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Question 61
A technician replaces a user’s Wi-Fi card, but the system shows “No Wi-Fi networks found.” What should the technician check FIRST?
A) Antenna connections
B) Recycle bin contents
C) Desktop shortcut icons
D) Screen brightness
Answer: A
Explanation:
Antenna connections are critical for internal Wi-Fi card functionality. Most laptop wireless cards use two miniature coaxial antenna leads that attach to the card. If these are not firmly connected, the Wi-Fi card cannot receive or transmit signals effectively. Even if the driver is installed and the hardware recognized, the device will behave as if no networks exist. This directly aligns with the symptom of zero available Wi-Fi networks immediately after card replacement. It is one of the most common issues after hardware servicing involving internal wireless adapters, making this the first and most logical point of inspection.
Recycle bin contents have no relationship to network discovery. Whether the bin is full, empty, or contains large files, it does not influence the ability of a wireless adapter to detect networks. Network activity relies on radio hardware and drivers, not local file deletion or cleanup.
Desktop shortcut icons affect only the visual interface and access to applications. Their presence, absence, or condition does not influence the hardware communications layer. Wireless network visibility is handled entirely by the adapter, driver, and antennas, and shortcuts play no functional role.
Screen brightness governs backlight intensity and visibility of content, but it does not interact with wireless networking. Even at the lowest brightness, or if brightness is malfunctioning, the Wi-Fi system can still detect wireless networks normally. Display settings do not interfere with wireless communication functions.
Given the symptom emerging right after hardware service and the essential role of antenna leads, verifying proper antenna attachment is the most appropriate first step.
Question 62
A user reports that their laser printer produces faint printouts even after inserting a new toner cartridge. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Dirty transfer roller
B) Wrong screen resolution
C) Incorrect audio device
D) Faulty HDMI cable
Answer: A
Explanation:
A dirty transfer roller commonly causes faint or uneven printouts in laser printers. This component transfers toner from the drum to the paper. If the roller is contaminated with dust, paper residue, or toner buildup, it cannot apply sufficient toner to the page, resulting in faded prints. This issue persists even with a new toner cartridge because the roller, not the cartridge, is obstructing toner application. This symptom closely matches problems involving weak print density after toner replacement, making the transfer roller the most likely culprit.
Wrong screen resolution impacts only display output on the user’s monitor. Even if the computer’s resolution is incorrect, the printer’s print quality is unaffected because laser printing depends on internal imaging components, not display settings.
Incorrect audio device selection affects sound output and playback. Printers do not use the audio subsystem, so the audio configuration cannot cause faint printing or any issues in the print engine.
A faulty HDMI cable affects video signaling between the computer and display. HDMI has no role in sending print jobs or determining print quality. A bad HDMI cable might prevent or distort display output, but printing operations will remain unaffected.
A dirty transfer roller directly influences toner transfer and is the most consistent cause of faint output regardless of toner status.
Question 63
A technician installs additional RAM in a desktop, but the system only shows half of the newly added memory. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) RAM not seated properly
B) Incorrect printer driver
C) Improper recycle bin size
D) Wi-Fi password mismatch
Answer: A
Explanation:
RAM not seated properly is the most common cause when a system recognizes only part of the installed memory. Desktop RAM must be firmly inserted into DIMM slots until the retention clips lock into place. If a module is partially seated, the system BIOS may detect only one stick or detect it intermittently. This often results in only half the expected RAM appearing in system properties. Poor seating is a frequent issue after upgrades, making it the most probable cause.
Incorrect printer drivers influence printing behavior but have absolutely no effect on system RAM detection. Memory recognition occurs at the BIOS/hardware level, independent of printer configuration.
Recycle bin size determines how much deleted data Windows temporarily stores. It does not influence memory reporting or system resource detection. RAM issues cannot stem from file management settings.
Wi-Fi password mismatch affects wireless authentication only. It does not alter system memory, nor can it affect RAM visibility in BIOS or the operating system.
Since memory recognition issues often arise from improperly seated modules, checking the physical installation is the correct approach.
