CompTIA A+ Essentials Practice Test (100 Questions)
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Which of the following is the best way to change which drive the computer first seeks when booting, so that the computer does not seek the A: drive as the first to boot from?
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Disconnect the floppy drive’s cable
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Change to SDRAM from RAM
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Change the Boot Order in CMOS
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Pull the Battery
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CompTIA A+ is an extremely important qualifying credential for roles in technical support and Information Technology operation. Some look at it as the first step in a successful career in computing. Do you have what it takes to acquire this credential? Take this quiz to find out!
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- 2.
Regarding USB devices, which of the following statements is true?
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Adding a USB device requires you to turn your computer off.
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Your computer does not need to be restarted in order to add a USB device.
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USB is a disappearing technology.
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USB devices can only be connected in large networks.
Correct Answer
A. Your computer does not need to be restarted in order to add a USB device.Explanation
USB devices are completely capable of being hot swapped, which means that you can add them and remove them without shutting down or restarting your computer.Rate this question:
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- 3.
On a computer that is running Windows XP, which is the local user which has the MOST authority?
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BCM User
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Network Configuration Operator
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Power User
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Administrator
Correct Answer
A. AdministratorExplanation
The Administrator user has the most authority because it is the account which is responsible for adding and removing services and users, creating group policies, changing security settings and so on.Rate this question:
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- 4.
What term is used for running your processor at a speed that is higher than the rated clock speed for that processor?
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Hyperdrive
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Turbo
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Overdrive
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Overclocking
Correct Answer
A. OverclockingExplanation
Manufacturers of processors will guarantee a specific rated clock speed for their processors. At your own risk, it is possible to run your processor at a faster rate, a process that is known as overclocking.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What do you have when two processors are combined into a single CPU together?
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A Dual Core Processor
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A 2-processor supporting motherboard
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A processor which can use 2 L2 caches
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A processor which can use 2 L1 caches
Correct Answer
A. A Dual Core ProcessorExplanation
Both Intel and AMD have released "dual core" processors, which are essentially comprised of two combined processors. Core processors are available both as "solo" or as "duo" or dual core versions.Rate this question:
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- 6.
When talking to a customer while acting as a service technician, what should you avoid?
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Listening to the customers.
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Giving respect to the customers.
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Interruptions of all kinds.
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Being polite.
Correct Answer
A. Interruptions of all kinds.Explanation
When acting as a service technician and talking to a customer, it is important to avoid interruptions of all kinds. This is because interruptions can disrupt the flow of the conversation and prevent the technician from fully understanding the customer's concerns or issues. By avoiding interruptions, the technician can give the customer their full attention and provide a more effective and satisfactory service experience.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following things is not a type of malware, or malicious software?
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Trojan Horse
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Worm
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Virus
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Hotfix
Correct Answer
A. HotfixExplanation
A hotfix is not a type of malware or malicious software. It is a software patch or update released by a software vendor to address a specific issue or bug in their software. Unlike malware, which is designed to harm or exploit a computer system, a hotfix is intended to improve the functionality or security of the software it is applied to.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which of the following arrows is pointing at a PCI slot?
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1
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2
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3
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4
Correct Answer
A. 1Explanation
The correct answer is 1 because it is the only arrow that is pointing directly at a PCI slot. The other arrows are not pointing at any specific slot.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which type of computer component is supposed to be inserted into an AGP slot?
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RAID Card
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NIC Card
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Sound Card
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Video Card
Correct Answer
A. Video CardExplanation
An AGP slot, or Advanced Graphic Port Slot helps to attain high performance levels and is derived from PCI specification. The AGP slot is only used for video card adapters.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which is the best network cable for high speeds and long distances?
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Shielded Twisted Pair Cable
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Fiber Optic Cable
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Unshielded Twisted Pair Cable
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None of the Above
Correct Answer
A. Fiber Optic CableExplanation
Fiber optic cables offer high speed and long distance connections.Rate this question:
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- 11.
If a user is reporting an issue that cannot be replicated with a technician onsite, what action should the technician perform in order to best troubleshoot the user’s issue?
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Ask a series of questions to the user which will narrow down the scope of the problem.
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Inform the user that the problem will be solved quickly.
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Inform the user that the problem is probably related to their training.
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Ask the user which websites have recently been visited.
Correct Answer
A. Ask a series of questions to the user which will narrow down the scope of the problem.Explanation
When a user reports an issue that cannot be replicated with a technician onsite, the best action for the technician to take is to ask a series of questions to the user. By asking specific questions, the technician can gather more information about the issue, such as when it occurs, what actions were taken before it happened, and any error messages that may have appeared. This will help the technician narrow down the scope of the problem and identify potential solutions or troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of the following arrows is pointing at the CMOS battery?
