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Which two components are commonly replaced when a computer system with a newer motherboard is being upgraded? (Choose two.)

Which two components are commonly replaced when a computer system with a newer motherboard is being upgraded? (Choose two.)

  • RAM
  • hard disk drive
  • CPU
  • optical drive
  • CMOS battery
  • adapter card

The two correct components that are commonly replaced when a computer system with a newer motherboard is being upgraded are:

  1. RAM
  2. CPU

When upgrading a computer with a newer motherboard, it’s typical to replace the RAM and the CPU to ensure compatibility with the new motherboard. Let’s explore why these components are often replaced, the role they play in the system, and why the other options may not be as commonly replaced during a motherboard upgrade.

1. RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM is one of the most commonly replaced components when upgrading a computer’s motherboard. Different motherboards support different types and generations of RAM, so when a motherboard is upgraded, it often requires newer types of RAM that are not compatible with the previous setup.

Why RAM is Commonly Replaced:

  • Compatibility with Newer Memory Standards: Newer motherboards support different types of RAM, such as DDR4 or DDR5, while older systems may have used DDR3 or earlier generations. Each type of RAM has a specific notch placement and voltage requirement, meaning it cannot be used in an incompatible motherboard.
  • Improved Performance: Upgrading to a newer motherboard often supports faster RAM with higher bandwidth, allowing the system to run applications more smoothly. Replacing the RAM allows users to take advantage of the improved performance offered by the newer memory technology.
  • Higher Memory Capacity: Newer motherboards often support larger memory capacities, allowing for more RAM to be installed. Upgrading the RAM gives users the ability to improve multitasking and handle more memory-intensive tasks like video editing or gaming.

Example:

If the older system used DDR3 RAM, upgrading to a motherboard that supports DDR4 or DDR5 RAM would require replacing the old RAM with compatible newer modules.

2. CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The CPU is another critical component that is commonly replaced during a motherboard upgrade. Different motherboards support different generations of CPUs, and the socket type (the physical connector between the CPU and the motherboard) often changes with each generation of processors.

Why the CPU is Commonly Replaced:

  • Socket Compatibility: Each generation of CPUs is designed to fit into a specific socket on the motherboard. For example, Intel’s newer CPUs may use LGA 1200 or LGA 1700 sockets, while older motherboards may use different sockets like LGA 1151 or LGA 1155. Upgrading the motherboard typically requires replacing the CPU to match the new socket.
  • Performance Improvements: Newer CPUs offer improved performance in terms of speed, core count, and efficiency. Upgrading the CPU along with the motherboard ensures that the system can run modern software and handle more complex tasks.
  • Chipset Support: The motherboard chipset must be compatible with the CPU to ensure proper communication between the processor and other components. Newer motherboards are designed to support the latest CPUs, so upgrading both components together is often necessary.

Example:

If the older system had an Intel Core i5 processor using an LGA 1151 socket, upgrading to a newer motherboard with an LGA 1700 socket would require a newer CPU that fits the LGA 1700 socket, such as an Intel Core i7 or i9 of the latest generation.

3. Why the Other Options Are Not as Commonly Replaced

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

While the hard disk drive (HDD) may eventually be upgraded for performance reasons, it does not necessarily need to be replaced when upgrading the motherboard. HDDs use standard connectors like SATA or NVMe, and these interfaces are generally supported across multiple generations of motherboards. Therefore, it is common to retain the same storage devices during a motherboard upgrade unless the user specifically wants to upgrade to faster SSD storage.

Optical Drive

Optical drives (such as DVD or Blu-ray drives) are becoming less common in modern computer builds. If the system already has an optical drive, it typically uses a SATA connection, which is widely supported by most motherboards. Optical drives are not commonly replaced when upgrading a motherboard unless the user has specific needs, such as upgrading to a Blu-ray drive from a DVD drive.

CMOS Battery

The CMOS battery powers the motherboard’s real-time clock and retains system settings when the computer is powered off. It is not usually replaced during a motherboard upgrade unless it is old and no longer holding a charge. Most users will simply use the new CMOS battery that comes with the new motherboard.

Adapter Card

Adapter cards (such as network cards, sound cards, or graphics cards) may or may not need to be replaced during a motherboard upgrade, depending on the system’s requirements. Most modern motherboards have built-in support for essential functions like networking and sound, making additional adapter cards unnecessary. If the existing adapter card is compatible with the new motherboard (e.g., uses the same PCIe slot), it may not need to be replaced.

Conclusion

When upgrading a computer system with a newer motherboard, RAM and CPU are the two components that are most commonly replaced. This is because newer motherboards often require updated RAM standards (such as DDR4 or DDR5) and different CPU socket types that are not compatible with older processors. Other components, like the hard disk drive, optical drive, CMOS battery, and adapter cards, may not necessarily need replacement unless there is a specific reason to upgrade them.