Section 5: System Memory Flashcards
Which of the following best describes Random Access Memory (RAM)?
a) A non-volatile storage device used for permanent storage.
b) A high-speed memory used for temporary storage of data and instructions.
c) A mechanical storage device slower than the hard drive.
d) An external storage device such as USB drives and CDs.
b) A high-speed memory used for temporary storage of data and instructions.
What is the primary function of cache memory in a computer system?
a) To store data permanently when the system is powered off.
b) To act as the main storage device for the operating system.
c) To provide extremely fast storage space for the processor’s frequently used data.
d) To replace the hard drive in storing large files.
c) To provide extremely fast storage space for the processor’s frequently used data.
Which type of memory is known for being the fastest but has the smallest storage capacity?
a) Hard drive
b) Cache memory
c) System memory (RAM)
d) USB drive
b) Cache memory
How is data typically moved within a computer system from storage to the processor?
a) Data moves directly from the hard drive to the CPU.
b) Data moves from the hard drive to system memory (RAM) and then to cache memory before being processed by the CPU.
c) Data is stored permanently in RAM and accessed by the CPU as needed.
d) Data moves from the hard drive to cache memory directly.
b) Data moves from the hard drive to system memory (RAM) and then to cache memory before being processed by the CPU.
Which of the following correctly describes the difference between RAM and mass storage devices?
a) RAM is a non-volatile storage area, while mass storage devices are volatile.
b) RAM has a larger storage capacity than mass storage devices.
c) RAM is temporary storage that is faster than mass storage devices, which are used for permanent storage.
d) RAM stores data permanently even when the computer is powered off.
c) RAM is temporary storage that is faster than mass storage devices, which are used for permanent storage.
What happens to the data stored in RAM when the computer is powered off?
a) It remains stored until the computer is powered on again.
b) It is saved automatically to a mass storage device.
c) It is lost, as RAM is non-persistent storage.
d) It is transferred to cache memory for faster access when powered back on.
c) It is lost, as RAM is non-persistent storage.
Why is RAM often upgraded in computer systems?
a) To increase the permanent storage capacity for files.
b) To allow the processor to access more data quickly and improve system performance.
c) To replace the need for a hard drive.
d) To provide more cache memory for the CP
b) To allow the processor to access more data quickly and improve system performance.
What is the primary role of the memory controller in a computer system?
a) To store data permanently.
b) To manage the transfer of data between the CPU and system memory.
c) To increase the storage capacity of the system.
d) To act as a secondary processor.
b) To manage the transfer of data between the CPU and system memory.
What limitation does a 32-bit CPU have regarding memory addressing?
a) It can only address up to 2 gigabytes of RAM.
b) It can address up to 4 gigabytes of RAM.
c) It can address up to 16 gigabytes of RAM.
d) It can address up to 32 gigabytes of RAM.
b) It can address up to 4 gigabytes of RAM.
Why is a 64-bit CPU generally preferred for modern computing over a 32-bit CPU?
a) It uses less power and generates less heat.
b) It can address more than 4 gigabytes of RAM, allowing for better performance.
c) It is cheaper and easier to manufacture.
d) It eliminates the need for cache memory.
b) It can address more than 4 gigabytes of RAM, allowing for better performance.
Which of the following is true about storage devices such as hard drives and USB drives?
a) They provide temporary storage for data.
b) They are faster than RAM.
c) They retain data even when the computer is powered off.
d) They are located inside the processor.
c) They retain data even when the computer is powered off.
In a computer system, how does data typically flow from storage to the processor?
a) Directly from storage to the CPU.
b) From storage to cache memory, then to RAM, and finally to the CPU.
c) From storage to RAM, then to cache memory, and finally to the CPU.
d) From storage directly to the RAM for permanent storage.
c) From storage to RAM, then to cache memory, and finally to the CPU.
Which analogy best describes the function of RAM in comparison to storage devices?
a) RAM is like a filing cabinet, and storage devices are like a desk.
b) RAM is like a desk, and storage devices are like a filing cabinet.
c) RAM is like a permanent storage unit, and storage devices are like temporary workspace.
d) RAM is like a bookshelf, and storage devices are like a library.
b) RAM is like a desk, and storage devices are like a filing cabinet.