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1
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2
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3
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4
Correct Answer
A. 4Explanation
Your BIOS software resides on a ROM IC which is located on the motherboard and known as a CMOS, or Complementary Metal Oxide Semi-conductor. The CMOS ROM uses a battery in order to store information while the computer is off, and is non-volatile.Rate this question:
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- 13.
While dealing with a customer and acting as a service technician, what should you avoid?
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Using a pen to write down customer feedback
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Using simple words which can be understood
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Using jargon
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Using a paper to write down customer feedback
Correct Answer
A. Using jargonExplanation
When dealing with a customer as a service technician, it is important to avoid using jargon. Jargon refers to technical or specialized language that may be difficult for the customer to understand. Using simple words that can be easily understood by the customer is essential in providing effective communication and ensuring that the customer fully comprehends the information being conveyed. Therefore, using jargon should be avoided in order to provide clear and concise communication with the customer.Rate this question:
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- 14.
If you install an ATA/66 hard drive on a computer that is ATA/100 capable, what will happen?
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The computer will crash!
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The hard drive will function at the ATA/100 speed
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The hard drive will function at the ATA/66 speed
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The hard drive will not be recognized by the computer system.
Correct Answer
A. The hard drive will function at the ATA/66 speedExplanation
In order to get the maximum speed, the hard disk, the system chipset and the BIOS must all support the mode in question.Rate this question:
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- 15.
How can a user determine which Windows OS or Operating System is currently installed on the computer?
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Type 'version/info' under Start > Run
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Type 'version info/detail' under Start > Run
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Right Click 'Manage' under My Computer
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Right click 'Properties' under My Computer.
Correct Answer
A. Right click 'Properties' under My Computer.Explanation
By right-clicking on 'Properties' under My Computer, a user can determine which Windows OS or Operating System is currently installed on the computer. This action opens the System Properties window, which provides information about the operating system, including its version and other details.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The standard connector that is used for UTP Ethernet connections is which of the following connectors?
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DB-9
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RJ-45
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BNC
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RJ-11
Correct Answer
A. RJ-45Explanation
The correct answer is RJ-45. RJ-45 is the standard connector used for UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) Ethernet connections. It has 8 pins and is commonly used for connecting devices such as computers, routers, and switches to a local area network (LAN). RJ-45 connectors are designed to provide reliable and high-speed data transmission over Ethernet cables.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Where do you connect the red edge of a 40-pin ribbon cable to an IDE hard drive?
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IDE hard drive
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RAM
Correct Answer
A. IDE hard driveExplanation
The red edge of a 40-pin ribbon cable is connected to pin one on the IDE hard drive. If you fail to do so correctly, it may result in the hard drive being completely unable to communicate with your system.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which of the following utilities is used when partitioning a disk in Windows XP?
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System Configuration Utility
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Device Manager
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Disk Management
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Registry Editor
Correct Answer
A. Disk ManagementExplanation
Disk Management is the correct answer because it is the utility used in Windows XP for partitioning a disk. Disk Management allows users to create, delete, format, and resize partitions on a hard drive. It also provides options for assigning drive letters and setting up new volumes.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What effect does ESD or Electrostatic Discharge have on electronic components?
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It can cause them to shock you.
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It can cause them to fail.
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It can cause them to run faster.
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None of these.
Correct Answer
A. It can cause them to fail.Explanation
ESD, or Electrostatic Discharge, refers to the sudden flow of electricity between two objects with different electrical potentials. When ESD occurs, it can cause damage to electronic components. This is because the discharge can generate a high voltage that exceeds the component's tolerance, leading to the failure of the component. Therefore, the correct answer is that ESD can cause electronic components to fail.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What does PCMCIA stand for?
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Personal Card Memory Computing Internet Association
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Personal Computer Memory Card International Association
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Private Computing Memory Card International America
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People Can't Memorize Computer Industry Acronyms
Correct Answer
A. Personal Computer Memory Card International AssociationExplanation
PCMCIA stands for the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association, and is a type of expansion slot for lap tops.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Where does your computer get its first set of instructions while first booting up?
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RAM BIOS
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RAM
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Microprocessor
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BIOS
Correct Answer
A. BIOSExplanation
When your computer is first booting up, the first set of instructions that it receives upon boot up come directly from the BIOS.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which of the following components should be recycled rather than simply thrown away, due to highly toxic components?
