PC Hardware
The width of a data bus is called the data path size. Some buses have data paths that are 8, 16, 32, 64, 128, or more bits wide.
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Which statement regarding floppy disk installation is or correct?
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A Fast Ethernet cable system uses twisted pair cable with a(n) _________________________ connector.
100BaseT (Fast Ethernet): Twisted pair (UTP or STP) uses an RJ-45 connector.
A ThinNet (10Base2) cable system uses coaxial cable with a(n) _________________________ connector.
10Base2 (ThinNet) 10 Mbps: Coaxial cable uses a BNC connector.
What type of memory module has one offset notch, supports dual channels, or can be installed as a single DIMM?
184-pin DDR DIMM can support dual channels or be installed as a single DIMM. It has one offset notch.
What type of memory module has one notch near the center of the edge connector and supports dual channels, or can be installed as a single DIMM?
240-pin DDR2 DIMM can support dual channels or be installed as a single DIMM. It has one notch near the center of the edge connector.
A certain memory module has the fastest memory currently available, supports quad, triple, or dual channels, or can be installed as a single DIMM. What type of memory module is this?
240-pin DDR3 DIMM is currently the fastest memory. It can support quad, triple, or dual channels or be installed as a single DIMM.
Which statement regarding a Rambus memory module (RIMM) is correct? A. With RIMMs, each memory slot on the motherboard must be filled to maintain continuity throughout all slots. B. RIMMs are slower than current DIMMs and relatively inexpensive. C. A C-RIMM (Continuity RIMM) has a single memory chip. D. RIMMs can support quad channels.
A With RIMMs, each memory slot on the motherboard must be filled to maintain continuity throughout all slots.
What type of connector is used for IDE (PATA) drives?
A 4-pin Molex connector is used for IDE (PATA) drives.
What is the advantage of a fan connector with four holes?
A 4-pin header on the motherboard supports pulse width modulation (PWM) that controls fan speed in order to reduce the overall noise in a system.
A DIMM with memory chips installed on both sides of the module is called a _________________________.
A DIMM can have memory chips installed on one side of the module (called single-sided) or both sides of the module (called double-sided).
What type of port is capable of transmitting both digital and analog video?
A DVI (Digital Video Interface) port transmits digital or analog video.
What type of port transmits digital video and audio (not analog transmissions), and is slowly replacing VGA and DVI ports on personal computers?
A DisplayPort transmits digital video and audio (not analog transmissions) and is slowly replacing VGA and DVI ports on personal computers.
What type of port is used for high-speed multimedia devices such as a digital camcorder?
A FireWire port (also called an IEEE1394 port, pronounced "I-triple-E 1394 port") is used for high-speed multimedia devices such as digital camcorders.
A measure of the total bandwidth of data moving between the module and the CPU is called _________________________.
A PC rating is a measure of the total bandwidth of data moving between the module and the CPU.
Which type of slot contains a single lane for data, which is actually four wires?
A PCI Express ×1 slot contains a single lane for data; this lane is actually four wires.
A port receives input from a TV cable and lets you view television on your computer monitor. This port is on what type of card?
A TV tuner card can turn your computer into a television. A port on the card receives input from a TV cable and lets you view television on your computer monitor.
Which statement regarding PCI buses is correct? A. The first PCI bus had a 32-bit data path, supplied 5 V of power to an expansion card, and operated at 33MHz. B. A universal PCI card is limited to using a 3.3 V slot. C. PCI- X is not backward compatible with conventional PCI cards and slots. D. PCI-X requires a 64-bit card.
A The first PCI bus had a 32-bit data path, supplied 5 Volts of power to an adapter card, and operated at 33 MHz.
To uninstall a USB device such as the USB keyboard, click Uninstall a program in the Control Panel.
A barcode reader is used to scan barcodes on products at the point of sale (POS) or when taking inventory. The reader might use a wireless connection, a serial port, a USB port, or a keyboard port.
USB 2.0 is an example of a type of bus that does not run in sync with the system clock. What type of bus is this?
A bus that does not run in sync with the system clock is called an expansion bus.
If the processor requests something from a slow device and the device is not ready, the device issues a wait state, which is a command to the processor to wait for slower devices to catch up.
A chipset is a set of chips on the motherboard that works closely with the processor to collectively control the memory, buses on the motherboard, and some peripherals.
A customized system includes the following features: application software, e.g., Windows Media Center, HDMI port, cable TV input, satellite TV input, Internet access, remote control, SSD hard drive and a low-speed fan to minimize background noise, and a surround sound system. This best describes a(n) _________________________.
A custom-built HTPC should include these features: • Applications software. The application controls the user interface and plays and records music and video. • HDMI port to connect video output to television. Be sure to use a high-quality HDMI cable. • Cable TV input. The best solution is to use a TV tuner card to connect the TV coax cable directly to the computer.