Why is upgrading RAM beneficial for a computer system?
a) It increases the amount of permanent storage available.
b) It reduces the need to read/write data from/to the hard drive, speeding up the system.
c) It replaces the need for a faster processor.
d) It increases the physical size of the computer.
b) It reduces the need to read/write data from/to the hard drive, speeding up the system.
How does the processor access data stored in RAM?
a) Through a network connection.
b) Via unique addresses managed by the memory controller and data bus.
c) By directly reading from the hard drive.
d) Through a cloud-based storage service.
b) Via unique addresses managed by the memory controller and data bus.
What determines how much information can be transferred per clock cycle in a computer system?
a) The size of the hard drive.
b) The width of the data bus.
c) The capacity of the cache memory.
d) The power supply unit.
b) The width of the data bus.
What is the maximum amount of RAM that a 32-bit CPU can address?
a) 2 gigabytes
b) 4 gigabytes
c) 16 gigabytes
d) 32 gigabytes
4 gigabytes
Why do modern computer systems typically use 64-bit processors?
a) To address more than 4 gigabytes of RAM for improved performance.
b) To reduce power consumption.
c) To eliminate the need for cache memory.
d) To operate without the need for a data bus.
a) To address more than 4 gigabytes of RAM for improved performance.
What is the capacity that a 64-bit CPU can theoretically address?
a) 4 gigabytes
b) 16 exabytes
c) 1 terabyte
d) 500 gigabytes
b) 16 exabytes
What is the difference between the data bus and the address bus in a computer system?
a) The data bus determines the data transfer rate, while the address bus determines how many locations can be addressed.
b) The data bus stores data permanently, while the address bus stores data temporarily.
c) The data bus connects to the internet, while the address bus connects to the hard drive.
d) The data bus is slower than the address bus.
a) The data bus determines the data transfer rate, while the address bus determines how many locations can be addressed.
What determines the type of memory module you can use in a computer system?
a) The operating system
b) The power supply
c) The motherboard and its form factor
d) The monitor type
c) The motherboard and its form factor
When upgrading memory, what is the best practice to follow?
a) Buy the cheapest modules available.
b) Consult the motherboard’s manual for proper type, size, and speed.
c) Mix different types of memory modules.
d) Install only one memory module regardless of the number of slots.
b) Consult the motherboard’s manual for proper type, size, and speed.
What happens if a motherboard does not support mixed sizes of memory modules?
a) The system will not boot.
b) The system will only recognize the smallest module.
c) The system will operate at the speed of the fastest module.
d) The system will only operate in safe mode.
a) The system will not boot.
What does the term “single bank” refer to in modern motherboards?
a) A configuration that requires paired memory modules.
b) The use of any size module in any slot.
c) A specific type of RAM module.
d) A memory configuration that uses only one slot.
b) The use of any size module in any slot.
Which form factor typically has more memory slots?
a) Mini-ITX
b) Micro-ATX
c) ATX
d) Pico-ITX
c) ATX
How are DDR3, DDR4, and DDR5 memory modules different in terms of pins?
a) They all have the same number of pins.
b) Each has a different number of pins and is keyed differently.
c) DDR4 and DDR5 share the same pin configuration.
d) Only DDR5 has a different pin configuration.
b) Each has a different number of pins and is keyed differently.
What does “DDR” stand for in memory modules?
a) Dynamic Data Rate
b) Double Data Rate
c) Dual Device RAM
d) Direct Data RAM
Answer: b) Double Data Rate
What was the main issue with DRAM that SRAM sought to solve?
a) High power consumption
b) Constant refreshing required
c) Slow read/write speeds
d) High cost of production
b) Constant refreshing required
Why is SRAM more expensive than DRAM?
a) It requires more power.
b) It has higher latency.
c) It does not need constant refreshing.
d) It is used in larger quantities.
c) It does not need constant refreshing.
How is SDRAM different from DRAM?
a) SDRAM operates asynchronously.
b) SDRAM operates at the same speed as the motherboard’s bus.
c) SDRAM has fewer pins than DRAM.
d) SDRAM is used only in cache memory.
b) SDRAM operates at the same speed as the motherboard’s bus.
