Question 1

Disk health alerts in Windows:  When Windows reports that a hard drive is developing bad sectors, what is the first practical action you should take?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Bad sectors indicate media damage or failing flash cells on storage. Acting promptly can prevent data loss. However, the first response should collect evidence, quarantine bad areas, and verify the extent of the problem before replacing hardware. Given Data / Assumptions: Windows has reported bad sectors or I/O errors. The user needs an immediate, low-risk next step. We assume access to built-in tools like CHKDSK/ScanDisk. Concept / Approach: Run a full surface scan (CHKDSK /R on NT-based systems or ScanDisk thorough on older Windows). This checks clusters, marks unreadable sectors as bad, and attempts to relocate data. It provides a diagnostic baseline and may stabilize the system long enough to back up critical data. Step-by-Step Solution: Stop write-heavy activity to the suspect drive.Run CHKDSK /R (or ScanDisk thorough) to scan and remap bad sectors.Review the log to assess the count and growth of bad sectors.Immediately back up critical data and plan drive replacement if errors persist or increase. Verification / Alternative check: SMART diagnostics (e.g., CrystalDiskInfo, vendor tools) corroborate failing media. If the surface scan finds more bad clusters over time, replacement is warranted. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Immediate replacement without checks: prudent in data centers, but first verify and back up; a scan helps preserve data by remapping. DEFRAG: dangerous on failing media; can stress the drive and worsen loss. SECCLEAN: not a standard Microsoft utility for this purpose. None of the above: incorrect because a thorough scan is the proper first step. Common Pitfalls: Continuing heavy use without backup; running defragmentation; ignoring SMART reallocated sector counts and pending sectors. Final Answer: Run ScanDisk or CHKDSK with the thorough surface test option

Question 2

Dot-matrix printer maintenance:  A dot-matrix printer produces patchy, faint, uneven, or intermittent print density. What corrective action typically resolves this symptom first?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Impact printers like dot-matrix models rely on a fabric ribbon impregnated with ink. As the ribbon wears out or dries, output becomes faint, patchy, or inconsistent. Basic maintenance knowledge helps restore print quality quickly without unnecessary mechanical repairs. Given Data / Assumptions: Symptoms: weak or intermittent print density across the page. Printer otherwise feeds paper and actuates the print head properly. No obvious hardware failure is indicated. Concept / Approach: The ribbon is a consumable. Over time, ink depletes and distribution becomes uneven. Replacing the ribbon usually restores consistent darkness. Mechanical adjustments (tractor feed, timing belt) primarily affect paper movement and print head motion timing, not ink deposition density. Step-by-Step Solution: Open the printer cover and remove the old ribbon cartridge.Install a new, compatible ribbon and ensure it is properly tensioned and threaded in front of the print head.Print a test page; compare darkness and uniformity.If problems persist, inspect platen gap, head wear, and paper path friction. Verification / Alternative check: Most service guides list ribbon replacement as the first remedy for faint output. Users typically observe immediate improvement with a fresh ribbon. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Adjust tractor/paper feed tensions: may correct skew or spacing, not ink density. Replace timing belt: addresses carriage motion issues, not fading ink. None of the above: incorrect because ribbon replacement directly addresses faint print. Common Pitfalls: Reusing very old ribbons, improper threading causing scraping, or ignoring platen gap adjustments for multi-part forms which can influence effective impression but not a truly dry ribbon. Final Answer: Replace the ribbon with a new cartridge

