Question 1

Troubleshooting input devices: if a traditional mechanical (ball) mouse pointer moves erratically on the screen, which underlying cause is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Before optical sensors became standard, mice used a rubber ball to translate motion into two perpendicular rollers. Erratic or jumpy cursor behavior is a common troubleshooting scenario in labs and support desks, and recognizing telltale symptoms saves time. Given Data / Assumptions: The device is explicitly behaving erratically (jitter, sticking, sudden jumps). We are considering a mechanical ball mouse, not a modern optical/laser mouse. No mention of complete non-function (which would suggest power, port, or driver failures). Concept / Approach: Mechanical mice rely on friction between the desk surface, the rubber ball, and internal rollers. Dust and skin oils accumulate on the ball and rollers, creating slippage and intermittent contact. This contamination introduces uneven rotation detection, which appears as jittery motion. Cleaning the ball and rollers restores smooth tracking. Step-by-Step Solution: Check symptom scope: the pointer moves but is inaccurate or jerky.Map common root causes: dirt on ball/rollers is the primary culprit for erratic behavior while still allowing some motion.Select the most probable cause: 'The mouse ball is dirty'. Verification / Alternative check: Support playbooks recommend removing the retaining ring, cleaning the ball with isopropyl alcohol, and gently scraping residue off rollers. Immediate improvement confirms the diagnosis. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Not connected: would yield no movement at all, not erratic tracking. Driver not installed properly: often results in non-operation or generic behavior, not sporadic jitter specific to movement. Incorrect IRQ: was an issue for legacy ISA devices but rarely manifests as subtle jitter; it typically prevents correct operation altogether. Common Pitfalls: Replacing the mouse before attempting simple cleaning. Ignoring the desk surface; very glossy surfaces can also cause problems, but dirt remains the top cause for ball mice. Final Answer: The mouse ball is dirty.

Question 2

Windows 95/98 troubleshooting: while installing an application the system freezes. What immediate action should you take first to attempt a clean recovery without forcing a reboot?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: On classic Windows 95/98 systems, application faults could freeze the desktop without completely crashing the kernel. Microsoft provided a user-level recovery path that closes a misbehaving program while attempting to preserve system state and unsaved work in other applications. Given Data / Assumptions: You are in the middle of an installation and the system appears to hang. You want the least disruptive, standard first response. No mention of hardware failure or power loss. Concept / Approach: In Windows 95/98, pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete once opens the 'Close Program' dialog. From there, you can select the non-responsive task and choose 'End Task'. This targets the offending process and often restores responsiveness without a reboot. Pressing Ctrl+Alt+Delete twice initiates a soft reboot, which should be considered only if ending the task fails. Step-by-Step Solution: Try a single Ctrl+Alt+Delete to open the task list.Highlight the frozen installer (or 'Not Responding') and click 'End Task'.Reassess system stability; proceed with a reboot only if necessary. Verification / Alternative check: If the system does not respond to the first key sequence, a second Ctrl+Alt+Delete or a hardware reset may be required. However, best practice is to attempt graceful termination first. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete twice: triggers a restart and risks file corruption during installation. Reset button / Power cycle: last-resort measures that bypass orderly shutdown and can damage file systems. None of the above: incorrect because the OS provides a defined recovery action. Common Pitfalls: Immediately power-cycling without attempting to end the task. Launching the installer again before confirming system stability. Final Answer: Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete and end task.

Question 3

PC boot process: from which location does a computer obtain its very first instructions during power-on or reset (the code that initializes hardware and starts the operating system loader)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: When you power on a traditional PC, the processor begins executing a tiny bootstrap program that initializes hardware, performs self-tests, and eventually loads an operating system. Identifying where those very first instructions live is core knowledge for system builders and troubleshooters. Given Data / Assumptions: A cold boot or reset has just occurred. No operating system is yet running. The question asks specifically about the first instructions executed. Concept / Approach: On legacy PCs, the CPU starts at a predefined reset vector address mapped to firmware stored in read-only memory (ROM). This firmware is commonly called the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or, on modern systems, UEFI firmware. The BIOS runs power-on self-test (POST), configures basic devices, and locates a bootable device. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize that RAM is uninitialized and disks contain data but no executing code yet.Recall that the reset vector points into non-volatile firmware.Therefore the first code executed is in the system firmware: ROM BIOS. Verification / Alternative check: Configuration screens accessed via firmware keys (for example, Del or F2) appear before any OS files are read, confirming that initial control resides in ROM firmware. Why Other Options Are Wrong: CPU: executes instructions but does not store them; needs firmware to fetch. boot.ini / CONFIG.SYS: operating-system files read much later, after the firmware passes control to a loader. None of the above: incorrect because BIOS is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing BIOS/UEFI firmware with OS bootloader files; they are different stages. Final Answer: ROM BIOS.