What does “PC3-10600” indicate in DDR3 memory modules?
a) 10,600 megabytes per second throughput
b) 10,600 gigabytes per second throughput
c) 1,060 megabytes per second throughput
d) 106 megabytes per second throughput
a) 10,600 megabytes per second throughput
What is the maximum module size typically supported by DDR4 memory?
a) 8 GB
b) 16 GB
c) 32 GB
d) 64 GB
c) 32 GB
How should you install a SODIMM module into a laptop motherboard?
a) At a 90-degree angle
b) At a 45-degree angle
c) Horizontally from the side
d) Vertically from the top
b) At a 45-degree angle
If you mix memory modules of different speeds, what will happen?
a) The system will use the fastest module’s speed.
b) The system will use the slowest module’s speed.
c) The system will average the speeds of the modules.
d) The system will not recognize the faster module.
b) The system will use the slowest module’s speed.
What does “SODIMM” stand for?
a) Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module
b) Single Operation Dual Inline Memory Module
c) Static Overclocked Dual Inline Memory Module
d) Standard Outline Dual Inline Memory Module
a) Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module
Before purchasing new memory modules, what should you consult?
a) The processor manual
b) The power supply specifications
c) The motherboard manual
d) The operating system requirements
c) The motherboard manual
What is a characteristic of memory size in motherboards that support mixed sizes?
a) All memory slots must be filled with modules of the same capacity.
b) You can use modules of different capacities in different slots.
c) Only one memory slot can be used at a time.
d) Memory size is irrelevant to performance.
b) You can use modules of different capacities in different slots.
How does the form factor of a motherboard affect memory slots?
a) Larger motherboards generally have fewer memory slots.
b) Smaller motherboards typically support more memory slots.
c) Larger motherboards support more memory slots and higher total memory.
d) Form factor does not affect the number of memory slots.
c) Larger motherboards support more memory slots and higher total memory.
What does DIMM stand for?
a) Dual Integrated Memory Module
b) Double Inline Memory Module
c) Dual Inline Memory Module
d) Direct Inline Memory Module
c) Dual Inline Memory Module
Which of the following is a memory version?
a) DDR3
b) PCIe
c) SATA
d) USB
a) DDR3
How is older memory speed measured?
a) In gigabytes per second
b) In nanoseconds
c) In gigahertz
d) In bits per second
b) In nanoseconds
How is modern memory speed typically measured?
a) In bits per second
b) In bytes per second
c) In bus speed (MHz) or throughput (GB/s)
d) In kilobytes per second
c) In bus speed (MHz) or throughput (GB/s)
What is an example of a DDR3 memory specification?
a) PC2-4200
b) PC3-10600
c) PC4-25600
d) PC5-51200
b) PC3-10600
What type of memory requires frequent refreshing?
a) SRAM
b) DRAM
c) DDR SDRAM
d) SDRAM
b) DRAM
Which type of memory is used in CPU caches and is expensive due to no need for refreshing?
a) DRAM
b) SRAM
c) SDRAM
d) DDR SDRAM
b) SRAM
What is the main feature of DDR SDRAM compared to SDRAM?
a) Requires less power
b) Transfers data twice per clock cycle
c) Has fewer pins
d) Operates at a lower voltage
b) Transfers data twice per clock cycle
What distinguishes DDR2 memory from DDR3 memory?
a) DDR2 has higher voltage
b) DDR2 has a different pin count and higher latency
c) DDR3 operates at a slower speed
d) DDR3 requires frequent refreshing
b) DDR2 has a different pin count and higher latenc
Which DDR version supports the highest speeds and maximum module size?
a) DDR2
b) DDR3
c) DDR4
d) DDR5
d) DDR5
What prevents incorrect installation of different DDR memory modules into the wrong slots?
a) Color-coded modules
b) Unique notches in each DDR version
c) Different lengths of modules
d) Software configurations
b) Unique notches in each DDR version
What does SO-DIMM stand for?
