A processor can support a maximum memory of 4 GB where memory is word…
2019
A processor can support a maximum memory of 4 GB where memory is word addressable and a word is 2 bytes. What will be the size of the address bus of the processor?
- A.
At least 28 bits
- B.
At least 2 bytes
- C.
At least 31 bits
- D.
Minimum 4 bytes
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Correct answer: C
Approach: Find the number of addressable words, then take log base 2 to get the required number of address lines.
Total memory = 4 GB = 2^32 bytes.
Word size = 2 bytes, so number of addressable words = 2^32 / 2 = 2^31.
Number of address lines required = log2(number of words) = log2(2^31) = 31 bits.
Conclusion: The address bus must be 31 bits (so at least 31 bits).
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