CompTIA A+ PC Troubleshooting Quiz!

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  • 1/25 Questions

    Batteries that contain silver oxide, mercury, lithium, or cadmium and are considered hazardous waste. You should dispose of them by returning them to the original dealer or by taking them to a recycling center.

    • True
    • False
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About This Quiz


Do you know anything about CompTIA A+PC? Do you think you can pass this quiz? Modern PC techs procure the CompTIA A+ certification, the essential credential that demonstrates competence in technology. The Computing Technology Industry Association is an American non-profit trade association, which gives professional certifications for the information technology industry. If you are interested in CompTIA A+PC, this is the quiz for you.

CompTIA A+ PC Troubleshooting Quiz! - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    A preventive maintenance plan tends to evolve from a history or pattern of malfunctions within an organization, the environmental conditions, and the back-up needs.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    A preventive maintenance plan is developed based on the past occurrences of malfunctions within an organization, the prevailing environmental conditions, and the backup requirements. This implies that the plan is not created randomly but is instead a result of analyzing the organization's history and needs. Therefore, the statement is true.

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  • 3. 

    The MBR (Master Boot Record) contains the master boot program and the partition table.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The MBR (Master Boot Record) is a small section located at the beginning of a storage device, such as a hard drive. It contains the master boot program, which is responsible for booting the operating system, and the partition table, which lists the partitions on the storage device. Therefore, the given statement is true.

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  • 4. 

    A loop-back plug is used to test a serial, parallel, USB, network, or other port.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    A loop-back plug is a device that is used to test the functionality of various ports such as serial, parallel, USB, network, or other ports. It is designed to simulate the connection of a device to the port, allowing for testing and troubleshooting without the need for an actual device. Therefore, the statement "A loop-back plug is used to test a serial, parallel, USB, network, or other port" is true.

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  • 5. 

    Which of the following steps can be used to protect your system against viruses, worms, and other malicious software?

    • Keep Windows updates current.

    • Minimize the time spent using the Web.

    • Reload application software (such as Microsoft Word) frequently.

    • Use multiple firewalls at the same time.

    Correct Answer
    A. Keep Windows updates current.
    Explanation
    Keeping Windows updates current is an effective step to protect your system against viruses, worms, and other malicious software. Windows updates often include security patches and fixes for vulnerabilities that can be exploited by malware. By regularly updating your Windows operating system, you ensure that you have the latest security measures in place to defend against potential threats.

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  • 6. 

    The last step to solving a PC problem is to ____________________.

    • Verify the fix and document the solution

    • Check it off the list and move on

    • Think systematically

    • Explain every detail of what you did to the user

    Correct Answer
    A. Verify the fix and document the solution
    Explanation
    After troubleshooting and implementing a solution to a PC problem, the last step is to verify if the fix has indeed resolved the issue. This involves testing the system or application to ensure that it is now functioning correctly. Additionally, documenting the solution is important for future reference and to provide a record of the problem and its resolution. This documentation can be helpful for troubleshooting similar issues in the future and for sharing the solution with other users or IT professionals.

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  • 7. 

    If the video and the electrical systems are working, then most boot problems show up as an error message displayed onscreen.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    If the video and electrical systems are functioning properly, it means that the display and power supply are working correctly. In such cases, if there are any issues during the boot process, they are likely to be detected and displayed as an error message on the screen. Therefore, the statement "most boot problems show up as an error message displayed onscreen" is true.

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  • 8. 

    The POST, or ________________________, is a series of tests performed by the startup BIOS to determine if it can communicate correctly with essential hardware components required for a successful boot.

    • Power On Service Test

    • Power On Self Test

    • Power On Self Trial

    • Positive Operation Self Test

    Correct Answer
    A. Power On Self Test
    Explanation
    The POST, or Power On Self Test, is a series of tests performed by the startup BIOS to determine if it can communicate correctly with essential hardware components required for a successful boot.

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  • 9. 

    In the first step of the boot process, the start-up BIOS does what?

    • Runs the POST

    • Searches for the OS

    • Loads applications

    • Loads the OS

    Correct Answer
    A. Runs the POST
    Explanation
    The start-up BIOS runs the POST (Power-On Self Test) in the first step of the boot process. The POST is a diagnostic test that checks the hardware components of the computer to ensure they are functioning properly. It verifies the integrity of the CPU, memory, storage devices, and other essential components. By running the POST, the BIOS can identify any potential hardware issues before proceeding with the boot process.

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  • 10. 

    If your computer will not boot properly and you hear beeps, what should you do?