Question 64
A user’s mobile phone will not connect to any cellular network after a recent drop. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Damaged SIM card
B) Incorrect screen timeout
C) Full photo gallery
D) Low ringtone volume
Answer: A
Explanation:
A damaged SIM card is the most likely cause when a dropped phone suddenly cannot connect to cellular networks. SIM cards can dislodge, crack, or lose contact with their tray after impact. If the SIM cannot be read, the device cannot authenticate with the carrier’s network, resulting in “No Service,” inability to call or text, and failure to register on any mobile network. The timing—right after the drop—strongly suggests physical disruption, making SIM damage the primary suspect.
Incorrect screen timeout affects only how quickly the screen turns off. It is unrelated to cellular connectivity and cannot prevent a device from registering with a carrier network.
A full photo gallery may impact storage availability but does not influence the SIM card, radio hardware, or carrier authentication. Even with full storage, the device remains able to connect to cellular networks.
Low ringtone volume affects the loudness of incoming call alerts but does not influence network registration or cellular signal acquisition. Even with muted audio, the device remains fully capable of connecting to the cellular network.
Given the circumstances, damage to the SIM card or its contacts is the most logical explanation.
Question 65
A technician needs to set up a secure wireless network for a small office. Which security method is MOST appropriate?
A) WPA3
B) WEP
C) Open network
D) Guest SSID without password
Answer: A
Explanation:
WPA3 is the strongest and most modern wireless security standard widely available. It offers enhanced encryption, resistance to brute-force attacks, and improved protection for both users and network devices. For small office environments where security is essential, WPA3 provides the reliability, confidentiality, and integrity needed to protect sensitive data.
WEP is outdated, weak, and easily compromised using widely available tools. It provides minimal security, and industry standards no longer recommend it. Using WEP puts the network at significant risk.
An open network offers no encryption or authentication. Anyone within range could join the network, intercept traffic, and access internal resources. This is unacceptable for an office environment where privacy and security are critical.
A guest SSID without a password offers no meaningful protection. While it isolates guests in some configurations, the lack of password security means unauthorized users can freely connect. This is insecure for an office.
Given current standards, WPA3 offers the strongest and most appropriate protection.
Question 66
A user complains that their laptop keyboard types random characters after a liquid spill. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Damaged keyboard circuitry
B) Incorrect wallpaper
C) Old browser bookmarks
D) Wrong microphone input
Answer: A
Explanation:
Damaged keyboard circuitry, incorrect wallpaper, old browser bookmarks, and a wrong microphone input each represent different types of computer issues that can affect usability, comfort, and overall productivity. Damaged keyboard circuitry often results from wear and tear, liquid spills, dust buildup, or manufacturing defects. When the internal circuits of a keyboard are compromised, certain keys may stop responding, register multiple presses, or behave unpredictably. This can make typing difficult or impossible, especially for users who depend heavily on keyboards for writing, data entry, or gaming. In some cases, individual key components can be repaired, but most often the keyboard must be replaced to restore full functionality. Recognizing early signs of circuitry problems—such as intermittent key response—can help prevent complete failure at inconvenient moments.
Incorrect wallpaper, while seemingly minor, affects the visual appeal and comfort of the desktop environment. If the chosen wallpaper does not match the display’s native resolution or aspect ratio, it can appear blurry, stretched, or improperly cropped. This detracts from the overall aesthetic and can make the workspace feel unpolished. Additionally, overly bright or chaotic wallpapers may be visually distracting. Choosing an image that fits the screen’s exact dimensions ensures clarity and contributes to a more pleasant and organized computing experience.
Old browser bookmarks are another common but often overlooked issue. Over time, users accumulate bookmarks that point to outdated pages, broken links, or websites they no longer visit. These clutter the browser, make navigation harder, and can slow productivity when searching for frequently used sites. Periodically reviewing and cleaning up bookmarks helps maintain an organized browsing environment, making it quicker and easier to access important resources while removing unnecessary digital clutter.
Wrong microphone input can disrupt communication during video calls, voice recordings, meetings, or gaming chats. Modern systems often have multiple audio input sources—built-in microphones, headset mics, USB microphones, and even virtual audio devices. If the wrong input is selected, users may experience poor audio, background noise, or no sound at all. Switching to the correct microphone in system or application settings typically resolves the issue instantly. Together, these four problems highlight how both hardware issues and simple configuration errors can affect productivity and user experience, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and settings management.
