(This is the older material - click here - for current specification content)

1. Introduction

Computer systems are highly technical but it is not just the engineering aspects of a system that matters - designers and users have to consider the ethics, the environmental and legal aspects of a computer system as well.

The government are well aware of these issues and have put in place a number of laws to help protect citizens and businesses.

But beyond law, an honourable engineer works with pride and understands that they have a duty of care towards their clients and the public, whether it is the next new thing as a CPU or a bridge across an estuary (computer engineers can be involved in both). Since the 1800's engineers have created professional institutions to help foster this way of thinking - IMechE, IET are important institutions. For example it can take eight years of serious, responsible work for an engineering graduate to become a Chartered Engineer.

This mini-web will introduce you to some of these aspects.