Hard Drives

1. SCSI supports simultaneous internal and external chains.

True

False

SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) is a standard interface used for connecting computer peripherals, such as hard drives and tape drives, to a computer. One of the advantages of SCSI is that it supports simultaneous internal and external chains. This means that devices can be connected both internally, within the computer, and externally, outside of the computer, using the same SCSI interface. This allows for greater flexibility in connecting multiple devices to a computer system. Therefore, the statement that SCSI supports simultaneous internal and external chains is true.

Explanation

SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) is a standard interface used for connecting computer peripherals, such as hard drives and tape drives, to a computer. One of the advantages of SCSI is that it supports simultaneous internal and external chains. This means that devices can be connected both internally, within the computer, and externally, outside of the computer, using the same SCSI interface. This allows for greater flexibility in connecting multiple devices to a computer system. Therefore, the statement that SCSI supports simultaneous internal and external chains is true.

2. Main PATA hard drives are customarily installed on the

Primary IDE channel

Secondary IDE channel

Neither channel

Although hard drives may be installed on either channel, the preferred practice is to place main boot drives as the master on the primary channel. Supplemental hard drives are usually installed as slaves on the primary channel. And, if room is available, as master/slaves on the secondary channel.

Explanation

Although hard drives may be installed on either channel, the preferred practice is to place main boot drives as the master on the primary channel. Supplemental hard drives are usually installed as slaves on the primary channel. And, if room is available, as master/slaves on the secondary channel.

3. CHS stands for

Capacity, Headroom, Sectors

Cylinders, Heads, Sectors per Track

CHS stands for Cylinders, Heads, Sectors per Track. This acronym is commonly used in the context of computer hard drives to describe the physical layout of data storage. Cylinders refer to the concentric tracks on the hard drive, heads are the read/write mechanisms that access the data, and sectors per track represent the subdivisions of each track where data is stored. Understanding CHS is essential for managing and optimizing hard drive storage and data retrieval processes.

Explanation

CHS stands for Cylinders, Heads, Sectors per Track. This acronym is commonly used in the context of computer hard drives to describe the physical layout of data storage. Cylinders refer to the concentric tracks on the hard drive, heads are the read/write mechanisms that access the data, and sectors per track represent the subdivisions of each track where data is stored. Understanding CHS is essential for managing and optimizing hard drive storage and data retrieval processes.

4. Drives in a SCSI RAID are hot swapable

True

False

SCSI RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) drives are designed to be hot swappable, meaning that they can be replaced or added to a system without shutting down the system or disrupting its operation. This feature allows for easy maintenance and expansion of the storage system without any downtime. Therefore, the statement that drives in a SCSI RAID are hot swappable is true.

Explanation

SCSI RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) drives are designed to be hot swappable, meaning that they can be replaced or added to a system without shutting down the system or disrupting its operation. This feature allows for easy maintenance and expansion of the storage system without any downtime. Therefore, the statement that drives in a SCSI RAID are hot swappable is true.

5. RAID can only be implemented in SCSI, not ATA.

True

False

ATA RAID controllers are available on the market.

Explanation

ATA RAID controllers are available on the market.

6. Division of a hard disk into separate areas of data is called __________.

Clustering

Formatting

Sectioning

Fragmenting

Partitioning

Partitioning divides a physical hard disk into separate smaller areas (partitions) which are independent of one another. Each partition comprises a group of cylinders, and because partitions are independent, each one may support its own distinct file system.

Explanation

Partitioning divides a physical hard disk into separate smaller areas (partitions) which are independent of one another. Each partition comprises a group of cylinders, and because partitions are independent, each one may support its own distinct file system.

7. Where is the boot sector located on a basic disk?

First sector

Second sector

Last sector

In the cache

The file allocation table

The boot sector is located in the first sector of a basic disk. This sector, also known as the Master Boot Record (MBR), contains important information about the disk's partition layout and the boot loader program. When a computer starts up, the BIOS or UEFI firmware reads the boot sector from the first sector of the disk and transfers control to the boot loader, which then loads the operating system.

Explanation

The boot sector is located in the first sector of a basic disk. This sector, also known as the Master Boot Record (MBR), contains important information about the disk's partition layout and the boot loader program. When a computer starts up, the BIOS or UEFI firmware reads the boot sector from the first sector of the disk and transfers control to the boot loader, which then loads the operating system.

8. You can install a PATA drive on a SATA cable because SATA is backward compatible with PATA.

True

False

PATA devices may be connected to SATA controllers by placing a "SATA bridge" in between the device and controller.

Explanation

PATA devices may be connected to SATA controllers by placing a "SATA bridge" in between the device and controller.

9. Sectors are typically

1.2 megabytes

256 kilobytes

512 bytes

512 kilobytes

1024 bytes

Minus any error correction bits, sectors typically contain 512 bytes.

Explanation

Minus any error correction bits, sectors typically contain 512 bytes.

10. Molex connectors have ___ pins

2

3

4

5

6

Molex connectors have 4 pins.

Explanation

Molex connectors have 4 pins.

11. ATA-1 supports up to ____ drives

2

3

4

6

8

ATA-1 is a standard for connecting storage devices to computers. It supports up to 2 drives, meaning that it can connect and communicate with a maximum of 2 storage drives simultaneously.

Explanation

ATA-1 is a standard for connecting storage devices to computers. It supports up to 2 drives, meaning that it can connect and communicate with a maximum of 2 storage drives simultaneously.

12. You're installing two drives on the same PATA interface cable. If you want to use cable select, the jumpers for the drive at the middle of the cable should be set to

Master

Slave

Cable select

Single

When using cable select, the jumpers for the drive at the middle of the cable should be set to "Cable select". Cable select is a feature that allows the computer to automatically determine the master and slave drives based on their physical position on the cable. By setting the jumpers to cable select for the drive at the middle of the cable, it ensures that the computer will correctly identify and assign the master and slave roles to the drives.

Explanation

When using cable select, the jumpers for the drive at the middle of the cable should be set to "Cable select". Cable select is a feature that allows the computer to automatically determine the master and slave drives based on their physical position on the cable. By setting the jumpers to cable select for the drive at the middle of the cable, it ensures that the computer will correctly identify and assign the master and slave roles to the drives.

13. Hard drives detect and correct errors by using

ECC

BCD

CCD

ECD

TLC

ECC (Error Correcting Code) is an extra series of bits within a sector which are used to perform Reed-Solomon coding. ECC enables the drive electronics to detect and recover any missing or incorrect bits resulting from defects in the recording medium.

Explanation

ECC (Error Correcting Code) is an extra series of bits within a sector which are used to perform Reed-Solomon coding. ECC enables the drive electronics to detect and recover any missing or incorrect bits resulting from defects in the recording medium.

14. CD-ROM drives and tape drives are customarily installed on the

Primary IDE channel

Secondary IDE channel

Neither channel

CD-ROM drives and tape drives are customarily installed on the Secondary IDE channel because the Primary IDE channel is typically reserved for the primary hard drive. The Secondary IDE channel allows for additional devices to be connected, such as CD-ROM drives and tape drives, providing more flexibility in the system configuration. This setup allows for efficient data transfer and organization between the primary hard drive and the secondary devices.

Explanation

CD-ROM drives and tape drives are customarily installed on the Secondary IDE channel because the Primary IDE channel is typically reserved for the primary hard drive. The Secondary IDE channel allows for additional devices to be connected, such as CD-ROM drives and tape drives, providing more flexibility in the system configuration. This setup allows for efficient data transfer and organization between the primary hard drive and the secondary devices.

15. SCSI devices must be terminated

At the ends of the chain only

In the middle of the chain only

At all points along the chain

At the host adapter

Termination should be done only at the ends of the chain. Most SCSI devices have termination built into them and can be enabled or disabled by a switch or jumper setting. Some devices can sense when they are the end of a chain and terminate themselves automatically.

