. It the base allows a larger current to
protects delicate components by
is a simple control device that the flow between the collector and
preventing excessive current and
user can operate to turn a circuit on emitter. Transistors amplify small
helps control the flow of electricity
or off. currents from sensors and can be
throughout the circuit.
made very small by etching onto
silicon chips.
1.6 Electronic
Systems
Key terms
Component: An individual piece of a circuit.
Circuit: Individual components are joined up with a conductive material so electricity can flow
through them and perform a task.
Voltage: The amount of potential electrical force available that could make electricity flow.
Current: The amount of electricity that is flowing through a circuit.
Semiconductor: A material that allows electricity to flow under certain conditions. It can behave
as an insulator or conductor.
Device Advantages Disadvantages
Light Dependent Resistor Inexpensive Need to be positioned

Thermistors Low cost Need careful placement to be effective

Switches Wide variety available May fail mechanically after high usage
Easily improve the sensitivity of sensing
Transistors Can be destroyed by heat when soldering
circuits
Circuit will not work if the wrong value is
Resistors Available in a wide range of values selected due to incorrect reading of the
Outputs colour code

Definition/Question Buzzer Light-Emitting Diodes(LED)

Outputs are controlled by the

electronic system. They range A light-emitting diode (LED) gives
from simple items like lights that A buzzer makes a sound. Buzzers out light when electricity is passed
turn on or off or more complex can be useful in a sensing device to through it. LEDs can be small
systems such as computer give people a warning that colored indicator lights or bright
screens that contain lots of something needs their attention. enough to light up a room in a
information. What is represented house.
 Flow Charts:
1.7 Programmable Why does a designer use a flow chart?
Components A designer uses a flowchart to map out the steps and
decisions in a process visually. This simplifies the
workflow, identifies potential issues, and effectively
communicates the design to others. It provides a clear,
easy-to-understand representation of complex
processes, aiding in collaboration and problem-solving.
First Diagram Figure 1.7.1 | Second(Solved)Diagram:
Start
Figure 1.7.2
Decision: Is there enough light?
Yes: Loop back to the decision "Is there enough light?
"No: Move to the next decision "Is it dark?“
Decision: Is it dark?
Yes: Process "Turn off the light" and then loop back to
"Is there enough light?“
No: Loop back to the decision "Is there enough light?
End
Key Terms:
Analogue: a signal that can vary up and down through a range of values.
Feedback loop: a loop in a program that goes back to an earlier point to keep repeating that part of
the program.
Inputs and Decisions: how does an output know when to turn on or off?
An electronic system uses programmed questions to make decisions, which direct output devices.
When an input is detected, the system follows the program's instructions to trigger an output.
Designers must clearly define the product's purpose and break it down into simple steps,
represented in a flowchart.
Explain how analogue inputs work.
Analogue inputs measure continuous signals like temperature, light, or sound. A sensor converts a
physical quantity into an analogue signal (usually voltage or current). This signal is then converted
into a digital format using an Analogue-to-Digital Converter (ADC) for processing. The digital data
can be used for various applications, such as monitoring or controlling systems.
1.7 Programmable
Components
How to use simple routines to control outputs
Explain the following simple routines:
• Time delay. A program instruction that says 'wait 10' means the
program will wait 10 seconds and then go on to the next
instruction. You could use this to make a light flash on and off as
quickly or slowly as you want.
• Count. A program can be told to count how many times it gets
an input, and perhaps give an output every ten pushes of a
button.
• Feedback loop. This sends the program back to an earlier point
to do the same thing repeatedly. This is how a system monitors
a sensor - it goes around in a loop asking the same question
until the answer changes. The flowchart below shows a second
Write a flowchart for a light with a motion sensor that
feedback loop added to the circuit. Now the light comes on in
makes the light come on for 60 seconds when someone
the dark and goes off when it gets light.
walks past (hint: start by thinking which yes/no questions
to ask)

Start
Motion Detected? Yes: Proceed to the next step
No: Go back to waiting for the motion.
Turn On Light
Wait 60 Seconds
Turn Off Light
Back to Waiting for Motion
End