EXPLORING TOOLS AND
EQUIPMENT IN ICT
ICT tools and equipment
• include a wide range of hardware and software that
facilitate communication, information management, and
productivity.
• These tools are broadly categorized into
-hardware (physical devices like computers, laptops, and
networking devices) and
-software (applications and systems that run on these devices,
like operating systems, productivity suites, and specialized
programs).
• Beyond these, there are also tools for communication,
collaboration, and specific educational purposes.
Common Tools and Equipment used
in Computer Programming
1. Hardware • Computer: The primary device
used for writing code,
running programs, and testing
software.
• Desktop or Laptop: Depending
on preference and
requirements.
2. Software
• 1. Integrated Development Environments (IDEs)
Simple Meaning:
A complete tool where you can write, check, and run your code all in one place.
Use:
It helps programmers do everything without switching between different tools.
Examples:
• Visual Studio Code
• IntelliJ IDEA
• PyCharm
• Eclipse
• Xcode
2. Code Editors
Simple Meaning:
A lighter tool for writing and editing code, good for quick tasks or simple
projects.
Use:
You can write code quickly, but it may not have all the features of a full IDE.
Examples:
• Sublime Text
• Atom
• Notepad++
3. Version Control Systems (VCS)
Simple Meaning:
Tools that help track and manage changes in your code over time.
Use:
You can go back to an earlier version of your project or work with others
without messing up the code.
Examples:
• Git
• Subversion (SVN)
• Mercurial
4. Repositories and Collaboration Platforms
Simple Meaning:
Online spaces where programmers store and share their code, and work
together.
Use:
These platforms make teamwork easy, especially when working on the same
project.
Examples:
• GitHub
• GitLab
• Bitbucket
5. Compilers and Interpreters
Simple Meaning:
Tools that convert your code into a program that the computer can understand and
run.
Use:
Without these, the computer won’t know what to do with your code.
Examples:
• GCC (GNU Compiler Collection)
• Clang
• Python Interpreter
• Node.js
6. Debuggers
Simple Meaning:
Tools that help find and fix mistakes in your code.
Use:
You can see where your code goes wrong and correct it.
Examples:
• GDB (GNU Debugger)
• LLDB
• Built-in debuggers in IDEs (like in Visual Studio Code or PyCharm)
7. Package Managers
Simple Meaning:
Tools that help install and manage extra tools or code libraries your project needs.
Use:
They save time by letting you quickly add ready-made solutions to your project.
Examples:
• npm (for JavaScript/Node.js)
• pip (for Python)
• Maven, Gradle (for Java)
• NuGet (for .NET)
8. Build Automation Tools
Simple Meaning:
Tools that automatically do tasks like building code, running tests, or uploading your
project online.
Use:
They save time and reduce errors by doing repeated tasks for you.
Examples:
• Jenkins
• Travis CI
• CircleCI
• Make, Ant
Common tools and equipment in Computer Systems Servicing:
● Hand Tools: When servicing computers, students need tools like
screwdrivers, pliers,
and anti-static wristbands. These tools help with hardware installation, repair,
and
maintenance.
● Diagnostic Software: Students can use software tools to diagnose hardware
issues,
check system performance, and troubleshoot problems.
● Cable Testers and Multimeters: These tools help verify cable connections and
measure
electrical parameters.
● Cleaning Kits: Keeping computers dust-free is essential for optimal
performance.
Common tools and equipment Visual Arts:
● Digital Cameras and Scanners: Students can capture images
of their artwork or scan traditional artwork to create digital
versions.
● Graphic Design Software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop,
Illustrator): These tools allow students to manipulate images,
create digital art, and design graphics.
● Tablets and Drawing Pads: Artists can use these devices to
create digital illustrations and paintings.
● 3D Modeling Software (e.g., Blender, Autodesk Maya): For
students interested in 3D art and animation.
Digital Cameras and Graphic Design Software Tablets and Drawing Pads 3D Modeling Software
Scanners
Telecommunication: (hardware)
1. Modems and Routers
2. Switches and Hubs
3. Repeaters and Extenders
4. Antennas
5. Base Stations
Modems and Routers
-A modem brings internet service into the home from internet
service providers (ISPs), while a router delivers that internet connection
to the devices in your home, allowing them to connect wirelessly via
WiFi or through Ethernet cables.
Switches and Hubs
Switches and Hubs
Networking devices that connect multiple
devices within a network, facilitating
communication between them.
Examples: Ethernet switches, network hubs.
Repeaters and Extenders
-Devices that amplify or regenerate signals to extend the range
of a network.
Examples: Signal boosters, Wi-Fi extenders.
Antennas
-Devices that transmit and receive radio waves for wireless
communication.
Examples: Yagi antennas, parabolic antennas, dipole antennas.
Base Stations
Equipment that connects mobile devices to a network in cellular and
radio communication.
Examples: Cell towers, microcells, femtocells.
Telecommunication: Software
1. Network Management Software
2. Communication Protocols
3. Telephony Software
Network Management Software
• Tools for monitoring, managing, and troubleshooting network
performance and connectivity.
Examples: SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor, PRTG Network
Monitor, Nagios.
Communication Protocols
Communication Protocols: Software protocols that define rules for data
exchange over a network.
Examples: TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol),
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), SIP (Session Initiation Protocol).
Telephony Software
Applications for managing voice communication over networks.
These are applications that help people talk to each other using voice
communication over computer networks like the internet (instead of
traditional telephone lines). These tools are especially useful in
businesses for making calls, setting up call centers, or doing video and
voice conferencing.
Examples: Asterisk, FreeSWITCH, Skype for Business.
Main Categories of Software
There are two main types of software:
1. Application Software
1. Application Software
This is software made to help you do specific tasks.
📌 Simple meaning: Software you use to write, draw, search the
internet, or talk to others.
📌 Examples:
• Microsoft Word (for writing)
• Google Chrome (for browsing)
• Zoom (for video calls)
• Photoshop (for editing pictures)
2. System Software
This is software that helps the computer itself work. It runs in the
background and helps other software run properly.
📌 Simple meaning: Software that controls the computer and helps
applications work.
📌 Examples:
• Windows or macOS (Operating Systems)
• Antivirus tools
• System updates
Other Important Types of Software
3. Driver Software
This helps the computer talk to devices like printers or keyboards.
📌 Simple meaning: Software that lets your computer use connected
tools.
📌 Examples:
• Software that makes a printer or headphones work
• USB driver for flash drives
• Mouse or camera driver
4. Middleware
This helps two software programs communicate or work together,
even if they are different.
📌 Simple meaning: A “middle helper” that connects programs.
📌 Examples:
• Helps Windows work with Microsoft Word
• Helps new software talk to old programs
5. Programming Software
Used by computer programmers to make other software.
📌 Simple meaning: Tools for writing and testing code.
📌 Examples:
• Compiler (turns code into programs)
• Debugger (finds and fixes mistakes in code)
• Python or C++ editors
How does software work?
All software provides the directions and data computers need to work
and meet users' needs. However, the two different types -- application
software and system software -- work in distinctly different ways.