Explanation

Termination should be done only at the ends of the chain. Most SCSI devices have termination built into them and can be enabled or disabled by a switch or jumper setting. Some devices can sense when they are the end of a chain and terminate themselves automatically.

16. You're installing two drives on the same PATA interface cable. If you want to use cable select, the jumpers for the drive at the end of the cable should be set to

Master

Slave

Cable select

Single

When using cable select, the jumpers for the drive at the end of the cable should be set to "Cable select". Cable select is a feature that allows the computer to automatically determine the master and slave drives based on their physical position on the cable. By setting the jumpers to "Cable select" on the drive at the end of the cable, it will be recognized as the master drive, while the drive connected in the middle will be recognized as the slave drive. This simplifies the installation process and eliminates the need to manually set the master and slave jumpers.

Explanation

When using cable select, the jumpers for the drive at the end of the cable should be set to "Cable select". Cable select is a feature that allows the computer to automatically determine the master and slave drives based on their physical position on the cable. By setting the jumpers to "Cable select" on the drive at the end of the cable, it will be recognized as the master drive, while the drive connected in the middle will be recognized as the slave drive. This simplifies the installation process and eliminates the need to manually set the master and slave jumpers.

17. On a basic disk, the first sector of the hard drive is called

The first partition

Cylinder 0

The boot sector

The partition table

The stripe

The first sector of a hard drive is called the boot sector. This sector contains the initial code that is executed when the computer starts up, known as the boot code. The boot sector also contains information about the file system and the partition table, which helps the computer locate and access the operating system. Therefore, the boot sector plays a crucial role in the booting process of a computer.

Explanation

The first sector of a hard drive is called the boot sector. This sector contains the initial code that is executed when the computer starts up, known as the boot code. The boot sector also contains information about the file system and the partition table, which helps the computer locate and access the operating system. Therefore, the boot sector plays a crucial role in the booting process of a computer.

18. How many read/write heads are there per platter?

1

2

3

4

Each platter has two read/write heads. One for each side of the platter.

Explanation

Each platter has two read/write heads. One for each side of the platter.

19. PATA connectors have

25 pins

36 pins

40 pins

50 pins

68 pins

PATA connectors have 40 pins. PATA (Parallel ATA) is an interface used to connect storage devices such as hard drives and optical drives to a computer's motherboard. The 40-pin PATA connector is used for IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics) devices, which were commonly used before the introduction of SATA (Serial ATA) technology. The 40 pins in the PATA connector include data pins, ground pins, and power pins, allowing for the transfer of data and power between the storage device and the motherboard.

Explanation

PATA connectors have 40 pins. PATA (Parallel ATA) is an interface used to connect storage devices such as hard drives and optical drives to a computer's motherboard. The 40-pin PATA connector is used for IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics) devices, which were commonly used before the introduction of SATA (Serial ATA) technology. The 40 pins in the PATA connector include data pins, ground pins, and power pins, allowing for the transfer of data and power between the storage device and the motherboard.

20. RAID 5 will restore a failed drive in its array by using

A recovery boot CD

Defragmenting

Distributed parity data

NT Backup

Mirroring

Parity data is special error-correction data that prevents unrecoverable data loss when a drive in the array fails. It bears a mathematical XOR relationship to the data being protected, and allows the RAID to reconstruct missing data by performing an XOR operation on the surviving data. The result of the operation is the missing data. RAID 5 stripes this parity data across the array to provide a good balance of performance and safety, making it the most popular RAID configuration today.

Explanation

Parity data is special error-correction data that prevents unrecoverable data loss when a drive in the array fails. It bears a mathematical XOR relationship to the data being protected, and allows the RAID to reconstruct missing data by performing an XOR operation on the surviving data. The result of the operation is the missing data. RAID 5 stripes this parity data across the array to provide a good balance of performance and safety, making it the most popular RAID configuration today.

21. PC hard drive air filters should be replaced periodically to prevent head damage

True

False

PC hard drives are sealed units. Their filters are designed to last for the life of the drive and cannot be changed.

Explanation

PC hard drives are sealed units. Their filters are designed to last for the life of the drive and cannot be changed.

22. ATA/133 runs at a throughput of

133 kbps

133 Mbps

133 MBps

133 kBps

13.3 baud

ATA/133 supports speeds up to 133 MBps (megabytes per second). When abbreviating, "bytes" is capitalized - "bits" is not.

Explanation

ATA/133 supports speeds up to 133 MBps (megabytes per second). When abbreviating, "bytes" is capitalized - "bits" is not.

23. RLL stands for

RLL stands for "Run Length Limited," which refers to a coding scheme used in data storage and transmission. This scheme limits the maximum number of consecutive identical symbols that can be encoded, reducing the likelihood of errors caused by long runs of the same symbol. The answer options provided are all variations of the same term, with different capitalizations, but they all convey the same meaning.

Explanation

RLL stands for "Run Length Limited," which refers to a coding scheme used in data storage and transmission. This scheme limits the maximum number of consecutive identical symbols that can be encoded, reducing the likelihood of errors caused by long runs of the same symbol. The answer options provided are all variations of the same term, with different capitalizations, but they all convey the same meaning.

Submit

24. Parallel ATA cables have a maximum length of

3 yards

18 inches

2.2 feet

1 meter

32 inches

Parallel ATA cables, also known as IDE cables, are used to connect storage devices such as hard drives and optical drives to the motherboard of a computer. These cables have a maximum length of 18 inches. This limitation is due to the fact that longer cables can cause signal degradation and data loss, affecting the performance and reliability of the connected devices. Therefore, it is recommended to use shorter cables to ensure optimal functioning of the system.

Explanation

Parallel ATA cables, also known as IDE cables, are used to connect storage devices such as hard drives and optical drives to the motherboard of a computer. These cables have a maximum length of 18 inches. This limitation is due to the fact that longer cables can cause signal degradation and data loss, affecting the performance and reliability of the connected devices. Therefore, it is recommended to use shorter cables to ensure optimal functioning of the system.

25. Partition tables on basic disks are limited to a maximum of ____ partitions.

2

3

4

64

Unlimited

Partition tables on basic disks are limited to a maximum of 4 partitions. This means that on a basic disk, you can create up to 4 separate partitions to divide the disk space. Once you reach the maximum limit of 4 partitions, you will not be able to create any more partitions on that disk.

Explanation

Partition tables on basic disks are limited to a maximum of 4 partitions. This means that on a basic disk, you can create up to 4 separate partitions to divide the disk space. Once you reach the maximum limit of 4 partitions, you will not be able to create any more partitions on that disk.

26. On ATA-5 cables, blue connectors are connected to ___________

Master drives

Slave drives

SCSI drives

SATA drives

The controller

The blue end of the cable plugs into either the motherboard or the drive controller card.

Explanation

The blue end of the cable plugs into either the motherboard or the drive controller card.

27. Each device in a SCSI chain requires

A terminator

A master/slave jumper setting

A unique SCSI ID

Matching SCSI ID's

In a SCSI chain, each device needs to have a unique SCSI ID. This is necessary to establish proper communication and prevent conflicts between devices. The SCSI ID is used to identify and address each device on the chain. Without a unique SCSI ID, the devices may not be able to function correctly or may interfere with each other's operations. Therefore, it is essential for each device to have its own distinct SCSI ID in a SCSI chain.

Explanation

In a SCSI chain, each device needs to have a unique SCSI ID. This is necessary to establish proper communication and prevent conflicts between devices. The SCSI ID is used to identify and address each device on the chain. Without a unique SCSI ID, the devices may not be able to function correctly or may interfere with each other's operations. Therefore, it is essential for each device to have its own distinct SCSI ID in a SCSI chain.