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Laptop batteries
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Toner cartridges
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Ink jet cartridges
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Computer monitors
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All of these.
Correct Answer
A. All of these.Explanation
All of these components should be recycled rather than simply thrown away due to their highly toxic components. Laptop batteries, toner cartridges, ink jet cartridges, and computer monitors all contain hazardous materials that can pollute the environment if not disposed of properly. Recycling these components ensures that the toxic components are safely extracted and that the materials can be reused, reducing the environmental impact.Rate this question:
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- 23.
What does the acronym MSDS stand for?
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Material Safety Design Sheets
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Material Security Design Sheets
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Material Safety Data Sheets
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Material Sensitivity Data Sheets
Correct Answer
A. Material Safety Data SheetsExplanation
MSDS stands for Material Safety Data Sheets. These sheets provide detailed information about the potential hazards and safety precautions associated with a particular material or chemical. They include information on the composition, physical and chemical properties, handling and storage procedures, emergency response measures, and disposal guidelines. MSDSs are important tools for ensuring the safe handling and use of materials in various industries, such as manufacturing, construction, and healthcare.Rate this question:
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- 24.
If a user reports that their computer continues to freeze, what piece of information should the technician first obtain from the user?
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The model number for the computer in question.
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The Windows Error Reporting Log.
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What type of machine is being used.
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What the user was doing when the problem presented itself.
Correct Answer
A. What the user was doing when the problem presented itself.Explanation
To troubleshoot the issue of a computer freezing, the technician should first obtain information about what the user was doing when the problem occurred. This information can help identify any specific actions, programs, or settings that may be causing the freeze. By understanding the context in which the freeze occurs, the technician can narrow down the potential causes and provide more targeted solutions. Obtaining the model number, Windows Error Reporting Log, or type of machine being used may be helpful in certain cases, but understanding the user's actions is the most crucial piece of information for initial troubleshooting.Rate this question:
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- 25.
If your power supply’s fan no longer works, what is the best course of action?
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Replace the Fan
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Oil the Fan
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Replace the Entire Power Supply
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Open Up the Power Supply
Correct Answer
A. Replace the Entire Power SupplyExplanation
If your power supply's fan is no longer working, replacing the entire power supply is the best course of action. The power supply should never be opened up for any reason.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which of the following will allow you to access your CompactFlash card directly from your PC?
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USB Port
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Thumb Drive
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Scanner
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Card Reader
Correct Answer
A. Card ReaderExplanation
Card readers plug directly into your computer via a USB port, and will allow you to insert your flash card to access all of your data directly on your PC.Rate this question:
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- 27.
If an older printer is currently connected using a parallel port, which of the following connectors is most likely to be used on the computer’s parallel port?
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DB-25 pin connector
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DB-9 pin connector
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DB-37 connector
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DB-50 connector
Correct Answer
A. DB-25 pin connectorExplanation
The most likely connector to be used on the computer's parallel port for an older printer is the DB-25 pin connector. This is because the DB-25 pin connector is commonly used for parallel ports and is compatible with older printer models. The other connector options listed (DB-9 pin, DB-37, DB-50) are not typically used for parallel ports and are less likely to be used in this scenario.Rate this question:
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- 28.
If a technician is working to diagnose a customer's computer issue, and they observe that the computer is behaving in a sluggish and unresponsive way, which of the following actions should be taken by the technician?
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Explain that the computer is outdated and needs to be taken in to the shop in order to be repaired.
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Explain the problem to the customer and show them how to defragment the computer.
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Explain the problem to the customer in the most basic terms, and recommend a solution.
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Perform a system restore on the computer.
Correct Answer
A. Explain the problem to the customer in the most basic terms, and recommend a solution.Explanation
The correct answer is to explain the problem to the customer in the most basic terms and recommend a solution. This is the appropriate action because the technician should communicate the issue to the customer in a clear and understandable way. By explaining the problem in basic terms, the technician can ensure that the customer understands the issue and can make an informed decision on how to proceed. Additionally, by recommending a solution, the technician can provide guidance on how to resolve the sluggish and unresponsive behavior of the computer.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which of the following is NOT a common type of computer connector?
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USB
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HDMI
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RJ45
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CVT
Correct Answer
A. CVTExplanation
CVT stands for Continuously Variable Transmission, which is a type of automotive transmission, not a computer connector. USB (Universal Serial Bus), HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), and RJ45 (Registered Jack 45) are widely used for connecting various peripherals and devices to computers.Rate this question:
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- 30.
If you have a system with 2 IDE controllers, how many hard drives can you have?
