- (Topic 1)
A technician is upgrading a faulty motherboard that was ordered by an end user for an old, high-end desktop computer. However, the technician is unable to install the CPU into the socket. Upon closer inspection, the technician notices the pins on the CPU do not line up with the socket. Which of the following would be the best course of action for the technician to take NEXT?
Correct Answer:
C
In this situation, the best course of action for the technician to take NEXT would be C. Verify the socket type and manufacturer. If the pins on the CPU do not line up with the socket on the motherboard, it is likely that there is a compatibility issue between the two components. The technician should verify that the socket type and manufacturer of the motherboard match those of the CPU to ensure that they are compatible.
- (Topic 4)
A graphic designer wants to upgrade to the fastest possible RAM for a desktop workstation. Which of the following types of RAM would be best for the designer to use?
Correct Answer:
D
DDR5 SDRAM (Double Data Rate 5 Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory) is the latest and fastest type of RAM for desktop workstations as of 2023. DDR5 SDRAM offers higher speeds, lower power consumption, greater capacity, and improved reliability than previous generations of DDR SDRAM. DDR5 SDRAM can operate at frequencies up to 8400 MHz, compared to 3200 MHz for DDR4 SDRAM, which means it can transfer data faster and more efficiently. DDR5 SDRAM also supports dual-channel memory, which allows two memory modules to work together and double the bandwidth. DDR5 SDRAM is compatible with the latest Intel and AMD processors that support the DDR5 standard.
The other options are not as fast or suitable for a desktop workstation. DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM, and DDR4 SDRAM are older and slower types of RAM that have lower frequencies, higher voltages, and lower capacities than DDR5 SDRAM. DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM, and DDR4 SDRAM are not compatible with the latest processors that support DDR5 SDRAM, and require different motherboards and slots. DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM, and DDR4 SDRAM are more suitable for older or budget systems that do not require high performance or memory-intensive applications.
References:
✑ The best RAM 2023: top memory for your PC1
✑ The best RAM for gaming 2023: Blazing-fast speeds for your PC2
✑ What RAM Speed Do I Need? [2023 Guide] - GamingScan3
✑ Crucial RAM Memory for Desktop Computers4
- (Topic 3)
Which of the following components houses the MX record?
Correct Answer:
A
The domain name system (DNS) is the component that houses the MX record. The MX record is a type of DNS record that specifies which mail server is responsible for receiving email messages for a domain name. VLAN is an acronym for virtual local area network, which is a logical subdivision of a network that allows devices to communicate as if they were on the same physical segment. DHCP is an acronym for dynamic host configuration protocol, which is a network protocol that assigns IP addresses and other configuration parameters to devices on a network automatically. SMTP is an acronym for simple mail transfer protocol, which is a network protocol that allows sending and receiving email messages over TCP/IP networks
- (Topic 4)
A user tries to turn on a computer but gets the following error message: Bootable device not found. The computer had no issues yesterday Which of the following is the most likely reason for this error?
Correct Answer:
A
The most likely reason for this error is A. The HDD is malfunctioning.
A bootable device not found error usually indicates that the system cannot access or detect the hard disk that contains the operating system files. This could be due to a physical or logical damage to the hard disk, such as bad sectors, corrupted partitions, or faulty cables. According to the web search results, some possible causes and solutions for this error are:
✑ Hard drive connection issue: Check the cabling and power supply to the hard drive and make sure they are properly connected12.
✑ Corrupt hard drive partitions: Use a Windows installation media to scan and repair the corrupt system files using the System File Checker (SFC) tool1.
✑ Damaged hard drive: Replace the hard drive with a new one and reinstall the operating system2.
✑ Incorrect boot sequence in the BIOS: Enter the BIOS or UEFI settings menu and change the boot order to make sure that the system drive is in the first position13.
✑ Damaged MBR (Master Boot Record): Use a Windows installation media to repair the Windows bootloader using the Diskpart tool1.
- (Topic 2)
A user who works with sensitive data has a computer configured with hard drive encryption The TPM is active and hosting the encrypted key. After an upgrade to the motherboard. RAM and video card the hard drive is not booting and data cannot be accessed from the hard drive. Which of the following should the technician do to enable the system to boot again and get access to the stored data?
Correct Answer:
C
After upgrading the motherboard, the TPM may need to be enabled in the BIOS in order to
access the encrypted key and boot the system. Enabling the TPM on the new motherboard should allow the system to boot and provide access to the encrypted data. References: CompTIA A+ Certification Exam Guide, 220-1001, Chapter 13
