Supporting Processors and Upgrading Memory

Processor

Central component determining computing power in systems.

Intel

Major processor manufacturer known for various families.

AMD

Processor manufacturer popular in gaming and hobbyist markets.

Processor Speed

Rate at which a processor executes instructions.

Lithography

Manufacturing process size, affecting performance and power.

Socket

Physical interface for connecting processor to motherboard.

Chipset

Set of components managing data flow between processor and peripherals.

Multiprocessing

Using multiple processors to execute tasks simultaneously.

Multithreading

Single processor executing multiple threads concurrently.

Multicore Processing

Multiple processing units within a single processor.

Dual Processors

System using two separate processors for increased performance.

Memory Cache

Small, fast memory storing frequently accessed data.

Virtualization Support

Processor capability to run multiple operating systems.

Overclocking

Increasing processor speed beyond manufacturer specifications.

Hybrid Processors

Processors supporting both 32-bit and 64-bit architectures.

64-bit Processors

Processors capable of handling 64-bit data.

Intel Core i3

Entry-level processor for desktops and laptops.

Intel Core i5

Mainstream processor for desktops and laptops.

Intel Core i7

High-end processor for demanding applications.

Intel Core i9

Top-tier processor for high-performance desktops.

ARM Processors

Low power processors used in mobile devices.

Thermal Compound

Material applied to improve heat transfer from CPU.

ESD Strap

Wristband preventing electrostatic discharge during installation.

Socket Lever

Used to secure or release the processor.

Socket Load Plate

Raises when the socket lever is lifted.

Processor Protective Cover

Removed before installing the processor.

Processor Alignment Notches

Align with socket posts for correct installation.

Thermal Compound

Applied to enhance heat transfer from processor.

Cooler Assembly

Installed on top of the processor for cooling.

Cooler Posts

Support the cooler assembly during installation.

4-Pin CPU Fan Header

Connects cooler fan power to the motherboard.

BIOS/UEFI Setup

Used to verify processor recognition by the system.

AMD Processor Installation

Requires aligning pins with socket holes.

Intel Processor Installation

Involves pushing down lever to lock processor.

Clipping Mechanism

Secures the cooler in place on the processor.

Heavy Coolers

May require a plate under the motherboard.

Lighter Coolers

Use locking pins turned counter-clockwise.

Processor Pins

Must sit slightly into socket holes.

Cooling Assembly Replacement Parts

Includes processor and thermal compound.

Processor Notches

Ensure correct orientation during installation.

Power Cable Reusability

Can be reused when replacing a processor.

Thermal Compound Application

May be pre-applied or need manual application.

Processor Installation Verification

Check alignment using gold triangle and right-angle mark.

Socket Orientation

Align processor with four empty pin positions.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

Temporarily holds data and instructions for CPU.

Dynamic RAM (DRAM)

Loses data quickly; requires frequent refreshing.

DIMM

Dual inline memory module for desktops.

SO-DIMM

Small outline DIMM used in laptops.

DDR

Double Data Rate; faster than earlier DIMMs.

DDR3

Uses 240 pins; incompatible with other DIMMs.

DDR4

Faster, uses 288 pins, single notch design.

DDR5

Faster than DDR4; offers 64 Gb DRAM.

Memory Channels

Single, dual, triple, or quad configurations.

Single Channel

Access one DIMM at a time.

Dual Channel

Access two DIMMs simultaneously, doubling speed.

Triple Channel

Access three DIMMs at once.

Quad Channel

Access four DIMMs simultaneously.

ECC

Error-correcting code for reliability in DIMMs.

CAS Latency

Measures timing for reading/writing data.

Buffering

Holds data to amplify signal before writing.

Registered DIMM (RDIMM)

Uses registers to improve server performance.

Virtual RAM

Uses hard drive space to enhance RAM.

Pagefile.sys

File for storing virtual memory in Windows.

Memory Upgrade

Adding RAM to improve system performance.

Insufficient Memory Error

Occurs when RAM is inadequate for tasks.

DIMM Speed Measurement

Measured in MHz or PC rating.

PC Rating Calculation

Speed x 8 bytes for bandwidth.

Motherboard Color-Coding

Indicates DIMM slot configuration for channels.

DIMM Capacity Factors

Includes channels, RAM amount, speed, and features.

Motherboard Limitations

Determines maximum supported memory capacity.

32-bit Windows Memory Limit

Supports up to 4 GB of RAM.

64-bit Windows Memory Requirement

Requires 2 GB for installation.

Windows 10 Pro Memory Support

Can support up to 2 TB of RAM.

DIMM Module

Dual In-line Memory Module used in computers.

Memory Slot Identification

Check slots for type and capacity.

Memory Module Manufacturer

Brand that produces memory components.

Dual Channel Configuration

Requires matching DIMMs for optimal performance.

Triple Channel Configuration

Uses three matching DIMMs for efficiency.

Buffered Memory

Memory with additional buffering for stability.

Unbuffered Memory

Standard memory without buffering.

Memory Speed Mixing

All modules perform at the slowest speed.

ESD Strap

Prevents electrostatic discharge during installation.

BIOS/UEFI

Firmware interface to verify memory recognition.

Memory Installation Precautions

Handle modules carefully and avoid connectors.

Laptop Memory Upgrade

Ensure compatibility with laptop specifications.

DIMM Orientation

Use notches for correct installation alignment.

Power Off Procedure

Turn off and unplug before installation.

Memory Research Tools

Websites to match modules with motherboards.

Memory Module Imprint

Label showing specifications of the memory.

Motherboard Documentation

Guide detailing memory compatibility and limits.

Memory Slot Colors

Indicates type of memory supported by motherboard.

Memory Upgrade Process

Select, purchase, and install new memory.