28. Cable select on PATA drives requires

ATA/133

A special cable that supports cable select.

Higher voltage

A standard 40-pin ide cable

Cable select on PATA drives requires a special cable that supports cable select. This is because cable select mode allows the drives to determine their own master/slave configuration based on their position on the cable. A regular 40-pin IDE cable does not have the necessary wiring to support this feature. Therefore, a special cable is required to enable cable select mode on PATA drives.

Explanation

Cable select on PATA drives requires a special cable that supports cable select. This is because cable select mode allows the drives to determine their own master/slave configuration based on their position on the cable. A regular 40-pin IDE cable does not have the necessary wiring to support this feature. Therefore, a special cable is required to enable cable select mode on PATA drives.

29. A hard drive must have a minimum of __________ in order to install an operating system.

8 megabytes of cache

One extended partition

4200 RPM

One partition

One master boot record

In order to install an operating system, a hard drive must have at least one partition. A partition is a logical division of the hard drive that allows the operating system to organize and manage data effectively. Without a partition, the operating system would not have a designated space to be installed on the hard drive. Therefore, having at least one partition is necessary for the installation of an operating system.

Explanation

In order to install an operating system, a hard drive must have at least one partition. A partition is a logical division of the hard drive that allows the operating system to organize and manage data effectively. Without a partition, the operating system would not have a designated space to be installed on the hard drive. Therefore, having at least one partition is necessary for the installation of an operating system.

30. In Windows 2000 and XP, what does the term "dynamic disk" denote?

A resizeable partition

A constantly changing partition

An advanced partitioning scheme proprietary to Microsoft

A drive containing multiple MBR's

A drive with more than one installation of Windows

The term "dynamic disk" in Windows 2000 and XP refers to an advanced partitioning scheme proprietary to Microsoft. This means that it is a specialized disk configuration that allows for features such as software-based RAID, spanning volumes, and fault tolerance. It provides more flexibility and functionality compared to basic disks, which have limitations on the number of partitions and lack advanced features.

Explanation

The term "dynamic disk" in Windows 2000 and XP refers to an advanced partitioning scheme proprietary to Microsoft. This means that it is a specialized disk configuration that allows for features such as software-based RAID, spanning volumes, and fault tolerance. It provides more flexibility and functionality compared to basic disks, which have limitations on the number of partitions and lack advanced features.

31. IDE drives feature built-in _________.

Serial connectors

Controllers

Termination

Power supplies

The controller (or drive electronics) on an IDE drive is built into the drive itself instead of requiring a separate controller card.

Explanation

The controller (or drive electronics) on an IDE drive is built into the drive itself instead of requiring a separate controller card.

32. SCSI-2 ID's are assigned from

0 through 15

0 through 16

0 through 32

1 through 15

1 through 36

SCSI-2 ID's are assigned from 0 through 15. This means that in a SCSI-2 system, each device can be assigned a unique ID ranging from 0 to 15. This allows for a maximum of 16 devices to be connected to the SCSI bus.

Explanation

SCSI-2 ID's are assigned from 0 through 15. This means that in a SCSI-2 system, each device can be assigned a unique ID ranging from 0 to 15. This allows for a maximum of 16 devices to be connected to the SCSI bus.

33. Partitions must be carefully planned ahead of time, because once Windows setup creates the partitions, they cannot be resized later.

True

False

You may resize partitions at any time by using commercial utilities such as Partition Magic or free open source utilities like GParted.

Explanation

You may resize partitions at any time by using commercial utilities such as Partition Magic or free open source utilities like GParted.

34. The CHS specification of a hard drive is known as the ________ of the drive.

Electrical rating

MTBF

Sector count

Geometry

Data format

The CHS specification of a hard drive refers to the Cylinder-Head-Sector addressing scheme, which is used to determine the physical location of data on the drive. This addressing scheme is based on the geometry of the drive, including the number of cylinders, heads, and sectors. Therefore, the correct answer is "Geometry."

Explanation

The CHS specification of a hard drive refers to the Cylinder-Head-Sector addressing scheme, which is used to determine the physical location of data on the drive. This addressing scheme is based on the geometry of the drive, including the number of cylinders, heads, and sectors. Therefore, the correct answer is "Geometry."

35. LBA utilizes ________ to support increased drive sizes

CHS

Zoned Bit Recording

Sector translation

ATAPI

RAM

Sector translation is utilized by LBA (Logical Block Addressing) to support increased drive sizes. LBA is a method used by hard drives to organize and address data. It allows the operating system to access data on the hard drive using logical block addresses instead of the traditional CHS (Cylinder, Head, Sector) addressing scheme. Sector translation is the process of converting logical block addresses to physical addresses on the hard drive, enabling larger drive sizes to be supported.

Explanation

Sector translation is utilized by LBA (Logical Block Addressing) to support increased drive sizes. LBA is a method used by hard drives to organize and address data. It allows the operating system to access data on the hard drive using logical block addresses instead of the traditional CHS (Cylinder, Head, Sector) addressing scheme. Sector translation is the process of converting logical block addresses to physical addresses on the hard drive, enabling larger drive sizes to be supported.

36. PC hard drives are typically sealed air-tight to prevent contamination

True

False

Although air recirculates within the sealed housing as the platters spin, they are not completely air-tight. There is a filtered breather vent that equalizes air pressure between the interior and exterior of the drive. The vent is designed for pressure equalization only - not circulation.

Explanation

Although air recirculates within the sealed housing as the platters spin, they are not completely air-tight. There is a filtered breather vent that equalizes air pressure between the interior and exterior of the drive. The vent is designed for pressure equalization only - not circulation.

37. Hard drives access RAM directly via

DMA

PIO

RLL

LBA

ECC

DMA stands for Direct Memory Access. It is a method used by hard drives to access RAM directly without involving the CPU. DMA allows data to be transferred between RAM and the hard drive without the CPU's constant involvement, reducing the burden on the CPU and improving overall system performance. This method enables faster and more efficient data transfers between the hard drive and RAM, making it the correct answer in this context.

Explanation

DMA stands for Direct Memory Access. It is a method used by hard drives to access RAM directly without involving the CPU. DMA allows data to be transferred between RAM and the hard drive without the CPU's constant involvement, reducing the burden on the CPU and improving overall system performance. This method enables faster and more efficient data transfers between the hard drive and RAM, making it the correct answer in this context.

38. An internal SATA power connector has ____ conductors.

4

7

15

25

50

An internal SATA power connector has 15 conductors.

Explanation

An internal SATA power connector has 15 conductors.

39. For a partition to be used for an operating system, it must be marked _______.

There is one and only one active partition. During setup, Windows marks the first primary partition as active by default.

Explanation

There is one and only one active partition. During setup, Windows marks the first primary partition as active by default.

Submit

40. On ATA-5 cables, black connectors are connected to ___________

Master drives

Slave drives

SCSI drives

SATA drives

The controller

Black connectors are located at the end of the EIDE ribbon cable, which is where master drives should be connected.

Explanation

Black connectors are located at the end of the EIDE ribbon cable, which is where master drives should be connected.

41. ATA-2 supports up to ______ drives

2

3

4

6

8

Unlike it's predecessor ATA-1, which supported only two drives, ATA-2 adds a second IDE channel to provide up to four drives (two per channel).

Explanation

Unlike it's predecessor ATA-1, which supported only two drives, ATA-2 adds a second IDE channel to provide up to four drives (two per channel).

42. SATA drives are

Daisy chained

Hot pluggable

Either master or slave

Terminated

SATA technology enables hot plugging and eliminates the concept of "master/slave". Devices are directly connected to the controller (one device per line), so they do not share cables like PATA. This also eliminates the daisy chaining and termination of older standards like SCSI.