Question 4

Intel 80386SX microprocessor: choose the correct combination of native word size and external data bus width for this CPU variant used in cost-reduced 32-bit PCs.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Intel 80386 family introduced 32-bit x86 computing to mainstream PCs. The 80386SX variant provided a lower-cost pathway by narrowing external buses while retaining a 32-bit internal architecture. Distinguishing internal word size from external bus width is a classic computer-architecture concept. Given Data / Assumptions: We are asked about the 80386SX (not 80386DX). 'Word size' refers to the CPU’s native register width and ALU size. 'Data path' here refers to the external data bus width to memory and peripherals. Concept / Approach: The 80386SX keeps the 32-bit registers and instruction set of the 80386DX, but uses a 16-bit external data bus and a 24-bit address bus to reduce motherboard complexity and cost. Internally it executes 32-bit operations; externally, memory transfers occur 16 bits at a time, potentially requiring two bus cycles for 32-bit values. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify internal architecture: 32-bit general-purpose registers ⇒ 32-bit word size.Identify external bus design: cost-reduced SX ⇒ 16-bit data bus.Select option matching both facts. Verification / Alternative check: Motherboards marketed as 386SX commonly paired with cheaper chipsets and memory subsystems; documentation shows 16-bit SIMM paths and performance closer to fast 16-bit 286 systems despite 32-bit instruction support. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 16/16: would describe a 286-class system, not a 386SX. 32/32: describes the 386DX, not the SX. 8/32 or 32/8: do not match any x86 production CPU in this family. Common Pitfalls: Assuming 'SX' means 16-bit CPU; it is a 32-bit CPU with a narrower external bus. Final Answer: 32 bit word size, 16 bit data path.

Question 5

In laser printer maintenance, which component must never be exposed to direct sunlight or strong ambient light because it is photosensitive and can be permanently damaged?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Laser printers rely on a photosensitive element called the photoconductor (PC) drum to form the latent electrostatic image that is later developed with toner. Proper handling of the drum is critical for consistent print quality and device longevity. This question checks practical hardware knowledge about which parts are light-sensitive and the consequences of improper exposure. Given Data / Assumptions: A standard electrophotographic (laser) printer design is assumed. We are evaluating which subassembly must not be exposed to sunlight or intense light. The options include several high-voltage and consumable assemblies. Concept / Approach: The PC drum has a photoconductive coating that becomes conductive when illuminated. During printing, it is deliberately exposed to a laser to discharge select areas and form the latent image. Strong ambient light or direct sunlight can over-discharge or chemically degrade the drum coating, causing permanent damage, backgrounding, streaks, and loss of contrast. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the component with a photosensitive surface: the PC drum.Recall handling instructions: store and service the drum in low light; keep protective shutters/covers in place.Conclude that exposing the PC drum to sunlight risks irreversible damage; therefore, it should not be exposed. Verification / Alternative check: Manufacturer service manuals universally warn against light exposure of the photoconductor unit and often ship drums in opaque, protective sleeves or sealed cartridges with shutters. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Transfer corona assembly: High-voltage charge device; not light-sensitive. Primary corona wire: Also a high-voltage charging element; light does not harm it. Toner cartridge: Toner is not degraded by brief light exposure (heat/humidity are bigger concerns). None of the above: Incorrect because the PC drum is clearly sensitive. Common Pitfalls: Confusing high-voltage components with light-sensitive ones, and mishandling drum units outside their protective covers during service. Final Answer: PC drum