a) Small Outline Direct Inline Memory Module
b) Single Outline Dual Inline Memory Module
c) Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module
d) Standard Outline Direct Inline Memory Module
c) Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module
How should a desktop DIMM be installed?
a) At a 90-degree angle until it clicks
b) At a 45-degree angle then pushed flat
c) Horizontally from the side
d) Vertically from the bottom
a) At a 90-degree angle until it clicks
What is a common way to boost system performance?
a) Upgrading the power supply
b) Installing additional memory modules
c) Replacing the monitor
d) Changing the operating system
b) Installing additional memory modules
What is the purpose of multi-channel memory?
a) To reduce power consumption
b) To increase the capacity of memory modules
c) To use two memory modules simultaneously for increased performance
d) To decrease the physical size of memory modules
c) To use two memory modules simultaneously for increased performance
How does dual-channel memory configuration affect data pathways?
a) It decreases the data pathway width
b) It creates a wider data pathway for increased throughput
c) It adds complexity to the data pathway
d) It reduces the speed of data transfer
b) It creates a wider data pathway for increased throughput
What analogy is used to explain the concept of interleaving in multi-channel memory?
a) Two cars driving side by side
b) Two horses pulling a cart
c) Two planes flying in formation
d) Two boats rowing in tandem
b) Two horses pulling a cart
How many memory modules are used in a triple-channel memory setup?
a) One
b) Two
c) Three
d) Four
c) Three
What is the total data transfer per clock cycle in a quad-channel memory configuration?
a) 64 bits
b) 128 bits
c) 192 bits
d) 256 bits
d) 256 bits
Why is it important to consult the motherboard manual when configuring multi-channel memory?
a) To determine the color of memory slots
b) To identify the number of memory slots
c) To understand which slots support multi-channel configurations
d) To check the CPU compatibility
c) To understand which slots support multi-channel configurations
What is considered a best practice when using multi-channel memory configurations?
a) Using memory modules of different sizes and speeds
b) Mixing memory modules from different manufacturers
c) Using the same model, make, speed, and throughput of memory modules
d) Using memory modules of varying capacities
c) Using the same model, make, speed, and throughput of memory modules
How is the labeling of memory slots typically done on motherboards?
a) Numbers from 1 to 4
b) Letters from A to D
c) Alphanumeric combinations
d) Roman numerals
a) Numbers from 1 to 4
What is a common feature of slots in a dual-channel memory configuration?
a) They must have different sizes
b) They must have different colors
c) They must have identical memory modules
d) They must be physically separated
c) They must have identical memory modules
What advantage does multi-channel memory provide beyond increased performance?
a) Decreased system stability
b) Reduced memory capacity
c) Higher overall memory capacity
d) Lower system power consumption
c) Higher overall memory capacity
How does dual-channel memory differ from single-channel memory in terms of data pathways?
a) Dual-channel uses a wider data pathway
b) Single-channel provides faster data transfer rates
c) Dual-channel reduces the number of memory modules required
d) Single-channel offers more memory slots
a) Dual-channel uses a wider data pathway
Which multi-channel setup provides a 192-bit data transfer per clock cycle?
a) Dual Channel
b) Single Channel
c) Triple Channel
d) Quad Channel
c) Triple Channel
What distinguishes non-parity memory from parity memory?
a) Non-parity memory is faster and cheaper
b) Parity memory performs error checking
c) Non-parity memory has an additional parity bit
d) Parity memory allows data transfer without verification
b) Parity memory performs error checking
ow does parity memory detect errors?
a) By performing complex calculations on data
b) By comparing data against a checksum
c) By analyzing the electrical load of memory modules
d) By using a parity bit associated with each byte
d) By using a parity bit associated with each byte
What is the main advantage of ECC memory over parity memory?
a) Higher memory capacity
b) Lower memory latency
c) Ability to correct memory errors
d) Faster data transfer rates
c) Ability to correct memory errors
Which type of memory is primarily used in high-end workstations and servers?
a) Non-parity memory
b) Parity memory
c) ECC memory
d) DDR5 memory
c) ECC memory
What additional hardware is used with ECC memory to detect and correct errors?
a) CPU cache
b) Parity bit
c) Register or buffer
d) Memory controller
c) Register or buffer
What components must support ECC memory in order to utilize its error correction capabilities?