    • Throw in the towel and chuck the computer

    • Consult the motherboard manual or website

    • Get ear plugs

    • Check the cable between the monitor and tower

    Correct Answer
    A. Consult the motherboard manual or website
    Explanation
    If your computer will not boot properly and you hear beeps, the best course of action would be to consult the motherboard manual or website. Beeps during startup are often a sign of hardware issues, and the motherboard manual or website can provide valuable information about what each beep pattern means. This can help identify the specific hardware component that is causing the problem, allowing you to troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively. Simply throwing in the towel or checking the monitor cable would not address the underlying cause of the problem. Ear plugs would also not be a solution as they would not fix the computer's booting issue.

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  • 11. 

    Even when the power supply and monitor are unplugged, they contain enough power to kill you.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    When an electronic device is unplugged, there may still be residual electrical charge stored in its components, such as capacitors. This residual charge can be enough to cause harm or even be fatal if it comes into contact with a person. Therefore, it is important to handle unplugged devices with caution and avoid touching any exposed components to minimize the risk of electric shock.

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  • 12. 

    What is the first Windows operating system to offer built-in firewall protection?

    • Windows 2000

    • Windows 9x/Me

    • Windows 3.1

    • Windows XP

    Correct Answer
    A. Windows XP
    Explanation
    Windows XP was the first Windows operating system to offer built-in firewall protection. Prior to Windows XP, users had to rely on third-party firewall software or manually configure their network settings to protect their computer from unauthorized access. Windows XP introduced the Windows Firewall, which provided a basic level of protection against inbound network traffic. This feature was a significant improvement in terms of security for Windows users and helped to protect their systems from potential threats.

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  • 13. 

    Dust is not good for a PC because it insulates PC parts like a blanket, which can cause them to overheat. Which one of the following would be the best way to rid your computer of dust?

    • Antistatic bag

    • Antistatic vacuum

    • Static-free cloth

    • Small feather duster

    Correct Answer
    A. Antistatic vacuum
    Explanation
    Dust can cause PC parts to overheat because it acts as an insulator. The best way to remove dust from a computer would be to use an antistatic vacuum. This type of vacuum is designed to safely remove dust from electronic components without causing any damage. Using an antistatic vacuum ensures that the dust is effectively removed without the risk of static electricity buildup, which could potentially damage the sensitive PC parts.

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  • 14. 

    When solving a computer problem it is MOST important to approach the problem ______________.

    • Systematically

    • Comprehensively

    • Quickly

    • Technically

    Correct Answer
    A. Systematically
    Explanation
    When solving a computer problem, it is most important to approach the problem systematically. This means following a step-by-step process, analyzing the issue, identifying possible causes, and systematically testing potential solutions. By approaching the problem systematically, it helps to ensure that all aspects of the problem are addressed and that a logical and organized approach is taken towards finding a solution. This approach increases the chances of successfully resolving the computer problem.

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  • 15. 

    A warm boot involves using the ________________________ to reboot.

    • Operating system

    • Power button on the back of the tower

    • Power plug

    • Warm button

    Correct Answer
    A. Operating system
    Explanation
    A warm boot involves using the operating system to reboot. This means that instead of physically turning off and on the computer using the power button or power plug, the user can initiate a restart directly from the operating system. This allows for a smoother and more controlled reboot process, as the operating system can properly shut down all running programs and services before restarting the computer.

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  • 16. 

    The best way to guard against ESD is to use a(n) ________________________ together with a ground mat.

    • Static-free table

    • Antistatic cloth

    • Ground bracelet

    • Static gloves

    Correct Answer
    A. Ground bracelet
    Explanation
    A ground bracelet is the best way to guard against ESD (electrostatic discharge) because it helps to dissipate any static electricity that may have built up on a person's body. When worn, the ground bracelet provides a path for the static electricity to flow safely to the ground, preventing it from damaging sensitive electronic components. Using a ground mat in conjunction with the ground bracelet further enhances protection by providing a grounded surface for working with electronic devices.

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  • 17. 

    Which of the following best describes an upset failure caused by ESD?

    • Upset failures are easy to detect.

    • The failure destroys the component beyond use.

    • The damaged component may continue to function, but it does not perform well.

    • An upset failure prevents the computer from booting.

    Correct Answer
    A. The damaged component may continue to function, but it does not perform well.
    Explanation
    An upset failure caused by ESD refers to a situation where a component is damaged by electrostatic discharge (ESD), but it is still able to function to some extent. However, the performance of the damaged component is compromised and it does not work as effectively as it should. This means that while the component may still be operational, it may not meet the expected standards or provide optimal performance.

