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Difficulty: EasyRAM Types and Characteristics

A system builder is assembling a custom workstation using a motherboard designed exclusively for DDR5 memory. While attempting to install a spare desktop memory module saved from a previous build, the builder observes that the module will not seat into the slot because the keying notch on the module does not line up with the ridge in the memory slot. Which of the following explains why this memory module cannot be installed?

  1. The spare module is a DDR4 module, which has its physical keying notch placed in a different location than DDR5 modules.Answer
  2. B
    The spare module is a SO-DIMM form factor module intended for laptop motherboards.
  3. C
    The spare module was inserted into a single-channel slot rather than a designated dual-channel slot.
  4. D
    The spare module relies on an M.2 interface standard rather than a dual inline memory module edge connector.

Answer

The spare module is a DDR4 module, which has its physical keying notch placed in a different location than DDR5 modules.
DDR4 and DDR5 desktop memory modules feature physical keying notches in different positions along the edge connector. This physical keying ensures that users cannot accidentally install incompatible memory modules into motherboards designed for a different DDR memory standard.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the physical incompatibility described in the scenario.
The memory module cannot seat into the motherboard slot because the keying notch on the stick does not align with the notch in the slot.
RAM modules feature physical keying notches to prevent incorrect insertion and to block incompatible memory generations from being installed.
2
Compare RAM generation physical characteristics.
DDR4 and DDR5 DIMMs both feature 288 pins, but their physical keying notch is placed in different locations along the connector edge.
Because DDR4 and DDR5 operate at different voltages and signaling architectures, motherboards utilize unique notch positioning to enforce physical incompatibility.

Key Concept

RAM Generation Keying and Physical Incompatibility
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

RAM Types and Characteristics

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