Book 2 Chapter 3

Question 1

Why is it important to match RAM speed with the motherboard’s supported speed?

Answer 1

Using RAM that exceeds the motherboard’s supported speed will default to the lower speed, wasting potential performance.

Question 2

What is the purpose of SPD (Serial Presence Detect) in RAM modules?

Answer 2

SPD stores information about the RAM module, such as size, speed, and voltage, for automatic configuration by the BIOS.

Question 3

How does RAM latency affect system performance?

Answer 3

Lower latency (measured in CAS) means faster response times for data requests.

Question 4

What is “RAM timing,” and how is it represented?

Answer 4

RAM timing shows the delay in clock cycles between memory operations, represented as a sequence (e.g., 16-18-18-36).

Question 5

What are SO-DIMMs, and where are they used?

Answer 5

Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Modules, used in laptops and compact devices.

Question 6

What is the difference between buffered and unbuffered RAM?

Answer 6

Buffered RAM includes an additional register to improve stability in systems with high memory loads, commonly used in servers.