IT Essentials V5.0 Chapter 3 Exam
BIOS and Reinstalling of computer components
- 1.
What is an advantage of using signed drivers?
- A.
They never need upgrading.
- B.
They are verified to be compatible with the operating system.
- C.
They are guaranteed by the manufacturer to work with any hardware
- D.
They are guaranteed to work with all operating systems
- E.
They are free of errors
Correct Answer
B. They are verified to be compatible with the operating system.Explanation
Using signed drivers provides the advantage of being verified to be compatible with the operating system. Signed drivers have undergone a certification process by the operating system manufacturer, ensuring that they meet certain standards and are compatible with the system. This verification helps to minimize compatibility issues and ensures a smoother and more stable performance of the hardware.Rate this question:
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- 2.
A technician has assembled a new computer and must now configure the BIOS. At which point must a key be pressed to start the BIOS setup program?
- A.
During the POST
- B.
Before the computer is powered on
- C.
After the POST, but before Windows starts to load
- D.
During the Windows load process
Correct Answer
A. During the POSTExplanation
During the POST (Power-On Self Test) is the correct answer because the BIOS setup program can be accessed by pressing a specific key during this process. The POST is a series of diagnostic tests that the computer performs on its hardware components to ensure they are functioning properly. By pressing the key at this point, the technician can access the BIOS setup program and configure various settings for the computer's hardware. Pressing the key before the computer is powered on, after the POST, or during the Windows load process would not allow access to the BIOS setup program.Rate this question:
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- 3.
A technician is troubleshooting a PC that will not boot. When the PC is powered on, it emits a series of beeps and indicates that the BIOS settings have changed and need to be reconfigured. The technician reconfigures the BIOS settings, saves them, and the computer boots. Later when the PC is powered off and back on again, the same error message appears, and all the BIOS changes are gone. What should the technician do to fix the problem?
- A.
Replace the motherboard
- B.
Reseat the RAM.
- C.
Replace the CMOS battery.
- D.
Upgrade the BIOS firmware.
Correct Answer
C. Replace the CMOS battery.Explanation
The CMOS battery is responsible for maintaining the BIOS settings when the computer is powered off. If the battery is dead or dying, it will not be able to retain the settings, causing the BIOS to reset every time the computer is turned off and back on. By replacing the CMOS battery, the technician can ensure that the BIOS settings are saved and the computer boots properly.Rate this question:
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- 4.
A technician discovers that the PS/2 mouse port is not working. The technician has several replacement mouse models available. What input port will the technician use to install the replacement mouse?
- A.
Parallel
- B.
USB
- C.
FireWire
- D.
ESATA
Correct Answer
B. USBExplanation
The technician will use the USB input port to install the replacement mouse. USB ports are commonly used for connecting peripherals such as mice, keyboards, and external storage devices to a computer. It is a widely supported and versatile interface, making it the most likely choice for connecting a replacement mouse.Rate this question:
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- 5.
What is used to prevent the motherboard from touching metal portions of the computer case?
- A.
An I/O shield
- B.
Thermal compound
- C.
ZIF Sockets
- D.
Standoffs
Correct Answer
D. StandoffsExplanation
Standoffs are used to prevent the motherboard from touching metal portions of the computer case. They are small screws or spacers that create a gap between the motherboard and the case, ensuring that the motherboard is properly insulated and protected from any potential short circuits or damage. By using standoffs, the motherboard is securely mounted in the case while also preventing any direct contact with metal surfaces.Rate this question:
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- 6.
What is a function of the BIOS?
- A.
Performs a check on all internal components
- B.
Provides graphic capabilities for games and applications
- C.
Provides temporary data storage for the CPU
- D.
Enables a computer to connect to a network
Correct Answer
A. Performs a check on all internal componentsExplanation
The BIOS, or Basic Input/Output System, is responsible for performing a check on all internal components of a computer. This includes checking the hardware such as the processor, memory, storage devices, and other peripherals to ensure they are functioning properly. The BIOS also initializes the system and prepares it for the operating system to take over. It is an essential part of the computer's startup process and ensures that all components are working correctly before the operating system is loaded.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which statement describes the purpose of an I/O connector plate?
- A.
It makes the I/O ports of the motherboard available for connection in a variety of computer cases.
- B.
It provides multiple connections for SATA hard drives to connect to the motherboard.
- C.
It plugs into the motherboard and expands the number of available slots for adapter cards.
- D.
It connects the PCIe adapter slots used for video directly to the CPU for faster processing.
Correct Answer
A. It makes the I/O ports of the motherboard available for connection in a variety of computer cases.Explanation
The purpose of an I/O connector plate is to make the I/O ports of the motherboard available for connection in a variety of computer cases. This plate allows for easy access and connection to ports such as USB, audio, Ethernet, and HDMI, ensuring compatibility with different case designs and providing convenience for users to connect their peripherals and devices.Rate this question:
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- 8.
A technician is troubleshooting a computer that has a malfunctioning floppy drive. The technician observes that the floppy drive light remains lit constantly. What should the technician do to repair the problem?
