Term
| You are working on a computer. What is considered essential? |
|
Definition
Motherboard, CPU, Memory, Video Card
The essential computer components listed here are a motherboard (no motherboard means no computer), a CPU or processor (the brain of the computer), memory, and video output (by means of a video card or a video port intergrated into the motherboard). |
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|
Term
| What devices might be found on the front or back of a computer? |
|
Definition
Activity lights, Power switch, USB ports
You might find all of the listed devices on either the front or back of a computer. Some, such as a USB ports, are on both front and back. |
|
|
Term
| What can cause a desktop computer to fail? |
|
Definition
Overheating, Loose add-on cards, Drive failures, Adding more memory
An overheated processor can shut down the computer or cause an unrecoverable error. A loose video card causes a blank display. Hard drive failure results in a non-bootable operating system. And if the additional memory is incompatiable with the original memory or the motherboard, it could stop the computer from booting. |
|
|
Term
| What are the most commonly used Windows operating systems? |
|
Definition
Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows Vista, Windows 98
Even though some people still use Windows 98 on their computers, it is not considered a major player among the operating systems of today. |
|
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Term
| What can be used in your day-to-day work on a standard Windows computer? |
|
Definition
CHKDSK, Disk Defragmenter
Use CHKDSK and Disk Defragmenter to help prevent your computer from possible hard drive failure. Keeping your hard drive defragmented is a very important part of maintaining a computer. |
|
|
Term
| What is the first thing you should do when replacing a PCI card? |
|
Definition
Shut down the system and unplug the power.
When installing a new PCI card, the first thing you should do is shut down the computer and unplug the system. You should always make sure there is no power going into the system to prevent electrostatic disacharge (ESD). |
|
|
Term
| What step is important to peform when opening the case to access the internal parts of a computer? |
|
Definition
Check your system manual
You should look at the system manual before opening the case. Make sure that you are not voiding the service warranty or violating any other service terms by opening the computer case yourself. |
|
|
Term
| What can help in preventing ESD? |
|
Definition
Touch the unpainted metal of the chassis, Wear an antistatic wrist strap.
Wearing an antistatic wrist strap is highly recommended when working on the inside of the computer. If you do not have one you can touch the unpainted part of the computer before touching the components. |
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|
Term
| How do you identify the cable that connects to the floppy drive? |
|
Definition
There is a twist at one end.
The floppy drive uses a 34-pin cable that has a twist at one end. This end of the cable connects to the floppy drive (A:) drive. The middle connector is used for B: drive (if it's present; it's not supported on some machines). |
|
|
Term
| How do you attach the VGA cable to the video card to prevent it from losing connection? |
|
Definition
By turning the thumbscrews
Turn the thumbscrews so they are completely retracted. If they are not completely retracted, the VGA cable might not make a proper connection with the video card. |
|
|
Term
| What types of hardware resources do both onboard and add-on card device's use? |
|
Definition
IRQ, DMA, Memory, I/O port
Every device needs its own set of hardware resources or needs to have the ability to share IRQs |
|
|
Term
| What is the process of bypassing the CPU called? |
|
Definition
Direct Memory Access
The process of bypassing the CPU is called Direct Memory Access (DMA). DMA transfers can be done in two ways. For example, some DMA transfers (such as those done by tape backup drives or by PCI cards using bus-mastering) do not require a particular DMA channel. Other devices, such as popular ISA sound cards and the ECP mode of the parallel port, require that we select an unused DMA channel. |
|
|
Term
| The system bus and I/O bus carry four different types of signals throughout the computer which are? |
|
Definition
Data, Power, Control, Address
The motherboard is essential to computer operation in large part because of the two major buses it contains: the system bus and the I/O bus. Together, these buses carry all the information between the different parts of the computer. |
|
|
Term
| What are considered expansion slots? |
|
Definition
PCI, AGP
Motherboards use expansion slots to provide support for additional I/O devices and high-speed video/graphics cards. The most common expansion slots on recent systems include PCI, AGP, and PCI-Express (also known as PCIe). Some Systems also feature AMR or CNR slots for specific purposes. |
