state the basic concepts and principles involved
in the representation of data (including numeric,
ASCII, bit masks and bit maps) within a
computer system

specify and select components, and build,
conforming to safety standards, a PC to meet a
technical specification

install and configure an operating system and
software to meet a client specification

convert numbers between binary, denary and
hexadecimal notation

add, subtract, multiply and divide numbers held
in different formats including floating point

write very basic program functions (such as
fetching and adding together two numbers, and
storing the result) in a low level language

check the accuracy of own work and eliminate
obvious errors.

understand the concepts and principles involved
in the representation of data within a computer
system, the role played by each format and the
possible errors caused by inappropriate use of
format

describe, with the aid of diagrams, the hardware
(including logic gates, registers, buses, CU,
ALU and memory) and its function within a
model microprocessor

describe the functions of an operating system
within a modern computer system

design and write programs in a low level
programming language which include data
transfer, arithmetic, jump and branch
instructions.

describe in detail the function of the fetchdecode-
execute cycle and its relationship to the
workings of a microprocessor, making detailed
reference to the role played by hardware and
software in this relationship

evaluate the work done in building and
configuring a computer system to a given
specification including how well the finished
system met the specification, what went well
and what went less well in the work and what
improvements could be made to the resulting
system

write coherently and comprehensively,
including accurate drawings which enhance the
text and show a good command of technical
language.