1.
You are working for a small business as a computer tech. You notice that one of the users keeps shutting her computer down by pressing the power button instead of using the shutdown process of the operating system. You inform the user that this is not a good practice because? (choose 2 options)
Correct Answer(s)
A.
It can cause a component failure.
B. The power surges to the components can cause damage.
Explanation
Shutting the computer down by pressing the power button is always not the proper process for switching off the system. This power-off could, over time, lead to premature component failure, and small power surges could damage components. Always shut down your system using the shutdown process unless your system hangs and there is no other option.
2.
Mary complains that her laptop is overheating. She checked and said that all the internal cooling systems were working properly. What do you think could help her with the situation?
Correct Answer
D. Clean the inside of the computer first.
Explanation
Clean the inside of the computer to remove any dust buildup that may be preventing proper cooling. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the thermal paste on the CPU or consider upgrading your cooling system.
3.
When determining if the problem is related to hardware or software, Which of the following is one of the most important questions to ask?
Correct Answer
C. Have you recently installed any new hardware or software?
Explanation
When speaking with a new customer concerning a problem with their system, one very important question to ask the customer is, "Have you installed any new hardware or software recently?" This simple question could help narrow down the problem with the system.
4.
If the mouse (cord-based mouse) pointer is moving intermittently on the screen but has not failed altogether, which of the following troubleshooting steps should you take?
Correct Answer
A. Check its connection to the port.
Explanation
If the mouse pointer is moving intermittently, checking its connection to the port is a logical first step. A loose or faulty connection can cause intermittent issues with the mouse's functionality. Options B (Clean the mouse), C (Reinstall the drivers), and D (Check for a conflict with the modem) are also valid troubleshooting steps but are more relevant in other scenarios. Cleaning the mouse may be beneficial for general maintenance, reinstalling drivers can address software-related issues, and checking for conflicts with the modem is relevant if there are communication issues, but they might not directly address the specific symptom of an intermittently moving mouse pointer.
5.
Billy complains that his computer is giving excessive error messages, the file names and folder names are garbled, and there is an odd noise coming from his tower. What do you suspect is the problem?
Correct Answer
C. The hard drive
Explanation
Hard drive failure or corruption could cause the file names and folder names to become garbled. The hard drive also contains moving parts and if these parts come into contact with each other, this will cause a grinding or high-pitched noise.
6.
Which two ways a hardware can fail?
Correct Answer(s)
A. Electronically
C. Physically
Explanation
The two ways hardware can fail are electronically, due to power surges, and circuit failure. Hardware can also fail physically for those components that have moving parts, such as hard drives, motors, fans, etc. Anything with moving parts will eventually fail over time.
7.
Which of the following error messages might you receive when there is a problem with RAM? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Memory address error
B. Memory test fails
D. Memory parity error at xxx
Explanation
A glitch in your RAM might result in various error messages. Look out for signs like memory address errors, failed memory tests during boot-up, or memory parity errors showing up at specific addresses. Don't let these errors go unnoticed; they could signal bigger problems!
8.
Which of the following error messages might you receive when there is a keyboard problem? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
B. Kb/interface error
C. Gate A20 failure
Explanation
If your keyboard isn't properly connected or has failed, you might encounter keyboard error messages such as "kb/interface error" or "Gate A20 failure." These messages signal issues that need prompt attention to ensure smooth functioning of your system.
9.
What does a checksum error represent?
Correct Answer
D. A problem with CMOS.
Explanation
A checksum error is related to a problem with the CMOS. Checksums are bits of information that are used to make sure data transmission is valid with no errors and the correct information was transmitted successfully.
10.
What does a fixed disk 0 failure represent?
Correct Answer
A. A problem with the hard drive.
Explanation
A fixed disk error is typically an indication of a problem with the hard drive. This error message suggests that there may be issues with the disk itself, such as corruption, bad sectors, or physical damage. It's important to address this error promptly to prevent potential data loss and ensure the stability and reliability of your computer system.
11.
A client calls and asks you a question about flashing their bios. What information and advice should you instruct them to obtain before doing this? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Check to see which version of bios you have
B. Check the manufacturer's website for updates on the version you have
D. Check and write down the model number of your computer and other important information
Explanation
Before you flash your bios chip, you need to know what version you have, check the manufacturer's website for any updates on your version, and always write down any important information about your system to help with your search and to make sure you have the correct updates.
