Units (CPU), Expansions Slots and Random-Access Memory (RAM)

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Introduction

This project contains educational information on various components of


a computer. You will learn about different types of Central Processing
Units (CPU), Expansions slots and Random-Access Memory (RAM).
We will like to thank you before hand for reading our project.
TYPES OF RAM
SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM)
Almost all systems used to ship with 3.3 volt, 168-pin SDRAM DIMMs.
SDRAM is not an extension of older EDO DRAM but a new type of
DRAM altogether. SDRAM started out running at 66 MHz, while older
fast page mode DRAM and EDO max out at 50 MHz SDRAM is able to
scale to 133 MHz (PC133) officially, and unofficially up to 180MHz or
higher. As processors get faster, new generations of memory such as
DDR and RDRAM are required to get proper performance. This type of
ram comes in two forms they are: DIMMs and RIMMS

DDR (Double Data Rate SDRAM)


DDR basically doubles the rate of data transfer of standard SDRAM by
transferring data on the up and down tick of a clock cycle. DDR memory
operating at 333MHz 2 PC2100. It is incompatible with SDRAM
physically, but uses a similar parallel bus, making it easier to implement
than RDRAM, which is a different technology.

Rambus DRAM (RDRAM)


Intel has given RDRAM its blessing for the consumer market, and it will
be the sole choice of memory for Intel's Pentium 4. RDRAM is a serial
memory technology that arrived in three flavors, PC600, PC700, and
PC800. PC800 RDRAM has double the maximum throughput of old
PC100 SDRAM, but a higher latency. RDRAM designs with multiple
channels, such as those in Pentium 4 motherboards, are currently at the
top of the heap in memory throughput, especially when paired with
PC1066 RDRAM memory.
A picture of DRAM. Most RAM look like this.

What is an expansion slot


An expansion slot usually refers to any of the slots available on a
motherboard for PCI, AGP, ISA, or other format expansion cards.

A diagram of an expansion slot


Types of CPUs
There are two primary manufacturers of computer microprocessors. Intel
and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) lead the market in terms of speed
and quality. Intel's desktop CPUs include Celeron, Pentium, and Core.
AMD's desktop processors include Sempron, Athlon, and Phenom. Intel
makes Celeron M, Pentium M, and Core mobile processors for
notebooks. AMD makes mobile versions of its Sempron and Athlon, as
well as the Turion mobile processor which comes in Ultra and Dual-
Core versions. Both companies make both single-core and multi-core
processors.

Features
Each processor has a clock speed which is measured in gigahertz (GHz).
Also, a processor has a front side bus which connects it with the system's
random access memory (RAM.) CPUs also typically have two or three
levels of cache. Cache is a type of fast memory which serves as a buffer
between RAM and the processor. The processor's socket type determines
which motherboard it can be installed on.

Function
A microprocessor is a silicon chip containing millions of microscopic
transistors. This chip functions as the computer's brain. It processes the
instructions or operations contained within executable computer
programs. Instead of taking instructions directly off of the
hard drive, the processor takes its instructions from memory. This
greatly increases the computer's speed.
Considerations
If you're thinking about upgrading your processor yourself, you must
check your motherboard specs first. The CPU you install must have the
same socket size as the slot on the motherboard. Also, when you install a
new processor, you may need to install a heat sink and fan. This is
because faster processors produce more heat than slower ones. If you
fail to protect your new CPU from this heat, you may end up replacing
the processor.

Size
When it comes to processors, size matters. Whether you're buying a new
computer or upgrading your old one, you must get the fastest processor
you can afford. This is because the processor will become obsolete very
quickly. Choosing a 3.6 GHz processor over a 2 GHz today can buy you
several years of cheap computing time. Also check the speed of the front
side bus (FSB) when purchasing your new computer or CPU. A front
side bus of 800 MHz or greater is essential for fast processing speeds.
The processor's cache is also important. Make sure it has at least 1 MB
of last level cache if your computing needs are average. If you're an
extreme gamer or if you run intensive graphics programs, get the
processor with the largest cache that fits your budget. There can be
hundreds of dollars' difference between the cheapest processors and the
most expensive ones. However, investing just a little extra cash can get
you a much better processor.

Benefits
Getting a processor with a dual, triple, or quad core can make a
significant difference in the processing power of your computer. It's like
having two, three, or four separate processors installed on your computer
at one time. These processors work together to make your computer
multitask faster and with greater efficiency. Getting a CPU with a larger
front side bus can enhance the processor's ability to communicate with
RAM, which will increase your computer’s overall speed.

An AMD processor.

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