Question 67
A user reports that their laptop battery percentage jumps from 40% to 5% instantly. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Battery cell degradation
B) Incorrect wallpaper resolution
C) Faulty CD-ROM tray
D) Disabled desktop icons
Answer: A
Explanation:
Battery cell degradation, incorrect wallpaper resolution, a faulty CD-ROM tray, and disabled desktop icons each represent different kinds of computer-related issues that range from hardware aging to simple configuration problems. Battery cell degradation is a natural process that occurs over time in laptops and other portable devices that rely on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. As the battery ages, its ability to hold a charge decreases, leading to shorter usage times, unexpected shutdowns, and slower charging. Factors such as frequent full discharges, exposure to high temperatures, and continuous heavy use can accelerate this degradation. Eventually, the device may become difficult to rely on without being plugged in. Monitoring battery health and replacing the battery when capacity drops significantly helps maintain mobility and system reliability.
Incorrect wallpaper resolution affects the visual quality of the desktop environment. When the wallpaper does not match the screen’s native resolution, it may appear pixelated, blurry, stretched, or improperly centered. This visual distortion can be distracting and make the desktop look unprofessional or untidy. With today’s high-resolution displays, selecting images with the correct dimensions is essential to achieving a clean, sharp appearance. Adjusting the wallpaper to match the monitor’s resolution not only improves aesthetics but also enhances overall user comfort during long periods of screen time.
A faulty CD-ROM tray is another issue that, while less common today due to the decline of optical drives, still affects older systems and users who rely on physical discs for software, media, or backups. Problems such as the tray failing to open, getting stuck, closing immediately after ejecting, or not reading discs often indicate mechanical wear, dust intrusion, or motor failure. These issues can prevent users from accessing important data stored on CDs or DVDs. Sometimes cleaning the drive or gently realigning the mechanism helps, but in many cases the optical drive must be replaced to restore functionality.
Disabled desktop icons can confuse users who depend on their desktop for quick shortcuts to files and applications. When icons suddenly disappear due to a settings change, it may appear as though files have been deleted, even though they remain safely stored on the computer. This issue often results from disabled icon visibility in the personalization settings. Re-enabling the desktop icons restores access and helps users maintain their preferred workspace layout. Together, these four issues highlight how both hardware limitations and simple settings adjustments can impact the user experience, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and proper configuration.
Question 68
A technician needs to troubleshoot a workstation that cannot access certain internal servers but can access the internet. What should the technician check FIRST?
A) DNS settings
B) Volume mixer
C) Taskbar alignment
D) Clipboard history
Answer: A
Explanation:
DNS settings, the volume mixer, taskbar alignment, and clipboard history each play an important role in shaping how smoothly and efficiently a computer operates, even though they affect different aspects of the system. DNS settings determine how a device translates website names into IP addresses, and incorrect or slow DNS configurations can lead to websites failing to load, long delays, or unreliable connections. Adjusting DNS settings to use faster, more stable servers can dramatically improve browsing speed, security, and reliability. The volume mixer, on the other hand, gives users fine control over audio levels for individual apps. When sound seems to be missing or too loud in certain programs, the cause is often a muted or lowered application volume within the mixer rather than a hardware issue. Managing these settings allows users to balance sound output properly across communication tools, media players, and games, ensuring a better overall audio experience. Taskbar alignment is a more visual and organizational aspect of the operating system but contributes significantly to personal workflow and comfort. Whether aligned to the center or left, the taskbar’s position influences how easily users locate open applications, access settings, and multitask. A well-aligned taskbar can make navigation feel more intuitive and visually balanced, especially on large or ultrawide monitors. Clipboard history is another tool that enhances productivity by allowing users to access previously copied text, images, and items rather than relying solely on the most recent copy. When enabled, it creates a running list of copied content that can be retrieved at any time, making repetitive tasks, research, and document editing much more efficient. If clipboard history is disabled, users lose this convenience and may find themselves repeatedly copying the same items or losing important text accidentally overwritten. Together, DNS settings, the volume mixer, taskbar alignment, and clipboard history show how both system configurations and interface preferences work together to create a smoother, more personalized computing experience, improving reliability, usability, and overall productivity.
