Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 100%

A technician plans to upgrade a laptop's RAM from 4GB to 16GB. Which of the following should the technician do?

Rationale

Purchase the same architecture of RAM.

To ensure compatibility and optimal performance, the technician should purchase RAM that matches the architecture of the existing RAM, such as DDR3 or DDR4. This alignment guarantees that the new RAM will work seamlessly with the laptop's motherboard and existing components.

A (Purchase the same architecture of RAM.) CORRECT

This option is critical because different RAM architectures (like DDR2, DDR3, and DDR4) are not compatible with each other due to variations in speed, signaling, and electrical characteristics. By selecting RAM with the same architecture, the technician ensures that the new memory can operate alongside the existing RAM without issues.

B (Configure the laptop's BIOS settings for the RAM upgrade.) YOUR ANSWER

While some BIOS settings may need adjustments after a RAM upgrade, it is not a necessary step for all laptops. Many modern laptops automatically detect new RAM and configure settings without user intervention. Thus, this option is not a primary action the technician must take when upgrading RAM.

C (Purchase RAM with the same column address strobe latency.) YOUR ANSWER

While matching CAS latency can enhance performance, it is not strictly necessary for a successful RAM upgrade. Different RAM modules can still function together even if their CAS latencies differ, although they will operate at the speed of the slowest module. Therefore, this option does not directly address the most critical compatibility requirement.

D (Purchase the same brand of RAM.) YOUR ANSWER

Purchasing the same brand of RAM is not a requirement for compatibility. RAM from different manufacturers can work together as long as the specifications, such as architecture and speed, are matched. This choice emphasizes branding over the more important technical characteristics.

Conclusion

When upgrading a laptop's RAM, purchasing the same architecture of RAM is essential for compatibility and performance. While other factors such as CAS latency and brand may impact performance, they are secondary to ensuring that the RAM architecture aligns with the existing hardware. Proper selection facilitates a smooth upgrade process and maximizes the laptop's capabilities.

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