Automated and Emerging Technologies · 4 question types
Past paper frequency (2018 to 2024)
This topic accounts for approximately 3% of your exam marks.
Sensor to microprocessor to actuator control loop questions. Usually 3 to 4 marks.
An automated system is a computer-controlled system that collects data from its environment and takes action on its own based on that data, without needing constant human input.
The defining feature of an automated system is that it decides for itself what to do. The decisions are made by a microprocessor following pre-programmed rules; the system runs in a continuous loop, reading sensors and driving outputs.
Examples you will recognise:
Automated systems are everywhere; this topic is about what is inside them.