Explanation

SATA technology enables hot plugging and eliminates the concept of "master/slave". Devices are directly connected to the controller (one device per line), so they do not share cables like PATA. This also eliminates the daisy chaining and termination of older standards like SCSI.

43. Molex connectors provide

Power to internal PATA hard drives

Power to internal SATA hard drives

Data to internal PATA hard drives

Data to eSATA hard drives

Molex connectors are used to provide power to internal PATA hard drives. These connectors are commonly found in older computer systems and are used to deliver the necessary power supply to the hard drive for it to function properly. SATA connectors, on the other hand, are used for data transfer between the hard drive and the motherboard. Therefore, the correct answer is that Molex connectors provide power to internal PATA hard drives.

Explanation

Molex connectors are used to provide power to internal PATA hard drives. These connectors are commonly found in older computer systems and are used to deliver the necessary power supply to the hard drive for it to function properly. SATA connectors, on the other hand, are used for data transfer between the hard drive and the motherboard. Therefore, the correct answer is that Molex connectors provide power to internal PATA hard drives.

44. In a modern hard drive, the number of sectors on the innermost track is _______ the number of sectors on the outermost track.

Greater than

Less than

Equal to

Early hard drives used simple radial "pie slices" as sector divisions. Thus, every track on the platter would contain the same number of sectors. To increase efficiency, modern hard drives now record data such that tracks near the outer edge of the platter contain more sectors than the innermost tracks. This scheme is called "zoned bit recording" or "ZBR".

With ZBR, the platter is not sliced radially. Instead, it is concentrically divided into groups of contiguous tracks called "zones". The tracks within a particular zone have the same number of sectors. As these zones radiate outward, the sector counts increase.

Explanation

Early hard drives used simple radial "pie slices" as sector divisions. Thus, every track on the platter would contain the same number of sectors. To increase efficiency, modern hard drives now record data such that tracks near the outer edge of the platter contain more sectors than the innermost tracks. This scheme is called "zoned bit recording" or "ZBR".

With ZBR, the platter is not sliced radially. Instead, it is concentrically divided into groups of contiguous tracks called "zones". The tracks within a particular zone have the same number of sectors. As these zones radiate outward, the sector counts increase.

45. ATA/66 cables have

40 wires

60 wires

80 wires

120 wires

7 wires

ATA/66 cables have the same number of pins as older 40-pin IDE cables, but require twice the number of wires to support the higher throughput (80 wires with 40 pins on each connector).

Explanation

ATA/66 cables have the same number of pins as older 40-pin IDE cables, but require twice the number of wires to support the higher throughput (80 wires with 40 pins on each connector).

46. An internal SATA data connector has ____ conductors.

4

7

15

25

50

An internal SATA data connector has 7 conductors. This is because SATA (Serial ATA) is a computer bus interface that uses a seven-pin data cable to connect storage devices such as hard drives or solid-state drives to the motherboard. The seven conductors in the SATA data connector are responsible for transmitting data between the storage device and the motherboard, allowing for high-speed data transfer.

Explanation

An internal SATA data connector has 7 conductors. This is because SATA (Serial ATA) is a computer bus interface that uses a seven-pin data cable to connect storage devices such as hard drives or solid-state drives to the motherboard. The seven conductors in the SATA data connector are responsible for transmitting data between the storage device and the motherboard, allowing for high-speed data transfer.

47. How many SCSI ID's are required for a SCSI chain consisting of four drives?

4

5

8

None

In addition to each drive having a SCSI ID, the SCSI host adapter itself also must have it's own SCSI ID.

Explanation

In addition to each drive having a SCSI ID, the SCSI host adapter itself also must have it's own SCSI ID.

48. Pin 1 on PATA and SCSI cables may be easily identified by

A notch

A sticker

A thicker wire

A colored stripe

The hard drive owner's manual

Pin 1 on PATA and SCSI cables may be easily identified by a colored stripe. This colored stripe is typically found on one side of the cable and helps to ensure that the cable is connected correctly. By aligning the colored stripe with Pin 1 on the device and the motherboard or controller, users can avoid any potential issues or damage that may occur from an incorrect connection. The colored stripe serves as a visual indicator for proper alignment and is a common feature on PATA and SCSI cables.

Explanation

Pin 1 on PATA and SCSI cables may be easily identified by a colored stripe. This colored stripe is typically found on one side of the cable and helps to ensure that the cable is connected correctly. By aligning the colored stripe with Pin 1 on the device and the motherboard or controller, users can avoid any potential issues or damage that may occur from an incorrect connection. The colored stripe serves as a visual indicator for proper alignment and is a common feature on PATA and SCSI cables.

49. Installing PATA hard drives and CD-ROMS on the same cable will

Make ripping faster

Degrade the performance of both devices

Accellerate writes from CD to hard disk

Damage the controller

Confuse the BIOS

It is almost always a bad idea to put a hard drive and CD-ROM on the same IDE cable. While no damage will occur, it could severely degrade the performance of both devices. Hard drive access might become sluggish and CD burning could take longer.

Explanation

It is almost always a bad idea to put a hard drive and CD-ROM on the same IDE cable. While no damage will occur, it could severely degrade the performance of both devices. Hard drive access might become sluggish and CD burning could take longer.

50. SATA and PATA drive channels are ___________ in modern CMOS settings

Primary

Secondary

Numbered

Lettered

Optional

In modern CMOS settings, SATA and PATA drive channels are numbered. This means that each channel is assigned a specific number for identification and organization purposes. This numbering system allows for easier management and configuration of the drive channels within the CMOS settings.

Explanation

In modern CMOS settings, SATA and PATA drive channels are numbered. This means that each channel is assigned a specific number for identification and organization purposes. This numbering system allows for easier management and configuration of the drive channels within the CMOS settings.

51. The original AT BIOS limited drives to

80 MB

504 MB

1 GB

234 MB

2 TB

The original AT BIOS limited drives to 504 MB. This means that the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) in the original AT (Advanced Technology) computers had a maximum capacity limit of 504 MB for hard drives. This limitation was likely due to the technology and storage capabilities available at the time the AT BIOS was developed.

Explanation

The original AT BIOS limited drives to 504 MB. This means that the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) in the original AT (Advanced Technology) computers had a maximum capacity limit of 504 MB for hard drives. This limitation was likely due to the technology and storage capabilities available at the time the AT BIOS was developed.

52. The ATA-2 standard introduced what is popularly known as

"Big Drive"

EIDE

ATA/66

SCSI-2

SATA

EIDE (enhanced IDE) consists of the set of improvements and new features offered by the ATA-2 standard. The term "EIDE" is not an official ATA committee designation, but is a marketing term introduced and popularized by drive manufacturers. It is common to hear the terms "ATA-2", "ATA", "IDE", and "EIDE" being used interchangeably in the computer industry.

Explanation

EIDE (enhanced IDE) consists of the set of improvements and new features offered by the ATA-2 standard. The term "EIDE" is not an official ATA committee designation, but is a marketing term introduced and popularized by drive manufacturers. It is common to hear the terms "ATA-2", "ATA", "IDE", and "EIDE" being used interchangeably in the computer industry.

53. The end devices in a SCSI chain must be

Mastered

Slaved

Powered

Hard drives

Terminated

In a SCSI chain, termination refers to the process of properly ending the communication between devices. It is essential for the end devices in a SCSI chain to be terminated to ensure smooth data transfer and prevent signal reflections. Termination is typically achieved by connecting a termination resistor at the end of the chain. Without proper termination, the SCSI chain may experience signal degradation, data corruption, or even complete failure. Therefore, termination is necessary for the proper functioning of the SCSI chain.

Explanation

In a SCSI chain, termination refers to the process of properly ending the communication between devices. It is essential for the end devices in a SCSI chain to be terminated to ensure smooth data transfer and prevent signal reflections. Termination is typically achieved by connecting a termination resistor at the end of the chain. Without proper termination, the SCSI chain may experience signal degradation, data corruption, or even complete failure. Therefore, termination is necessary for the proper functioning of the SCSI chain.