A 6-pin variation of S-Video is seen on some older video cameras and looks like a PS/2 connector used by a keyboard or mouse. What is this called?
A few older video cameras use a 6-pin variation of S-Video. The connector is called a MiniDin-6 connector and looks like a PS/2 connector used by a keyboard or mouse.
AGP and PCIe x16 slots use a retention mechanism in the slot to help stabilize a heavy card.
A graphics tablet, also called a digitizing tablet or digitizer, is used to hand draw and is likely to connect by a USB port.
A hard drive, also called a hard disk drive (HDD), _________________________. A. is permanent storage used to hold data and programs B. requires refreshing at frequent intervals C. is the place where the POST program is stored D. typically has a heat sink installed above it
A hard drive, also called a hard disk drive (HDD), is permanent storage used to hold data and programs.
All Intel or AMD desktop and laptop processors on the market today are hybrid processors. Which statement regarding a hybrid processor is correct?
A hybrid processor can use a 32-bit operating system or a 64-bit OS.
A(n) _________________________ is two small posts or metal pins that stick up off the motherboard that is open or closed; it is open if it has no cover and closed when it has a cover on the two pins.
A jumper is two small posts or metal pins that stick up off the motherboard that is open or closed. An open jumper has no cover, and a closed jumper has a cover on the two pins.
What is the term for the memory slots on the motherboard that hold memory modules?
A motherboard has memory slots, called DIMM (dual inline memory module) slots, to hold memory modules.
Which of the following may include several internal connectors, including parallel ATA (PATA) connectors (also called IDE connectors), a floppy drive connector, serial ATA (SATA) connectors, SCSI connectors, a USB connector, and/or a FireWire (IEEE 1394) connector? A. Connector modules B. Motherboard C. I/O shields D. On-board ports
A motherboard might have several internal connectors, including parallel ATA (PATA) connectors (also called IDE connectors), a floppy drive connector, serial ATA (SATA) connectors, SCSI connectors, a USB connector, or a FireWire (IEEE 1394) connector.
A local printer connects directly to a computer by way of a USB port, parallel port, serial port, or wireless connection (Bluetooth, infrared, or Wi-Fi).
A network printer has an Ethernet port to connect directly to the network or uses Wi-Fi to connect to a wireless access point.
A network printer is identified on the network by its _________________________.
A network printer is identified on the network by its IP address
An optical drive must follow the ATAPI (Advanced Technology Attachment Packet Interface) standard in order to connect to a system using an IDE connector.
A parallel port is a 25-pin female port used by older printers.
What type of customized system would be most useful to an engineer working with CAD software to design bridges, an architect who designs skyscrapers, a graphics designer who creates artistic pages for children's books, and/or a landscape designer who creates lawn and garden plans?
A person who uses graphics or CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing) workstations might include an engineer working with CAD software to design bridges, an architect who designs skyscrapers, a graphics designer who creates artistic pages for children's books, or a landscape designer who creates lawn and garden plans.
What type of monitor provides high contrast and high-quality color, is expensive and heavy, and is generally only available in large commercial sizes?
A plasma monitor provides high contrast with better color than LCD monitors.
When processors began to require more power, the ATX Version 2.1 specifications added a 4-pin motherboard auxiliary connector near the processor socket to provide an additional 12 V of power. A power supply that provides this 4-pin 12 volt power cord is called a(n) _________________________.
A power supply that provides this 4-pin 12 volt power cord is called an ATX12V power supply.
What program can easily make changes to the setup values stored in CMOS RAM?
A program in BIOS, called BIOS setup or CMOS setup, can easily make changes to the setup values stored in CMOS RAM.
A rail is the term used to describe each voltage line of the power supply. What is the most common rail used, especially in high-end gaming systems?
A rail is the term used to describe each voltage line of the power supply. The +12 V rail is the most used, especially in high-end gaming systems.
An expansion card with sound ports is called a(n) _________________________.
A sound card (an expansion card with sound ports) or onboard sound (sound ports embedded on a motherboard) can play and record sound, and save it in a file.
_________________________ refers to sound ports embedded on a motherboard.
A sound card (an expansion card with sound ports) or onboard sound (sound ports embedded on a motherboard) can play and record sound, and then save it in a file.
A regular desktop computer or laptop that is sometimes used as a client by a virtualization server is called a(n) _________________________.
A thick client, also called a fat client, is a regular desktop computer or laptop that is sometimes used as a client by a virtualization server.
You are configuring a thin client that is receiving a virtual desktop from a server. What application would be most likely to be supported on this client?
A thin client is a computer that has an operating system but has little computer power and might only need to support a browser used to communicate with the server.
What type of adapter card captures video input and saves it to a file on the hard drive?
A video capture card lets you capture video input and save it to a file on your hard drive.