Question 3

Safe cleaning practices for PCs:  To remove dust from inside a computer without risking static damage or forcing debris deeper into components, what is the best method?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Dust buildup restricts airflow, elevates temperatures, and can trap moisture or conductive particles. Proper cleaning extends component life and stability. However, incorrect methods can create electrostatic discharge (ESD) risks or damage small parts. Given Data / Assumptions: The goal is safe dust removal from PC internals. We want to avoid ESD, mechanical damage, and moisture. Access to common technician tools is assumed. Concept / Approach: Use non-static compressed air (canned air or ESD-safe air blowers) to dislodge dust while holding fans in place to prevent overspinning. Short, controlled bursts minimize condensation, and doing this outdoors or with a vacuum nearby (not touching components) to collect airborne dust is ideal. Avoid household vacuums near boards because plastic hoses can generate static and can suck off small jumpers. Step-by-Step Solution: Power down, unplug, and touch ground to discharge static.Hold fan blades with a finger or plastic probe to prevent overspin.Apply short bursts of non-static compressed air from a safe distance.Optionally use an ESD-safe vac nearby to capture dust (do not contact components). Verification / Alternative check: Manufacturer maintenance guides and ESD best-practices recommend compressed air and caution against regular vacuums or direct contact methods that can create static or leave residue. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Reverse vacuum / household vacuum: high ESD risk and physical damage potential. Blowing with breath: introduces moisture and is ineffective for deep dust. Lint-free cloth on components: contact can create static and snag parts; limited to case surfaces. Common Pitfalls: Spinning fans with compressed air (can back-feed power), tilting canned air causing propellant discharge, and failing to ground yourself before working inside the case. Final Answer: Non-static compressed air (short controlled bursts)

Question 4

PC architecture fundamentals:  Which option best describes the Central Processing Unit (CPU) as a component within a personal computer?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The CPU is central to computing performance and system behavior. Understanding its role relative to other components—GPU, PSU, and firmware/ROM—helps technicians diagnose issues and explain system capabilities to users. Given Data / Assumptions: We compare roles of CPU vs. GPU, power supply, and BIOS/firmware. We assume a standard desktop or laptop architecture. Terminology such as “processing,” “display signaling,” and “basic I/O routines” refer to common PC subsystems. Concept / Approach: The CPU executes instructions fetched from memory, performs arithmetic/logic operations, manages control flow, and coordinates system tasks. Display signals are typically driven by the GPU (integrated or discrete). Power regulation is handled by the PSU and motherboard VRMs. Basic I/O routines are stored in firmware/UEFI, not the CPU itself. Step-by-Step Solution: Define CPU: arithmetic logic unit + control unit + caches + cores.Contrast GPU: specializes in graphics pipelines and display output.Identify PSU/VRMs: convert AC to regulated DC for components.Identify firmware (BIOS/UEFI): stores low-level routines in non-volatile memory. Verification / Alternative check: Architecture texts and vendor block diagrams consistently show the CPU as the execution engine for general-purpose processing, with separate subsystems for power and display. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Monitor signaling: mainly GPU/display controller, not CPU output pins directly. System power regulation: PSU and motherboard regulators handle power, not the CPU. Basic I/O routines storage: resides in flash ROM/UEFI, not inside the CPU. Common Pitfalls: Assuming integrated graphics equals “CPU drives display” (it is an integrated GPU block). Also, thinking BIOS code lives “in the CPU” rather than being executed by it from ROM/RAM. Final Answer: The area where all of the processing takes place

Question 5

PC diagnostics and memory integrity: A parity error reported by the BIOS or operating system usually indicates a problem with which subsystem?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Parity memory adds a single parity bit to each byte or word of data so that errors can be detected when data is read back. When a computer reports a “parity error,” technicians must decide which subsystem is most likely at fault to guide rapid troubleshooting. Given Data / Assumptions: A legacy or parity-capable system is in use (parity or ECC memory enabled). The error message references a parity/ memory check failure during POST or runtime. No prior evidence of severe power or storage corruption is provided. Concept / Approach: A parity error occurs when the recomputed parity of a data word read from RAM does not match the stored parity bit. This implies that the data stored in memory was altered unexpectedly, most commonly by a failing DRAM cell, a marginal module, or a bad contact in the memory slot. While other subsystems can precipitate crashes, the specific keyword “parity” maps directly to memory integrity checks, making RAM the prime suspect. Step-by-Step Solution: Power down and reseat memory modules to eliminate poor contact or oxidation.Boot with one module at a time to isolate the failing stick or slot.Run a memory diagnostic to stress-test addresses and patterns.Replace the confirmed faulty module and retest the system’s stability. Verification / Alternative check: Swapping in known-good RAM and observing that parity errors disappear verifies the diagnosis. Conversely, if errors follow a specific slot, the motherboard circuitry may be implicated, though this is less common than a bad DIMM/SIMM. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Hard drive / hard drive controller / I/O controller: These cause read/write or device errors, not parity-specific RAM mismatches. Power supply: Unstable power can cause general instability, but a parity error points first to RAM. Common Pitfalls: Confusing parity with ECC (which can correct some errors); overlooking dust or oxidation in slots; mixing memory speeds/voltages that pass lightly but fail under load. Final Answer: memory