54. The heads of a hard drive float on

A gimbal

A bearing

A cushion of air

A film of oil

A magnetic field

The correct answer is a cushion of air. The heads of a hard drive float on a thin cushion of air created by the spinning platters. This cushion of air allows the heads to glide smoothly and closely above the surface of the platters without making physical contact. This is important because any physical contact could damage the delicate heads or the surface of the platters, leading to data loss. The cushion of air also helps to reduce friction and allows the heads to move quickly and accurately to read and write data on the platters.

Explanation

The correct answer is a cushion of air. The heads of a hard drive float on a thin cushion of air created by the spinning platters. This cushion of air allows the heads to glide smoothly and closely above the surface of the platters without making physical contact. This is important because any physical contact could damage the delicate heads or the surface of the platters, leading to data loss. The cushion of air also helps to reduce friction and allows the heads to move quickly and accurately to read and write data on the platters.

55. PRML stands for

PRML stands for "Partial Response Maximum Likelihood". It is an advanced form of RLL that allows for longer run lengths.

Explanation

PRML stands for "Partial Response Maximum Likelihood". It is an advanced form of RLL that allows for longer run lengths.

Submit

56. Devices are "daisy chained" in

EIDE

SCSI

Firewire

SATA

PATA

Devices are "daisy chained" in SCSI. SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) is a standard interface used for connecting multiple peripheral devices to a computer. In a SCSI setup, devices are connected in a daisy chain configuration, where each device is connected to the previous one, forming a chain. This allows for efficient data transfer and better organization of devices. SCSI is commonly used in high-performance and server environments where multiple devices need to be connected and accessed simultaneously.

Explanation

Devices are "daisy chained" in SCSI. SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) is a standard interface used for connecting multiple peripheral devices to a computer. In a SCSI setup, devices are connected in a daisy chain configuration, where each device is connected to the previous one, forming a chain. This allows for efficient data transfer and better organization of devices. SCSI is commonly used in high-performance and server environments where multiple devices need to be connected and accessed simultaneously.

57. SCSI-1 ID's are assigned from

0 through 7

0 through 8

0 through 15

1 through 7

1 through 15

SCSI-1 ID's are assigned from 0 through 7. This means that in a SCSI-1 system, each device connected to the SCSI bus can be assigned a unique ID ranging from 0 to 7. The ID is used to identify and differentiate between different devices on the bus. Having a limited range of IDs ensures that there are no conflicts or overlaps between devices, allowing for proper communication and control within the SCSI system.

Explanation

SCSI-1 ID's are assigned from 0 through 7. This means that in a SCSI-1 system, each device connected to the SCSI bus can be assigned a unique ID ranging from 0 to 7. The ID is used to identify and differentiate between different devices on the bus. Having a limited range of IDs ensures that there are no conflicts or overlaps between devices, allowing for proper communication and control within the SCSI system.

58. You can install a PATA drive on a SATA cable using a special SATA _______.

A SATA bridge is a physical adapter that goes between the PATA drive connector and the SATA cable connector to allow backward compatibility.

Explanation

A SATA bridge is a physical adapter that goes between the PATA drive connector and the SATA cable connector to allow backward compatibility.

Submit

59. The expression "RLL 1, 7" indicates

RLL version 1, release 7

The drive needs reformatting

Minimum and maximum run lengths

Cylinder 1, sector 7

The expression "RLL 1, 7" refers to the minimum and maximum run lengths. Run Length Limited (RLL) encoding is a technique used in data storage to represent data in a more efficient manner. The numbers 1 and 7 indicate the minimum and maximum lengths of consecutive 0s or 1s in the encoded data. This information is important for decoding the data accurately.

Explanation

The expression "RLL 1, 7" refers to the minimum and maximum run lengths. Run Length Limited (RLL) encoding is a technique used in data storage to represent data in a more efficient manner. The numbers 1 and 7 indicate the minimum and maximum lengths of consecutive 0s or 1s in the encoded data. This information is important for decoding the data accurately.

60. LBA stands for ___________.

LBA stands for Logical Block Addressing. This is a method used in computer storage devices to address individual blocks of data. Instead of using the traditional cylinder-head-sector (CHS) addressing scheme, LBA provides a simpler and more efficient way to access data on a disk. Each block of data is assigned a unique logical block address, allowing the operating system to easily locate and retrieve the required information. LBA is widely used in modern storage technologies such as hard disk drives and solid-state drives.

Explanation

LBA stands for Logical Block Addressing. This is a method used in computer storage devices to address individual blocks of data. Instead of using the traditional cylinder-head-sector (CHS) addressing scheme, LBA provides a simpler and more efficient way to access data on a disk. Each block of data is assigned a unique logical block address, allowing the operating system to easily locate and retrieve the required information. LBA is widely used in modern storage technologies such as hard disk drives and solid-state drives.

Submit

61. The boot sector on a basic disk contains

The master boot record

Speadsheets

A copy of system BIOS

Games

The partition table

The boot sector on a basic disk contains the master boot record, which is responsible for loading the operating system. It also contains the partition table, which provides information about the different partitions on the disk. The master boot record and partition table work together to ensure that the correct partition is booted and the operating system is loaded successfully.

Explanation

The boot sector on a basic disk contains the master boot record, which is responsible for loading the operating system. It also contains the partition table, which provides information about the different partitions on the disk. The master boot record and partition table work together to ensure that the correct partition is booted and the operating system is loaded successfully.

Submit

62. The boot sector in a basic disk contains

The master boot record and file allocation table

The master boot record and partition table

BIOS and file allocation table

The partition table and file allocation table

Boot.ini

The boot sector in a basic disk contains the master boot record and partition table. The master boot record is the first sector of the disk and contains the boot loader code and the partition table. The partition table, on the other hand, is a data structure that stores information about the partitions on the disk, such as their size, location, and file system type. These two components are essential for the proper functioning of the disk and the booting process.

Explanation

The boot sector in a basic disk contains the master boot record and partition table. The master boot record is the first sector of the disk and contains the boot loader code and the partition table. The partition table, on the other hand, is a data structure that stores information about the partitions on the disk, such as their size, location, and file system type. These two components are essential for the proper functioning of the disk and the booting process.

63. A SCSI host adapter with two SCSI chains has a device in one chain assigned the same SCSI ID as another device in the other chain. What will happen?

System lockup

Drive letter conflict

Damaged drive electronics

The two drives will be mirrored

Nothing bad. Don't worry about it.

Two devices on the same SCSI host adapter may have the same SCSI ID, so long as they exist in separate chains.

Explanation

Two devices on the same SCSI host adapter may have the same SCSI ID, so long as they exist in separate chains.

64. _________ enables drive manufacturers to render bad sectors invisible to the end user.

Low level formatting

Standard formatting

Erasing

Imaging

Spare sectoring

Bad sectors found during manufacture are made inaccessible to the controller and automatically mapped to "spare sectors" which are alternate good sectors specially reserved for this purpose.

Explanation

Bad sectors found during manufacture are made inaccessible to the controller and automatically mapped to "spare sectors" which are alternate good sectors specially reserved for this purpose.

65. On ATA-5 cables, gray connectors are connected to ___________

Master drives

Slave drives

SCSI drives

SATA drives

The controller

On ATA-5 cables, gray connectors are connected to slave drives. Slave drives are secondary drives that are connected to the primary/master drive in a computer system. The gray connectors on ATA-5 cables are specifically designed for connecting these slave drives.

Explanation

On ATA-5 cables, gray connectors are connected to slave drives. Slave drives are secondary drives that are connected to the primary/master drive in a computer system. The gray connectors on ATA-5 cables are specifically designed for connecting these slave drives.