|
|
Term
| What can you use with SCSI (Small Computer Systems Interface)? |
|
Definition
Hard drives, Scanners, Laser Printers, DVD-ROMs
SCSI (Small Computer Systems Interface) is a more flexible drive interface than PATA (ATA/IDE) because it can accomodate many devices that are not hard disk drives. Devices are high performance hard drives, image scanners, and removable media, as well as laser printers and CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drives. |
|
|
Term
| What are in the ATX family motherboards? |
|
Definition
ATX, Mini-ATX, FlexATX
The ATX family of motherboards has dominated desktop computer design since the late 1990s. ATX stands for Advanced Technology Extended, and it replaced the AT and Baby-AT form factors developed in the mid 1980s for IBM PC AT and its rivals. The ATX family includes Mini-ATX and FlexATX. |
|
|
Term
| What is considered intergrated I/O ports? |
|
Definition
Serial port, Parallel port, USB port, PS/2 mouse and keyboard, Audio port, Ethernet
Motherboards in both the ATX and BTX families feature a variety of integrated I/O ports, including serial, parallel, USB, PS/2, audio, and Ethernet. These are found in as many as three locations. All motherboards feature a rear port cluster, and many motherboards also have additional ports on the top of the motherboard that are raouted to header cables that are accessible from the front and rear of the system. |
|
|
Term
| Which porcessor was the last slot-based processor designed by Intel? |
|
Definition
Pentium III
The Pentium III processor was the last Intel processor produced in both a slot-based and socket-based design. Slot-based version use Slot 1, the same slot design used by the Pentium II and slot-based Celeron processors. Socketed versions use Socket 370, which is mechanically the same as the socket used by the first socketed Celeron processors. However, some early Socket 370 motherboards are not electrically compatible with the Pentium III. |
|
|
Term
| Which Processor was the first dual-core design by AMD? |
|
Definition
Athlon 64 X2
AMD's first dual-core processor was the Athlon 64 X2, which uses a design that permits both processor cores to communicate directly with each other, rather than using the North Bridge (Memory Controller Hub) as in the Intel Pentium D. |
|
|
Term
| What best describes hyperthreading? |
|
Definition
Processing two execution threads simultaneously.
Hyperthreading is a technology developed by Intel for processing two execution threads simultaneously within a single processor. Essentially, when HT Technology is enabled in the system BIOS and the processor is running a multithreaded application, the processor is emulating two physical processors. |
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|
Term
| Before you remove the processor from the motherboard, what device should you remove first? |
|
Definition
Heat sink
If the processor has a removable heat sink, fan, or thermal duct that is attached to the motherboard, you must remove these components before you can remove the processor. |
|
|
Term
| You have been dispatched to a clients' computer. You have decided that the processor is overheating. Which of the following steps can you take to help with the air flow around the processor? |
|
Definition
Blow it out with compressed air, Remove the heat sink from the CPU, Place it on a surface covered with old newspaper or waste paper, Clean off the old thermal paste and reapply a small amount to the processor.
A system that overheats will stop operating, and with some older processors, serious damage can result. Most processors today are fitted with active heat sinks that contain a fan. If the fan stops working, an overheated processor follows. |
|
|
Term
| What can cause overheating? |
|
Definition
Fan failure, Incorrect heat sink
Heat sink fans don't have to stop turning to fail; if they turn more slowly than they are specified to run, they can cause processor overheating. So keep them clean. If the heat sink is incorrect for the processor model or if the heat sink is not attched correctly, it can also cause overheating. |
|
|
Term
| to connect speakers to the sound card, what must you use? |
|
Definition
1/8-inch mini-jack cable
After installing a sound card, you must connect 1/8-inch mini-jack cables from speakers and the microphone to the sound card. Most sound cards use the same PC99 color coding standards for audio hardware that are used by onboard audio solutions. |
|
|
Term
| You have recently purchased a 500GB storage device. You plug it in to your system and nothing happens. What could be the cause of the problems, and how would you correct this? |
|
Definition
| In this case you should verify whether the port you have plugged into has been disabled in the system BIOS configuration. If it will not connectm try enabling the port and retry the device. |
|
|
Term
| What is the CMOS memory used for? |
|
Definition
To store BIOS settings.