Question 6

For connecting a laser printer, which peripheral interface historically provides the fastest sustained throughput among the listed options?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Printer interfaces determine how quickly print data can be delivered to a device. Historically, laser printers benefited from higher-bandwidth connections to avoid bottlenecks when spooling complex pages. This question assesses understanding of legacy ports and their practical throughput differences. Given Data / Assumptions: Interfaces listed: RS-232 (serial), generic Serial, Parallel (Centronics/IEEE 1284), and SCSI. We compare typical legacy maximum data rates and effective throughput for printers. Concept / Approach: SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) historically offered significantly higher bandwidth, bus arbitration, and efficient block transfers compared with standard RS-232 serial or classic parallel ports. While IEEE 1284 parallel modes improved speeds, SCSI commonly surpassed them and supported multi-device, DMA-like transfers, ideal for high-volume page printers. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify each interface’s typical speed: RS-232 tens to hundreds of kbps; classic parallel up to a few Mbps in ECP/EPP modes; SCSI from several to tens of Mbps depending on version.Recognize that laser printers with SCSI options target higher throughput workflows.Select SCSI as the fastest legacy choice from the list. Verification / Alternative check: Technical datasheets from the era show SCSI-equipped printers outperforming parallel/serial models in throughput and spooling efficiency, especially with large PostScript jobs. Why Other Options Are Wrong: RS-232 / Serial: Lower baud rates; not competitive for large rasterized pages. Parallel: Faster than RS-232 but typically below SCSI’s sustained transfer rates. None of the above: Incorrect because SCSI fits the criterion. Common Pitfalls: Assuming all serial/parallel implementations are equal or overlooking enhanced IEEE 1284 modes; however, SCSI still led in sustained performance for many professional printers. Final Answer: SCSI

Question 7

When installing PCI network interface cards (NICs), where should you check to verify available IRQ assignments and resource allocation?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: PCI devices typically rely on Plug and Play (PnP) mechanisms for resource allocation (IRQs, I/O ranges, memory windows). Understanding where these resources are configured or viewed is essential for troubleshooting hardware conflicts. Given Data / Assumptions: Hardware: PCI NICs (modern, jumperless). Goal: Check IRQ availability and current assignments. Legacy files like CONFIG.SYS are not used for PCI resource assignment. Concept / Approach: PnP BIOS/UEFI and the operating system enumerate PCI devices and assign resources automatically. The motherboard BIOS (or UEFI) setup often displays or influences resource assignment, supports enabling/disabling slots, and handles legacy IRQ reservations. PCI cards do not use physical DIP switches or jumpers for IRQs. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify that PCI resource allocation is automatic via BIOS/OS.Recognize that legacy methods (DIP/jumpers) applied to ISA cards, not PCI NICs.Use the motherboard BIOS (and OS device manager) to view/alter resource configurations. Verification / Alternative check: Operating systems (e.g., Windows Device Manager, lspci in Linux) display assigned resources, while BIOS/UEFI provides slot settings and legacy IRQ reservations—confirming BIOS as the hardware-level reference point. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Dip switches / Jumper settings: Typical for ISA/older devices; not for PCI IRQs. CONFIG.SYS: DOS-era driver loading; does not assign PCI IRQs. None of the above: Incorrect—BIOS is correct. Common Pitfalls: Assuming manual jumper configuration for PCI or editing startup files to change PCI resources—these do not apply. Final Answer: Motherboard BIOS

Question 8

A dot-matrix printer produces alternating light and dark print density across a line. Which likely cause best explains this varying darkness pattern?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Dot-matrix printers use an inked fabric ribbon advanced by a small mechanism as the print head moves. Uneven print density (light then dark, repeating) often points to consumable or feed issues. Knowing symptoms helps with fast, low-cost service. Given Data / Assumptions: Pattern: Alternating light/dark density along the print direction. Print method: Impact pins strike an inked ribbon onto paper. Mechanisms involved: ribbon feed, head pressure, platen, paper feed. Concept / Approach: If the ribbon does not advance smoothly, the same section of fabric is struck repeatedly, depleting ink locally (light output). When the ribbon finally moves, a fresher ink area produces darker output—creating a light/dark periodic pattern. Paper thickness or head position cause overall density shifts, not regular alternation. Paper slippage tends to cause misalignment or skew, not periodic darkness bands. Step-by-Step Solution: Observe the repeating density pattern synchronized with head travel.Associate periodic density change with ribbon movement irregularities.Conclude that improper ribbon advancement best matches the symptom. Verification / Alternative check: Replacing or re-seating the ribbon cartridge and verifying the drive gear typically resolves the issue. A test with a new ribbon eliminates consumable variables. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Paper slippage: Causes skew or gaps, not cyclical dark/light stripes. Paper thickness: Affects overall impact, not alternating bands. Head position: Misalignment affects clarity, not periodic density changes. None of the above: Incorrect because ribbon advance explains the pattern. Common Pitfalls: Overlooking a worn or jammed ribbon cartridge and spending time adjusting platen gap unnecessarily. Final Answer: Improper ribbon advancement