66. ZBR drives have _____ sectors per track

256

29

63

12

127

Modern hard drives do not have uniform sector counts due to zoned bit recording. Therefore, a dummy count of 63 is typically used to fool the BIOS.

Explanation

Modern hard drives do not have uniform sector counts due to zoned bit recording. Therefore, a dummy count of 63 is typically used to fool the BIOS.

67. SCSI supports up to ___ devices per host adapter.

2

8

10

15

26

SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) supports up to 15 devices per host adapter. This means that a single SCSI host adapter can connect and communicate with up to 15 different SCSI devices such as hard drives, tape drives, scanners, and printers. This allows for efficient and flexible expansion of storage and peripheral devices in a computer system.

Explanation

SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) supports up to 15 devices per host adapter. This means that a single SCSI host adapter can connect and communicate with up to 15 different SCSI devices such as hard drives, tape drives, scanners, and printers. This allows for efficient and flexible expansion of storage and peripheral devices in a computer system.

68. RAID 0 supports

Mirroring

Duplexing

Disk striping

Parity

RAID 0 (disk striping) consists of two or more drives that cuts data into pieces and distributes them across all drives in the array. This makes efficient use of available space. However, because pieces of data span across multiple drives, if one drive fails, the entire array is lost. RAID 0 is "fast and spacious", but not safe.

Explanation

RAID 0 (disk striping) consists of two or more drives that cuts data into pieces and distributes them across all drives in the array. This makes efficient use of available space. However, because pieces of data span across multiple drives, if one drive fails, the entire array is lost. RAID 0 is "fast and spacious", but not safe.

69. The technology that records fluxes on the platter vertically is called

Vertical recording

Ultra high density modulation

Flux run unlimited

Perpendicular recording

ANSI 2381.5

Perpendicular recording is the technology that records fluxes on the platter vertically. This method allows for higher data density and increased storage capacity compared to traditional horizontal recording methods. In perpendicular recording, the magnetization of the recording media is aligned perpendicular to the surface, allowing for smaller, more closely packed magnetic domains. This enables more data to be stored in a given area, resulting in higher storage capacities for hard drives and other magnetic storage devices.

Explanation

Perpendicular recording is the technology that records fluxes on the platter vertically. This method allows for higher data density and increased storage capacity compared to traditional horizontal recording methods. In perpendicular recording, the magnetization of the recording media is aligned perpendicular to the surface, allowing for smaller, more closely packed magnetic domains. This enables more data to be stored in a given area, resulting in higher storage capacities for hard drives and other magnetic storage devices.

70. IDE stands for

IDE stands for Integrated Drive Electronics. This term refers to a standard interface used in computers for connecting storage devices such as hard drives and CD-ROM drives. IDE allows these devices to be easily installed and recognized by the computer's operating system. It uses a specific cable with connectors for data transfer and power supply. IDE has been widely used in personal computers and was later replaced by SATA (Serial ATA) as the standard interface for storage devices.

Explanation

IDE stands for Integrated Drive Electronics. This term refers to a standard interface used in computers for connecting storage devices such as hard drives and CD-ROM drives. IDE allows these devices to be easily installed and recognized by the computer's operating system. It uses a specific cable with connectors for data transfer and power supply. IDE has been widely used in personal computers and was later replaced by SATA (Serial ATA) as the standard interface for storage devices.

Submit

71. On a basic disk, basic volumes are

Under 1 GB

Primary partitions

Logical drives

Physical drives

On a basic disk, primary partitions and logical drives are the basic volumes. Primary partitions are created on a basic disk and can be used to install an operating system. Logical drives, on the other hand, are created within an extended partition and are used to organize and store data. Physical drives, although mentioned in the options, are not considered as basic volumes on a basic disk.

Explanation

On a basic disk, primary partitions and logical drives are the basic volumes. Primary partitions are created on a basic disk and can be used to install an operating system. Logical drives, on the other hand, are created within an extended partition and are used to organize and store data. Physical drives, although mentioned in the options, are not considered as basic volumes on a basic disk.

Submit

72. Internal SCSI device connectors have

40 pins

50 pins

63 pins

68 pins

Internal SCSI device connectors have 68 pins. SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) is a set of standards for connecting and transferring data between computers and peripheral devices. The internal SCSI connectors are used to connect internal SCSI devices such as hard drives, CD/DVD drives, and tape drives to the computer's motherboard or SCSI controller. The 68-pin connector provides a high-speed and reliable connection for data transfer between the SCSI device and the computer system.

Explanation

Internal SCSI device connectors have 68 pins. SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) is a set of standards for connecting and transferring data between computers and peripheral devices. The internal SCSI connectors are used to connect internal SCSI devices such as hard drives, CD/DVD drives, and tape drives to the computer's motherboard or SCSI controller. The 68-pin connector provides a high-speed and reliable connection for data transfer between the SCSI device and the computer system.

73. You are attempting to install two devices onto the secondary IDE channel, but that channel won't operate the drives. You checked all connections, but the drive still won't work. This channel has never been used before. Your first suspicion should be:

The drives are defective

A bad cable connection

The controller on the motherboard is fried

Improper CMOS setup

Incompatible drivers

Many PC's with a history of unused secondary channels have them disabled within CMOS setup. The first thing to do is check CMOS and make sure the secondary channel is enabled and drive shows up in the list of recognized devices.

Explanation

Many PC's with a history of unused secondary channels have them disabled within CMOS setup. The first thing to do is check CMOS and make sure the secondary channel is enabled and drive shows up in the list of recognized devices.

74. LBA enables support for up to

512 MB

137 MB

8.4 GB

100 GB

2 TB

LBA (Logical Block Addressing) is a technique used in computer storage devices to access data. It allows support for up to 8.4 GB of storage capacity. This means that with LBA, the storage device can address and access data on a storage medium that has a capacity of up to 8.4 GB.

Explanation

LBA (Logical Block Addressing) is a technique used in computer storage devices to access data. It allows support for up to 8.4 GB of storage capacity. This means that with LBA, the storage device can address and access data on a storage medium that has a capacity of up to 8.4 GB.

75. In hard drives, voice coils are a type of

Servo

Stepper motor

Speaker

Read/write head

Voice coil technology achieves its high accuracy through a servo mechanism in which a feedback loop uses alignment data to correct any positioning errors. One side of one platter is completely dedicated to supplying this servo alignment data.

Explanation

Voice coil technology achieves its high accuracy through a servo mechanism in which a feedback loop uses alignment data to correct any positioning errors. One side of one platter is completely dedicated to supplying this servo alignment data.

76. SATA supports

1 drive per port

2 drives per channel

Up to four devices

An unlimited number of devices per system

Up to four channels

SATA supports 1 drive per port, meaning that each port can accommodate only one drive. However, SATA also supports an unlimited number of devices per system, which means that multiple drives can be connected to the system as long as there are available ports. Therefore, while each port can only have one drive connected to it, there is no limit to the total number of drives that can be connected to the system.

Explanation

SATA supports 1 drive per port, meaning that each port can accommodate only one drive. However, SATA also supports an unlimited number of devices per system, which means that multiple drives can be connected to the system as long as there are available ports. Therefore, while each port can only have one drive connected to it, there is no limit to the total number of drives that can be connected to the system.

Submit

77. Ultra DMA mode 2 is also known as

ATA/33

ATA/66

ATA/100

ATA/133

Ultra DMA mode 2 is also known as ATA/33 because it has a maximum transfer rate of 33.3 megabytes per second (MB/s). This mode is an enhancement of the original ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) standard and allows for faster data transfer between the computer's hard drive and the motherboard. ATA/33 was an improvement over the earlier PIO (Programmed Input/Output) modes, providing faster and more efficient data transfer.