12.
Which of the following could be used to fix a Windows start-up problem? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Use the last known good configuration.
B. Use safe mode.
Explanation
Booting your system up in safe mode loads only the minimum drivers for your operating system to load. This can help you fix any problems you might have with your system. Using the last known good configuration can help restart your system from its last known good point, and help you fix problems when you have changed something you were not supposed to change or installed software that has problems.
13.
A user complains that his PC crashes during Windows XP start-up. Which of the following would you suggest for him to correct the problem?
Correct Answer
C. Use the last known good configurations.
Explanation
Using the "Last Known Good Configuration" option can indeed be helpful for a user experiencing startup issues on their computer. This feature allows the system to revert to a previous state where it was known to boot successfully, potentially resolving any recent configuration changes or software installations that may have caused the startup problem.
14.
What does an error code of 17xx displayed on the screen indicate?
Correct Answer
B. A hard disk error.
Explanation
Error codes in the 1700 range typically do not specifically indicate a hard disk problem. The error codes could vary depending on the operating system or software being used. However, if a computer encounters errors in this range, it's essential to investigate further to determine the exact cause. Hard disk issues may indeed be one possibility, but other factors such as software conflicts, system file corruption, or hardware malfunctions could also be contributing factors.
15.
What does an error code of 1xx displayed on the screen indicate?
Correct Answer
D. A system board error.
Explanation
Given the options, none of them are directly related to a 1xx error code. However, if we must choose the closest one, option D. A system board error might be the most relevant. This is because HTTP status codes, including 1xx codes, are determined by the server, which could be considered part of the “system.” But please note that this is a very loose interpretation, and in reality, a 1xx code does not indicate a system board error.
16.
What does an error code of 3xx displayed on the screen indicate?
Correct Answer
A. A keyboard error.
Explanation
Error codes are often used by computer systems to communicate specific issues or problems encountered during startup or operation.The prefix "3" in the error code suggests that it's related to a display issue.Common examples of display errors in this category might include problems with the monitor, graphics card, or display settings.Examples of display errors could include issues such as a malfunctioning monitor cable, an improperly seated graphics card, or incorrect display settings.It's important to troubleshoot and diagnose the specific cause of the display error to address it effectively.Other error codes with different prefixes might indicate errors related to different components such as the keyboard, hard disk, or system board.
17.
What does an error code of 6xx displayed on the screen indicate?
Correct Answer
C. A floppy drive error.
Explanation
Error codes in the 600 range indicate a floppy drive error.
18.
Which of the following could help you fix intermittent PC problems? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Use system restore.
B. Perform a clean boot.
D. Use the undo recent changes option.
Explanation
Using the system restore, undo recent changes option, and performing a clean boot could solve intermittent PC issues.
19.
A client complains that his CD-ROM seems to vibrate and has a hard time playing his favorite CD. What is most likely the problem?
Correct Answer
D. The CD-ROM's spindle is defective.
Explanation
If a CD-ROM is experiencing vibration and difficulty playing a CD, a likely cause is a problem with the spindle mechanism. The spindle is a component inside the CD-ROM drive that holds and spins the CD. If the spindle is defective or damaged, it can lead to uneven spinning, vibration, and difficulty reading the CD.
Options A (Defective CD-ROM), B (The tray on the CD-ROM is defective), and C (The CD is defective) could be possibilities, but issues with the spindle mechanism are a common cause of vibration and playback problems in CD-ROM drives.
20.
Barry complains his DVD burner is not burning at its maximum speed because it takes forever to burn a disk. What are some simple things you can do to correct this problem? Choose 2 options.
Correct Answer(s)
B. Perform firmware update.
C. Enable DMA.
Explanation
By performing a firmware update from the manufacturer you could increase the speed of the product. You could also give the media its own memory channel so it does not have to share with other media and increase its speed.
21.
Sally complains that her computer has changed the drive letters, and she does not understand why. What should you suspect, based on what Sally has told you?
Correct Answer
C. She has recently added or removed a storage device.
Explanation
By adding or removing storage devices, the computer will usually automatically adjust the letters according to the actions mentioned.