Question 9

In laser electrophotographic printing, what specifically occurs during the conditioning (charging) stage before exposure by the laser?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Laser printers create images using a multi-stage electrophotographic process. Understanding each stage—conditioning, exposing, developing, transferring, fusing—is essential for diagnostics and quality control. The conditioning stage prepares the drum for a clean latent image. Given Data / Assumptions: We are asked about the conditioning (also called primary charging) stage. Photosensitive drum will later be selectively discharged by the laser. Standard negative-charge process is assumed (common in modern printers). Concept / Approach: During conditioning, a primary charge device (corona wire or charge roller) applies a uniform negative charge across the surface of the photoconductor drum. This uniform potential ensures that only the laser-exposed areas discharge to form the latent image. Toner is typically given a charge during development, and paper is charged at the transfer step—not during conditioning. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify process stage: conditioning = primary charging of the drum.Recall charge polarity and target: negative charge on the drum’s surface.Select the option matching this action precisely. Verification / Alternative check: Service guides describe the drum potential after primary charging, then laser exposure lowers potential in image areas, enabling toner attraction during development. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Positive charge on the paper: This occurs at transfer, not conditioning. Negative charge on the toner: Part of development step, not conditioning. All/None of the above: Do not match the specific conditioning definition. Common Pitfalls: Confusing the various charges applied at different stages and mixing up paper transfer with drum conditioning. Final Answer: A uniform negative charge is placed on the photosensitive drum

Question 10

Using the Hayes AT command set with a modem, which command resets the modem to its default or stored profile?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Classic dial-up modems implement the Hayes AT command set. Knowing core commands is useful for legacy integration, embedded systems, and troubleshooting serial links. Resetting returns a modem to a known configuration state, often solving erratic behavior. Given Data / Assumptions: We are working with Hayes-compatible AT commands. Goal: reset the modem to defaults or a stored profile. Concept / Approach: ATZ is the standard reset command. It reinitializes the modem, typically loading the default profile from NVRAM (often &F or &Y-based). Other strings serve different purposes: ATR is not a reset standard; DTR (Data Terminal Ready) is a serial control signal, not an AT command; DCE is a device role term (Data Circuit-terminating Equipment), not a command. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the Hayes reset keyword: ATZ.Recall behavior: load default/stored settings and reinitialize.Select ATZ as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Modem manuals list ATZ and AT&F (factory defaults) as standard reset/initialization mechanisms, commonly used in initialization strings. Why Other Options Are Wrong: ATR: Not a standard reset command. DTR: A control signal line state, not an AT command. DCE: A device role term, not a command. None of the above: Incorrect since ATZ is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing ATZ (reset) with AT&F (load factory defaults). Both reset state, but ATZ uses stored profile; AT&F forces factory baseline. Final Answer: ATZ

Question 11

Which diagnostic tool is commonly used to verify basic functionality of serial (RS-232) and parallel ports by looping signals back to the interface?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: When troubleshooting legacy serial and parallel interfaces, a quick way to validate the physical port and UART/printer port circuitry is to use a loopback device. Understanding the correct tool speeds diagnosis without needing external peripherals. Given Data / Assumptions: Interfaces: RS-232 serial and Centronics/IEEE-1284 parallel. Goal: Verify that transmitted signals can be received back at the same port (self-test). Concept / Approach: A loopback (wrap) plug routes specific output pins to corresponding input pins so the host's transmitted data or status lines are returned to the receiver side. Passing loopback tests indicates the port hardware and driver stack are functional. Cable scanners and sniffers serve other purposes (cable mapping, network packet capture), and high-voltage probes are for power electronics, not I/O port testing. Step-by-Step Solution: Connect the appropriate loopback plug to the port.Run a loopback test utility to transmit data and verify correct reception.Confirm that successful loopback indicates a working port; otherwise, suspect hardware, driver, or cable. Verification / Alternative check: Many vendor diagnostics ship with loopback test options; RS-232 pinouts (e.g., shorting TXD to RXD) are standard practice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Cable scanner: Maps cable conductors; not a loopback of the port logic. Sniffer: Captures network packets; unrelated to local port wiring tests. High-voltage probe: For measuring HV; not for serial/parallel diagnostics. None of the above: Incorrect since loopbacks are the correct tool. Common Pitfalls: Testing with a peripheral of unknown condition; always validate the port first with a loopback to isolate issues. Final Answer: Loop backs (wrap plugs)

