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220-1201 Practice Question: A user is building a new gaming PC and wants to…
A user is building a new gaming PC and wants to install 32 GB of DDR4 RAM in a dual-channel configuration. They have two 16 GB sticks. Which motherboard slots should they use to ensure dual-channel operation?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Slots 2 and 4 (alternating slots).
For dual-channel operation, memory modules must be installed in the correct slots, typically alternating colors or labeled as A2 and B2 (or slots 2 and 4) on most modern motherboards. This ensures the memory controller can access both sticks simultaneously, increasing bandwidth. The user manual or motherboard labeling is the definitive guide, but the common practice is to use the second and fourth slots from the CPU.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Slots 1 and 2 (adjacent to each other).
Why it's wrong here
Installing RAM modules in adjacent slots, such as 1 and 2, typically places both modules within the same memory channel. For dual-channel operation, modules must be installed in different channels to allow the memory controller to access them simultaneously. Consequently, this configuration would result in single-channel mode, significantly reducing the available memory bandwidth and hindering gaming performance.
- ✓
Slots 2 and 4 (alternating slots).
Why this is correct
For optimal dual-channel performance on most motherboards, installing RAM modules in slots 2 and 4 (often labeled A2 and B2) is the recommended configuration. These slots are specifically designed to activate the primary dual-channel mode, allowing the CPU's integrated memory controller to access both modules concurrently. This parallel access effectively doubles the memory bandwidth, which is crucial for demanding applications like gaming.
- ✗
Slots 1 and 3 (alternating slots).
Why it's wrong here
While slots 1 and 3 are indeed alternating and could potentially enable dual-channel mode, they are often designated as the secondary pair on many motherboards. Manufacturers typically recommend populating the primary slots (usually 2 and 4) first for optimal stability and compatibility. Using slots 1 and 3 initially might lead to reduced stability or require specific BIOS adjustments, making it less ideal for a new build.
- ✗
Any two slots will work; dual-channel is automatic.
Why it's wrong here
The assumption that dual-channel memory operation is automatic regardless of slot placement is incorrect. Dual-channel functionality requires specific slot pairings, as defined by the motherboard's design and the CPU's integrated memory controller. Installing modules in arbitrary slots will likely result in single-channel mode, which significantly limits data transfer rates and negatively impacts overall system performance, especially in gaming scenarios.
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Key term
CPU
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the main electronic brain of a computer that carries out instructions from software by performing basic arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output operations.
Key term
Motherboard
The main circuit board inside a computer that connects all components so they can communicate with each other and receive power.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This 220-1201 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 220-1201 exam.