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4
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2
Correct Answer
A. 4Explanation
IDE controllers are capable of supporting up to 2 hard drives. For two IDE controllers, four hard drives can be supported.Rate this question:
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- 31.
What two types of partitions can be found on basic disks?
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Primary and Extended
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Primary and Expanded
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First and Second
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Primary and Secondary
Correct Answer
A. Primary and ExtendedExplanation
The two types of partitions on basic disks are primary and extended.Rate this question:
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- 32.
A hard disk drive's multiple disks are known as:
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Sectors
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Spindles
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Platters
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Cartridges
Correct Answer
A. PlattersExplanation
A hard disk drive's multiple disks are known as platters. Platters are circular, flat discs coated with a magnetic material that store data in the form of magnetized regions. These platters are stacked on a spindle and rotate at high speeds when the hard drive is in use. The data is read and written to the platters using read/write heads that move across the surface of the platters. Therefore, platters are the correct term for the multiple disks in a hard disk drive.Rate this question:
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- 33.
If you are rebooting a computer which was recently upgraded, and each time you reboot you hear a single short beep, what is the computer trying to tell you?
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BAD CPU
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Bad Hard Drive
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Bad RAM
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Nothing is Wrong
Correct Answer
A. Nothing is WrongExplanation
A single short beep is actually the computer's way of telling you that everything is fine!Rate this question:
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- 34.
If you receive a parity error every time that you turn your computer on, what is the most likely cause?
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Your RAM is bad
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Your motherboard needs replacing
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Your hard drive needs reformatting
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Your CMOS battery is low
Correct Answer
A. Your RAM is badExplanation
RAM does occasionally misfire, and is capable of making mistakes. This is not typically a big deal for a home user, but it can be for applications that are mission critical in nature. Parity checking is responsible for adding more to the data used for error detection by the MCC. Parity RAM cannot correct errors, and may not always catch them.Rate this question:
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- 35.
What is the first and most important step in the process of avoiding accidents by identifying potential hazards?
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Read all available MSDS information.
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Read warning labels on software boxes.
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Wear protective googles when servicing computers.
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Avoid handling inkjet cartridges with bare hands.
Correct Answer
A. Read all available MSDS information.Explanation
The first and most important step in the process of avoiding accidents by identifying potential hazards is to read all available MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) information. MSDS provides important information about the potential hazards of a substance or product, including safety precautions, handling instructions, and emergency procedures. By reading and understanding the MSDS information, individuals can be aware of the potential hazards associated with a substance or product and take necessary precautions to avoid accidents.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Which of these modes requires the least amount of time to boot up in order to retrieve a previous computing session?
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Shutdown
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Hibernate
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Standby
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Restart
Correct Answer
A. StandbyExplanation
The standby mode requires the least amount of time to boot up in order to retrieve a previous computing session. In standby mode, the computer is still powered on but most of its components are turned off or put into a low-power state. This allows the computer to quickly resume from where it left off, as it does not need to go through the entire boot-up process like in the other modes.Rate this question:
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- 37.
If you plug a third-party adapter outputting alternating (ac) current directly into a laptop computer, which of the following will likely happen?
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The laptop will boot up in safe mode.
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The laptop will start but the battery will not be charged.
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Components of the laptop will be damaged.
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The laptop's processor will overclock.
Correct Answer
A. Components of the laptop will be damaged.Explanation
Plugging a third-party adapter outputting alternating current directly into a laptop computer can cause damage to the components of the laptop. This is because the laptop is designed to receive direct current (DC) from its original adapter, and an AC current can overload and damage the internal components.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The first physical sector for any bootable hard disk contains which of the following things?
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The File Structure
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The Data Structure
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The MBR
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The LBR
Correct Answer
A. The MBRExplanation
The first physical sector for any bootable hard disk contains the MBR, or Master Boot Record.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Which is not an example of a type of network?
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LAN
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WAN
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MAN
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NAN
Correct Answer
A. NANExplanation
NAN is not a type of network. LAN is a Local Area Network, WAN is a Wide Area Network and MAN is a Metropolitan Area Network.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Proxy servers act as an intermediary between what and what?
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Print Servers and Computers
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Local Area Network Clients and The Internet
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The Internet and Different Domains
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Local Area Network Clients and Print Servers
Correct Answer
A. Local Area Network Clients and The InternetExplanation
Proxy servers act as an intermediary between Local Area Network Clients and The Internet. A proxy server receives requests from clients on the LAN and forwards them to the internet, acting as a middleman. It can also cache data from the internet and provide it to clients, improving performance and reducing bandwidth usage. Additionally, proxy servers can enhance security by filtering and blocking certain requests, protecting the LAN clients from potential threats on the internet.Rate this question:
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- 41.