Question 6

Legacy DOS/PC memory map: What is the size of the “reserved” (upper) memory area between 640 KB and 1 MB in the IBM PC-compatible architecture?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Early IBM PC-compatible systems divided the first megabyte of address space into conventional memory and upper (reserved) memory. Understanding these historical boundaries helps explain legacy constraints, device drivers, and the origins of terms like “conventional memory.” Given Data / Assumptions: Total first address space considered: 0 to 1,024 KB (1 MB). Conventional memory: 0 to 640 KB for applications and DOS. Upper memory area (UMA): 640 KB to 1,024 KB reserved for BIOS, video RAM, and device ROMs. Concept / Approach: The classic PC memory map allocates 640 KB to software and reserves the remaining space up to 1 MB for system use. The difference 1,024 KB - 640 KB equals 384 KB. This reserved block hosts BIOS, option ROMs, and memory-mapped I/O such as VGA RAM, hence the term “640 KB barrier.” Step-by-Step Solution: Compute reserved size: total 1,024 KB minus conventional 640 KB.1,024 KB - 640 KB = 384 KB.Therefore, the reserved area is 384 KB. Verification / Alternative check: Legacy documentation and DOS memory utilities show conventional memory ending at 640 KB and the UMA occupying the remainder to 1 MB, confirming a 384 KB reserved region. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 64 kb / 640 kb / 1,024 kb: Do not match the calculated difference between 1 MB and 640 KB. None of the above: Incorrect because 384 KB is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing “reserved memory” with extended memory above 1 MB; assuming all upper memory is unusable (UMA can host Upper Memory Blocks for drivers via memory managers). Final Answer: 384 kb

Question 7

Laptop hardware service: If the brightness or contrast adjustments on a notebook display are malfunctioning, which component should be replaced first as the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Portable computers regulate backlight brightness and, in some older designs, LCD contrast through user-operated controls. When the end-user cannot vary brightness/contrast reliably, isolating the failure to the control path versus the panel or cabling saves time and cost. Given Data / Assumptions: Symptom: the adjustment does not respond, is intermittent, or jumps erratically. The display otherwise works (image present, not totally dark). System boots; GPU and OS output are normal. Concept / Approach: Brightness/contrast are adjusted via a small control assembly: a potentiometer, slider, or button matrix feeding the embedded controller or inverter/LED driver. If display content is visible but the level cannot be changed, the adjuster itself (the “adjustment switch”) is the first suspect. A blown fuse would usually cut power; a failed panel or cable tends to cause no image, artifacts, or flicker unrelated to the control’s action. Therefore, replacing the adjustment control (or the small board hosting it) is the most targeted initial repair. Step-by-Step Solution: Confirm the display shows a stable image at some brightness/contrast baseline.Operate the control—look for dead spots or jumpy readings that imply a worn potentiometer or switch failure.Inspect the control board and its flex connector for damage.Replace the adjustment switch/control module and retest brightness/contrast response. Verification / Alternative check: Measuring the control output voltage or digital events to the backlight driver before and after replacement confirms restoration of variable control. If no improvement, proceed to inverter/LED driver or cable diagnostics. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Fuse: A blown fuse typically results in no backlight, not just failed adjustment. LED display: Full panel replacement is costlier and not the first logical step if only the control is unresponsive. LED display cable: Causes flicker, color shifts, or intermittent image—less specific to adjustment failure. None of the above: Incorrect because the adjustment switch is a common root cause. Common Pitfalls: Overlooking firmware hotkey control; ignoring ambient-light sensors; confusing backlight power loss with contrast control issues on very old CCFL-based units. Final Answer: adjustment switch

