Datasheet
Exam Essentials
79
Exam Essentials
Know the types of system boards. Know the characteristics of and differences between
ATX, micro ATX, NLX, and BTX motherboards.
Know the components of a motherboard. Be able to describe motherboard components,
such as chipsets, expansion slots, memory slots, and external cache; CPU and processor
slots or sockets; power connectors; onboard disk drive connectors; keyboard connectors;
peripheral ports and connectors; BIOS (firmware) chips; CMOS batteries; jumpers; and
DIP switches.
Understand the purposes and characteristics of processors. Be able to discuss the different
processor packaging, old and new, and know the meaning of the terms hyperthreading, multi-
core, throttling, microcode, overclocking, cache, speed, and system bus width.
Understand the purposes and characteristics of memory. Know about the characteristics
that set the various types of memory apart from one another. This includes the actual types of
memory, such as DRAM, which includes several varieties, SRAM, ROM, and CMOS, as well
as memory packaging, such as SIMMs, DIMMs, RIMMs, SODIMMS, and MicroDIMMs.
Also have a firm understanding of the different levels of cache memory as well as its purpose
in general.
Understand the purposes and characteristics of adapter cards and their ports and
cables. Familiarize yourself with the variety of expansion cards and integrated
components in today’s computer systems, as well as the ports they use and any cables
that connect to external devices.
Understand the purposes and characteristics of cooling systems. Know the different ways
that internal components can be cooled and how overheating can be prevented.
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