Question 69
A technician installs a new NVMe SSD, but the system does not detect it in BIOS. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) PCIe slot disabled in BIOS
B) Faulty keyboard
C) Incorrect screen saver
D) Full recycle bin
Answer: A
Explanation:
A PCIe slot disabled in BIOS, a faulty keyboard, an incorrect screen saver, and a full recycle bin each represent different types of computer issues that can impact performance, usability, and workflow in distinct ways. A PCIe slot disabled in BIOS is a configuration problem that prevents certain hardware components—such as graphics cards, network cards, or NVMe adapters—from being detected by the system. When this setting is turned off, the installed device will appear as if it is malfunctioning or missing entirely, leading to errors like no display output, missing connectivity, or unrecognized storage. Re-enabling the PCIe slot in the BIOS usually restores full hardware functionality, making this an important setting to verify when installing or troubleshooting expansion cards. A faulty keyboard, on the other hand, is a hardware issue that directly affects user input. Keys may stick, fail to register, or produce incorrect characters, making it difficult to type, navigate, or execute commands. Causes range from worn-out switches and liquid damage to loose internal connections. Troubleshooting may include cleaning, testing with another device, or replacing the keyboard entirely to regain reliable input.
Incorrect screen saver settings can be more of an inconvenience but still affect user experience. A screen saver activating too quickly can interrupt reading, watching videos, or performing tasks that require minimal interaction, while one set to never activate may reduce privacy or screen protection in shared environments. Adjusting the timing and type of screen saver helps balance convenience, security, and energy management. Finally, a full recycle bin is a simple but often overlooked problem that reduces available disk space and can slow system performance over time. When the recycle bin reaches its storage limit, new deleted files may bypass it entirely and be permanently removed without warning. Regularly emptying the recycle bin frees up space, keeps storage organized, and ensures that deleted files behave as expected. Together, these issues highlight how both configuration mistakes and hardware failures can affect computer behavior, and how proper settings management and timely maintenance help ensure a smoother, more reliable computing experience.
Question 70
A user reports that their monitor flickers only when they scroll through webpages or documents. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Low refresh rate
B) Wrong Wi-Fi password
C) Incorrect audio driver
D) Missing printer ink
Answer: A
Explanation:
Low refresh rate, wrong Wi-Fi password, incorrect audio driver, and missing printer ink are four common issues that can disrupt a user’s computing experience, each affecting different aspects of performance, connectivity, and usability. A low refresh rate on a monitor can cause motion to appear choppy, text to seem less sharp, and overall display performance to feel sluggish, especially during activities like gaming, scrolling, or viewing high-frame-rate content. Many monitors default to a lower refresh rate, such as 60 Hz, even if they support higher values like 120 Hz or 144 Hz. Adjusting the refresh rate in display settings can significantly improve smoothness and visual comfort, creating a more responsive and enjoyable viewing experience.
A wrong Wi-Fi password is a simple but common connectivity issue. If the password is entered incorrectly, the system will repeatedly fail to connect to the network, preventing internet access entirely. This problem may occur due to mistyped characters, case sensitivity, recent password changes, or attempting to join the wrong network. Verifying the correct password or removing and re-adding the network usually resolves the issue quickly. Reliable Wi-Fi access is essential for browsing, online meetings, software updates, and cloud-based tasks, so fixing this problem promptly is vital for maintaining productivity.
Incorrect audio drivers can cause a range of sound-related issues, from distorted audio to no sound at all. When the wrong driver is installed, the operating system cannot properly communicate with the speakers, headphones, or sound card. This can happen after system updates, improper driver installations, or hardware changes. Installing the correct, up-to-date audio driver ensures proper functionality, better sound quality, and compatibility with applications that rely on audio. Troubleshooting may involve checking device manager, updating through the manufacturer’s website, or reinstalling the driver entirely.
Missing printer ink is another common problem that disrupts workflow, especially for students, office workers, and home users who rely on printed documents. When ink levels run low or cartridges are empty, printouts may appear faded, streaked, or fail to print altogether. Many printers also refuse to operate when a single color cartridge is empty, even when printing in black and white. Checking ink levels, replacing empty cartridges, and running cleaning cycles help restore print quality and ensure the device functions properly. Together, these issues illustrate how both software settings and hardware maintenance are essential for keeping a computer system running smoothly and efficiently.