CMOS memory, also reffered to as non-volatile memory, is used to store BIOS settings and should not be confused with system memory (RAM), CMOS stands for complimentary metal-oxide semiconductor. |
|
|
Term
| What happens when the CMOS battery fails? |
|
Definition
All the CMOS configuration information is lost.
If the CMOS battery fails it will lose all information, such as time/date, CPU information, and drive types. |
|
|
Term
| To make changes to the default settings in the BIOS, what must you do at startup? |
|
Definition
Press the F2 key.
Most motherboards use either a function key, the delete key, or a combination of keys to enter the BIOS setup program. Which key you use depends on the manufacture of the motherboard. F2 is a common key when entering the BIOS, as are F1, F10, and Delete. The F8 key is not used by BIOS programs; it is used by the Windows Advanced Option Boot menu when accessing options such as Safe Mode. |
|
|
Term
| What BIOS settings will allow you to automatically configure your system? |
|
Definition
BIOS Defualts, Setup Defaults, Turbo
Many BIOS versions enable you to automatically configure your system with a choice of these options from the main menu. |
|
|
Term
| What will not work when configuring or viewing BIOS settings? |
|
Definition
The mouse
Usually, you do not have access to the mouse when you are configuring the BIOS setup. You must use the keyboard. |
|
|
Term
| What are some examples of system information can be viewed in the BIOS? |
|
Definition
Installed Memeory (RAM), BIOS Information, Processor Type, Processor Speed, L2 cache memory
The type and speed of the processor, amount of RAM, amount of cache memory, and the details of the BIOS program can all be viewed from within BIOS setup. Feature settings refers to the ability to configure various features of the operating system. |
|
|
Term
| What features can be found in the advanced BIOS settings? |
|
Definition
Enable quick boot, Enable boot sector protection
When accessing the BIOS advanced settings, some of the features available are quick boot, which will skip memory and drive test to enable faster startups, and also protection against boot sector viruses. |
|
|
Term
| In today's most recent systems, what common feature is used to help prevent excessive heat from damaging your computer? |
|
Definition
Hardware Monitor
The Hardware Monitor screen (sometimes reffered to as PC Health) is a common feature in most recent systems. It helps you make sure that your computer's temperature and voltage conditions are at safe levels for your computer, and it sometimes also includes the Chassis Intrusion feature. |
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|
Term
| What security features are included in most of the currently used BIOSs programs? |
|
Definition
BIOS Password, Power on password, Chassis Intrusion, Boot Sector protection
Security features of various types are scattered around the typical system BIOS dialogs. All of the features listed can be used to secure your computer systems from hacker or unauthorized personnel. |
|
|
Term
| What option would you use if you are in the BIOS of your computer and you want to exit without making any changes? |
|
Definition
Discard Changes, Hit the ESC key
When you are in the BIOS and are not planning on making any changes, be sure to click Discard Changes after clicking ESC to prevent accidental changes. |
|
|
Term
| When you start your computer, it performs an important test. What is this test known as? |
|
Definition
POST
Each and every time you start your computer it goes through a test known as POST or power-on self test. If the BIOS finds any errors with the system, it notifies you by error messages known as beep codes. |
|
|
Term
| What are BIOS beep codes used for? |
|
Definition
a fatal error, a serious error
Beep codes are used by most BIOS versions to indicate either a fatal error or a seriuos error. A fatal error is an error that is so seriuos that the computer cannot continue the boot process. A fatal error includes a problem with the CPU, the POST ROM, the system timer, or memory. Serious error beep codes report a problem with your video display card or circuit. Although systems can boot without video, you do not want to boot without video because you can't see what the system is doing. |
|
|
Term
| If you are installing a new drive in your computer and it is not recognized, what can you do to fix the problem? |
|
Definition
Update the BIOS
Sometimes the BIOS does not support newer technologies. When making changes to the systems, such as adding a faster CPU or a larger SATA or PATA drive, you might need to update the BIOS. |
|
|
Term
| What is the process called when upgrading the BIOS? |
|
Definition
Flashing the BIOS
When it is time for a BIOS update, go to the manufacturer's website to see if a new update has been released. Flashing the BIOS is the act of erasing all of the BIOS's current contents and writing a new BIOS to the BIOS chip. You can do this by booting off of a special floppy disk, from CD-ROM, and from within Windows. This process is now much easier than it used to be, but to be safe you should still backup your BIOS settings before performing this task. |
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|
