DRAM refresh requirement (2118 device): All rows in a 2118 dynamic RAM must be refreshed ________.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: every 2 milliseconds

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
DRAM cells store charge on tiny capacitors that leak over time. To preserve data, each row must be periodically refreshed by re-reading and re-writing it within a device-specified refresh interval. Classical 16K × 1 devices like the 2118 provide a representative requirement.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Device: 2118 DRAM (16K × 1 organization, classic generation).
  • Refresh is row-based and must complete within a fixed window.
  • We assume nominal operating conditions.


Concept / Approach:
Historical DRAMs often require that all rows be refreshed within approximately 2 ms (some families use 4 ms or similar, but the 2 ms figure is typical for this class). Controllers satisfy this by distributing refresh cycles across time, ensuring that each row is accessed before its charge decays below a safe threshold.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Determine required interval: complete a full set of refreshes every 2 ms.Schedule refreshes by cycling through row addresses.Verify that normal accesses do not starve refresh timing.


Verification / Alternative check:
Datasheets specify maximum refresh interval per row set; meeting or beating that interval guarantees retention across the array.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Every second/millisecond/50 ms/200 µs: Either far too long (data would be lost) or unnecessarily short relative to the stated device requirement.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming refresh is optional; if missed, data corruption is inevitable in DRAM.



Final Answer:
every 2 milliseconds

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