Question 12

After performing a low-level format on a hard drive, what is the correct next step in preparing it for use in a PC?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Disk preparation follows a sequence: physical preparation, partitioning, file system creation, and OS installation. Understanding the correct order avoids boot failures and configuration issues, especially with legacy PCs. Given Data / Assumptions: Low-level format (LLF) or factory initialization has been completed. We need the next logical configuration step to make the drive usable. Concept / Approach: After LLF (or using modern drives as shipped), you must create one or more partitions to define logical volumes on the disk. Only then can you high-level format those partitions with a file system (e.g., FAT, NTFS) and install an operating system. Installing an OS without partitions or skipping the high-level format will fail. Step-by-Step Solution: Complete LLF or accept factory initialization.Use a partitioning tool (e.g., FDISK, Diskpart) to create partitions.High-level format the new partition(s) with the chosen file system.Proceed to install the operating system onto a formatted partition. Verification / Alternative check: All standard OS installers (DOS/Windows/Linux) either require or offer partition creation before formatting; documentation confirms the order: partition → format → install. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Format DOS partition: Occurs after partitions are created. Install operating system: Must follow partitioning and formatting. Configure DMA/interrupt: Not a typical disk prep step. None of the above: Incorrect because partitioning is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing low-level formatting with high-level formatting; they serve different purposes and occur at different stages. Final Answer: Partition the hard disk

Question 13

In DOS-based diagnostics, which command is commonly used to display memory usage details, including TSRs (Terminate-and-Stay-Resident programs)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Legacy DOS systems often loaded small programs that remained resident in memory (TSRs). Diagnosing conflicts and free memory required tools to list resident modules and memory maps. The standard command-line utility for this purpose is well known. Given Data / Assumptions: Environment: MS-DOS or DOS-mode in early Windows. Goal: View memory layout and identify TSRs. Concept / Approach: The MEM command displays memory usage, and with switches like /C or /D it lists details of conventional, upper, and loaded programs, including TSRs. Other options listed are either incorrect names or unrelated tools (Memmaker optimizes memory but does not serve as the primary display utility). Step-by-Step Solution: Use MEM to display memory; MEM /C or MEM /D shows module breakdowns.Scan the listing to identify TSRs and their memory footprints.Use this information to remove or reconfigure TSRs as needed. Verification / Alternative check: DOS help and manuals document MEM as the standard memory reporting tool; TSR managers also rely on MEM outputs for diagnostics. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Memory: Not a valid DOS command. SYS /M: SYS transfers system files; not a memory viewer. Memmaker: Attempts to optimize memory but is not the readout utility. None of the above: Incorrect because MEM is correct. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting to use switches like /C or /D for detailed module listings, leading to incomplete information about TSRs. Final Answer: MEM

Question 14

For electrostatic discharge (ESD) safety, what essential component is built into a technician’s wrist grounding strap to safely bleed charge to ground?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: ESD precautions protect sensitive components from damage due to static electricity. Wrist grounding straps are standard technician gear, but their internal construction is intentional: they must discharge static safely without creating a shock or a direct short to ground. Given Data / Assumptions: We are discussing a standard ESD wrist strap. The strap connects the technician to ground via a cord and clip. Safety and controlled discharge are design goals. Concept / Approach: A series resistor—commonly around 1 megaohm—is embedded in the wrist strap lead. This resistor limits current while allowing slow, continuous bleeding of accumulated static charge to ground. The resistor protects the user from accidental contact with live potentials and avoids a sudden discharge that could harm components. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify ESD strap function: equalize potential between person and ground.Require a current-limiting element to ensure safety and gentle dissipation.Conclude that the strap must include a resistor in series. Verification / Alternative check: ESD standards and manufacturer specifications call out the series resistor value (often 1 MΩ) and test procedures to verify continuity through the resistor. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Surge protector: For high-energy transients on power lines; not used in straps. Capacitor: Would store charge; not desirable for ESD straps. Voltmeter: A measurement device; not a strap component. None of the above: Incorrect because a resistor is required. Common Pitfalls: Bypassing or removing the resistor (direct grounding) is unsafe and noncompliant with ESD best practices. Final Answer: Resistor