Term
| You have just started up your computer. It gives off a series of loud beeps and will not boot. What would you need to do to determine what the beeps mean and how to fix the problem? |
|
Definition
| First you will need to determine who the manufacturer of the motherboard or the particular BIOS is. Then you should go to the website and download the manual for the motherboard or a copy of the beep codes for the BIOS. Reboot the computer and count the beeps and compare with the compare with the chart. It could be as easy as reseating the RAM memory modules, or it could be a video problem. |
|
|
Term
| What would you use to keep your power supply working properly? |
|
Definition
Surge protector, UPS units
To keep you power supply up and running and to help prevent damage from power surges, you should use a surge protector. The UPS will supply power for a short period of time to the computer system in case of total power outage. |
|
|
Term
| Power supplies are rated using what unit? |
|
Definition
Watts
Power supplies are rated in watts, and the more watts a power supply provides, the more devices it can safely power. |
|
|
Term
| Newer computers' power supplies typically have what power output ratings? |
|
Definition
500 watts or higher
Most newer computers have 500 watt or larger power supplies in them because of the greater number of drives and expansion cards that are available now. |
|
|
Term
| Most power supplies in use today are designed to handle which two voltage ranges? |
|
Definition
115, 230
Standard North American power is 115 volts and European power is 230 volts. Some power supplies have a slider on the back to switch between the two voltages. |
|
|
Term
| What is a cause of power supply overheating? |
|
Definition
Overloading the power supply, Fan Failure, Dirt and Dust
All of the listed reasons can cause damage to the power supply as well as overheating your computer. |
|
|
Term
| How many pins are used for the main power connection by recent ATX/BTX motherboards with ATX12V 2.2 power supplies? |
|
Definition
24
Most of the newer power supplies in use today have 24 pins. Older motherboards have a 20-pin connection. |
|
|
Term
| What steps would you use to remove a power supply? |
|
Definition
Shut down the comupter. If the power supply has an on-off switch, turn it off as well. Disconnect the AC power cord from the computer. Disconnect power connections from the motherboard,hard drives, and optical drives.
All of the listed answers are correct. You must disconnect from the wall first, then once inside the computer unhook the connection to the motherboard. |
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|
Term
| To avoid power supply hazards you must never do what? |
|
Definition
Disassemble the power supply, Put metal tools through the openings.
The wire coils inside the power supply retain potentially fatal voltage levels. To prevent shock you should not disassemble them or stick in a metal object such as a screwsdriver. |
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|
Term
| What device provides emergency power to a computer in case of a complete power failure? |
|
Definition
UPS
A UPS (uninterruptible power supply) will keep a standard desktop up and running in case of a complete power outage. |
|
|
Term
| What is the minimum time recommendation for a UPS to supply power for an individual workstation? |
|
Definition
15 minutes
UPSs are designed to supply power to a computer long enough for you to complete a formal shutdown. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
DIN (top)
&
mini-DIN (bottom)
connectors |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Static Electricity, and therefore the risk of ESD, is much more prevalent in dry, cool enviroment. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Always put components in an anti-static bag, not on the bag. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Always unplug a PC when working inside it. |
|
|
Term
| What are the four computer function stages: |
|
Definition
| input, processing, output, and storage |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Remember all three names for the mini-DIN connector: mini-DIN, PS/2, and DIN-6. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
FireWire connector, also known as IEEE 1394
and port |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| RJ-11 (top) and RJ-45 (bottom) |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Mini-audio jacks and plug |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Windows Vista Home Basic and Windows 7 Starter do not support the Aero desktop. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Remember for the exam that 32-bit CPUs can support up to 4 GB of RAM. In concept, 64-bit CPUs can support up to 16 exabytes of memory. No one has made a CPU that supports the full 64-bit amount, however, and you cetainly won't find that much memory in the typical PC. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| There are two smaller versions of HDMI called Mini-HDMI and Micro-HDMI. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Video card with (from left to right) S-Video, DVI, and VGA ports
VGA (Video Graphics Array) connectors are colored Blue= 15 pin female