- A.
Change the jumper setting to master for the floppy drive.
- B.
Connect the data cable making sure that the colored stripe on the cable is aligned with pin 1 on the drive and the motherboard.
- C.
Remove the floppy drive via Add/Remove Hardware.
- D.
Replace the floppy drive.
Correct Answer
B. Connect the data cable making sure that the colored stripe on the cable is aligned with pin 1 on the drive and the motherboard.Explanation
The technician should connect the data cable making sure that the colored stripe on the cable is aligned with pin 1 on the drive and the motherboard. This is because a constantly lit floppy drive light indicates that the drive is not receiving any data. By ensuring that the data cable is connected correctly, the technician can establish a proper connection between the floppy drive, the motherboard, and the data cable, allowing data to be transmitted and resolving the issue.Rate this question:
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- 9.
You are monitoring a new technician who is installing a device driver on a Windows-based PC. The technician asks why the company requires the use of signed drivers. What would be the best response to give?
- A.
A signed driver has passed the lab test of Microsoft for quality and helps prevent a system from being compromised.
- B.
An unsigned driver can cause files to be fragmented as they are processed.
- C.
A signed driver has been approved by the company that created the device driver.
- D.
\Signed drivers prevent physical damage to devices.
Correct Answer
A. A signed driver has passed the lab test of Microsoft for quality and helps prevent a system from being compromised.Explanation
Signed drivers are required by the company because they have passed Microsoft's lab test for quality. This ensures that the driver is reliable and has been tested extensively to work properly with the Windows operating system. Additionally, signed drivers help prevent the system from being compromised by malicious software or unauthorized drivers. By using signed drivers, the company can ensure the stability and security of their systems.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Where is the saved BIOS configuration data stored?
- A.
CMOS
- B.
Cache
- C.
Hard drive
- D.
RAM
Correct Answer
A. CMOSExplanation
The saved BIOS configuration data is stored in CMOS. CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) is a type of memory that retains data even when the computer is powered off. It is used to store information such as the system's date and time, hardware settings, and startup preferences. This data is accessed and used by the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) during the boot process to initialize the computer's hardware and load the operating system.Rate this question:
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- 11.
A technician is installing additional memory in a computer. How can the technician guarantee that the memory is correctly aligned?
- A.
The label on the memory module should always face the CPU
- B.
The arrows on the memory module should be aligned with the arrows on the motherboard slot.
- C.
A notch in the memory module should be aligned with a notch in the memory slot.
- D.
Memory slots are color coded, with one end red and one end blue
Correct Answer
C. A notch in the memory module should be aligned with a notch in the memory slot.Explanation
The correct answer is that a notch in the memory module should be aligned with a notch in the memory slot. This is because the notches on the memory module and slot are designed to ensure proper alignment and orientation of the module. Aligning the notches correctly will ensure that the memory module is inserted in the correct position and can be securely fastened in place. This is important for the memory to function properly and be recognized by the computer.Rate this question:
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- 12.
What is the best way to apply thermal compound when reseating a CPU?
- A.
Put a thick layer of thermal compound over the existing thermal compound before reseating the CPU.
- B.
Change the base of the heat sink before applying the thermal compound.
- C.
Scrape off the old thermal compound on the heat sink with a sharp knife and apply the thermal compound liberally.
- D.
Clean the CPU and the base of the heat sink with isopropyl alcohol before applying the thermal compound.
- E.
Use rubbing alcohol to clean the base of the heat sink before applying thermal compound.
Correct Answer
D. Clean the CPU and the base of the heat sink with isopropyl alcohol before applying the thermal compound. -
- 13.
A technician has just finished assembling a new computer. When the computer is powered up for the first time, the POST discovers a video subsystem problem. How does the POST indicate the error?
- A.
By placing an error message in the BIOS
- B.
By flashing the LED on the front of the computer case a number of times
- C.
By issuing a number of beeps
- D.
By locking the keyboard
Correct Answer
C. By issuing a number of beepsExplanation
The POST (Power-On Self-Test) is a diagnostic program that runs when a computer is powered on. It checks the hardware components to ensure they are functioning properly. In the case of a video subsystem problem, the POST indicates the error by issuing a number of beeps. These beeps are a specific code that corresponds to different types of errors. By listening to the number and pattern of beeps, the technician can identify the specific issue with the video subsystem and take appropriate action to resolve it.Rate this question:
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- 14.
What is an important step when installing a second PATA hard drive in a computer?
- A.
Set the drive ID number with the correct jumper.
- B.
Set the swap file size on the new drive.
- C.
Ensure that pin one of the PATA data cable is correctly aligned with the connector.
- D.
Configure the BIOS settings to auto-detect the master drive.
- E.
All companies making devices for a Windows computer have to have Microsoft sign off on the new driver before it can be added to the operating system.
