Questions and Answers
Which case type should you select?
Which of the following motherboard form factors BEST allows for low-consumption power supplies?
Which of the following form factors does not have expansion slots on the motherboard, but instead uses a riser card for expansion cards?
What is the BEST method for using a newly purchased PCI card that doesn’t fit due to height?
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What is a valid type of power supply that separates multiple power circuits?
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What is the least expensive option for connecting an 8-pin PCIe connector?
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Which statements are true regarding power supply wattage? (Select TWO)
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What should you do if the voltage on the red wire of a 4-pin Molex connector is +5.1 volts?
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What should you do if the voltage on the yellow wire of a 4-pin Molex connector is +10.1 volts?
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Which of the following options are the MOST common voltages produced by the power supply? (Select TWO)
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What is the MOST likely cause of the computer hanging after POST when the date and time are incorrect in UEFI?
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What should you do to install a 32-bit application on a dual-core 64-bit processor?
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What feature allows a single Intel processor to run two threads in parallel?
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What does multi-core refer to in processors?
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What is a characteristic of a multi-processor system?
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Why might virtual machines run slowly on a single-core CPU configured to use hyper-threading?
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What is the purpose of a CPU socket?
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Which of the following BEST describes AMD and why you would select this option? (Select TWO)
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What should you try first if a new processor doesn't work and the computer beeps with no display?
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What actions would MOST likely rectify a processor upgrade issue when the computer beeps and shows no screen? (Select TWO)
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What can fix the issue of Windows only recognizing 3.5 GB of RAM from two 4 GB modules?
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What component will most likely need to upgrade to fully utilize a 64-bit processor?
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What is the MOST efficient cooling system to prevent CPU overheating?
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What is MOST likely causing a computer to automatically shut down after upgrading the CPU?
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Which computer design concept allows different manufacturer monitors to work with a desktop computer?
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Which device uses a female TRS connector?
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Which port type does a dot matrix printer with a 25-pin D-shaped connector connect to?
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How would you describe the connector that connects a computer to a projector with only a VGA port?
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What is a key feature of the DisplayPort interface?
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Which port should be used for a monitor that uses a digital interface?
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What is the best cable type for connecting a laptop to an LED TV for presentations?
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Which connector is used to attach a mouse to a modern PC system?
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How many pins are on a VGA connector?
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What is the term for a set of programs that acts as an interface between applications and hardware?
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What does multiprocessing refer to?
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What is multitasking?
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What is the concept of multithreading?
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What is the name of the operating system core feature that manages security and file systems?
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What are the features that improve Windows' visual appearance called?
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What Windows tool is used to browse the file system?
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Which items are likely to be displayed in the notification area of a Windows operating system? (Select two.)
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What component of Windows prompts the user for credentials to minimize unwanted software installations?
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Which operating system features include Cortana, Cloud storage, and Microsoft Store?
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What command starts a new Bourne-again shell (bash) session?
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What command displays the IP addresses and subnet masks on a Linux system?
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What command lists files and subdirectories in the current directory?
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What command would you use to get information about the usage and command syntax of ifconfig?
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Which command moves a file to a specified directory on a Linux system?
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What command displays the present working directory?
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Which command shuts down a system after 10 minutes and sends a message to users?
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What command allows a user with limited privileges to switch to root user?
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Which Mac OS feature allows installing Windows on a Mac computer?
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Which Mac feature is used for launching apps and switching between them?
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What scenario would require a technician to use the Force Quit feature?
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Which keyboard shortcut accesses the Force Quit feature on a Mac?
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What is the name of the Mac feature that uses finger motions for scrolling?
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What is the primary modifier key on Apple systems?
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What key is used on Apple notebooks to access the F1-F12 keys?
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Which key is primarily used for text document navigation on Macs?
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What key is used for application shortcuts and navigation on Mac keyboards?
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Which Mac features can be accessed through Mission Control? (Select three.)
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What feature could be used to find a forgotten spreadsheet in Mac OS?
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What is the first safety step before upgrading a video card?
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What should you do if a desktop computer has only a two-prong outlet for a three-prong cord?
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Which action could be most physically harmful when working with technology?
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How should one obtain Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for chemicals used in a shop?
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What is the purpose of an MSDS?
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What should you do if the fan in a 450-watt power supply is malfunctioning?
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What is the top priority when responding to emergencies and hazardous situations?
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Which methods are safe for lifting heavy objects? (Select two.)
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What type of cabling is best for communication in EMI-prone environments?
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Which methods help reduce static discharge when working on computer hardware? (Select two.)
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What provides the best protection against static electricity buildup in a computer repair environment?
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Where should the other end of an anti-static wrist strap be fastened? (Select two.)
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What should be done with non-rechargeable alkaline batteries after use?
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What is the best way to deal with old laptop batteries?
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Which components require special disposal procedures for environmental compliance?
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Which command displays a summary of how to use a command?
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What command displays extensive documentation about the command?
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Which command changes directories in the file system?
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What command copies files and directories to another location?
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Which command moves and/or renames files in the file system?
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What command deletes files and directories from the file system?
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What command displays the contents of a text file?
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Which command pauses the output of a text file display one screen at a time?
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What command displays the first few lines of a text file?
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What command shows the last few lines of a text file?
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Which command edits the contents of a text file?
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What command securely shuts down or reboots the system?
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What type of computer is also known as a notebook?