Question 15

On the PC side, what type of connector is typically used for the printer (parallel) port, and what is its pin and gender configuration?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Before the advent of USB, printers were commonly connected to IBM-compatible PCs using a parallel port interface. The physical connector type, shape, and pin configuration are important in troubleshooting legacy hardware and understanding historical standards. Given Data / Assumptions: We are dealing with the printer port, also known as the parallel port or LPT port. The question is specifically about the connector type on the PC side. Concept / Approach: The PC parallel printer port uses a DB-25 connector. 'DB' indicates a D-subminiature style, and '25' indicates the pin count. On the PC side, it is a female connector to prevent bent pins during use. The corresponding printer side usually has a Centronics 36-pin connector. Step-by-Step Solution: Recognize that the printer port is not a serial port; it is a parallel communication interface.Recall that the PC end uses a DB-25 female connector.Select the option: 25 pin female parallel connector. Verification / Alternative check: Technical references and repair guides describe the PC printer port as DB-25 female (LPT1). Visual inspection of legacy motherboards and expansion cards confirms this. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 25 pin female serial connector: DB-25 was also used for RS-232 serial ports, but the printer port is specifically parallel. 15 pin female connectors: these are typically used for VGA or game/MIDI ports, not printers. 25 pin male serial connector: gender is wrong for the PC side of the printer port. Common Pitfalls: Confusing RS-232 DB-25 serial ports with DB-25 parallel printer ports—pin usage differs significantly. Assuming all printer ports are USB; many legacy systems still require DB-25. Final Answer: 25 pin female parallel connector.

Question 16

In PC hardware terminology, when a hard disk crash occurs due to the read/write head physically touching or interfering with the spinning disk surface (for example, after being dropped), it is called head-to-disk interference (HDI). Is this statemen…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Magnetic hard drives are precision devices with heads flying microns above the platter surface. Any shock or failure that makes the head touch the platter can cause data loss or mechanical damage. This phenomenon has a specific technical name. Given Data / Assumptions: We are discussing a hard drive crash scenario. The described event involves head-to-disk interference. Concept / Approach: The term for the read/write head making unwanted contact with the spinning disk surface is 'head crash' or 'head-to-disk interference (HDI).' Such contact can scratch platters and destroy data permanently. It often occurs after physical shock, contamination, or bearing failure. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify failure type: physical head contacts disk.Recall terminology: head-to-disk interference (HDI) or head crash.Confirm: the statement is correct. Verification / Alternative check: Industry white papers and drive manufacturer manuals explicitly use HDI to denote this catastrophic failure. Tech support logs confirm that drops often lead to head crashes. Why Other Options Are Wrong: False: incorrect because HDI is exactly the technical description. Common Pitfalls: Confusing logical 'crashes' (file system corruption) with mechanical head crashes. Final Answer: True.

Question 17

In PC power supply design, what voltage rail is primarily used by Pentium-class processors for core operation?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Early x86 systems such as the 286/386/486 used 5V logic, but as transistor geometries shrank and power density became a concern, later CPUs required lower voltages. Pentium systems marked a transition to a new standard supply rail for CPU cores. Given Data / Assumptions: System in question: Pentium-class PCs of the 1990s. We want the voltage rail directly powering the CPU core. Concept / Approach: The Intel Pentium processors and later x86 CPUs required 3.3V logic levels rather than 5V, to reduce power consumption and heat. Other rails like +5V and +12V continued to power peripherals (disks, fans, legacy cards), but the processor core shifted to +3.3V. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify target: Pentium CPU core.Match historical spec: Pentium core voltage = +3.3V nominal.Confirm: answer is +3.3 volts. Verification / Alternative check: Technical datasheets show Pentium 75–200 MHz CPUs required 3.3V ± 0.3V. Later Pentium MMX introduced split voltages, but standard Pentiums still used 3.3V. Why Other Options Are Wrong: +12V: used by motors, fans, and drives, not CPU cores. +5V: legacy CPUs pre-Pentium, not Pentium itself. +8V: no such standard rail in PC ATX/AT supplies. None: incorrect because +3.3V is correct. Common Pitfalls: Assuming Pentium still used 5V like 486s; this caused compatibility issues in some upgrades. Final Answer: +3.3 volts.