DVI (Digital Visual Interface) connectors are colored White
|
|
|
Term
|
Definition
HDMI connector
High-Definition Multimedia Interface |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Legacy joystick/MIDI port
An older sound card may have a female 15-pin DB port that enables you to attach a musical insrtument digital interface (MIDI) device or add a joystick to your PC. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
S/PDIF connection
Sony/Philips Digital Interface Format (S/PDIF)
One S/PDIF connection replaces all of the mini-audio connections, assuming your surround speaker system also comes with an S/PDIF connection. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Typical network connection
Networks are groups of connected PCs that share information. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Mouse with mini DIN connection
Deutsche Industrie Norm (DIN) |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Parallel port
For many years, printers only used a special connectors called a parallel port. Parallel ports use a 25-pin female DB (DB-25) connector that's usually colored fuchsia. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
32-bit
Windows XP Home
Windows XP Professional
Windows Media Center
64-bit
Windows XP 64-bit Edition
Windows XP Professional x64 Edition |
|
|
Term
| What is the primary CompTIA Web site? |
|
Definition
www.comptia.org
The primary CompTIA Web site is www.comptia.org (although the .com and .net address will redirect you to the main site). |
|
|
Term
| Which certification is considered required for entrance into the IT industry? |
|
Definition
CompTIA A+ certification
The CompTIA A+ certification is considered required for entrance into the PC industry. |
|
|
Term
| How many exams do you need to pass to become CompTIA A+ certified? |
|
Definition
Two
You need to pass two exams to become CompTIA A+ certifed. |
|
|
Term
| Which domain receives the most coverage in the 220-802 exam? |
|
Definition
Troubleshooting
The 220-802 exam dedicates 36% of the questions to troubleshooting. |
|
|
Term
| Which version of Windows is not tested on the 2012 versions of the CompTIA A+ exams? |
|
Definition
Windows 2000
No versions of Windows 2000 are on the CompTIA A+ certification exams. |
|
|
Term
| What company administers the CompTIA A+ certification exams? |
|
Definition
Pearson VUE
Pearson VUE administers the CompTIA A+ certification exams. |
|
|
Term
| What pass rate should you strive for on the pratice questions? |
|
Definition
90%
You should not take either exam until you are consistently getting at least 90% on the practice exams. |
|
|
Term
| How many study hours to pass the CompTIA A+ exams does Mike recommend to a person just starting out learning PC repair? |
|
Definition
Roughly 240
Mike recommends about 240 study hours for a person new to PC repair. |
|
|
Term
| What is the very first step you should take to pass the CompTIA A+ exams? |
|
Definition
Schedule the exams
Schedule the exams for some point in the future. |
|
|
Term
| After becoming CompTIA A+ certified, what's the next certification you should attain? |
|
Definition
CompTIA Network+
The typical certification path goes from CompTIA A+ to CompTIA Network+, so you have all the basics before you choose to specialize in Microsoft or Cisco products. |
|
|
Term
| What would be considered the most appropriate atire for the workplace? |
|
Definition
Clean, pressed Khaki trousers and Clean, wrinkle-free Polo shirt
Khaki trousers and a Polo shirt trump jeans and a T-shirt every time. |
|
|
Term
| While manning the Help Desk, you get a call from a distrught user who says she has a blank screen. What would be a useful follow-up question? |
|
Definition
Is the computer turned on? Is the monitor turned on?
Go for the simple answer first. When faced with a blank screen, check to see if the computer and the monitor are turned on. |
|
|
Term
| While manning the help desk, you get a call from Sharon in accounting. She's lost a file that she knows she saved to her hard drive. What statement would direct Sharon in the most efficient and professional manner to open her My Documents folder? |
|
Definition
Sharon, a lot of programs save files to a default folder, often to a folder called My Documents. Let's look there first. Click the Start button and move the mouse until the cursor hovers over My Documents. Then press the left mouse button and tell me what you see when My Documents opens.
Walking customers through the path to a fix by using simple, nontechnical words is the best way to accomplish tasks over the phone. |
|
|
Term
| At the very least, what tool should be in every technician's toolkit? |
|
Definition
Phillips-head screwdriver
Every tech's toolkit should have a Phillips-head screwdriver, at the very least. |
|
|
Term
| When is it appropriate to yell at a user? |
|
Definition
Never
Don't get angry or yell at clients. |
|
|
Term
| When troubleshooting a software problem on Phoebe's computer and listening to her describe the problem, your beeper goes off. It's your boss. What is the most appropriate action for you to take? |
|
Definition
Wait until Phoebe finishes her description, run through any simple fixes, and then explain that you need to call your boss on your cell phone.