Question 71
A technician receives a report that a laptop will only power on when the AC adapter is plugged in, and it immediately shuts off when unplugged. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Failed battery
B) Incorrect wallpaper
C) Wrong keyboard layout
D) Faulty mouse driver
Answer: A
Explanation:
A failed battery is the most likely cause when a laptop can only power on with the AC adapter connected and shuts off immediately after it is unplugged. When a battery loses its ability to hold a charge, it can no longer supply power to the laptop independently. Even if the system recognizes the battery, it may be incapable of providing the voltage required for operation. This behavior—powering off instantly—strongly indicates that the battery is no longer functioning. Batteries degrade naturally over time, especially in mobile devices, and sudden shutdowns upon removing external power are classic signs of battery failure.
Incorrect wallpaper affects only the laptop’s appearance and has no connection to hardware-level power management. Wallpaper settings cannot influence whether the system remains powered when disconnected from AC power.
A wrong keyboard layout pertains solely to typing behavior. While it can cause characters to appear differently when typed, it has no bearing on power conditions or battery health. Keyboard settings cannot cause a laptop to shut down unexpectedly.
A faulty mouse driver may impact mouse performance such as cursor movement or button mapping, but it does not affect the laptop’s ability to run on battery power. Mouse drivers operate at the operating system level and have no influence on internal power delivery.
The immediate shutdown after removing the AC adapter directly indicates that the battery cannot provide power, making battery failure the most consistent explanation.
Question 72
A technician notices that a desktop PC frequently freezes when multiple applications are open. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Insufficient RAM
B) Incorrect wallpaper scaling
C) Disabled recycle bin
D) Faulty audio output device
Answer: A
Explanation:
Insufficient RAM is the most likely cause when a system freezes during multitasking. Modern applications require significant memory, and running several simultaneously can exhaust available RAM. When this happens, the system relies on disk swapping, which is much slower. This leads to freezing, lag, or unresponsiveness. The more demanding the applications and the fewer memory resources available, the more frequently the system will freeze. This behavior closely matches symptoms of memory starvation.
Incorrect wallpaper scaling only affects how the desktop background fits the screen. Even poorly scaled images do not consume enough system resources to cause freezing during multitasking.
A disabled recycle bin limits the user’s ability to restore deleted files but has no influence on system memory, multitasking capability, or overall performance. It cannot cause freezing under workload.
A faulty audio device affects sound playback and recording but does not impact memory handling or application management. Even if the audio stops working entirely, it will not cause freeze events when multiple applications are open.
Given the consistent freezing during heavy multitasking, insufficient RAM is the clearest explanation.
Question 73
A user complains that their desktop randomly loses network connectivity, but the cable is firmly connected. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Failing NIC
B) Incorrect monitor resolution
C) Missing printer toner
D) Faulty touchpad gestures
Answer: A
Explanation:
A failing NIC often causes intermittent network connectivity issues despite a secure physical cable connection. As the NIC deteriorates, it may drop packets, disconnect randomly, or fail to negotiate a link consistently. This behavior is common when internal components degrade or when the NIC experiences thermal or electrical instability. Because the cable is confirmed to be secure, hardware failure within the NIC becomes the most probable cause.
Incorrect monitor resolution affects only what the user sees on the screen. It cannot affect physical or logical network connectivity. Even with incorrect resolution, the NIC continues to function normally.
Missing printer toner influences only the ability to print documents. It has no relation to network hardware or connectivity stability.
Faulty touchpad gestures impact input behavior but do not interfere with NIC functionality. A malfunctioning touchpad cannot cause ethernet disconnects.
The symptoms of random disconnections with a fully connected cable strongly suggest NIC failure.
Question 74
A technician receives a laptop with a very dim display that is nearly unreadable, but external monitors work normally. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Faulty backlight
B) Incorrect audio output
C) Wrong desktop icon spacing
D) Full browser cache
Answer: A
Explanation:
A faulty backlight is the most likely cause of a very dim laptop display. Laptop LCD panels require a backlight to illuminate the screen, and when it begins to fail, the display becomes extremely dark while remaining technically functional. This explains why external monitors work properly—the GPU is functioning, and the video output is normal. The issue lies with the display assembly itself, specifically the backlight or its power inverter. This symptom is classic in older laptops or those exposed to physical stress.
Incorrect audio output setting affects only sound playback. It has no connection to display brightness or internal screen illumination.
Wrong desktop icon spacing affects only the organization of icons on the screen. It cannot change brightness or cause the display to appear dim.
