A technician has been asked to upgrade a processor and needs to do some research. The computer is just a couple of years old. What are two types of processor packages that could be used inside the computer? (Choose two.)
- GDDR
- LGA
- PCIe
- PGA
- ISA
The two correct answers are:
- LGA (Land Grid Array)
- PGA (Pin Grid Array)
When upgrading a processor in a modern computer, the technician must consider the type of processor package used by the motherboard. Two of the most common processor packages are LGA (Land Grid Array) and PGA (Pin Grid Array). These are the ways the processor connects to the motherboard via the CPU socket. Each package type has its own characteristics, advantages, and considerations that are important for compatibility and installation.
Let’s explore these two types of processor packages in detail and explain why they are relevant when upgrading a processor, as well as how they differ from other options like GDDR, PCIe, and ISA.
1. What is LGA (Land Grid Array)?
LGA (Land Grid Array) is a type of processor packaging that uses flat contact pads on the bottom of the CPU, which make contact with pins in the motherboard’s CPU socket. In this configuration, the pins are located on the motherboard socket itself, rather than on the processor, which helps prevent damage to the delicate pins during handling or installation.
LGA is commonly used by Intel processors, especially in their modern desktop and server CPUs. The LGA socket type is denoted by a number that indicates the total number of pins in the socket. For example, an LGA 1200 socket has 1,200 pins that make contact with the CPU.
Key Characteristics of LGA:
- Pins on the Motherboard Socket: The pins are located in the motherboard socket, while the processor itself has contact pads that touch the pins when inserted.
- Used by Intel Processors: Intel has adopted the LGA package for most of its consumer and server processors. For instance, popular desktop Intel processors like the Core i5, i7, and i9 typically use LGA sockets.
- Durability of the CPU: Since the pins are located on the motherboard socket, the processor itself is less prone to physical damage. However, care must be taken when installing the CPU to avoid bending the pins in the socket.
Popular LGA Socket Types:
- LGA 1151 (Socket H4): Used by 6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th generation Intel Core processors, such as the i3, i5, i7, and i9 series.
- LGA 1200: Introduced with Intel’s 10th and 11th generation Core processors.
- LGA 1700: Used by Intel’s 12th generation Alder Lake and 13th generation Raptor Lake processors, supporting features like DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0.
Why LGA is Important for a Processor Upgrade:
If the technician is upgrading a processor in a computer with an Intel-based motherboard, there’s a high chance that the processor will use an LGA socket. The technician will need to verify the socket type of the current processor (e.g., LGA 1151, LGA 1200) and ensure the new processor is compatible with that socket. Additionally, the motherboard must support the specific generation of Intel processors, as not all LGA sockets are backward compatible with older or newer CPUs.
2. What is PGA (Pin Grid Array)?
PGA (Pin Grid Array) is another type of processor packaging where the pins are located on the processor itself, and these pins are inserted into corresponding holes in the CPU socket on the motherboard. The PGA package is typically associated with AMD processors, especially in their desktop CPUs.
In this configuration, the processor has a grid of pins on the underside, which makes it more vulnerable to damage during handling, as bent or broken pins can render the processor unusable. However, PGA sockets are often praised for their ease of installation and removal.
Key Characteristics of PGA:
- Pins on the Processor: The pins are physically located on the processor, while the motherboard socket has holes that the pins fit into.
- Used by AMD Processors: AMD has widely adopted the PGA package for their desktop processors, such as the Ryzen and Athlon series. Most of their mainstream CPUs use PGA sockets.
- Processor Fragility: Care must be taken when handling PGA processors because the pins are fragile and can bend or break if mishandled. Special care is required during installation and removal to ensure the pins remain intact.
Popular PGA Socket Types:
- AM4 Socket: One of the most widely used sockets for AMD Ryzen processors from the 1st to the 5th generation, including models like Ryzen 3, Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7, and Ryzen 9. The AM4 socket has been widely adopted for desktop builds and supports various Ryzen series CPUs.
- FM2+ Socket: Used by older AMD A-series and Athlon processors, primarily for entry-level and budget desktops.
Why PGA is Important for a Processor Upgrade:
If the computer has an AMD processor, it will likely use a PGA socket, such as AM4. The technician needs to check the motherboard’s socket type and ensure that the new processor they plan to install is compatible with the existing socket. For example, if the current processor uses the AM4 socket, the replacement processor must also be compatible with AM4. Additionally, the technician must take extra care during installation to avoid damaging the processor’s pins.
3. Why Not GDDR, PCIe, or ISA?
The other options listed in the question, GDDR, PCIe, and ISA, do not represent types of processor packages, and here’s why:
GDDR (Graphics Double Data Rate Memory):
GDDR is a type of memory used in graphics cards (GPUs) and is not related to processor packaging. GDDR memory (such as GDDR5, GDDR6) is used to handle the high-speed data requirements of modern graphics rendering, but it has nothing to do with the physical form factor or connection method of a CPU.
PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express):
PCIe is a high-speed interface used to connect expansion cards (such as GPUs, SSDs, and network cards) to the motherboard. While PCIe is crucial for overall system performance, particularly for high-bandwidth devices like graphics cards and NVMe SSDs, it is not a type of processor package. CPUs connect to the motherboard via dedicated sockets (like LGA or PGA), not through PCIe slots.
ISA (Industry Standard Architecture):
ISA is an outdated type of expansion bus used in older computers for connecting peripherals and expansion cards. ISA was replaced by PCI and PCIe and is no longer in use in modern systems. ISA has no relevance to current processor packages or motherboard designs.
4. Comparing LGA and PGA:
When upgrading a processor, it is important to understand the differences between LGA and PGA:
- LGA (used by Intel):
- Pins are located on the motherboard, reducing the risk of damage to the processor.
- Typically used by Intel processors.
- Easier installation and handling compared to PGA.
- Socket types include LGA 1151, LGA 1200, and LGA 1700.
- PGA (used by AMD):
- Pins are located on the processor itself, making it more fragile and prone to damage.
- Typically used by AMD processors, especially desktop Ryzen CPUs.
- Requires careful handling to avoid bending pins.
- Socket types include AM4 and older models like FM2+.
Conclusion
When upgrading a processor in a modern PC, the technician should focus on the LGA (Land Grid Array) and PGA (Pin Grid Array) processor packages. These two types represent the most common packaging methods used by Intel and AMD, respectively. LGA is associated with Intel CPUs and places the pins on the motherboard socket, while PGA is associated with AMD CPUs and places the pins on the processor itself. Understanding the differences between these types and ensuring compatibility with the motherboard’s socket is crucial for a successful processor upgrade. Other options like GDDR, PCIe, and ISA are not related to processor packaging and are not relevant to the task of upgrading a CPU.