22.
A client complains that after doing some routine cleaning and maintenance inside the case, her hard drive does not seem to spin up when she boots up her system, and she gets fixed disk error messages. What is the first thing you should suspect the problem is?
Correct Answer
B. A loose Molex connector.
Explanation
Since she was working inside the chassis of the computer, she may have loosened the Molex connector to the hard drive which supplies power to the hard drive.
23.
Larry complains that he is having a problem playing some of his older games on his Windows XP system. What utility could help solve the problem?
Correct Answer
A. Program compatibility wizard.
Explanation
The program compatibility wizard can help solve problems in Windows XP by emulating older versions of Windows so the software written for older versions of Windows can run.
24.
A user complains that they can not hear any sound on their computer. What are some simple things you should consider concerning this problem? Choose 2 options.
Correct Answer(s)
B. Bad cable connection.
D. Power cable to the speaker is not connected.
Explanation
Always rule out the simple stuff first like power connections, cable connections, power to speakers turned on, etc. These simple problems are sometimes overlooked by users.
25.
You are called to a small business using a wireless router running on an 802.11a standard. You notice the router is in one room, and the access point is in another room about 100 feet away. The manager explains they are having trouble connecting to the network. What is the problem?
Correct Answer
B. The router is too far away from the access point.
Explanation
The 802.11a standard has a maximum of 25-75 feet. These devices are too far away from each other.
26.
Which of the following could cause a computer to run slow? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Malfunction in the hardware
B. Corrupt programs running
C. Viruses
Explanation
viruses, malfunctioning hardware, and corrupt programs can all cause a system to run slow.
27.
A user complains that her computer is suddenly running slow. She explained that she had not downloaded or installed any new software recently, and this problem had only happened one time before. Which of the following might you suspect?
Correct Answer
A. A program trying to hog all the processes.
Explanation
Sudden problems are usually caused by a program that has gone haywire and is trying to hog all the processes for itself. Hardware and software do not usually suddenly go bad. They give you notices with error messages for some time before they go bad. A CMOS virus would cause the system to crash since it affects hardware.
28.
Joe complains he is having problems with his touchpad on his notebook. The pointer of the notebook works sometimes, and other times, it is all over the screen. Which of the following should you consider? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
B. Clean the touchpad.
C. Is the device configured properly.
D. Was an external mouse connected when the notepad was first booted?
Explanation
The main causes of touchpad problems are they are dirty, which causes the mouse to move intermittently all over the screen, the device may not be configured properly, and if an external mouse was connected at the time of the first boot-up, the notebook may only recognize that and not the touchpad.
29.
This message indicates that the MBR is ok while the boot sector is bad or not found.
Correct Answer
C. Missing operating system.
Explanation
The message "Missing operating system" typically indicates that the Master Boot Record (MBR) is intact, but the boot sector is either bad or not found. The MBR contains information about the partitions on the hard drive and points to the location of the boot sector, which is crucial for loading the operating system. If the boot sector is damaged or missing, the system may display the "Missing operating system" message.
30.
When running disk management and receive this status message "online errors", it could mean?
Correct Answer
B. The OS detected i/o errors with the disk.
Explanation
The correct answer is "The OS detected i/o errors with the disk." This means that when running disk management, the operating system has detected input/output errors with the disk. These errors could indicate that there are issues with reading from or writing to the disk, which could potentially affect its functionality.
31.
A client calls and complains that he has recently moved and when he started his system back up, the computer powered up and for a few seconds everything was operating properly. Then all of a sudden his screen went black. The power light was still there on the monitor. What do you think might be the problem?
Correct Answer
A. Video card
Explanation
Video cards can become loose and not sit properly in their slots. If you have a problem like this you should try re-seating the video card in the slot and recheck your system.
32.
Mr. Brook complains that the date and time on his computer keep messing up. He always reset it, but every time he boots his system up, it is wrong again. What could cause the problem? (choose 2 options)
Correct Answer(s)
B. CMOS RAM chip failure
C. CMOS battery
Explanation
A bad CMOS RAM chip or CMOS battery can cause the date and time not to be correct. Both will not help hold memory so when the system is powered down there is nothing to hold the information about the settings in CMOS.