Focus on the customer and don't use her things. |
|
|
Term
| You are at a customer's workstation to install several software and hardware updates, a process that will take a while and require several reboots of the computer. What should you do about the password to the user's account? |
|
Definition
Ask the user to change her password temporarily for you to use.
In this circumstance, asking for a temporary password is the right answer. Make sure the user changes her password back before you leave the site. |
|
|
Term
| What is a good practice after completing a troubleshooting call at someone's office? |
|
Definition
Follow up with a call within a couple of days to make sure everything is going well with the fixed computer.
A simple follow-up builds good will and trust. This us a very important step to take after completing a job. |
|
|
Term
What tool helps you avoid accidental static discharge by keeping you at the same electrical potential as the computer on which you're working? |
|
Definition
Anti-static wrist strap
An anti-static wrist strap keeps you at the same electrical potential as the computer. |
|
|
Term
| What helps prevent electromagnetic interference? |
|
Definition
Keep magnets away from computer components.
Avoid putting magnets near computer gear to help prevent EMI. |
|
|
Term
| What do you call the commands that tell the computer what to do? |
|
Definition
Programming
The commands that tell the computer what to do are called, collectively, programming. |
|
|
Term
| What is a proper name for a stick of RAM? |
|
Definition
DIMM
Modern computers use DIMMs for RAM. |
|
|
Term
| Where do you connect an anti-static wrist strap? |
|
Definition
To a handy metal part of the case.
Connect an anti-static wrist strap to any handy metal part of the computer. The metal plate, by the way, is the section on the strap where you connect the cable from the PC. |
|
|
Term
| What sort of connector does a typical network interface card have? |
|
Definition
RJ-45
A typical network interface card sports an RJ-45 port. |
|
|
Term
| Modern keyboards connect to which of the following ports? |
|
Definition
Mini-DIN, USB
Modern keyboards connect to either mini-DIN or USB ports. |
|
|
Term
| Which end of the USB cable plugs into the PC? |
|
Definition
A
Plug the A connector into the PC. |
|
|
Term
| A modern printer usually plugs into which of the following ports? |
|
Definition
USB
A modern printer usually plugs into USB. |
|
|
Term
| What do you plug into a three-row, 15-pin port? |
|
Definition
Monitor
You plug a monitor into a three-row, 15-pin port. |
|
|
Term
| What connector was designed to connect your PC to a high-end television set? |
|
Definition
HDMI
HDMI was designed to connect your PC to a high-end television set. |
|
|
Term
| What connector was designed to connect your PC to a high-end audio system? |
|
Definition
S/PDIF
S/PDIF was designed to connect your PC to a high-end audio system. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
32-Bit
Windows Vista Home Basic
Windows Vista Home Premium
Windows Vista Business
Windows Vista Ultimate
Windows Vista Enterpirse
64-Bit
Windows Vista Home Basic
Windows Vista Home Premium
Windows Vista Business
Windows Vista Ultimate
Windows Vista Enterpirse |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
32-Bit
Windows 7 Starter
Windows 7 Home Premium
Windows 7 Professional
Windows 7 Ultimate
Windows 7 Enterprise
64-Bit
Windows 7 Home Premium
Windows 7 Professional
Windows 7 Ultimate
Windows 7 Enterprise |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| 32-Bit CPUs can support up to 4 GB of RAM. 64-Bit CPUs can support up to 16 exabytes of memory. |
|
|
Term
| What is an advantage of running Windows on NTFS as opposed to FAT? |
|
Definition
Security
NTFS offers security. FAT provides no security. |
|
|
Term
| Which version of Windows uses the Backup Status and Configuration Tool? |
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Definition
Windows Vista Ultimate
The Backup Status and Configuration Tool did not exist before Vista. |
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Term
| What is the proper way to refer to the system root folder? |
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Definition
%SystemRoot%
The system root folder is reffered to as %SystemRoot%. |
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Term
| What folder is a central storage location for user files in XP? |
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Definition
My Documents
Most XP users put their personal files in My Documents. |
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Term
| What utility is helpful in troubleshooting hardware? |
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Definition
Device Manager
For hardware in general, turn to Device Manager. |
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Term
| What Windows utility backs up critical files and settings and enables you to roll back to a previous state? |
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Definition
System Restore
System Restore does the trick here, enabling you to back up and restore your system. |
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Term
| Many tech tools are grouped together in what location? |
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Definition
Start | All Programs | Accessories | System Tools
You'll find many useful tools in there. |
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Term
| What utility is missing from the default Windows XP Home installation? |
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Definition
Backup
Backup is not installed by default in Windows XP Home. |
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Term
What is displayed in the Computer window? |
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Definition
All the drives on your system
Computer shows your dirves. |
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Term
| What feature of Windows 7 enables you to link folders and view their contents together? |