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  • 18. 

    Configuration information stored in ________________ tells the start-up BIOS where to look for the OS.

    • BIOS

    • CMOS RAM

    • RAM

    • Hard drive

    Correct Answer
    A. CMOS RAM
    Explanation
    Configuration information is stored in CMOS RAM (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Random Access Memory). This information includes settings such as the date, time, and hardware configuration of the computer. During the startup process, the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) accesses the CMOS RAM to retrieve this information and determine where to look for the operating system (OS) on the computer, such as the hard drive. Therefore, CMOS RAM plays a crucial role in directing the BIOS to the correct location for the OS.

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  • 19. 

    A hard boot, or ________________________, involves turning on the power with the on/off switch.

    • Soft boot

    • Warm boot

    • Hot boot

    • Cold boot

    Correct Answer
    A. Cold boot
    Explanation
    A hard boot, or cold boot, involves turning on the power with the on/off switch. This term refers to the process of starting a computer or device from a completely powered-off state. During a cold boot, all system components are initialized, and the operating system is loaded from the storage device into the computer's memory. This allows the system to start fresh and ensures that all hardware and software components are properly initialized.

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  • 20. 

    During the second step of the boot process, the start-up BIOS does what?

    • Assigns system resources

    • Runs the POST

    • Searches for and loads an OS

    • Loads startup applications

    Correct Answer
    A. Searches for and loads an OS
    Explanation
    During the second step of the boot process, the start-up BIOS searches for and loads an operating system (OS). This is a crucial step as the OS is responsible for managing the computer's hardware and software resources and allows the user to interact with the computer. The BIOS scans the system to locate the OS files and then loads them into the computer's memory, enabling the OS to take control and continue the boot process.

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  • 21. 

    Which of the following is the first question to answer in troubleshooting a PC problem?

    • Is the problem related to reading from the hard drive?

    • Does the PC boot to the Windows desktop with no errors?

    • Is the screen blank?

    • Can you hear a single beep during the boot?

    Correct Answer
    A. Does the PC boot to the Windows desktop with no errors?
    Explanation
    The first question to answer in troubleshooting a PC problem is "Does the PC boot to the Windows desktop with no errors?" This is because if the PC is able to boot to the Windows desktop without any errors, it indicates that the hardware and software components are functioning properly. If there are errors or the PC is unable to boot, then further troubleshooting steps can be taken to identify and resolve the issue.

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  • 22. 

    During the third step in the boot process, the OS does what?

    • Configures the system and completes its own loading

    • Loads all needed applications

    • Waits on the start-up BIOS to check configuration information

    • Waits for the user to execute an application

    Correct Answer
    A. Configures the system and completes its own loading
    Explanation
    During the third step in the boot process, the OS configures the system and completes its own loading. This means that the operating system sets up the necessary settings and configurations for the hardware and software components of the system to work together. It also finishes loading all the necessary files and processes required for the operating system to run smoothly. This step is crucial for the operating system to be fully functional and ready for the user to interact with.

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  • 23. 

    What happens during the fourth step of the boot process?

    • The startup BIOS controls the loading

    • Application software is loaded and executed

    • Application software is installed

    • The OS loads

    Correct Answer
    A. Application software is loaded and executed
    Explanation
    During the fourth step of the boot process, application software is loaded and executed. This means that after the startup BIOS has controlled the loading, the computer proceeds to load and run the application software that is installed on the system. This step is crucial as it allows the user to interact with the computer and utilize various programs and applications.

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  • 24. 

    The first program file located in the boot record of a Windows XP computer is called ________.

    • Ntbootdd.sys

    • Msdos.sys

    • Io.sys

    • Ntldr

    Correct Answer
    A. Ntldr
    Explanation
    The correct answer is Ntldr. Ntldr stands for NT Loader and it is the first program file located in the boot record of a Windows XP computer. It is responsible for loading the operating system kernel and other essential system files during the boot process.

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  • 25. 

    A material safety data sheet (MSDS) explains how to properly handle ________________________.

    • Food

    • Substances

    • Parts

    • Tools

    Correct Answer
    A. Substances
    Explanation
    An MSDS provides information on the potential hazards of substances and how to handle them safely. It includes details on the physical and chemical properties of the substances, proper storage and disposal methods, first aid measures in case of exposure or accidents, and any necessary personal protective equipment. Therefore, the correct answer is "Substances" because an MSDS is specifically designed to provide guidance on the safe handling of various substances.

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Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Mar 22, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Feb 17, 2010
    Quiz Created by
    Sandsk
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