Question 8

PC architecture (AT class): How many DMA (Direct Memory Access) channels does an AT-class PC implement in total?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Direct Memory Access (DMA) allows peripherals to transfer data to or from system memory without continuous CPU intervention. Legacy PC designs standardized the count and usage of DMA channels, knowledge of which is still useful when dealing with retro hardware or certification exams. Given Data / Assumptions: The question refers to IBM PC/AT architecture. Standard dual 8237-compatible DMA controller arrangement is used. Some channels are reserved for specific hardware tasks. Concept / Approach: An AT-class PC combines two cascaded 8237 DMA controllers to provide eight channels numbered 0 through 7. Channels are divided into low and high byte/word transfer groups, and certain channels are typically reserved (for example, channel 4 often serves as the cascade link). Understanding the total channel count (8) and their typical use cases helps diagnose conflicts and configure legacy sound or storage devices. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify controller arrangement: two 4-channel controllers yield 8 channels.Count channels 0–3 (first controller) and 4–7 (second controller).Note that channel 4 is used internally for cascading, reducing available user channels but not the total count. Verification / Alternative check: AT documentation and OS device manager listings from the era enumerate eight channels. Setup screens in legacy BIOS also display channels 0–7 when configuring ISA devices. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 3 / 4 / 7: Do not represent the full, standard AT total. None of the above: Incorrect because the standard total is eight. Common Pitfalls: Confusing total channels with user-available channels; assuming modern PCs still expose ISA-style DMA in the same way. Final Answer: 8

Question 9

Cabling standards (PATA/IDE): An IDE (PATA) ribbon cable connects a drive to the motherboard using how many pins on the connector?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Parallel ATA (IDE) dominated PC storage for many years. Technicians should recognize the physical characteristics of IDE cabling to avoid damaging connectors, misidentifying ports, or using the wrong cables for drives. Given Data / Assumptions: We refer to classic PATA/IDE, not SATA. Standard desktop implementations are assumed. 80-conductor cables still use the same 40-pin connectors. Concept / Approach: IDE/PATA uses a 40-pin, 2-row header and mating connector. Later “Ultra DMA” modes require an 80-conductor ribbon for signal integrity, but the connector itself remains 40 pins. Distinguishing pin count (40) from conductor count (40 vs 80) prevents confusion when upgrading or troubleshooting transfer-rate issues. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the keyed connector with a missing pin position to enforce orientation.Count rows and columns: 2 rows * 20 columns = 40 pins.Remember: 80-conductor cables still terminate in 40-pin connectors. Verification / Alternative check: Motherboard and drive manuals list a 40-pin IDE interface; visual inspection confirms two rows of 20 pins each. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 25 / 50 / 65 / 100: Do not match the standardized IDE header pin count. Common Pitfalls: Confusing 80-conductor with 80-pin; mixing up SCSI 50-pin ribbon connectors with IDE; using cable select incorrectly without matching jumper/cable design. Final Answer: 40

Question 10

Basic electrical units: A capacitor’s capacitance is measured in which unit?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In electronics, knowing the correct units for fundamental components is essential. Capacitors store electric charge; their ability to do so is quantified by a specific SI unit that appears throughout circuit design and analysis. Given Data / Assumptions: We are identifying the SI unit associated with capacitance, not voltage, current, or resistance. No special context like reactive power is implied. Concept / Approach: Capacitance (C) is defined as stored charge per unit voltage: C = Q / V. The SI unit of charge is the coulomb and of voltage is the volt, so the SI unit of capacitance is coulomb per volt, named the farad (F). Practical capacitors are commonly rated in microfarads (uF), nanofarads (nF), or picofarads (pF) due to the large size of one farad in real-world components. Step-by-Step Solution: Recall definition: C = Q / V.Substitute SI units: coulomb per volt.Recognize the derived unit name: farad (F). Verification / Alternative check: Datasheets denote capacitance in F, uF, nF, or pF; LCR meters display measured capacitance in these units, confirming the standard. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Volts: Unit of electric potential difference. Ohms / Resistance: Unit and quantity of opposition to current flow, not storage of charge. None of the above: Incorrect because farad is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing microfarads with millifarads; misreading capacitor codes; ignoring polarity on electrolytics where applicable. Final Answer: Farads