What type of slot provides the fastest speed for a video card?
A video card can use an AGP, PCI, or PCI Express slot on the motherboard. The fastest slot to use is a PCIe x16 slot.
What distinguishes a zero client from either a thick client or a thin client?
A zero client, also called a dumb terminal, is built by the manufacturer. It does not have an OS and is little more than an interface to the network with a keyboard, monitor, and mouse.
Several print jobs can accumulate in the queue; this process is called spooling. To manage the printer queue, double-click the printer icon in the Windows 7 Devices and Printers window.
After a printer is installed, use the printer Properties box to manage printer features and hardware devices installed on the printer.
After the OS is installed, the boot sequence should typically be changed to boot first from which hardware device?
After the OS is installed, to prevent accidental boots from a DVD or other media, change setup BIOS to boot first from the hard drive.
On a PC, the purple port is for the keyboard, and the green port is for the mouse.
All PATA standards since ATA-2 support this configuration of four IDE devices in a system, which is called the Enhanced IDE (EIDE) standard.
What type of memory module is used by all new desktop motherboards on the market today?
All new motherboards for desktops sold today use a type of memory module called a DIMM (dual inline memory module).
A certain monitor is used by digital cameras, camcorders, mobile devices, and other small portable electronic devices because it can produce deeper blacks, provide better contrast, work in darker rooms, and use less power than can an LCD monitor. What type of monitor is this?
An OLED (Organic Light-emitting Diode) monitor uses a thin LED layer or film between two grids of electrodes. OLED screens provide better contrast, work in darker rooms, and use less power than an LCD monitor.
Which statement regarding expansion cards is correct? A. Expansion cards add functionality to a system without generating additional heat. B. Expansion cards are quickly replacing less popular onboard ports. C. An expansion card is a circuit board that provides more ports than those provided by the motherboard. D. A heat sink requires an associated expansion card.
An expansion card, also called an adapter card, is a circuit board that provides more ports than those provided by the motherboard.
A network port, also called an Ethernet port, or an RJ-45 port, is used by a network cable to connect to the wired network.
Analog means a continuous signal with infinite variations.
Which statement regarding memory performance is correct? A. The following memory modules are listed from fastest to slowest: DDR3, DDR2, DDR, and SDRAM. B. If you install modules of different speeds in the same system, the system will run at the slowest speed or might become unstable. C. When analyzing the CL or RL rating of a memory module, the higher the better. D. To improve performance, use single channels whenever possible rather than more complex dual, triple or quad channeling.
B If you install modules of different speeds in the same system, the system will run at the slowest speed or might become unstable.
Which statement is correct? A. The LGA2011 socket can access three memory slots at the same time. B. To get the highest performance, memory slots are placed on either side of the processor in order to shorten the length of the memory bus. C. Memory slots within the same channel are coded with a different color for each slot. D. Color coding is used to indicate the type of memory module that can be used in each memory slot.
B To get the highest performance, memory slots are placed on either side of the processor in order to shorten the length of the memory bus.
Suppose a board has four DIMM slots with four DIMMs installed and has two dual memory channels, Channel A and Channel B. Which statement is correct? A. One DIMM from each channel can be addressed at the same time. B. The pair of DIMMs in a channel must be equally matched in size, speed, and features. C. Since all channels work together, the DIMMs in separate channels must all come from the same manufacturer. D. If the two DIMM slots of a channel are not populated with matching pairs of DIMMs, the motherboard will not recognize the channel.
B When setting up dual channeling, the pair of DIMMs in a channel must be equally matched in size, speed, and features, and it is recommended they come from the same manufacturer.
Which statement regarding Hyper-Threading and HyperTransport is correct? A. The concept behind this feature involves having two arithmetic logic units (ALUs) installed within a single processor. B. The net effect is to appear as though there are two logical processors for each physical processor or core. C. If this feature is enabled in a system, it cannot be disabled. D. This feature requires the support of DDR3 memory modules.
B To handle two threads, the processor requires extra registers, or holding areas, within the processor housing that it uses to switch between threads. In effect, you have two logical processors for each physical processor or core. Intel calls this technology Hyper-Threading and AMD calls it HyperTransport.
Which statement regarding RAID 10 is correct? A. RAID 10 requires a minimum of 10 disks. B. RAID 10 mirrors data across pairs of disks. C. RAID 10 features duplexing to prevent the failure of all drives simultaneously. D. Using RAID 10,data is written two the first drive, and when it is full, continues to the next drive, and then on the next as each is filled.
B. RAID 10 mirrors data across pairs of disks.
How can detailed information about a system's memory configuration and amount be obtained?
BIOS setup reports the memory configuration and amount.
What technology provides a better range and accuracy of color and uses less power than earlier technologies, and is generally used to provide backlighting in a flat-panel monitor?