Which of the following is the range for blue tooth headsets?
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20 meters
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50 meters
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100 meters
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10 meters
Correct Answer
A. 10 metersExplanation
The range for Bluetooth headsets is typically around 10 meters. Bluetooth technology uses radio waves to transmit data, and the range is limited by the power of the radio signal. In most cases, Bluetooth devices need to be within close proximity to maintain a strong and stable connection. Therefore, the range for Bluetooth headsets is usually around 10 meters, allowing for convenient wireless communication between the headset and the device it is paired with.Rate this question:
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- 42.
Which of the following is used in order to boost an analog signal?
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Amplifier
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Multiplexer
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Booster
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Demodulator
Correct Answer
A. AmplifierExplanation
An amplifier is used to boost an analog signal. It increases the amplitude of the signal, thereby increasing its strength and making it easier to transmit or process. Amplifiers are commonly used in audio systems, telecommunications, and other applications where a weak signal needs to be strengthened for better performance.Rate this question:
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- 43.
If while trying to print a document, your client receives garbage characters, which of the following questions should be asked of the client to diagnose the problem?
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Do you have a sample of the characters?
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What applications are in use?
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Where is your printer located?
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How often and when is the problem occurring?
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All of the above.
Correct Answer
A. All of the above.Explanation
All of the above questions should be asked of the client to diagnose the problem. By asking if the client has a sample of the characters, it can help identify if the issue is with the document itself or with the printing process. Inquiring about the applications in use can help determine if the problem is specific to a certain program or if it occurs with all applications. Asking where the printer is located can help identify if there are any environmental factors that could be affecting the printing. Lastly, asking about the frequency and timing of the problem can provide insights into any patterns or potential causes.Rate this question:
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- 44.
What does the acronym TFT stand for?
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Transcribing Foreign Text
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Thin Film Transistor
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True Focal Tone
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Trans-axial Filament Technology
Correct Answer
A. Thin Film TransistorExplanation
TFTs or thin film transistors are a special kind of field effect transistor which are made by depositing thin films for the metallic contacts, the semiconductor active layer and the dielectric layer.Rate this question:
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- 45.
WEP is used both as the data link, and as what layers of the OSI model?
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Application Layers
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Presentation Layers
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Network Layers
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Physical Layers
Correct Answer
A. Network LayersExplanation
WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) is a security protocol used to encrypt data on wireless networks. It operates at the data link layer of the OSI model, providing security for the network layer. This means that it protects the data being transmitted over the network by encrypting it at the network layer. Therefore, WEP is used at both the data link layer and the network layer of the OSI model.Rate this question:
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- 46.
What is the name of the process that is responsible for verifying who sent a message?
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Hashing
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Encryption
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Cryptography
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Digital Signing
Correct Answer
A. Digital SigningExplanation
Public key cryptography can provide a reliable method for digital signing by using public and private key pairs.Rate this question:
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- 47.
When loading safe mode, which files are loaded?
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The Keyboard, the SVGA Driver, The Mouse
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The Keyboard, the VGA Driver, the Sound Card
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The Keyboard, the Mouse, the VGA Driver
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Everything BUT the Video Drivers
Correct Answer
A. The Keyboard, the Mouse, the VGA DriverExplanation
When loading safe mode, the system only loads essential drivers and services to troubleshoot and diagnose any issues. The safe mode is designed to start the computer with a minimal set of drivers and services, which helps to identify and fix problems that may occur during the normal startup process. In this case, the keyboard, the mouse, and the VGA driver are loaded because they are necessary for basic functionality and display. The other options either include unnecessary drivers or exclude essential ones.Rate this question:
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- 48.
Which of the following types of PCMCIA cards is used when working with expansion devices like network interface cards?
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II PCMCIA
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I PCMCIA
Correct Answer
A. II PCMCIAExplanation
Type II PCMCIA cards are mostly used when it comes to network and modem interface cards. These are the most common PC card types and are 5mm thick.Rate this question:
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- 49.
Which of the following of these expansion interfaces can be used in order for you to plug a wireless adapter in for providing wireless network access to a laptop computer?
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Serial
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PCMCIA
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PCI
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LAN
Correct Answer
A. PCMCIAExplanation
PCMCIA is a universal input/output interface for external components.Rate this question:
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Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Jan 10, 2025 +
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Current Version
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Jan 10, 2025Quiz Edited by
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Sep 13, 2007Quiz Created by
Vaibhav Agarwal
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