Question 11

Legacy PC I/O identification: COM1 (RS-232 serial port) on desktop PCs is typically presented on which physical connector?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Recognizing legacy connectors is still valuable when interfacing with industrial equipment, network appliances, or older PCs. The standard physical interface for COM1 helps technicians select the correct cable or adapter without trial and error. Given Data / Assumptions: Standard AT/ATX desktop PC hardware conventions are assumed. COM1 provides RS-232 signaling. Later eras favored the 9-pin connector over the older 25-pin variant for serial. Concept / Approach: The de facto standard for PC serial ports became the DE-9 male connector on the system chassis. Cables typically have a DE-9 female end to mate with the male port. Earlier systems sometimes used DB-25 male for serial, but this was superseded in most consumer PCs by the 9-pin form factor. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the trapezoidal 9-pin male jack on the rear I/O.Confirm labeling or icon indicating “COM,” “Serial,” or a waveform symbol.Use a DE-9 female serial cable or USB-to-serial adapter with female end to connect. Verification / Alternative check: Motherboard manuals and I/O shields show COM ports as 9-pin male. Loopback tests and console sessions validate functionality. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 15 pin port: Typically VGA (HD-15) or game/MIDI (DA-15). 9 pin female port: The chassis side is almost always male. 25 pin male port: Historical but uncommon for later COM1 ports. None of the above: Incorrect because 9-pin male is standard. Common Pitfalls: Confusing DE-9 serial with DB-9 naming; mixing null-modem versus straight-through cables; assuming USB has entirely replaced RS-232 in all environments. Final Answer: 9 pin male port

Question 12

Electrical measurements: Resistance is measured in which unit in the International System of Units (SI)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Understanding base electrical units is foundational for anyone working with circuits. Resistance quantifies how strongly a component opposes the flow of electric current. Given Data / Assumptions: We seek the unit of resistance, not of current, voltage, or capacitance. SI units and standard electrical terminology are expected. Concept / Approach: Ohm’s law relates voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R) by V = I * R. Rearranging shows that resistance equals voltage divided by current. The SI unit is therefore volt per ampere, named the ohm (symbol Ω). Digital multimeters display resistance directly in ohms, kilo-ohms, or mega-ohms depending on the magnitude. Step-by-Step Solution: Recall Ohm’s law: V = I * R.Solve for R: R = V / I.Identify SI unit: volt / ampere = ohm. Verification / Alternative check: Instrument manuals and component datasheets list resistive values in Ω, kΩ, or MΩ, confirming the standard. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Farads: Capacitance. Helids: Not an electrical unit. Amperes: Current. Volts: Voltage. Common Pitfalls: Misreading resistor color codes; confusing kilo-ohms and mega-ohms; measuring resistance in-circuit while other paths distort readings. Final Answer: ohms