Backlighting is used to light the LCD panel. The trend for most monitor manufacturers is to use LED backlighting, which provides a better range and accuracy of color and uses less power than earlier technologies.
Beginning with the release in 2006 of the Intel i800 series of chipsets, a hub using the Accelerated Hub Architecture is used to connect buses. This hub has a fast and slow end, and each end is a separate chip on the motherboard.
BitLocker Encryption in Windows 7/Vista is designed to work with a TPM chip; the chip holds the BitLocker encryption key (also called the startup key). If the hard drive is stolen from the computer and installed in another computer, the data would be safe because BitLocker has encrypted all contents on the drive and would not allow access without the startup key stored on the TPM chip.
BIOS settings might offer several security features. For example, Event Logger allows you to enable event logging, which logs when the case is opened. To use the feature, you must use a cable to connect a switch on the case to a header on the motherboard.
Boot the PC and enter BIOS setup. If BIOS setup has the option to select the order in which video cards are initialized, verify that the currently installed card is configured to initialize first.
Monitor brightness is measured in cd/m2 (candela per square meter), which is the same as _________________________ per square meter.
Brightness is measured in cd/m2 (candela per square meter), which is the same as lumens/m2 (lumens per square meter).
Which statement is correct regarding supervisor and power-on passwords? A. These passwords are the same password that can be required by a Windows OS at startup. B. If both passwords are forgotten, a default password can be entered to access the system. C. Jumpers can be set to clear both passwords. D. Using both passwords is an alternative to flashing the BIOS when alleviating motherboard problems.
C Jumpers can be set to clear both passwords.
Which of the following is currently the most popular Intel socket? A. LGA771 socket B. PGA 66 socket C. LGA1155 socket D. Socket 478
C The LGA1155 is currently the most popular Intel socket.
A customized system has the following specifications: multicore processor, adequate RAM (because each machine ties up its assigned RAM), and adequate hard drive space for each OS. This best describes a(n)
C The requirements for a desktop computer that will be used to run multiple virtual machines are as follows: • Each VM has its own virtual processor, so the processor should be a multicore processor. • You need extra amounts of RAM when a computer is running several VMs. • Each VM must have an operating system installed, with adequate hard drive space for each VM.
Which statement regarding composite video is correct?
Composite video does not produce as sharp an image as VGA video or S-Video.
Which statement regarding parity is correct? A. Parity checking is used in newer DIMM modules. B. Parity checking involves a total of eight bits (7 bits for data and 1 bit for parity). C. Even parity occurs when the number of zeros (including the parity bit) is even. D. When a byte is read back from the memory module, the memory controller checks the odd or even state.
D Later, when the byte is read back, the memory controller checks the odd or even state.
Which statement regarding dual voltage options is correct? A. The setting used in the United States is 220 V. B. The setting used in European countries is 115 V. C. In addition to the selection switch, the voltage selection can be made in BIOS and will be applied when the computer is rebooted. D. When changing the voltage selection, it is advisable to turn off the computer and unplug the power supply.
D If you ever need to change the dual-voltage selector switch, first turn off the computer and unplug the power supply.
Which statement is correct regarding power supply considerations? A. Power supplies that run at peak performance last longer than those operating at less than peak performance. B. Power supplies provide the same capacity of power over time. C. A higher rated power supply requires the same amount of electricity regardless of the power drawn by the components in the system. D. To know what size power supply you need, add up the wattage requirements of all components, and add 30 percent.
D To know what size power supply you need, add up the wattage requirements of all components, and add 30 percent.
Which type of memory module runs twice as fast as regular SDRAM, and processes data when the system clock beat rises and again when it falls?
DDR runs twice as fast as regular SDRAM, has one notch, and uses 184 pins. Instead of processing data for each beat of the system clock, as with regular SDRAM, it processes data when the beat rises and again when it falls, doubling the data rate of memory.
What is a transfer method that transfers data directly from the hard drive to memory without involving the CPU?
DMA transfers data directly from the drive to memory without involving the CPU.
What is a type of memory that loses its data rapidly, requiring the memory controller to refresh it several thousand times a second?
DRAM loses its data rapidly, and the memory controller must refresh it several thousand times a second.
When connecting the data cable, align the edge color of the ribbon cable with pin 1 on the motherboard connector.
Device manufacturers often release updates to device drivers. Update the drivers to solve problems with the device or to add new features. You can use Device Manager in Windows to manage devices and their drivers.
Which statement regarding error-checking technology (ECC, or error-correcting code) is correct?
ECC memory costs more than non-ECC memory, but it is more reliable.
When installing a video card, error messages about video appear when Windows starts, indicating a possible conflict with onboard video. What can be done to correct this conflict?
Error messages about video appear when Windows starts. This can be caused by a conflict in onboard video and the video card. Try disabling onboard video in Device Manager.
