Computer Memory Chapter 6

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes Static RAM (SRAM) from Dynamic RAM (DRAM)?

SRAM retains data without needing constant power. (correct)

SRAM needs to be refreshed periodically.

SRAM is less expensive to produce than DRAM.

SRAM is typically slower than DRAM.

Which type of RAM is synchronized to the system clock for improved performance?

Static RAM

SDRAM (correct)

RDRAM

DDR SDRAM

What advantage does DDR4 have over DDR3?

DDR4 is faster than DDR3. (correct)

DDR4 is slower than DDR3.

DDR4 consumes more power than DDR3.

DDR4 is less expensive to manufacture.

Which type of DRAM transfers data twice for each clock cycle?

DDR SDRAM Signup and view all the answers

What is a common application of DDR3 RAM in modern computers?

Optimized for multi-core processors. Signup and view all the answers

Which variation of DRAM is known for being much faster than SDRAM?

RDRAM Signup and view all the answers

What is a key requirement for DRAM chips in terms of power?

They require constant refreshing to maintain data. Signup and view all the answers

How are RAM chips typically configured on a computer?

Installed in memory slots on memory modules. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the control unit within a processor?

To coordinate operations in the computer Signup and view all the answers

Which component of the processor is responsible for performing calculations and comparisons?

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) Signup and view all the answers

What defines a multi-core processor?

A chip with two or more separate processor cores Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes a chip?

A small piece of semiconducting material with integrated circuits Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step in the machine cycle that processors repeat for each instruction?

Fetch the instruction Signup and view all the answers

How do processors typically communicate with devices connected to a computer?

By directing them through the control unit Signup and view all the answers

In what way does the control unit interact with the arithmetic logic unit during its operations?

The control unit directs the ALU to execute calculations Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not typically a component of a processor?

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a computer case?

To protect internal components from damage Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a multi-core processor?

A processor with multiple processing units on a single chip Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of adapter cards in a computer?

To facilitate the connection of external devices Signup and view all the answers

In what sequence do program instructions typically transfer in and out of memory?

Input, Processing, Output, Storage Signup and view all the answers

What is the Internet of Things primarily concerned with?

Enabling everyday objects to communicate over the internet Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a defining characteristic of a bit?

It represents the smallest unit of data in computing Signup and view all the answers

What function does a bus serve in a computer system?

To connect various components and allow data transfer Signup and view all the answers

What is a key advantage of cloud computing?

Provides access to data and applications from anywhere with an internet connection Signup and view all the answers

What do eight bits grouped together represent?

A byte Signup and view all the answers

Which type of memory does NOT lose its contents when power is turned off?

ROM Signup and view all the answers

What do the presence or absence of an electronic charge in a computer represent?

The on or off states Signup and view all the answers

What does volatile memory do when power is turned off?

Erases its contents Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a component of computer memory that stores instructions and data?

RAM Signup and view all the answers

How is memory size commonly measured in computers and mobile devices?

In gigabytes Signup and view all the answers

What happens to a byte when it is stored in memory?

It resides temporarily in a location with an address Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a type of nonvolatile memory?

RAM Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of an adapter card in a desktop or server system?

To enhance functions of a component or provide connections Signup and view all the answers

Which type of adapter card would you use to connect musical instruments to a computer?

MIDI Signup and view all the answers

What does a TV tuner adapter allow a computer to do?

View digital television broadcasts Signup and view all the answers

What kind of connectivity is enabled by a Bluetooth adapter card?

Wireless communication between devices Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a USB adapter in a mobile computer?

Enhances functions and connections to peripheral devices Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes a bus in a computer system?

A connection allowing devices to communicate with each other Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the number of bits a processor can interpret at one time?

Word size Signup and view all the answers

Which type of adapter card connects to a digital video camera?

Video capture Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Types of RAM

Two main types of RAM are Dynamic RAM (DRAM) and Static RAM (SRAM).

DRAM Variations

SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM): Synchronized with the system clock, much faster than traditional DRAM.
DDR SDRAM (Double Data Rate SDRAM): Transfers data twice per clock cycle, faster than SDRAM.
DDR2: Second generation of DDR, offers increased speed over DDR.
DDR3: Third generation, designed for multi-core processors, faster than DDR2.
DDR4: Fourth generation, faster than DDR3.
RDRAM (Rambus DRAM): Outperforms SDRAM significantly.

Memory Modules

RAM chips typically found on memory modules which insert into memory slots.

Processor Overview

The processor (CPU) executes basic instructions to operate computers.
A multi-core processor contains two or more separate cores within a single chip.
Components of a processor include a control unit and an arithmetic logic unit (ALU).

Processor Functions

The control unit orchestrates most operations, while the ALU performs arithmetic and comparison operations.

Machine Cycle

Processors repeat a set of four basic operations known as the machine cycle for each instruction.

Memory Categories

Memory systems store three primary types:
- Operating system and programs.
- Applications.
- Data being processed and resulting information.

Memory Addressing and Size

Each byte in memory has a unique address; the size of memory is typically measured in gigabytes (GB).

Memory Types

Volatile memory: Loses contents when power is off (e.g., RAM).
Nonvolatile memory: Retains contents without power (e.g., ROM, flash memory, CMOS).

Adapter Cards

Adapter cards enhance component functions or provide connections to peripheral devices (e.g., sound and video cards).
Expansion slots on motherboards accommodate adapter cards.

Types of Adapter Cards

Bluetooth: Enables Bluetooth connectivity.
MIDI: Connects to musical instruments.
Modem: Connects to transmission media.
Network: Provides network connections (e.g., Ethernet).
Sound: Connects audio devices.
TV tuner: Allows viewing of digital television.
USB: Provides connections to USB devices.
Video: Enhances graphics or adds monitor capability.
Video capture: Connects video cameras.

Plug and Play Technology

Allows the system to automatically recognize and configure peripheral devices upon installation.

Bus System

Buses facilitate communication between various internal and external devices.
Types include data buses and address buses.
Word size refers to the number of bits the processor can interpret simultaneously.

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Description

This quiz covers key concepts from Chapter 6 on memory, focusing on how program and application instructions are transferred in and out of RAM. Additionally, it explores the two common types of RAM: Dynamic RAM (DRAM) and Static RAM (SRAM), highlighting their characteristics and uses.