33.
What error message range do video display errors show? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. 4xx
B. 24xx
C. 6xx
D. 5xx
Explanation
Video display errors typically fall within the following error message ranges:
B. 24xx: Video display errors often have error codes in the 2400 to 2499 range.
C. 6xx: Some video display errors may fall within the 600 to 699 range.
D. 5xx: Video-related errors, including issues with graphics and display settings, may be represented by error codes in the 500 to 599 range.
Option A (4xx) is not commonly associated with video display errors; this range is often reserved for certain hardware and device-related issues.
34.
From the following, what could cause a display that is wiggly, pulsing, blurry, too large or small, and causes the screen to flicker or shrink? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Monitor interference from nearby equipment.
B. Video adapter interference from nearby PC cards.
C. Unstable power supply in the monitor.
Explanation
Monitor interference from nearby equipment, video adapter interference from nearby PC cards, and an unstable power supply inside the monitor can cause all these symptoms.
35.
What do memory errors range in?
Correct Answer
D. 2xx
Explanation
Memory errors are in the 200 range.
36.
You have just finished working on a system. You restart the system and receive the error message "?????" and the system hangs. What should you suspect? Choose 2 options.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Bad memory chip or card.
B. Operating system file corrupt.
Explanation
A. Bad memory chip or card: The error message "?????" and system hang can be indicative of memory-related issues. A faulty or incompatible memory chip or card may result in such errors.
B. Operating system file corrupt: Corrupted operating system files can lead to boot errors and system instability. If critical system files are corrupted, it can cause the system to hang during startup.
Options C (Add-on memory card) and D (Hard drive partition corrupt) are less likely to be the immediate causes of the error message "?????" and system hang. Memory-related issues and operating system file corruption are more directly associated with the symptoms described.
37.
You power up your system and receive a non-system disk or disk error message. Which of the following could be causing the problem? (choose 2 options)
Correct Answer(s)
A. A non-system disk in a floppy drive.
C. Missing dos system file from hard disk.
Explanation
A non-system disk in the floppy drive and a missing dos system file from the hard disk can cause these errors.
38.
Sam complains that he replaced his CPU and made some adjustments to it. After putting the system back together, he tried to boot the system up, but the system did nothing after booting. What could be the problem? Choose the best answer.
Correct Answer
B. CPU speed is set too fast for CPU.
Explanation
Since Sam had replaced his CPU and said he made "adjustments" to it, more than likely he overclocked his CPU and is causing the problem.
39.
A client complains that the keyboard is locked and inactive. Otherwise, everything on his system seems ok. What could cause the problem? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. An old or wrong keyboard bios.
B. A bad keyboard cable connection.
Explanation
An old or wrong keyboard bios or a bad keyboard connection can cause the keyboard to lock or be inactive.
40.
Maria complains there is a high-pitched noise that occurs whenever she turns her computer on and starts the booting. What could be the cause? Choose 2 options.
Correct Answer(s)
C. Heads have crashed on the hard drive.
D. The anti-static wiper on the spindle is defective on the hard drive.
Explanation
A high-pitched noise could indicate a problem in the hard drive with the heads coming into contact with the disk or the antistatic wiper spindle on the hard drive being defective.
41.
What should you suspect if you have a drive that fills up too fast? choose 2
Correct Answer(s)
B. Large cluster sizes
C. Drive partitioning wrong
Explanation
If the drive fills up too fast it usually indicates a problem with the cluster size or the drive is partitioned wrong.
42.
Mark complains of the increasing occurrence of data errors. When he runs the chkdsk, it indicates that there are many bad clusters. What could be the cause? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Disk surface damage
B. Read/write heads damage
Explanation
damage to the read/write heads and to the disk surface can give you data errors. When scanned with chkdsk it will usually report bad clusters on the hard drive.
43.
A client complains that he is facing problems with his cd-rom. He said it sounds like the drive is spinning very fast. What could cause the problem? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Defective spindle in the cd rom
B. Defective hub lock
C. Worn hub hole in disk
Explanation
The problem with the CD-ROM drive spinning very fast could be due to several reasons:
A. Defective spindle in the CD-ROM: The spindle is the part of the CD-ROM drive that spins the disc. If it’s defective, it could cause the disc to spin too fast.