Which statement regarding older RAM technology is correct? A. Older RAM technology is still used for a limited number of new motherboards. B. SIMMs are now obsolete; however, RIMMs are still quite prevalent in new motherboards. C. RIMMs can still be purchased as replacement modules for older motherboards. D. RAM manufacturers no longer produce older RAM.
Even though an older RAM technology is no longer used by new motherboards, RAM manufacturers continue to produce the older RAM because older motherboards require these replacement modules. SIMMs and RIMMs are now obsolete.
What type of customized system would be most likely to feature the following hardware components: Intel Core i5 processor, 8 GB RAM, hardware RAID implemented on the motherboard, network port rated for Gigabit Ethernet (1000 MBPS), a USB printer, and onboard video?
Features and hardware you need to consider when customizing a home server PC include: • Use a processor with moderate power. The Intel Core i5 or Core i3 works well. A moderate amount of RAM is sufficient, for example, 6 to 8 GB. see complete notes
For external drives, common standards are eSATA, FireWire 800 or 400, and SuperSpeed or Hi-Speed USB.
FireWire uses serial transmissions, and FireWire devices are hot-swappable.
For dual, triple, or quad channels to work, the _________________________ and the DIMM must support the technology.
For dual, triple, or quad channels to work, the motherboard and the DIMM must support the technology.
A customized system has the following specifications: a powerful processor with at least 8 GB of RAM, a high-end video card or possibly dual video cards, high-end sound card, and liquid cooling. This best describes a(n) _________________________.
Gaming PCs built by iBUYPOWER: Several of the PCs use liquid cooling, and all use a powerful processor with at least 8 GB of RAM.
A connector leading from the front of the computer case to the motherboard labeled as HDD LED __________________.
HDD LED controls the drive activity light on the front panel that lights up when any SATA or IDE device is in use.
A parallel port is sometimes called a Centronics port, named after the 36-pin Centronics connection used by printers.
If you have a problem with the installation that is using a parallel port, consider that the port might not be configured correctly in BIOS setup or that there is a problem with the parallel cable.
Modem cards in desktop computers provide two phone jacks, called RJ-11 jacks, so that one can be used for dial-up networking and the other jack can be used to plug in an extension telephone.
Installing a new file system on a device is called formatting the device, and the process erases all data on the device.
SO-DIMM memory modules are used in _________________________.
Laptops use a smaller version of a DIMM called a SO-DIMM (small outline DIMM and pronounced "sew-dim").
Use the setup CD to install the software and then plug in the webcam to a USB port.
MIDI standards are used to connect electronic music equipment, such as musical keyboards and mixers, or to connect this equipment to a PC for input, output, and editing.
For an unstable motherboard, you can try downloading and installing updated chipset drivers and other drivers for onboard components.
Make sure the replacement battery is an exact match to the original or is one the motherboard manufacturer recommends for the board.
Today's processors all have some memory on the processor chip (called a die). Memory on the processor die is called _________________________.
Memory on the processor die is called Level 1 cache (L1 cache).
Which of the following form factors lowers the total cost of a system by reducing the number of expansion slots on the motherboard, reducing the power supplied to the board, and allowing for a smaller case size? A. NLX B. MicroATX C. FlexATX D. BTX
MicroATX reduces the total cost of a system by reducing the number of expansion slots on the motherboard, reducing the power supplied to the board, and allowing for a smaller case size.
Which type of bus is primarily used today and is characterized as running in sync with the system clock?
Most buses today are local buses, meaning that they run in sync with the system clock.
Most processors on the market today support virtualization. How is this feature enabled?
Most processors sold today support virtualization; the feature must be enabled in BIOS setup.
Which statement is correct with reference to a mid-range to high-end audio and video editing workstation? A. A video card that has a Quadro graphics processor is required. B. 8 GB of RAM is sufficient for nearly all high-speed editing work. C. The case form factor should be small enough to fit on a shelf in an entertainment center. D. Most users will require dual or triple monitors.
Most users will require dual or triple monitors. You might need to consider dual video cards for optimum video performance or for more than two video ports.
The ability of a system to do more than one thing at a time is accomplished by several means. One method involves multiple processors installed in the same processor housing. What is this called?
Multiple processors can be installed in the same processor housing (called multi-core processing).
Slingbox by Sling Media represents one popular type of _________________________.
One popular type of home server PC is Slingbox by Sling Media.
Which statement is correct regarding the PCI Express (PCIe) bus? A. PCIe is backward compatible with PCI and PCI-X. B. PCI Express is expected to quickly replace conventional PCI. C. PCI Express uses a serial bus. D. PCI Express buses were developed specifically for video cards.
PCI Express uses a serial bus, which is faster than a parallel bus because it transmits data in packets similar to how an Ethernet network, USB, and FireWire transmit data.