a) Only the CPU
b) Only the motherboard
c) Both the CPU and the motherboard
d) Only the memory modules
c) Both the CPU and the motherboard
Can DDR5 modules provide error checking without ECC support from the CPU and motherboard?
a) Yes, through internal error checking
b) No, DDR5 modules do not support error checking
c) Only if DDR5 modules are used in dual-channel mode
d) DDR5 modules can provide error checking only with ECC support
a) Yes, through internal error checking
What is a characteristic of buffered/registered memory?
a) It increases memory speed
b) It reduces electrical load and improves reliability
c) It is primarily used in low-end computers
d) It has no impact on memory performance
b) It reduces electrical load and improves reliability
What precaution should be taken when using ECC memory modules with a motherboard?
a) Mix ECC and non-ECC modules for better performance
b) Ensure all memory modules are ECC-compatible
c) Use a mixture of ECC and non-ECC modules for compatibility
d) ECC modules can be used interchangeably without any specific configuration
b) Ensure all memory modules are ECC-compatible
What distinguishes DDR5 memory’s internal error checking from ECC memory?
a) DDR5 error checking is slower than ECC
b) ECC requires additional hardware, while DDR5 does not
c) DDR5 error checking is only effective in dual-channel mode
d) ECC can correct errors, while DDR5 only detects them
d) ECC can correct errors, while DDR5 only detects them
What is the primary purpose of ECC memory?
a) To increase memory capacity
b) To reduce memory latency
c) To detect and correct memory errors
d) To enhance memory speed
c) To detect and correct memory errors
What is the difference between non-parity and parity memory?
a) Non-parity memory is slower than parity memory
b) Parity memory is cheaper to manufacture than non-parity memory
c) Non-parity memory performs error checking, while parity memory does not
d) Parity memory allows data to be put in or taken out of memory at will
c) Non-parity memory performs error checking, while parity memory does not
What type of error can parity memory typically detect?
a) Single-bit errors
b) Multi-bit errors
c) Memory module failures
d) CPU overheating
a) Single-bit errors
Why is ECC memory primarily used in high-end workstations and servers?
a) Due to its lower cost
b) To increase memory speed
c) To reduce electrical load
d) For higher integrity and reliability
d) For higher integrity and reliability
What is virtual memory?
a) A type of memory used exclusively by virtual machines
b) A block of space on a storage device used as additional RAM
c) Memory allocated by the CPU for cache purposes
d) A type of memory reserved for graphics processing
b) A block of space on a storage device used as additional RAM
Why might increasing physical RAM be necessary despite using virtual memory?
a) Virtual memory is faster than physical RAM
b) Virtual memory is a permanent solution for memory shortages
c) Physical RAM is faster and more efficient than virtual memory
d) Virtual memory eliminates the need for physical RAM
c) Physical RAM is faster and more efficient than virtual memory
What term is used in Windows systems to refer to virtual memory?
a) Swap space
b) Cache memory
c) Page file
d) Memory allocation
c) Page file
What is the equivalent term for virtual memory in Linux, Unix, and Mac systems?
a) Cache memory
b) Page file
c) Swap space
d) Memory allocation
c) Swap space
How can you recognize excessive reliance on virtual memory?
a) Increased hard drive activity
b) Faster system performance
c) Reduced CPU usage
d) Enhanced multitasking capabilities
a) Increased hard drive activity
What are the typical sizes of memory locations assigned by the operating system in virtual memory?
a) 1 MB
b) 512 bytes
c) 4 kilobytes
d) 8 gigabytes
c) 4 kilobytes
What is the purpose of dividing virtual memory into small chunks called pages?
a) To reduce storage space
b) To optimize CPU performance
c) To facilitate efficient memory management
d) To minimize hard drive usage
c) To facilitate efficient memory management
How does the CPU access data stored in virtual memory?
a) Directly from the storage device
b) Through cache memory only
c) Via the memory controller
d) By bypassing the memory controller
c) Via the memory controller
What action can be taken to address system slowdowns caused by virtual memory usage?