Question 13

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) safety: Which measure most directly reduces a technician’s ESD potential while working on sensitive electronics?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Electrostatic discharge can damage semiconductor devices long before a human can feel a shock. Proper ESD control practices are vital when assembling, servicing, or transporting electronics. Given Data / Assumptions: Work is performed at a bench with typical ESD controls available. The goal is to directly reduce a person’s electrostatic potential relative to ground and the device under service. Normal ESD-safe procedures (grounding points, mats) are in place or can be used. Concept / Approach: An antistatic wrist strap, when properly connected to a verified ground through a high-value resistor, equalizes potential between the technician and the equipment, preventing sudden discharges into components. While de-ionizing fans reduce ambient charge on surfaces and in air, the wrist strap directly controls the human body charge—the most common discharge source during handling. Step-by-Step Solution: Put on a wrist strap and connect it to an ESD ground point (through a 1 MΩ resistor).Work on an ESD mat connected to the same ground potential.Handle boards by edges; keep components in antistatic packaging until use. Verification / Alternative check: Use an ESD tester to confirm strap continuity and proper resistance to ground. Observe reduced failure rates and avoid latent defects associated with ESD events. Why Other Options Are Wrong: De-ionizing fans: Helpful, but they do not directly and reliably ground the technician. Rubber gloves with cap: Not an ESD control method and can increase triboelectric charging. A static meter: Diagnostic tool; does not reduce potential on its own. None of the above: Incorrect because a wrist strap is the standard control. Common Pitfalls: Failing to test the strap; clipping to floating or painted metal; removing the strap mid-task; ignoring ESD-safe packaging and footwear. Final Answer: A wrist strap

Question 14

CPU power rails (Pentium/“586” era): A classic 586-class system board typically uses which core supply voltage for the processor generation associated with early Pentium chips?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: As microprocessors evolved, their core voltages dropped to reduce power and heat while increasing clock speeds. Knowing historical CPU voltages helps with retrofits, diagnostics, and avoiding damage when configuring jumpers or VRMs on older boards. Given Data / Assumptions: We refer to 586-class (Pentium-era) motherboards and CPUs. Early Pentium chips moved away from 5 V-only cores to lower-voltage cores such as 3.3 V (with later split I/O and core voltages). Standard AT or early ATX power supplies provided +3.3 V rails for these platforms or used onboard regulators to derive them. Concept / Approach: While 486-era systems commonly used 5 V cores, mainstream Pentium (586) designs transitioned to lower core voltages, with 3.3 V becoming typical for many parts. This change reduced power dissipation at higher frequencies and enabled stable operation. Some later Pentium variants used split-plane voltages (different core and I/O), but +3.3 V is the characteristic rail associated with early 586-class systems. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the processor generation: 586 (Pentium era).Recall transition from 5 V to lower-voltage cores for efficiency.Select +3.3 V as the typical CPU core voltage for early Pentium systems. Verification / Alternative check: Motherboard jumpers/BIOS and CPU datasheets specify the appropriate core voltage. Power supply labels and VRM modules also list +3.3 V support for these boards. Why Other Options Are Wrong: +12 volts: Used for motors, fans, and some regulators—not CPU cores of this era. +5 volts: Common for 486 and earlier logic, but not typical for Pentium cores. +8 volts: Not a standard PC rail. None of the above: Incorrect because +3.3 V is correct. Common Pitfalls: Assuming all Pentiums are 5 V; misconfiguring voltage jumpers; overlooking that some later CPUs use split or even lower core voltages requiring dedicated VRMs. Final Answer: +3.3 volts

Question 15

Laser printers — First diagnostic step for paper jams When troubleshooting which component is causing a paper jam in a laser printer, what is the most informative first action a technician should take?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Paper jams are among the most common laser printer faults. Effective troubleshooting begins with observations that narrow the fault to a specific subsystem such as feed, registration, transfer, fuser, or exit delivery. Given Data / Assumptions: A standard office laser printer using the electrophotographic process. Paper has jammed somewhere along the feed path. No prior disassembly has been performed. Concept / Approach: The location where paper stops reveals which mechanism last touched it. This immediately focuses inspection on rollers, clutches, sensors, the registration assembly, the transfer step, or the fuser/exit section, saving time and preventing unnecessary part swaps. Step-by-Step Solution: Power down safely and open the access doors to view the paper path.Observe and note the exact position and orientation of the jammed sheet (input tray, pickup area, registration point, wrapped in fuser, or at exit).Correlate position with the related subsystem: early path → pickup/feed; mid-path → registration/transfer; late path → fuser/exit.Use this information to test the associated rollers, sensors, and gears. Verification / Alternative check: Run a half-test (stop the printer mid-print by opening a door) to freeze the sheet and confirm the failing stage. Service manuals also provide jam code tables that map to sections, but those are most useful after you know where the sheet stopped. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Checking all voltages first is time-consuming and rarely necessary for simple jams. Looking up generic codes without inspection can mislead. Power cycling may clear a transient, but it does not identify the root cause. Pulling paper first erases critical evidence (leading edge damage, skew, sensor blockage). Common Pitfalls: Yanking paper backward through the path (can damage fuser sleeves and sensors), ignoring worn pickup rollers, and overlooking toner debris on paper-present sensors. Final Answer: Note where in the paper path the paper stops.