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Definition
Libraries
Using Libraries, you can link folders and view their contents together as if they were one folder. |
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Term
| How many bits are in a MAC address? |
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Definition
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Term
| What protocol enables the use of names such as www.totalsem.com rather than IP addresses? |
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Definition
DNS
The Domain Name Service (DNS) protocol enables using names instead of IP addresses. |
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Term
| What is the minimum CAT level cable required for a 100BaseT network? |
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Definition
CAT 5
100BaseT networks need CAT 5 or better UTP. |
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Term
| What OS enables you to implement HomeGroup? |
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Definition
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Term
| What is an example of a hybrid topology? |
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Definition
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Term
| What is an advantage of a domain-based network over a workgroup-based network? |
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Definition
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Term
| A typical CAT 6 cable uses which connector? |
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Definition
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Term
| Why would you use STP over UTP cabling? |
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Definition
Better to avoid Interference
Shielded twisted pair cabling handles interference from other electronics much better unshielded twisted pair. |
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Term
| What kind of frame gets received by all NICs in a LAN? |
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Definition
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Term
| Interent Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, and Google Chrome are all examples of what? |
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Definition
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Term
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Definition
| The CompTIA A+ exams expect you to know that L1 cache will be the smallest and fastest cache; L2 will be bigger and slower than L1; and L3 will be the biggest and slowest cache. |
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Term
| What do registers provide for the CPU? |
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Definition
| The CPU uses registers for temporary storage of internal commands and data. |
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Term
| What function does the external data bus have in the PC? |
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Definition
| The external data bus provides a channel for the flow of data and commands between the CPU and RAM. |
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Term
| What is the function of the address bus in the PC? |
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Definition
| The address bus enables the CPU to communicate with the memory controller chip. |
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Term
| What terms are measures of CPU speed? |
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Definition
Megahertz and Gigahertz
The terms megahertz (MHz) and Gigahertz (GHz) describes how many million or billion (respectively) cycles per second a CPU can run. |
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Term
| What CPU feature enables the microprocessor to support running multiple operating systems at the same time? |
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Definition
Virtualization Support
Intel and AMD CPUs come with virtualization support, enabling more efficient implementation of virtual machines. |
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Term
| Into which socket could you place an Intel Core i5? |
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Definition
Socket LGA 1155
You'll find Core i5 processors in several socket types, notably LGA 1155 and LGA 1154. |
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Term
| What feature enables a single-core CPU to function like two CPUs? |
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Definition
Hyper-Threading
Intel loves its Hyper-Threading, where a single-core CPU can function like a dual-core CPU as long as it has operating system support. |
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Term
| What steps do you need to take to install an Athlon 64 X2 CPU into an LGA 775 motherboard? |
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Definition
Take all of the steps you want to because it's not going to work.
Intel and AMD processors are not compatible at all. |
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Term
| A clients calls to complain that his computer starts up, but crashes when Windows starts to load. After a breif set of questions, you find out that his nephew upgraded his RAM for him over the weekend and couldn't get the computer to work right afterward. What could be the problem? |
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Definition
Disconnected CPU fan
Most likely, the nephew disconnected the CPU fan to get at the RAM slots and simply forgot to plug it back in. |
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Term
| Darren has installed a new CPU in a client's computer, but nothing happens when he pushes the power button on the case. The LED on the motherboard is lit up, so he knows the system has power. What could be the problem be? |
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Definition
He forgot to apply thermal compound between the CPU and the heat-sink and fan assembly.
