FieldTechnician – Computing and Peripherals (FTCP)

A memory slot, memory socket, or RAM slot is what allows computer memory (RAM) to be inserted into the computer. Depending on the motherboard, there may be two to four memory slots (sometimes more on high-end motherboards) and are what determine the type of RAM used with the computer. The most common types of RAM are SDRAM and DDR for desktop computers and SODIMM for laptop computers, each having various types and speeds. (Will explain these in detail later) In the picture below, is an example of what memory slots may look like inside a desktop computer. In this picture, there are three open available slots for three memory sticks.

In computer hardware, a CPU socket providing mechanical and electrical connections between a microprocessor and a printed circuit board (PCB). This allows for placing and replacing the central processing unit (CPU) without soldering. For chips with a large number of pins, zero insertion force (ZIF) sockets are preferred  Zero insertion force (ZIF) socket wth  Pin Grid Array (PGA) Common sockets include Pin Grid Array (PGA) or Land Grid Array (LGA) . These designs apply a compression force once either a handle (PGA type) or a surface plate (LGA type) is put into place. Pin Grid Array (PGA) Chip Ball Grid Array (BGA) Chip This provides superior mechanical retention while avoiding the risk of bending pins when inserting the chip into the socket. Certain devices use Ball Grid Array (BGA) sockets, although these require soldering and are generally not considered user replaceable.

The main Circuit board of a computer is called motherboard. A motherboard usually includes: The CPU Chipset I/O Ports BIOS ROM Expansion Slots    Peripheral Controllers Motherboard is also known as "Main Board" or "System Board" Types of Motherboard: Figure: A Common Motherboard Types of Motherboard: There are two types of motherboard manufactured they are: Non-Integrated Motherboard (Old models) : In this type motherboards peripheral controller not included on the motherboard. Additional Boards (Add on cards) were installed in expansion slots as per requirement. For eg: Video Card, Sound Card etc. Integrated Motherboard (Latest Models): In this type of motherboards most of the peripheral controller cards are integrated on motherboard itself Chipset: A chipset is a motherboard component that includes the CPU and and Other Chips that supports basic functions of the computer. The two main chips in the chipse...