Question 16

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitivity — Minimum voltage that can damage PC ICs Approximately how small can an ESD jolt be and still be capable of destroying or degrading typical PC integrated circuits (ICs)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Electrostatic discharge is a sudden flow of electricity between charged objects and is a major cause of latent and catastrophic semiconductor failures. Understanding ESD thresholds guides proper use of wrist straps, mats, ionizers, and humidity control in service environments. Given Data / Assumptions: We are discussing modern silicon ICs found in PCs (CMOS, MOSFET-based devices). Human perception of a shock requires far higher voltages than the failure threshold of IC junctions. Proper ESD controls may or may not be present. Concept / Approach: Gate oxides in MOS devices and miniature geometries in modern ICs make them extremely susceptible to over-voltage spikes. While a human typically feels a discharge only above roughly 2–3 kV, device damage can occur at tens of volts—well below the perception threshold—leading to silent, latent failures. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify typical destructive thresholds for sensitive MOS inputs: on the order of a few tens of volts.Compare with options: 30 V is the smallest and within known destructive ranges for unprotected gates.Therefore, choose 30 volts as the best answer. Verification / Alternative check: Manufacturer ESD ratings (HBM/CDM) often require handling precautions despite on-chip protection. Industry training materials emphasize that damage can occur at volt levels far below human sensation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Values like 200 V, 500 V, and above are certainly hazardous, but they are not the minimum at which damage can occur. The question asks how little it can be; 30 V best reflects the low threshold risk in sensitive devices. Common Pitfalls: Assuming “no shock felt” means no damage, failing to ground yourself and the workbench, and handling boards in dry environments without ionization. Final Answer: 30 volts.

Question 17

PC boot sequence — Which firmware/logic runs first during a normal power-on boot of a classic PC?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Understanding the boot sequence helps diagnose startup failures, beep codes, and “no video” conditions. The process begins in immutable firmware and proceeds toward loading an operating system from storage. Given Data / Assumptions: A legacy PC architecture with system firmware stored in ROM/flash. Standard POST (Power-On Self-Test) followed by bootstrap loader. Stable CMOS configuration accessible by the firmware. Concept / Approach: On power-on, the CPU fetches its first instruction from a predefined reset vector mapped to system firmware. The ROM BIOS (or UEFI in newer systems) initializes hardware, performs POST, reads CMOS settings, and then locates bootable media to execute the OS loader. Step-by-Step Solution: Power applied → CPU reset vector points to firmware.Firmware (ROM BIOS) begins execution, performing hardware init and POST.Firmware consults CMOS/NVRAM for configuration and boot order.Firmware reads boot sector from the first bootable device and transfers control. Verification / Alternative check: Motherboard manuals and firmware design references document this flow. Beep codes and splash screens originate from the ROM BIOS stage. Why Other Options Are Wrong: “RAM BIOS” is not a standard component; CMOS holds settings but does not “run.” The hard disk boot sector code executes only after firmware hands off control. “None of the above” is invalid. Common Pitfalls: Confusing CMOS data with the executing BIOS code; overlooking that modern UEFI replaces legacy BIOS but serves the same initial role. Final Answer: ROM BIOS (firmware executes POST and bootstrap).