Which of the following is focused on the server market, and therefore, unlikely to be seen in desktop computers? A. PCI Express B. AGP C. AMR D. PCI-X
PCI-X focused on the server market; therefore, it's unlikely you'll see PCI-X slots in desktop computers.
What name is used to describe ports that come directly off the motherboard?
Ports coming directly off the motherboard are called on-board ports or integrated components.
What type of RAID stripes across three or more drives and uses parity checking, so that if one drive fails, the other drives can recreate the data on the failed drive by using the parity information
RAID 5
_________________________, an older type of module designed by Rambus, Inc., has 184 pins and two notches near the center of the edge connector.
RIMM has 184 pins and two notches near the center of the edge connector.
What type of RAID uses two or more physical disks two increased the disk space available for a single volume, and writes two the physical disks evenly across all disks?
Raid 0
What temporarily holds data and instructions as the CPU processes them, and is stored on memory modules that are installed in memory slots on the motherboard?
Random access memory (RAM) temporarily holds data and instructions as the CPU processes them. RAM is stored on memory modules, which are installed in memory slots on the motherboard.
A connector leading from the front of the computer case to the motherboard, labeled as Reset SW, _________________________.
Reset SW is the switch used to reboot the computer.
Which of the following correctly pairs the standard with its transfer speed? A. ATA-7 (IDE interface): 66.6 MB/sec B. SATA I: 2 Gb/sec C. SATA II: 4 Gb/sec D. SATA III: 6 Gb/sec
SATA III or SATA3: 6 Gb/sec
What are the three sizes of Secure Digit (SD) cards, which are used in digital cameras, tablets, cell phones, MP3 players, digital camcorders, and most laptops?
SD cards come in three physical sizes: Full-size SD, MiniSD, and MicroSD.
Which statement regarding static RAM (SRAM) is correct? A. SRAM is volatile. B. SRAM must be refreshed at frequent intervals. C. SRAM loses its data when power is not supplied. D. SRAM is faster than dynamic RAM (DRAM).
SRAM is faster than DRAM because it does not need refreshing; it can hold its data as long as power is available.
Sandy Bridge technology introduced _________________________, in which the processor can access four DIMMs at the same time.
Sandy Bridge technology introduced quad channels, where the processor can access four DIMMs at the same time.
Which statement regarding solid state drives (SSDs) is correct? A. In an SSD drive, flash memory is stored on ROM (Read Only Memory) chips inside the drive housing. B. The lifespan of an SSD drive is based on the number of read operations to the drive. C. SSDs are faster, more reliable, and use less power than magnetic drives. D. The cost of SSDs is comparable to magnetic drives for the same storage capacity.
Solid state drives are much more expensive than magnetic hard drives, but they are faster, more reliable, last longer, and use less power than magnetic drives.
As an add-on device, the touch screen has its own AC adapter to power it.
Switch between computers by using a hot key on the keyboard, buttons on the top of the KVM switch, or a wired remote.
What port, sometimes called a DB-15 port, is the standard analog video port and transmits three signals of red, green, and blue (RGB)?
The 15-pin VGA port is the standard analog video port and transmits three signals of red, green, and blue (RGB).
What is the main motherboard power connector used today?
The 24-pin P1 connector, also called the 20+4 pin connector, is the main motherboard power connector used today.
What type of connector provides an extra +12 V for high-end video cards using PCI Express, Version 2 standard?
The 8-pin PCIe connector provides an extra +12 V for high-end video cards using PCI Express, Version 2.
What type of monitor was first used in television sets, takes up a lot of desk space, and is now largely obsolete?
The CRT (cathode-ray tube) monitor was first used in television sets, takes up a lot of desk space, and is now largely obsolete.
What variation of DVI supports both analog and digital signals?
The DVI-I port supports both analog and digital signals.
A graphics processing unit (GPU) is a processor that manipulates graphic data to form the images on a monitor screen. An integrated GPU is
The GPU might be on a video card on the motherboard, or embedded in the CPU package. When inside the CPU package, it is called integrated graphics.
The Type A 19-pin _________________________ connector, used on most computers and televisions, transmits both digital video and audio (not analog).
The HDMI standards allow for several types of HDMI connectors. The best known, which is used on most computers and televisions, is the Type A 19-pin HDMI connector.
First used in laptops, what type of monitor produces an image using a liquid crystal material made of large, easily polarized molecules?
The LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, also called a flat-panel monitor, was first used in laptops.
Which Intel socket is used in high-end gaming and server computers?
The LGA2011 is used in high-end gaming and server computers and might require a liquid cooling system.
Which computer component houses the power supply, motherboard, expansion cards, and drives?
The computer case, sometimes called the chassis, houses the power supply, motherboard, processor, memory modules, expansion cards, hard drive, optical drive, and other drives.
