Question 111 of 144
SK0-005 server-hardware-installation-management Practice Question
A server administrator is upgrading the RAM on a server that supports quad-channel memory architecture. They install four identical 16GB DDR4 ECC modules, but the server only recognizes the memory as operating in single-channel mode. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
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
✓
The DIMMs are not installed in the correct slots
Option C is correct because quad-channel memory requires DIMMs to be populated in specific, color-coded slots according to the motherboard's population rules. If the modules are not in the correct slots, the memory controller will operate in a lower channel mode. Option A is wrong because faulty modules would likely cause POST failures or memory errors, not simply a channel mode reduction. Option B is wrong because ECC support is not required for channel mode operation; it is an error-correction feature. Option D is wrong because while registered DIMMs are often used in servers, unregistered DIMMs can still operate in quad-channel mode if supported.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
The DIMMs are not installed in the correct slots
Why this is correct
Quad-channel mode requires DIMMs to be installed in specific slots according to the motherboard manual. Incorrect slot population results in lower channel modes.
- ✗
One of the DIMMs is faulty
Why it's wrong here
A faulty DIMM would typically cause POST failures or memory errors, not cause the system to fall back to single-channel operation.
- ✗
The DIMMs do not support ECC
Why it's wrong here
ECC is an error-correction feature and is not required for the memory controller to operate in quad-channel mode.
- ✗
The DIMMs are not registered (RDIMM)
Why it's wrong here
Many servers require RDIMMs for higher capacities, but unregistered DIMMs can still support quad-channel mode if the platform allows it.
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Last reviewed: Jul 26, 2026
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