A full browser cache impacts web browsing performance but has no effect on the laptop’s physical display brightness or backlight functionality.
Because the dimness is isolated to the internal display and external monitors work fine, a failed backlight is the most consistent explanation.
Question 75
A user reports that their USB keyboard intermittently stops responding but works again after reconnecting. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Loose USB port
B) Incorrect printer tray
C) Low speaker volume
D) Wrong screensaver
Answer: A
Explanation:
A loose USB port is the most likely cause of intermittent keyboard responsiveness. Over time, physical ports can wear out, become loose, or develop poor contact between the connector and the motherboard. This leads to devices disconnecting temporarily and working again only after being reinserted. USB keyboards rely on stable connections; even slight port movement can cause momentary disconnection. This behavior aligns precisely with intermittent failure followed by temporary restoration after reconnecting.
Incorrect printer trays affect printing jobs only and cannot influence keyboard connectivity or responsiveness.
Low speaker volume influences sound output but has no connection to USB port behavior or keyboard detection.
Wrong screensaver settings control when animations or blank screens appear but do not impact hardware connectivity. Even unusual screensaver configurations would not cause a keyboard to disconnect.
The intermittent nature of the issue strongly suggests a physical connection problem, making a loose USB port the most probable cause.
Question 76
A user states that after upgrading their OS, their older scanner no longer works. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Incompatible drivers
B) Wrong display theme
C) Incorrect recycle bin color
D) Disabled speaker output
Answer: A
Explanation:
Incompatible drivers are the most likely cause when an older scanner stops functioning after an OS upgrade. New operating systems may drop support for outdated hardware, requiring updated drivers that the manufacturer may no longer provide. Without the correct driver, the OS cannot communicate properly with the scanner, resulting in failure to detect or operate it. This is a common scenario when using legacy peripherals.
Wrong display theme changes visual styles but does not affect hardware compatibility or scanner functionality.
Incorrect recycle bin color affects only desktop appearance. It has no relation to driver compatibility or scanner detection.
Disabled speaker output influences the device’s ability to play sound, but it cannot stop a scanner from functioning. Audio settings are unrelated to scanning operations.
Driver incompatibility is the most consistent explanation following an OS upgrade.
Question 77
A user complains that their laptop frequently disconnects from the Wi-Fi network when they move to different rooms. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Weak signal strength
B) Incorrect browser homepage
C) Faulty calculator app
D) Full downloads folder
Answer: A
Explanation:
Weak signal strength, an incorrect browser homepage, a faulty calculator app, and a full downloads folder are all issues that can affect a user’s daily computer experience, even though they arise from very different parts of the system. Weak signal strength is one of the most common causes of slow or unstable internet connections. When a device is too far from the router, blocked by walls, or experiencing interference from other electronics, the Wi-Fi signal can drop, leading to buffering, lag during video calls, or long loading times. Signal problems may also occur due to outdated routers or network congestion. Improving the situation often involves repositioning the router, reducing interference, or using tools like Wi-Fi extenders or mesh systems to strengthen coverage throughout the home or office.
Incorrect browser homepage settings may seem minor, but they can be surprisingly disruptive. If a browser opens to an unfamiliar or unwanted page, it can slow workflow, create confusion, or even indicate that a browser extension has modified settings without permission. This often happens when software installs bundled changes or when users accidentally accept prompts that alter homepage preferences. Setting the homepage back to a preferred website helps streamline browsing and regain control over the browser environment, ensuring the user starts each session with a familiar and useful landing page.
A faulty calculator app can interfere with simple but essential tasks like performing quick calculations, converting units, or checking financial figures. When the calculator app behaves incorrectly—such as crashing, producing inaccurate results, or failing to open—it can interrupt productivity. This issue may stem from corrupted files, outdated system apps, or conflicting software. Reinstalling the calculator app, updating the operating system, or using an alternative program typically resolves the problem and restores reliable functionality.
A full downloads folder is another easily overlooked issue that can gradually consume large amounts of storage space. Over time, downloaded files such as installers, documents, images, and temporary data accumulate, slowing the system and reducing available disk space. This can lead to performance issues, difficulty saving new files, or even system errors on drives nearing capacity. Regularly organizing, deleting unnecessary files, or relocating important items to more appropriate folders helps maintain a healthy storage environment. Together, these issues demonstrate how both software settings and digital housekeeping are essential for keeping a computer running smoothly, efficiently, and free of avoidable frustrations.