Explanation

Ultra DMA mode 2 is also known as ATA/33 because it has a maximum transfer rate of 33.3 megabytes per second (MB/s). This mode is an enhancement of the original ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) standard and allows for faster data transfer between the computer's hard drive and the motherboard. ATA/33 was an improvement over the earlier PIO (Programmed Input/Output) modes, providing faster and more efficient data transfer.

78. ESATA cable lengths are limited to

18 inches

6 feet

1 meter

2 meters

1 yard

The correct answer is 2 meters because eSATA cable lengths are limited to a maximum of 2 meters. This limitation is due to the signal degradation that occurs over longer distances, which can result in data loss or errors. Therefore, to ensure reliable and high-speed data transfer, it is recommended to use eSATA cables within this specified length range.

Explanation

The correct answer is 2 meters because eSATA cable lengths are limited to a maximum of 2 meters. This limitation is due to the signal degradation that occurs over longer distances, which can result in data loss or errors. Therefore, to ensure reliable and high-speed data transfer, it is recommended to use eSATA cables within this specified length range.

79. External SCSI device connectors have

40 pins

50 pins

63 pins

68 pins

External SCSI use either 50-pin or 68-pin high density (HD) connectors.

Explanation

External SCSI use either 50-pin or 68-pin high density (HD) connectors.

Submit

80. ESATA cables are

Shielded

Unshielded

Hot pluggable

Compatible with internal SATA ports

eSATA cables are mechanically incompatible with internal SATA ports.

Explanation

eSATA cables are mechanically incompatible with internal SATA ports.

Submit

81. SCSI host adapters are typically assigned SCSI ID

3

4

7

12

15

SCSI host adapters are typically assigned SCSI IDs to differentiate them from other devices on the SCSI bus. In this case, the correct SCSI IDs for SCSI host adapters are 7 and 15. These IDs are commonly used for host adapters to avoid conflicts with other devices.

Explanation

SCSI host adapters are typically assigned SCSI IDs to differentiate them from other devices on the SCSI bus. In this case, the correct SCSI IDs for SCSI host adapters are 7 and 15. These IDs are commonly used for host adapters to avoid conflicts with other devices.

Submit

82. RAID 1 supports

Mirroring

Duplexing

Disk striping

Parity

RAID 1 (disk mirroring) consists of two redundant drives - one an exact data duplicate of the other. If one drive fails, the other takes over. This may be implemented with a single controller for both drives (mirroring), or a separate controller for each drive (duplexing). Although RAID 1 is space inefficient and slow, it is safer than the simple striping of RAID 0.

Explanation

RAID 1 (disk mirroring) consists of two redundant drives - one an exact data duplicate of the other. If one drive fails, the other takes over. This may be implemented with a single controller for both drives (mirroring), or a separate controller for each drive (duplexing). Although RAID 1 is space inefficient and slow, it is safer than the simple striping of RAID 0.

Submit

83. Groups of flux reversals are called

Clusters

Sectors

Spans

Domains

Runs

In the context of flux reversals, a run refers to a consecutive sequence of reversals in a magnetic material. It represents a group or series of adjacent flux reversals. Therefore, the correct answer is "Runs".

Explanation

In the context of flux reversals, a run refers to a consecutive sequence of reversals in a magnetic material. It represents a group or series of adjacent flux reversals. Therefore, the correct answer is "Runs".

84. A slave drive may be installed on the

Primary IDE channel

Secondary IDE channel

Neither channel

A slave drive can be installed on either the primary IDE channel or the secondary IDE channel. The primary IDE channel is typically used for the master drive, while the secondary IDE channel is used for the slave drive. This allows for multiple drives to be connected to the same motherboard and accessed simultaneously. Therefore, both the primary and secondary IDE channels are valid options for installing a slave drive.

Explanation

A slave drive can be installed on either the primary IDE channel or the secondary IDE channel. The primary IDE channel is typically used for the master drive, while the secondary IDE channel is used for the slave drive. This allows for multiple drives to be connected to the same motherboard and accessed simultaneously. Therefore, both the primary and secondary IDE channels are valid options for installing a slave drive.

Submit

85. INT13 extensions support drives up to

80 GB

137 GB

160 GB

512 MB

8.5 GB

INT13 extensions refer to the extensions of the INT13 BIOS interrupt, which is used to access hard drives in the older BIOS systems. These extensions were introduced to overcome the limitations of the original INT13 interrupt, which could only support drives up to 8.4 GB in size. With the INT13 extensions, the maximum supported drive size increased to 137 GB. Therefore, the correct answer is 137 GB.

Explanation

INT13 extensions refer to the extensions of the INT13 BIOS interrupt, which is used to access hard drives in the older BIOS systems. These extensions were introduced to overcome the limitations of the original INT13 interrupt, which could only support drives up to 8.4 GB in size. With the INT13 extensions, the maximum supported drive size increased to 137 GB. Therefore, the correct answer is 137 GB.

86. Ultra DMA mode 4 is also known as

INT13

ATA/7

ATA/100

ATA/66

ATA/133

Ultra DMA mode 4 is also known as ATA/66 because it refers to the fourth generation of Ultra DMA (Direct Memory Access) technology, which allows for data transfer rates of up to 66 megabytes per second. ATA stands for Advanced Technology Attachment, which is a standard interface used for connecting storage devices like hard drives to a computer. ATA/66 indicates that the interface supports Ultra DMA mode 4, providing faster data transfer speeds compared to earlier versions.

Explanation

Ultra DMA mode 4 is also known as ATA/66 because it refers to the fourth generation of Ultra DMA (Direct Memory Access) technology, which allows for data transfer rates of up to 66 megabytes per second. ATA stands for Advanced Technology Attachment, which is a standard interface used for connecting storage devices like hard drives to a computer. ATA/66 indicates that the interface supports Ultra DMA mode 4, providing faster data transfer speeds compared to earlier versions.

87. During bootup, an error message appears that says, "No Fixed Disks Present". What are some likely causes?

Poor hard drive cable connection

Insufficient memory

Bad/missing hard drive or drive controller

Wrong jumper settings on drive(s)

Incorrectly configured CMOS settings.

This error message indicates that during bootup, BIOS was unable to establish a connection with any hard drives.

To pinpoint the cause:

In CMOS setup, make sure the hard drive channels are enabled and included in the boot order.

Check the integrity and quality of all drive cables and connectors (including power). They might be faulty, loose, disconnected, or missing altogether.

The jumper settings might be inappropriate for the cable configuration. Change the position of the drive(s) on the cable, and/or change the jumper settings.

Explanation

This error message indicates that during bootup, BIOS was unable to establish a connection with any hard drives.

To pinpoint the cause:

In CMOS setup, make sure the hard drive channels are enabled and included in the boot order.

Check the integrity and quality of all drive cables and connectors (including power). They might be faulty, loose, disconnected, or missing altogether.

The jumper settings might be inappropriate for the cable configuration. Change the position of the drive(s) on the cable, and/or change the jumper settings.

Submit

88. The "geometry" specification of a drive consists of

Tracks

Heads

Sectors/track

Cylinders

Total sectors

The "geometry" specification of a drive consists of the number of heads, the number of sectors per track, and the number of cylinders. These parameters determine how the data is organized and accessed on the drive. The number of heads represents the number of read/write heads in the drive, which determines the number of surfaces available for data storage. The number of sectors per track indicates the number of data units that can be stored on each track. Lastly, the number of cylinders refers to the number of tracks on each surface of the drive. Together, these parameters define the physical layout of the drive and affect its performance and capacity.

Explanation

The "geometry" specification of a drive consists of the number of heads, the number of sectors per track, and the number of cylinders. These parameters determine how the data is organized and accessed on the drive. The number of heads represents the number of read/write heads in the drive, which determines the number of surfaces available for data storage. The number of sectors per track indicates the number of data units that can be stored on each track. Lastly, the number of cylinders refers to the number of tracks on each surface of the drive. Together, these parameters define the physical layout of the drive and affect its performance and capacity.