Question 18

Monitor safety — Is a standard handheld multimeter suitable for measuring a CRT monitor’s high-voltage output?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Legacy CRT displays use very high voltages (often 15–30 kV) for electron beam acceleration. Measuring these requires specialized high-voltage probes and strict safety protocols. Given Data / Assumptions: We are considering a typical handheld DMM without an external HV probe. CRT anode voltages greatly exceed normal DMM ratings. Technician safety is a priority. Concept / Approach: Standard multimeters are rated for much lower voltages and specific measurement categories. Directly connecting them to a CRT high-voltage node can destroy the meter, arc internally, and seriously injure the user. Proper high-voltage probes scale the voltage and add insulation barriers. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify CRT anode voltage level: tens of kilovolts.Compare to DMM rating: typically up to 600–1000 V CAT-rated.Conclude: a standard DMM is not suitable; use an appropriate HV probe or dedicated HV meter.Follow safe discharge and one-hand techniques when servicing. Verification / Alternative check: Meter manuals list maximum input and safety category ratings. CRT service literature mandates HV probes and isolation practices. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Selecting AC mode, unplugging, or auto-range does not change the voltage rating or insulation integrity of the instrument. “True” is unsafe and incorrect. Common Pitfalls: Attempting to probe the anode cap directly, ignoring stored charge, and failing to use a bleeder resistor for discharge. Final Answer: False.

Question 19

CRT service safety — What should you do first before discharging a CRT display?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: CRT displays retain high voltage even after shutdown, presenting serious shock hazards. Proper discharge procedure begins with ensuring all power sources are removed and the technician follows safe handling steps. Given Data / Assumptions: A conventional CRT monitor or TV set with an anode cap and flyback transformer. Technician intends to discharge the CRT safely. Appropriate discharge tools (insulated HV probe with bleeder resistor) are available. Concept / Approach: Before interacting with any high-voltage section, eliminate live power to prevent additional charging and to reduce the risk of accidental energization. Only then proceed with discharge using the manufacturer-recommended method. Step-by-Step Solution: Power down the unit, switch off, and unplug from mains (remove power source).Allow a brief dwell time per service guidelines to let bleeders act (if present).Use an approved discharge tool to connect the anode to chassis ground through a high-value resistor.Verify voltage has fallen; repeat if necessary before service continues. Verification / Alternative check: Service manuals universally start with “disconnect power” in their safety sections. Only after this step is the anode discharge procedure performed. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Removing housings or boards while still connected increases risk. Disconnecting only the signal cable does nothing for high voltage. “None of the above” is incorrect because removing power first is the essential step. Common Pitfalls: Using a screwdriver to short the anode to ground directly (damaging and dangerous), neglecting eye protection, and working one-hand-in-pocket to reduce current path across the chest. Final Answer: Turn the power off and remove the power source (unplug) before proceeding.

Question 20

Legacy parallel ports — Which base I/O address is traditionally assigned to LPT2?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Legacy PCs use fixed base I/O addresses for parallel and serial ports. Knowing these defaults helps diagnose printer issues and resource conflicts on ISA-era systems and some embedded platforms. Given Data / Assumptions: Standard IBM-PC compatible hardware mappings. No custom remapping via BIOS or jumpers. We are identifying the address for LPT2. Concept / Approach: LPT1 commonly maps to 378h, LPT2 to 278h, and older systems sometimes use 3BCh for additional ports. Serial COM ports use 3F8h (COM1) and 2F8h (COM2), which should not be confused with LPT addresses. Step-by-Step Solution: Recall defaults: LPT1 → 378h, LPT2 → 278h, LPT3 → 3BCh.Select LPT2 mapping: 278h.Confirm other options are for different ports (3F8h is COM1, 2E8h is COM4). Verification / Alternative check: Checking OS hardware resources or technical references confirms these conventional addresses. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 378h is LPT1, 3F8h is a serial port base, 2E8h is a COM port base, and “None” is unnecessary because 278h is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing serial and parallel I/O maps and overlooking that plug-and-play OSes can still report these legacy addresses for onboard ports. Final Answer: 278h.

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