The best is he forgot the thermal compound, though you can also make an argument for a dusconnected fan. |
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Term
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Definition
| The default and recommended page-file size is 1.5 times the amount of installed RAM on your computer. |
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Term
| Steve adds a second 1-GB 240-pin DIMM to his PC, which should bring the total RAM in the system up to 2 GB. The PC has an Intel Core 2 Duo 3-GHz processor and three 240-pin DIMM slots on the motherboard. When he turns on the PC, however, only 1 GB of RAM shows up during the RAM count. What is most likely to be the problem? |
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Definition
| Steve failed to seat the RAM properly. |
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Term
| Scott wants to add 512 MB of PC100 SDRAM to an aging but still useful desktop system. The system has a 100 MHz motherboard and currently has 256 MB of non-ECC SDRAM in the system. What else does he need to know before instaling? |
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Definition
| If the system can handle that much RAM. |
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Term
| What is the primary reason that DDR2 RAM is faster than DDR RAM? |
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Definition
| The input/output speed of the DDR2 RAM is faster (although the latency is higher). |
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Term
| What is the term for the delay in the RAM's response to a request from the MMC? |
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Definition
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Term
| Rico has a motherboard with four RAM slots that doesn't seem to work. He has two RDRAM RIMMs installed, for a total of 1 GB of memory, but the system won't boot. What is likely to be the problem? |
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Definition
| The motherboard requires the two empty slots to be filled with CRIMMs for termination. |
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Term
| Silas has an AMD-based motherboard with two sticks of DDR2 RAM installed in two of the three RAM slots, for a total of 2 GB of system memory. When he runs CPU-Z to test the system, he notices that the software claims he's running single-channel memory. What could be the problem? |
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Definition
He needs to move one of the installed sticks to a different slot to activate dual-channel memory. (And he should check the motherboard manual for the proper slots.)
Motherboards can be tricky and require you to install RAM in the proper slots to enable dual-channel memory access. |
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Term
| What Control Panel applet will display the amount of RAM in your PC? |
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Definition
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Term
| What is the best way to determine the total capacity and specific type of RAM your system can handle? |
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Definition
| Check the motherboard book. |
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Term
| Gregor installed a third stick of known good RAM into his Core i7 system, bringing the total amount of RAM up to 3 GB. Within a few days, though, he started having random lockups and reboots, especially when doing memory-intensive tasks such as gaming. What is most likely the problem? |
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Definition
| Gregor installed RAM that didn't match the speed or quality of the RAM in the system. |
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Term
| Cindy installs a second stick of DDR2 RAM into her Core 2 Duo system, bringing the total system memory up to 2 GB. Within a short period of time, though , she begins experiencing Blue Screens of Death. What could the problem be? |
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Definition
She installed faulty RAM
If you have no problem with a system and then experience problems after installing something new, chances are the something new is at fault. |
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Term
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Definition
| When overclocking your PC, look for settings that adjust the CPU's clock and bus speeds. The higher you push these, the faster your PC will go. |
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Term
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Definition
| On some motherboards, the CMOS setup program enables you to control the ATA Security Mode Feature Set, also commonly reffered to as drive lock or DriveLock. ATA Security Mode is the first line of defense for protecting hard disks from unwanted access when a system is lost or stolen. Some PC manufacturers also include LoJack security features in their BIOS---this way, if your PC is stolen, you can track its location, innstall a key logger, or even remotely shut down you computer. |
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Term
| What does BIOS provide for the computer? |
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Definition
| BIOS provides the programming that enables the CPU to communicate with other hardware. |
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Term
| What is the correct boot sequence for a PC? |
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Definition
| Power Good, CPU, POST, boot loader, operating system |
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Term
| Jill decided to go retro and added a second floppy disk drive to her computer. She thinks she has it physically installed correctly, but it doesn't show up in Windows. What would most likely lead Jill where she needs to go to resolve the issue? |
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Definition
| Reboot the computer and watch for instructions to enter the CMOS setup utility (for example, a message may say to press the DELETE key). Do what it says to go into CMOS setup. |
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