4. Memory Flashcards
Which type of Random Access Memory (RAM) uses the front-side bus
Double Data Rate (DDR) RAM
Which memory component detects both single-bit and multi-bit errors in RAM
Error Correction Code (ECC)
Which memory component can only detect single-bit errors in RAM
parity
How would you determine which type of RAM is required in a computer
Open the case to verify the type of RAM
Which bus determines the amount of RAM that a processor can access
address bus
Where is buffered data stored
in the RAM register
flashing
a process that allows to rewrite the information stored on the chip instead of having to physically replace the chip
memory test
a test that scans memory modules to verify that they’re functioning properly
PnP
Plug and Play
Plug and Play
A technology that enables the computer to discover and configure new hardware, and mange any hardware conflicts that arise when new hardware is added
RAM
Random Access Memory
Random Access Memory
A temporary storage space used by the operating system and applications to pass information to the CPU for processing
ROM
Read-Only Memory
Read-Only Memory
A Memory that saves and stores system data without a constant power source
TPM
Trusted Platform Module
Trusted Platform Module
An international standard designed to secure hardware by integration encryption keys into devices
BIOS
Basic Input / Output System
UEFI
Unified Extensible Firmware Interface
SIMM
- Single Inline Memory Module
- 32 bit module
- chips on one side of the package
- used on very old computers
- frequently must be installed in matched pairs
DIMM
- Dual Inline Memory Module
- 64 bit module
- May have memory chips on one or both sides of the package
- may be installed alone, in pairs, are larger sets (depending on the system)
- Must desktops uses DIMMs
SODIMM
- Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module
- 64 bit
- Small DIMM form factor typically used in laptops and small form factor (SFF) PCs
- Work like a DIMM but about half the size
RIMM
- Trademarked term for memory modules used by Rambus memory
- 64 bit
- similar to DIMMS but larger
- Only found on older computers that used Rambus tech.
SDRAM
Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory
DDR Memory
- Double Data Rate Memory
- Allows two pieces of data per clock cycle (both the rise and fall of the clock signal)
Buffered DIMMS / FB-DIMMS
Have additional circuits that hold data and manage signals before the information is passed between RAM and the memoru controller
Non-Parity Memory
Contains one bit of memory for every bit of data it stores
Parity Memory
Have an extra parity checking bit that can be used to verify each byye of data was correctly read or written
(older technology that has been replaced by ECC)
ECC
A more advance version of parity that uses an algorithm to encode information into a block of bits
ECC memory can correct signle bit errors without interrupting operations, and detect multi-bit errors partiy checking would miss
ECC casues a slight system slowndown in exchange for increased reliability
DDR voltage
- 1.8 V
- 2.5 V
DDR2 Voltage
- 1.8 V
- 1.9 V
DDR3 Voltage
- 1.35V
- 1.5V
- 1.65V
*
DDR4
- 1.05V
- 1.2V
- 1.35V
9 Steps to install RAM
- Power Down the computer
- Detach all external cords from ports on the PC, starting by unplugging the power cable
- Open the computer’s chassis
- Open the memory support arms on the sides of the memory slots
- if replacing existing modules, opening the arms will release them from the slot
- Use firm and even pressure to snap each memory module into the appopriate slot
- Move the support arms into the locked position
- Close the chassis
- Reattach all cords to the ports on the PC, and plug it into the wall outlet
- Boot the computer and verify the system recognizes the new memory
Steps to resolve issues with newly installed memory
- Verify the modules are seated correctly
- Remove and reinstall any new modules
- Make sure they sit in the socket at the same height as other modules
- Verify the support arms locks
- If a support arm won’t lock into position on the memory module, it is a sign that the modules isn’t seated in the slot properly
- Verify the support arms locks
- Verify you have installed the modules into the correct memory slots
- Your motherboard documentation may list valid memory configurations
- Try uninstalling the new modules and putting the old ones back in the system. If the problem goes away the old modules
- Verify that you purchased the correct memory for your motherboard
- Check memory clock speeds in the BIOS to make sure they’re compatible with the new modules
- Review your motherboard manufacturer’s Website for BIOS updates
- You might need to flash the BIOS to support the new memory
Steps to troubleshoot memory problems
- Verify your power supply is functioning properly
- Verify your system is not overheating
- Clean the memory module edge connectors and slots
- Remove the memory modules
- Clead the edge connectors with a soft cloth or contact cleaner
- Using compressed air or a computer vacumm, remove dust and debris from the slots
- Reinsert the clean modules
- Swap the memory modules one at a time with a module that you know is good
- If your BIOS/UEFI includes a hardware diagnostic feature, run the memory check
- Run a thid-party program that checks for problems with computer hardware