Question 18

On the back of a typical PC, what does a 25-pin female connector usually represent?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Legacy PCs supported multiple peripheral interfaces with distinct connectors. Understanding which connector type corresponds to which function is important for hardware technicians and exam candidates. Given Data / Assumptions: We have a DB-25 (25-pin) female connector located on the back of a PC. We want to identify its usual purpose. Concept / Approach: On PCs, DB-25 connectors had two main uses: RS-232 serial (male on PC side) and parallel printer ports (female on PC side). The question specifies a 25-pin female connector, which corresponds to the parallel (LPT) port. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify connector shape: DB-25.Identify gender: female ⇒ printer/parallel port.Correct mapping: parallel port (LPT1). Verification / Alternative check: Hardware manuals show DB-25 female as parallel port, DB-25 male as serial RS-232 port. This gender distinction prevents accidental crossover. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Serial port 1 / COM2: DB-9 male or DB-25 male, not DB-25 female. Docking: proprietary multi-pin connectors, not DB-25 standard. None: incorrect because 'parallel port' is exactly right. Common Pitfalls: Confusing DB-25 serial and parallel connectors; gender is the key clue. Final Answer: A parallel port.

Question 19

In electrical engineering, resistance is measured in which unit?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Basic electrical quantities include voltage, current, resistance, and power. Each has a standard SI unit. Recognizing which belongs to which is fundamental in circuit analysis and physics. Given Data / Assumptions: Resistance is defined as the opposition to current flow. We need to identify its unit of measure. Concept / Approach: By Ohm's Law, V = I * R. Rearranging, R = V / I. Voltage is measured in volts (V), current in amperes (A), so resistance must be volts per ampere. This unit is named after Georg Simon Ohm and denoted 'ohm' (Ω). Step-by-Step Solution: Start with Ohm's law: V = I * R.Rearrange: R = V / I.Substitute units: volts / amperes = ohms.Therefore resistance is measured in ohms. Verification / Alternative check: Multimeters show resistance ranges with 'Ω' as the unit symbol. Engineering handbooks confirm the same. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Volts: measure electric potential difference, not resistance. Amps: measure electric current. Watts: measure power (V * I), not resistance. None: incorrect because ohms is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing ohms with watts; both appear in electrical contexts but measure different properties. Final Answer: Ohms.

Question 20

In electronics ESD practice, what is the best grounding method for a conductive workbench to safely discharge static while servicing PC hardware?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) control is critical when servicing computer hardware. A conductive workbench surface, wrist strap, and proper grounding prevent damaging voltage spikes from building on you or the equipment. Choosing the best ground reference ensures charge equalization happens safely and predictably. Given Data / Assumptions: The bench has a conductive (or dissipative) surface intended for ESD control. We are working on typical PC hardware (motherboards, memory, cards, drives). We want the preferred grounding point for the bench mat/system. Concept / Approach: The ESD benchmark is to reference all items (technician, bench, and device-under-test) to the same electrical potential—usually the equipment chassis which is bonded to a verified protective earth. Chassis ground (earth-referenced) keeps the device and the work surface at the same potential, minimizing ESD events. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify that an ESD-safe setup uses one common point ground (CPG).Connect the bench ESD mat and wrist strap to chassis ground that is earth-bonded.Verify ground with an ESD tester or continuity check to protective earth.Work only when your strap and bench show proper resistance to ground (typically 1 MΩ series resistor for safety). Verification / Alternative check: Most ESD standards and service manuals recommend a common point connected to equipment chassis ground which is bonded to building safety earth. This provides a safe, low-impedance return while limiting fault current via series resistance in straps. Why Other Options Are Wrong: AC outlet: plugging directly to an outlet hole is unsafe; only the outlet’s earth pin via a certified ESD ground block is acceptable, not the live/neutral conductors. To another device: creates floating references; if that device is not earth-bonded, ESD remains uncontrolled. Ground to bench: the bench itself is not a ground; it must be bonded to a proper chassis/earth point. None of the above: false because chassis ground is correct. Common Pitfalls: Clipping to painted metal (insulated) instead of bare chassis ground metal. Assuming any metal is earth; verify with a tester. Bypassing the 1 MΩ safety resistor in wrist straps. Final Answer: Chassis ground.

Computer Hardware Questions