What are the two components of a cooler that sits on top of the CPU?
The cooler sits on top of the processor and consists of a fan and a heat sink.
What was the first DIMM to run synchronized with the system clock?
The first DIMM to run synchronized with the system clock was synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), which has two notches and uses 168 pins.
What determines the size of the power supply and the placement of screw holes and slots used to anchor the power supply to the case?
The form factor of a power supply determines the size of the power supply and the placement of screw holes and slots used to anchor the power supply to the case.
What is the maximum amount of RAM that can be used with a 32-bit OS?
The limit for a 32-bit OS is 4 GB installed RAM.
All the devices and the host adapter form a single daisy chain.
The most popular SCSI connectors are 50-pin, A-cable connectors for narrow SCSI, and 68-pin, P-cable connectors for wide SCSI.
What are the three most popular motherboard form factors?
The most popular motherboard form factors are ATX, microATX (a smaller version of ATX), and Mini-ITX (a smaller version of microATX).
What term describes the number of pixels built into the LCD monitor?
The native resolution is the number of pixels built into the LCD monitor.
What term refers to the process of upgrading or refreshing the programming stored on the firmware chip?
The process of upgrading or refreshing the programming stored on the firmware chip is called updating the BIOS or flashing BIOS.
What is referred to as response time, or more specifically, the time it takes for a monitor to build one screen, measured in ms (milliseconds) or Hz (hertz)?
The refresh rate, also called the response time, is the time it takes for a monitor to build one screen, measured in ms (milliseconds) or Hz (hertz).
What refers to the number of spots or pixels on a screen that can be addressed by software?
The resolution is the number of spots or pixels on a screen that can be addressed by software.
Which statement is correct regarding a PCI riser card? A. Riser cards are available for PCIe and PCI-X slots; however, they are not available for conventional PCI slots. B. Riser cards are typically used for server computers to accommodate added storage devices. C. When you install an expansion card in a riser card slot, the card is positioned higher than other cards on the motherboard. D. A PCI riser card installs in an expansion slot and provides another slot at a right angle.
The riser card installs in the slot and provides another slot at a right angle.
The chipset sends out a continuous pulsating electrical signal on one line of the system bus. This one system clock line, dedicated to carrying the pulse, is read by other components on the motherboard (including the processor, bus slots, memory slots, and so forth) and ensures that all activities are synchronized.
The speed of memory, Front Side Bus, processor, or other component is measured in hertz (Hz), which is one cycle per second; megahertz (MHz), which is one million cycles per second; and gigahertz (GHz), which is one billion cycles per second. Common ratings for memory are 1333 MHz and 1866 MHz. Common ratings for Front Side Buses are 2600 MHz, 2000 MHz, 1600 MHz, 1333 MHz, 1066 MHz, 800 MHz, 533 MHz, or 400 MHz. A CPU operates from 166 MHz to almost 4 GHz.
The disks of a magnetic hard drive rotate on a spindle. What four speeds are associated with spindles in hard drives?
The spindle rotates at 5400, 7200, 10,000, or 15,000 RPM (revolutions per minute).
Which statement regarding the thermal compound used with the cooler is correct? A. The primary purpose of thermal compound is to keep the fan from causing vibrations within the system. B. Thermal compound transmits heat better than air and makes an airtight connection between the fan and the processor. C. Correct application of the thermal compound results in a quieter fan operation. D. Newer systems have replaced the use of thermal compound with specially designed plastic clips.
The thermal compound transmits heat better than air and makes an airtight connection between the fan and the processor.
What are the two major manufacturers of processors?
The two major manufacturers of processors are Intel and AMD.
Which statement regarding internal drive interfaces is correct?
The two most popular internal drive interfaces are Parallel ATA (PATA) and Serial ATA (SATA).
FireWire 800 (also called 1394b): Cable lengths up to 100 meters
This USB 3.0 B-Male connector is used by SuperSpeed USB 3.0 devices such as printers or scanners.
What term is sometimes used interchangeably with throughput?
Throughput is sometimes called bandwidth.
When configuring a motherboard, what information is needed to find the correct user guide for a motherboard?
To find the correct user guide online, you need to know the board manufacturer and model.
When installing adapter cards, what is the primary reason that an empty slot should be left between cards?
To help with airflow, try to leave an empty slot between cards. In particular, try to leave an empty slot beside the video card, which puts off a lot of heat.
What feature is indicative of an ultra-high-end customized CAD workstation?
To provide the best 3D graphics experience, use a high-end video card. The Quadro family of graphics processors has the best performing GPUs on the market, and the Quadro 6000 is the best Quadro currently sold.
What is used at each end of the SCSI chain to reduce the amount of electrical "noise," or interference on a SCSI cable?
