CompTIA Hardware Practice 2

Question 1

A technician needs to install additional RAM in a laptop that only has one SODIMM slot occupied. The existing module is DDR4-3200 8GB. Which action should the technician take to maximize compatibility?

Accepted Answer

Install an identical DDR4-3200 8GB module in the second slot

Answer

Installing an identical module ensures dual-channel operation and full compatibility without risking speed mismatches.

Question 2

Which connector type is used to provide supplemental power to high-end PCIe graphics cards?

Accepted Answer

PCIe 6-pin or 8-pin connector

Answer

High-end GPUs require supplemental power via dedicated PCIe 6-pin or 8-pin connectors from the power supply.

Question 3

A user reports their PC powers on but displays nothing on the monitor. The GPU fan spins. What should the technician check first?

Accepted Answer

Reseat the GPU in the PCIe slot

Answer

Reseating the GPU resolves loose connection issues that cause no display output despite the card receiving power.

Question 4

What is the primary purpose of thermal paste applied between a CPU and its heatsink?

Accepted Answer

Fill microscopic air gaps to improve thermal conductivity

Answer

Thermal paste fills microscopic surface imperfections between the CPU and heatsink to maximize heat transfer efficiency.

Question 5

A technician is replacing a failed 2.5-inch SATA SSD in a desktop. The motherboard only has M.2 slots available. What is the best solution?

Accepted Answer

Install an M.2 SATA SSD in one of the M.2 slots

Answer

M.2 SATA SSDs use the M.2 form factor but communicate over the SATA protocol, which is supported by M.2 slots with SATA keying.

CompTIA Practice Test

CompTIA Practice Test

CompTIA Hardware Practice 2