Correct Answer
C. Ensure that pin one of the PATA data cable is correctly aligned with the connector.Explanation
When installing a second PATA hard drive in a computer, it is important to ensure that pin one of the PATA data cable is correctly aligned with the connector. This is because the proper alignment of the cable ensures that the data is transmitted correctly between the hard drive and the computer. If the pin is not correctly aligned, it can lead to data corruption or loss. Therefore, it is crucial to align the pin one of the PATA data cable correctly during the installation process.Rate this question:
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- 15.
What type of connector would be used to supply power to an PATA optical drive?
- A.
PS/2
- B.
AT
- C.
Molex
- D.
Berg
Correct Answer
C. MolexExplanation
A Molex connector would be used to supply power to a PATA optical drive. Molex connectors are commonly used in computer hardware to provide power to various components, including optical drives. They have a standard design with multiple pins and a latch to ensure a secure connection. PS/2 and AT connectors are used for different purposes, such as connecting keyboards and mice, while Berg connectors are typically used for floppy disk drives.Rate this question:
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- 16.
A technician has been asked to install a second optical drive in a computer. The technician will need to configure the drive as slave. How can the technician accomplish this desired configuration?
- A.
List the drive as slave in the CMOS.
- B.
Use jumpers on the drive to configure the drive as slave.
- C.
Use jumpers on the motherboard to configure the drive as slave.
- D.
Connect the drive after the twist in the PATA cable.
Correct Answer
B. Use jumpers on the drive to configure the drive as slave.Explanation
The technician can accomplish the desired configuration by using jumpers on the drive to configure it as a slave. Jumpers are small connectors on the drive that can be set to different positions to determine its configuration, such as master, slave, or cable select. By setting the jumpers on the drive to the slave position, the technician can ensure that it is configured correctly in the computer system.Rate this question:
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- 17.
A technician has just finished assembling a new computer. When the computer is powered up for the first time, the POST discovers a problem. How does the POST indicate the error?
- A.
It issues a number of short beeps.
- B.
The LED on the front of the computer case flashes a number of times.
- C.
It locks the keyboard.
- D.
It places an error message in the BIOS.
Correct Answer
A. It issues a number of short beeps.Explanation
When the computer is powered up for the first time and the POST (Power-On Self-Test) discovers a problem, it indicates the error by issuing a number of short beeps. This is a common method used by the POST to communicate hardware errors to the user. The specific pattern and duration of the beeps can help identify the type of error that occurred, allowing the technician to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.Rate this question:
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- 18.
What number of disks is the required minimum to implement RAID 0?
- A.
4
- B.
3
- C.
2
- D.
1
Correct Answer
C. 2Explanation
RAID 0 is a striping technique that spreads data across multiple disks to improve performance. In this configuration, data is split into blocks and written to different disks simultaneously, allowing for faster read and write speeds. The minimum number of disks required to implement RAID 0 is 2 because there needs to be at least two disks to stripe the data across. With only one disk, there would be no striping and therefore no performance improvement.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What are two examples of settings that can be changed in the CMOS settings? (Choose two.)
- A.
Swap file size
- B.
Boot order*
- C.
Enabling and disabling devices*
- D.
Device drivers
- E.
Drive partition size
Correct Answer(s)
B. Boot order*
C. Enabling and disabling devices*Explanation
The CMOS settings allow users to customize various aspects of their computer's hardware and system configuration. Two examples of settings that can be changed in the CMOS settings are the boot order and enabling/disabling devices. The boot order determines the sequence in which the computer searches for an operating system to load during startup. Enabling and disabling devices refers to the ability to enable or disable certain hardware components or peripherals connected to the computer.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What are three important considerations when installing a CPU on a motherboard? (Choose three.)
- A.
The CPU is correctly aligned and placed in the socket.
- B.
The CMOS EPROM battery is removed prior to installing the CPU.
- C.
The CPU contacts are first cleaned with isopropyl alcohol.
- D.
Maximum insertion force is applied to
- E.
Antistatic precautions are taken.
- F.
The CPU heat sink and fan assembly are correctly installed.
Correct Answer(s)
A. The CPU is correctly aligned and placed in the socket.
E. Antistatic precautions are taken.
F. The CPU heat sink and fan assembly are correctly installed.Explanation
When installing a CPU on a motherboard, it is important to ensure that the CPU is correctly aligned and placed in the socket to ensure proper functioning. Antistatic precautions should also be taken to prevent any damage to the sensitive components. Additionally, the CPU heat sink and fan assembly should be correctly installed to ensure proper cooling of the CPU.Rate this question:
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- 21.
A technician is assembling a new computer. Which two components are often easier to install before mounting the motherboard in the case? (Choose two.)
- A.
NIC
- B.
Video card
- C.
Memory
- D.
Sound card
- E.
CPU
Correct Answer(s)
C. Memory
E. CPUExplanation
The memory and CPU are often easier to install before mounting the motherboard in the case because they require direct access to the motherboard. Installing the memory modules and CPU before mounting the motherboard allows for easier installation and proper alignment of these components. Additionally, it helps to avoid any potential damage to the motherboard or other components that may occur during the installation process.Rate this question:
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Dec 14, 2015Quiz Created by
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