Question 78
A user states that their external monitor displays “No Signal” even though the cable is connected. What should the technician check FIRST?
A) Correct input source on the monitor
B) Computer’s sound settings
C) Keyboard repeat delay
D) Desktop folder names
Answer: A
Explanation:
Correct input source on the monitor, a computer’s sound settings, keyboard repeat delay, and desktop folder names are all small but important factors that can influence how smoothly a computer operates and how efficiently a user can work. Selecting the correct input source on the monitor is essential because modern monitors often support multiple connections such as HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, or USB-C. If the monitor is set to the wrong input, it may appear as though the computer is not functioning, even when everything is properly connected. Users may see a “No Signal” message or a blank screen simply because the monitor is listening to a different port than the one being used. Switching to the correct input source immediately restores the display and eliminates unnecessary troubleshooting. The computer’s sound settings also play a crucial role in daily usability. When set incorrectly, audio may be too quiet, routed to the wrong device, or muted entirely. With multiple audio outputs such as speakers, headphones, Bluetooth devices, and HDMI audio, it is common for the system to default to an unintended source. Adjusting these settings ensures that the desired device receives sound and that volume levels and enhancements are configured properly for clear, consistent audio performance.
Keyboard repeat delay is another system setting that affects the way users interact with applications, especially when typing or navigating menus. Repeat delay determines how long a key must be held down before it starts repeating characters. If the delay is too short, holding a key slightly longer than intended can create long strings of repeated letters, causing typing errors and frustration. If the delay is too long, it becomes harder to scroll through lists or perform keyboard shortcuts efficiently. Adjusting this setting allows users to tailor keyboard responsiveness to their typing style, improving accuracy and comfort. Desktop folder names, while simple, are important for organization and workflow. Clear, descriptive names help users locate files quickly, avoid confusion, and maintain an orderly workspace. Poorly named or overly generic folders can lead to clutter and make important documents harder to find. Renaming folders to reflect their contents or purpose enhances productivity and helps keep the desktop clean and structured. Together, these four elements demonstrate how proper configuration and attention to detail can greatly improve the overall computing experience, reducing frustration and allowing users to work more efficiently.
Question 79
A technician installs a second hard drive, but it does not appear in the operating system. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Drive not initialized
B) Wrong sound theme
C) Incorrect font size
D) Faulty desktop widgets
Answer: A
Explanation:
A drive not initialized will not appear in the operating system even though the hardware is installed correctly. Newly added drives must be initialized with a partition table before the OS can format or mount them. This step is separate from BIOS recognition and is required for the OS to use the drive. If the technician sees the drive in disk management but it is labeled as uninitialized, this explains why it does not show up under file explorer.
Wrong sound themes affect only audio notifications and cannot influence drive availability.
Incorrect font sizes change the appearance of text but do not impact hardware detection or drive initialization.
Faulty desktop widgets may affect visual components on the desktop but cannot prevent a hard drive from appearing in the OS.
Initializing the drive is a necessary configuration step, making this the most likely cause.
Question 80
A technician receives a laptop that shuts down during heavy processing tasks but remains on during light use. What is the MOST likely cause?
A) Overheating CPU
B) Wrong Wi-Fi password
C) Incorrect wallpaper
D) Faulty keyboard backlight
Answer: A
Explanation:
An overheating CPU is the most likely reason a laptop shuts down during heavy workloads. High processing demands increase CPU temperature significantly. If the cooling system is failing—due to dust buildup, dried thermal paste, fan malfunction, or obstructed vents—the system reaches critical temperature and triggers a safety shutdown to prevent permanent damage. Light tasks may not generate enough heat to reach critical levels, explaining why the shutdowns occur only during high demand.
Wrong Wi-Fi passwords affect network authentication but cannot cause thermal shutdowns or CPU temperature spikes.
Incorrect wallpaper impacts only visual appearance and uses negligible processing power. Wallpaper settings do not influence thermal performance.
A faulty keyboard backlight affects illumination beneath the keys but has no effect on CPU temperature or shutdown behavior.
The shutdown pattern tied to workload intensity strongly supports an overheating CPU as the root cause.