a) Increase physical RAM
b) Decrease the size of the page file
c) Disable virtual memory entirely
d) Allocate more CPU resources
a) Increase physical RAM
What role does virtual memory play in system performance?
a) It accelerates CPU processing speed
b) It minimizes the need for physical RAM
c) It acts as a temporary solution for memory shortages
d) It eliminates the need for storage devices
c) It acts as a temporary solution for memory shortages
What role does the memory controller play in virtual memory operation?
a) It manages the size of the page file
b) It controls the movement of data between physical RAM and virtual memory
c) It optimizes CPU performance
d) It monitors hard drive activity
b) It controls the movement of data between physical RAM and virtual memory
What distinguishes virtual memory from physical RAM?
a) Virtual memory is faster and more efficient
b) Physical RAM is used exclusively by the CPU
c) Virtual memory is a permanent solution for memory shortages
d) Physical RAM is faster and directly accessible by the CPU
d) Physical RAM is faster and directly accessible by the CPU
What is the purpose of installing memory modules into a motherboard before placing it into the computer case?
a) To make it easier to access the memory slots
b) To ensure proper alignment of the memory modules
c) To reduce the risk of static electricity damage
d) To improve the cooling efficiency of the system
a) To make it easier to access the memory slots
Which term refers to the alignment feature that ensures memory modules can only be inserted in one direction?
a) Notch
b) Latch
c) Retainer clip
d) ESD strap
a) Notch
How can you determine the appropriate installation method for memory modules on a motherboard?
a) Refer to the motherboard manual
b) Check the computer case specifications
c) Consult the memory module packaging
d) Measure the distance between memory slots
a) Refer to the motherboard manual
What is the recommended procedure for securing a memory module into place after insertion?
a) Slide it gently until it locks automatically
b) Push it down firmly until it clicks into place
c) Twist it clockwise to engage the locking mechanism
d) Apply pressure to the top edge until it snaps in
b) Push it down firmly until it clicks into place
In which scenario would you need to remove additional components to install memory modules?
a) When installing memory in single-channel mode
b) When installing memory in quad-channel mode
c) When using memory modules of different brands
d) When memory slots are obstructed by other hardware
d) When memory slots are obstructed by other hardware
What precaution should be taken before handling memory modules?
a) Wear an ESD strap
b) Turn off the computer
c) Remove the motherboard
d) Wear gloves
a) Wear an ESD strap
Which step confirms that a memory module is securely installed?
a) Hearing a clicking sound
b) Observing a visual indicator
c) Feeling a slight vibration
d) Noticing a change in system performance
a) Hearing a clicking sound
What is the primary reason for using memory modules in dual-channel mode?
a) To increase the total amount of memory
b) To improve the cooling efficiency
c) To enhance system performance
d) To reduce the risk of data corruption
c) To enhance system performance
What action locks a memory module into place after insertion?
a) Sliding a latch horizontally
b) Pressing down on the top edge
c) Rotating a retainer clip
d) Pushing outward on the side edges
a) Sliding a latch horizontally
What is the final step after installing memory modules into a motherboard?
a) Testing each memory module individually
b) Checking the CPU temperature
c) Securing the motherboard inside the case
d) Verifying the memory capacity in the BIOS
c) Securing the motherboard inside the case
Which of the following is the correct sequence of steps for installing memory modules into a motherboard?
A) 1. Insert the memory module into the slot, 2. Align the notch, 3. Secure the module with retaining clips, 4. Spread the retaining clips outward
B) 1. Use an ESD strap, 2. Identify the notch and align it, 3. Spread the retaining clips outward, 4. Insert the memory module and apply even pressure, 5. Secure the module with retaining clips
C) 1. Apply even pressure to the memory module, 2. Align the notch and insert the module, 3. Secure the module with retaining clips, 4. Use an ESD strap
D) 1. Identify the notch and align it, 2. Secure the module with retaining clips, 3. Spread the retaining clips outward, 4. Insert the memory module and apply even pressure
B) 1. Use an ESD strap, 2. Identify the notch and align it, 3. Spread the retaining clips outward, 4. Insert the memory module and apply even pressure, 5. Secure the module with retaining clips