To reduce the amount of electrical "noise," or interference, on a SCSI cable, each end of the SCSI chain has a terminating resistor.
A drive receives power by a power cable from the power supply and communicates instructions and data through a cable attached to the motherboard. Which is the faster of the two standards that hard drives, optical drives, and tape drives use for both of these types of connections? A. High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) standard B. Serial ATA (SATA) standard C. Parallel ATA (PATA) standard D. Auxiliary standard
Two standards that hard drives, optical drives, and tape drives use for both types of connections are the faster serial ATA (SATA) standard and the slower and older parallel ATA (PATA) standard.
A new standard that is slowly replacing the BIOS standard serves as an interface between firmware on the motherboard and the operating system. It improves on processes for booting, handing over the boot to the OS, and loading device drivers and applications before the OS loads. What is the name of this new standard?
Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI) is an interface between firmware on the motherboard and the operating system and improves on processes for booting, handing over the boot to the OS, and loading device drivers and applications before the OS loads.
Which statement concerning BIOS updates is correct? A. If the update is interrupted while it is in progress, turn off the computer and then turn it back on to resume the update. B. Update your BIOS only if you're having a problem with your motherboard or there's a new BIOS feature you want to use. C. A BIOS update can be performed using either an earlier version or a later version than the one installed. D. It is advisable to routinely check for updates to BIOS code posted on the motherboard manufacturer's web site and to perform updates frequently.
Update your BIOS only if you're having a problem with your motherboard or there's a new BIOS feature you want to use.
Fingerprint readers can look like a mouse and use a wireless or USB connection, or they can be embedded on a keyboard, flash drive, or laptop case.
Using embedded memory or flash memory cards, you can connect the device to your computer using a USB or FireWire port and cable.
What component draws the most power in a system? A. Video card B. Fan C. SATA hard drive D. Network card
Video cards draw the most power in a system, and they draw from the +12 V output.
Suppose that one physical machine is hosting multiple activities that are normally performed on multiple machines. This process is known as
Virtualization is when one physical machine hosts multiple activities that are normally done on multiple machines.
What is the most likely sequence of steps when installing a card that captures video input? A. 1) Install the card; 2) install the drivers; 3) install the application software that comes bundled with the card; and 4) manage the card using the applications. B. 1) Install the drivers, 2) install the card 3) install the application software that comes bundled with the card; and 4) manage the card using the applications. C. 1) Install the application software that comes bundled with the card; 2) install the drivers; 3) install the card; and 4) manage the card using the applications. D. 1) Install the application software that comes bundled with the card; 2) install the card; 3) install the drivers; and 4) manage the card using the applications.
When installing a TV tuner or capture card, you will most likely install the drivers, install the card, and then install the application software that comes bundled with the card. You can then configure and manage the card using the applications.
Intel recommends liquid cooling methods for which of the following sockets? A. LGA775 B. LGA1155 C. LGA1366 D. LGA2011
When using the LGA2011 socket, liquid cooling is a Microsoft recommendation.
A TV tuner card in a PCI slot will not work as fast as a TV tuner card in a PCI Express slot because of the different speeds of the slots.
Wi-Fi 802.11n (RF of 2.4 GHz or 5.0 GHz): Up to 500 Mbps Wi-Fi 802.11g (RF of 2.4 GHz): Up to 54 Mbps Wi-Fi 802.11b (RF of 2.4 GHz): Up to 11 Mbps
What is one reason that Windows Home Server 2011 might be considered a better choice as the OS of a home server PC than Windows 7 OS?
Windows 7 can be used as the OS, but Windows Home Server 2011 provides the additional security features needed to better secure a home network. In addition, if the customer plans to use the PC to back up files on client computers, know that Windows Home Server provides a more robust backup utility than does Windows 7.
Wires leading from the front of the computer case to the motherboard are called the _________________________.
Wires leading from the front of the computer case to the motherboard are called the front panel connectors.
Keeping computer components from overheating via _________________________ consists of a small pump that sits inside the computer case, and tubes that move liquid around components and then away from them to a place where fans can cool the liquids.
With liquid cooling, a small pump sits inside the computer case, and tubes move liquid around components and then away from them to a place where fans can cool the liquid.
How does one access the BIOS setup program?
You access the BIOS setup program by pressing a key or combination of keys during the boot process.
Which statement is correct? A. The speed at which the processor operates internally is called the clock rate. B. The processor frequency is slower than the Front Side Bus (FSB) speed. C. The actual processor frequency and the clock speed can be viewed using the BIOS setup screens. D. The multiplier value is predetermined at the time the processor is manufactured and cannot be changed.
You can view the actual processor frequency and the clock speed using the BIOS setup screens.
What type of flash memory card inserts in a CF slot on a digital camera, has a compact design about the size of a postage stamp, and currently holds up to eight gigabyte of data?
xD picture card