Submit

89. Hard drives currently being manufactured utilize

Stepper motors

Actuator arms

Voice coils

Piezo motors

Stepper motors are obsolete technology in the hard drive industry. They have been supplanted by voice coil technology to drive the actuator arms.

Explanation

Stepper motors are obsolete technology in the hard drive industry. They have been supplanted by voice coil technology to drive the actuator arms.

Submit

90. Hard drives communicate with the CPU directly via

DMA

ECC

RLL

LBA

PIO

PIO stands for Programmed Input/Output. It is a method of data transfer between the hard drive and the CPU. In PIO mode, the CPU directly controls the data transfer by issuing commands and waiting for the data to be transferred. This mode requires the CPU to be actively involved in the data transfer process, which can limit the overall system performance. However, PIO mode is commonly used for compatibility reasons with older systems or devices that do not support more advanced transfer modes like DMA.

Explanation

PIO stands for Programmed Input/Output. It is a method of data transfer between the hard drive and the CPU. In PIO mode, the CPU directly controls the data transfer by issuing commands and waiting for the data to be transferred. This mode requires the CPU to be actively involved in the data transfer process, which can limit the overall system performance. However, PIO mode is commonly used for compatibility reasons with older systems or devices that do not support more advanced transfer modes like DMA.

91. A multiple RAID configuration consisting of a mirrored pair of striped arrays (with distributed parity) is termed

RAID 1+0

RAID 0+5

RAID 1+5

RAID 0+1

RAID 5+1

A multiple RAID configuration consisting of a mirrored pair of striped arrays (with distributed parity) is termed RAID 5+1. This configuration combines the features of RAID 5 and RAID 1. In RAID 5, data is striped across multiple drives with distributed parity, providing fault tolerance and increased performance. RAID 1, on the other hand, involves mirroring data across two drives for redundancy. By combining these two configurations, RAID 5+1 offers both fault tolerance and improved performance, making it an ideal choice for applications that require high availability and reliability.

Explanation

A multiple RAID configuration consisting of a mirrored pair of striped arrays (with distributed parity) is termed RAID 5+1. This configuration combines the features of RAID 5 and RAID 1. In RAID 5, data is striped across multiple drives with distributed parity, providing fault tolerance and increased performance. RAID 1, on the other hand, involves mirroring data across two drives for redundancy. By combining these two configurations, RAID 5+1 offers both fault tolerance and improved performance, making it an ideal choice for applications that require high availability and reliability.

92. Data is recorded on a platter as

Pits and lands

Electric charges

Magnetic fields

Flux reversals

Cells

Flux reversals are the transitions between opposite magnetic poles.

Explanation

Flux reversals are the transitions between opposite magnetic poles.

Submit

93. SATA is part of the ______ standard

ATAPI

SCSI

ATA/66

ATA-5

ATA-7

SATA (Serial ATA) is part of the ATA-7 standard. ATA-7 is the seventh version of the ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) standard, which is used for connecting storage devices such as hard drives and optical drives to a computer. SATA, specifically, is a type of interface that allows for faster data transfer rates and more efficient communication between the storage device and the computer.

Explanation

SATA (Serial ATA) is part of the ATA-7 standard. ATA-7 is the seventh version of the ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) standard, which is used for connecting storage devices such as hard drives and optical drives to a computer. SATA, specifically, is a type of interface that allows for faster data transfer rates and more efficient communication between the storage device and the computer.

94. All primary partitions must have

An operating system

An entry in the partition table

Logical drives

A corresponding extended partition

A unique identifier such as a drive letter or folder

All primary partitions must have an entry in the partition table to be recognized by the operating system. This entry contains information about the partition, such as its size, location, and file system. Additionally, primary partitions must have a unique identifier, such as a drive letter or folder, which allows the operating system to access and interact with the partition. Logical drives, on the other hand, are not required for primary partitions. A corresponding extended partition is also not necessary for primary partitions, as extended partitions are used to create logical drives.

Explanation

All primary partitions must have an entry in the partition table to be recognized by the operating system. This entry contains information about the partition, such as its size, location, and file system. Additionally, primary partitions must have a unique identifier, such as a drive letter or folder, which allows the operating system to access and interact with the partition. Logical drives, on the other hand, are not required for primary partitions. A corresponding extended partition is also not necessary for primary partitions, as extended partitions are used to create logical drives.

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95. CD-ROM drives and tape drives are supported by

ATA-1

ATAPI

LBA

ATA-2

ATA-2 introduced ATAPI, which extended ATA to allow CD-ROM drives and tape drives to be connected to ATA controllers.

Explanation

ATA-2 introduced ATAPI, which extended ATA to allow CD-ROM drives and tape drives to be connected to ATA controllers.

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96. "Volumes" are

Groups of cylinders

Partitions

Master boot records

Usually assigned a drive letter

Groups of folders

There is some disagreement about the usage of the term "volume". Some Comptia preparation books say they are synonymous with "partition", while other sources say otherwise. Some volumes do not necessarily exist as partitions (e.g. floppy disks), and are better thought of as "drives" or "logical drives".

Explanation

There is some disagreement about the usage of the term "volume". Some Comptia preparation books say they are synonymous with "partition", while other sources say otherwise. Some volumes do not necessarily exist as partitions (e.g. floppy disks), and are better thought of as "drives" or "logical drives".

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97. Partitioning a hard drive allows one to

Increase disk space

Install multiple operating systems on it

Proceed with formatting

Share drive letters

Encrypt files

Partitioning a hard drive allows one to install multiple operating systems on it and proceed with formatting. By dividing the hard drive into separate partitions, each partition can be dedicated to a different operating system, allowing the user to have multiple operating systems installed on the same physical drive. Additionally, partitioning also allows for formatting, which is the process of preparing the hard drive for data storage by creating a file system.

Explanation

Partitioning a hard drive allows one to install multiple operating systems on it and proceed with formatting. By dividing the hard drive into separate partitions, each partition can be dedicated to a different operating system, allowing the user to have multiple operating systems installed on the same physical drive. Additionally, partitioning also allows for formatting, which is the process of preparing the hard drive for data storage by creating a file system.

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98. Partition tables on a basic disk may contain

Primary and secondary partitions

Two primary partitions and two extended partitions

Unlimited partitions

Up to four primary partitions

Three primary partitions and one extended partition

Basic disks are limited to four partitions. Up to four of them may be primary, and only one extended partition is supported.

Explanation

Basic disks are limited to four partitions. Up to four of them may be primary, and only one extended partition is supported.

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99. In Windows 2000 and XP, what does the term "basic disk" denote?

A disk with standard features only

A disk with a MBR

A single hard drive

A partitioning scheme

A FAT32 formatted drive

A "basic disk" is a drive using the master boot record partitioning scheme.

Explanation

A "basic disk" is a drive using the master boot record partitioning scheme.

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100. Extended partitions

Are labeled

Are bootable

Are not bootable

Are limited to twice the size of primary partitions

Contain logical drives

Extended partitions are unbootable and have no drive letter of their own. However, they may contain logical drives. Each logical drive within an extended partition can be assigned a drive letter.

Explanation

Extended partitions are unbootable and have no drive letter of their own. However, they may contain logical drives. Each logical drive within an extended partition can be assigned a drive letter.

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101. PRML is a form of

Data encoding

Parallel communication standard

RLL

Disk encryption

PRML stands for "Partial Response Maximum Likelihood". It is an advanced form of RLL that allows for longer run lengths than RLL.

Explanation

PRML stands for "Partial Response Maximum Likelihood". It is an advanced form of RLL that allows for longer run lengths than RLL.

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