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What is an appropriate use for a supercomputer?
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What concept allows one physical computer to run multiple virtual machines?
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What is a hypervisor type 1?
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What is a hypervisor type 2?
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What type of computer design would allow upright placement on a desk with minimal space use?
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Study Notes
Computer Hardware Connections
- Standardization: Allows compatibility between devices, e.g., different manufacturer monitors working with a desktop.
-
Connectors:
- Female TRS connector: Used for speakers.
- Parallel port: Connects older dot matrix printers using a D-shaped 25-pin connector.
- VGA port: D-shaped with 15 pins, used for video projectors.
- DisplayPort: Supports simultaneous video and audio signals.
- DVI port: Required for connecting digital monitors.
- HDMI cable: Suitable for connecting laptops to TV for video and audio.
- USB port: Connects modern mice.
Operating Systems and Features
- Operating System: Acts as an interface between applications and hardware.
- Kernel: Manages security, file system, and application platform.
- Windows Aero: Enhances visual experience through effects and animations.
- File Explorer: Tool for navigating the file system in Windows.
- User Account Control (UAC): Prompts for permissions to minimize security risks.
Linux Command-Line Operations
-
Command for new bash session:
bash
-
Display network interfaces:
ifconfig
-
List directory contents:
ls
-
Access manual for commands:
man ifconfig
-
Move files:
mv widget.txt /home/fred
-
Display current working directory:
pwd
-
Shutdown command:
shutdown -h +10 message
-
Switch to root user:
su -
Mac OS Operations
- Boot Camp: Allows installation of Windows alongside Mac OS.
-
Force Quit: Use
Command + Option + Esc
to stop non-responsive applications. - Dock: Provides access to apps, Trash, and folders.
- Mission Control: Manages windows and desktops.
Technician Safety and Best Practices
- Disconnect power: First step when upgrading hardware.
- Use three-prong outlets: Ensures safe electrical connections for computers.
- Store batteries properly: Alkaline batteries can be trashed, while lithium-based batteries must be recycled.
- ESD precautions: Use ESD wrist straps and static shielding bags.
- Lift heavy objects correctly: Use legs, keep back straight.
Networking and Cables
- Fiber optic cables: Best option in EMI-heavy environments for network communication.
- Static electricity control: Maintain contact with chassis and use anti-static mats.
File Management Commands in Linux
-
Copy files:
cp
-
Delete files:
rm
-
View file contents:
cat
,less
,head
,tail
-
Edit files:
vi
-
Change directories:
cd
Computer Hardware Form Factors
- Micro-ATX slim tower: Ideal for compact desk setups.
- Mini-ITX: Supports low-consumption power supplies.
- NLX: Uses riser cards for expansions.
Power Supply Information
- Dual-rail power supplies: Balance load to prevent overload.
- Adapter solutions: Use when power supply lacks specific connectors.
Focus on Safety and Environmental Compliance
- Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS): Required for handling hazardous materials, obtainable online from manufacturers.
- Top priority: Ensure the safety of all individuals in emergency situations.### Power Supply Requirements
- A system's wattage requirement is determined by the highest wattage need of an individual circuit, not by the total number of devices.
- The formula for calculating wattage: W = V x A (Watts = Volts x Amperes).
- Lower wattage ratings allow power supplies to deliver more amps.
Testing Power Supply Voltages
- A voltage of +5.1 volts on the red wire of a 4-pin Molex connector indicates normal operation.
- If the yellow wire measures +10.1 volts instead of the expected +12 volts, the power supply is failing and needs replacement.
- Common voltages produced by a standard power supply include +12 V and +5 V.
Motherboard and Battery Issues
- A computer hanging after POST with an incorrect date and time usually indicates a failed motherboard battery.
Processor Compatibility
- A dual-core 64-bit processor can run 32-bit applications natively without special configuration.
- Intel's hyper-threading technology allows a single processor to run multiple threads simultaneously.
- Multi-core refers to multiple processors integrated into a single chip.
Multi-Processor Systems
- A multi-processor system features several processor sockets on its motherboard for enhanced performance.
Virtual Machines Performance
- Slow performance in virtual machines may occur if running on a single-core CPU with hyper-threading.
CPU Socket Definition
- A CPU socket serves as the connector between the microprocessor and the motherboard.
AMD Processors
- AMD processors typically use a Pin Grid Array (PGA) socket type and are generally less expensive than competitors.
Upgrading Processors
- Updating UEFI firmware is a recommended first step when experiencing issues after a processor upgrade.
- Beeping noises upon booting may indicate compatibility problems with the installed CPU.
RAM Recognition Issues
- Windows may only recognize 3.5 GB of RAM with a 32-bit version, even if 8 GB is installed; upgrading to a 64-bit version resolves this.
Operating System Upgrades
- Upgrading to a 64-bit processor generally necessitates an operating system upgrade for full utilization of the hardware.
Cooling Systems
- An effective cooling solution for CPUs involves using an active heat sink, thermal paste, liquid pipes, and fans to prevent overheating.
Computer Shutdown Issues
- If a computer shuts down unexpectedly after starting, the most probable cause is a lack of power to the CPU fan, not necessarily a virus or a faulty CPU.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your knowledge of CompTIA A+ concepts with these flashcards. Each card presents a scenario or question related to computer hardware and design principles, helping you prepare for the A+ certification exam.