B. Defective hub lock: The hub lock is responsible for holding the disc in place while it spins. If it’s defective, it could cause the disc to spin unevenly or too fast.
C. Worn hub hole in disk: If the hole in the center of the disc (the hub hole) is worn, it could cause the disc to spin unevenly or too fast.
So, options A, B, and C could be potential causes for the CD-ROM drive spinning very fast. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional to diagnose the issue accurately.
44.
Jazz complains she hears a clicking noise in her monitor whenever she turns it on. What could cause the problem? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Magnetic interference
D. Electromagnetic switches inside the monitor going bad
Explanation
Clicking noise in a monitor could be due to several reasons:
A. Magnetic interference: Magnetic fields can cause disturbances in electronic devices, including monitors. This could potentially cause a clicking noise.
D. Electromagnetic switches inside the monitor going bad: Monitors contain electromagnetic switches that control various functions. If these are failing, they could cause a clicking noise.
So, options A and D could be potential causes for the clicking noise Jazz is experiencing when she turns on her monitor. However, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional to diagnose the issue accurately. Please note that ESD damage and improper video adapter settings typically do not cause a clicking noise in monitors.
45.
A defective professional graphics controller (PGC) or professional graphics adapter (pga) video adapter will display which of the following error messages?
Correct Answer
C. 39xx
Explanation
A defective professional graphics controller or professional graphics adapter video adapter will display error messages starting with "39xx".
46.
Larry complains there is no output in his printer. What could be causing the problem? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Printer port failure
B. Improper cable connection
C. Paper jam
D. Faulty software setup
Explanation
A. Printer port failure: If the port to which the printer is connected is not functioning correctly, it can result in a lack of output.
B. Improper cable connection: Incorrect or loose cable connections between the computer and the printer can prevent the transfer of data and lead to no output.
C. Paper jam: If there is a paper jam inside the printer, it can hinder the printing process and result in no output.
D. Faulty software setup: Issues with the software configuration, such as incorrect drivers or misconfigured settings, can also contribute to a lack of output from the printer.
All of the above factors should be checked and addressed to troubleshoot the issue of no output from the printer.
47.
A client complains that there is a printer that is not printing properly. He also states that when the printer is printing a job, pages are missing, and sometimes, the wrong number of pages is from the job. Which of the following do you suspect? Choose all that apply.
Correct Answer(s)
A. Form feed was not sent to close out the document
C. Software and printed output with conflicting lines
D. Software and printer with dissimilar line feeds
Explanation
a form feed has to be sent to let the document know when to stop printing when the document is done, software and printed output with conflicting lines, and software and printer with dissimilar line feeds can cause the output to be wrong.
48.
What is the easiest way to correct a problem on a user's workstation?
Correct Answer
A. Reboot the computer
Explanation
Rebooting the computer is often the easiest way to correct a problem on a user's workstation. This is because a reboot can resolve various software-related issues, such as freezing, slow performance, or unresponsive programs. It allows the operating system to start fresh, clearing any temporary files or processes that might be causing the problem. Additionally, a reboot can also help in resetting hardware settings or resolving conflicts between different software components. Overall, rebooting the computer is a simple and effective solution that can quickly fix many common issues.
49.
Which areas of the network are good places to start your troubleshooting?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
All of the above options are good places to start troubleshooting network issues. User error on the workstation can often be a common cause of network problems, so eliminating this possibility is important. Checking the network cable ensures that there is a proper physical connection between the device and the network. Similarly, checking the power cable ensures that the device is receiving power and is not causing any issues. By considering all of these factors, one can identify and resolve network problems effectively.
50.
After a recent reorganization, many people moved their computers to new offices, and the workstation is not functioning properly. The network of the organization is a 10baseT Ethernet network with work groups arranged in hubs. What is likely the problem? Choose 2 options.
Correct Answer(s)
C. A cable has been damaged
D. The workstation isn't connected to the network
Explanation
The first likely problem is that a cable has been damaged, which could be causing connectivity issues between the workstation and the network. The second likely problem is that the workstation isn't connected to the network, which could be due to an incorrect or loose connection. These two possibilities would explain why the workstation is not functioning properly after the reorganization and computer moves.