View Full CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Exam Dumps and Practice Test Dumps

 

Question 121.

Which connector commonly carries analog VGA video signals?

1. USB Type-A
2. RJ45 Ethernet
3. DE-15 connector
4. SATA interface

Correct Answer: 3

Explanation:

The DE-15 connector is commonly associated with VGA video connections. VGA transmits analog video signals from a computer to a compatible monitor or projector. The connector typically has 15 pins arranged across three rows. Unlike modern digital interfaces such as HDMI and DisplayPort, VGA does not carry digital video. USB Type-A is primarily used for peripherals and data transfer, RJ45 is commonly used for network connections, and SATA connects storage devices internally. Recognizing legacy display connectors is important for CompTIA A+ technicians when supporting older monitors, projectors, and computer systems.

Question 122.

What technology allows a laptop to connect to a cellular network?

1. WWAN
2. NFC
3. Bluetooth PAN
4. Infrared

Correct Answer: 1

Explanation:

WWAN, or Wireless Wide Area Network, enables mobile computers to connect to cellular networks using technologies provided by mobile carriers. A laptop equipped with a compatible WWAN modem can access cellular data without relying on a nearby Wi-Fi network. NFC is designed for very short-range communication, while Bluetooth PAN provides short-range device connectivity. Infrared requires line-of-sight communication and is not used for modern cellular Internet access. Understanding wireless technologies helps technicians identify the appropriate connection method when configuring laptops for mobile connectivity.

Question 123.

Which component converts AC input into usable DC voltages?

1. Heat sink
2. Voltage regulator
3. System fan
4. Power supply

Correct Answer: 4

Explanation:

The power supply converts incoming alternating current from a wall outlet into the direct-current voltages required by computer components. Desktop power supplies commonly provide several voltage rails for the motherboard, drives, fans, and expansion hardware. A heat sink removes heat from components, a voltage regulator adjusts voltage supplied to specific circuits, and a system fan moves air through the chassis. Technicians should understand power-supply functions when diagnosing startup failures, unexpected shutdowns, or insufficient power conditions. Selecting an appropriate power supply also requires considering system power requirements and connector compatibility.

Question 124.

Which storage interface uses a narrow seven-pin data connector?

1. IDE
2. SATA
3. SCSI
4. SAS

Correct Answer: 2

Explanation:

SATA storage devices commonly use a narrow seven-pin data connector. SATA replaced older parallel interfaces in many desktop and laptop systems and provides a serial connection between storage devices and the motherboard. IDE uses a much wider ribbon-style connector, while SCSI and SAS use different connector standards depending on the implementation. SATA cables are easy to recognize because the data connector is significantly smaller than traditional IDE connectors. CompTIA A+ technicians should identify SATA interfaces when installing or troubleshooting hard drives, solid-state drives, and optical storage devices.

Question 125.

What feature protects a processor from excessive operating temperature?

1. Secure Boot
2. Memory parity
3. Thermal throttling
4. Drive encryption

Correct Answer: 3

Explanation:

Thermal throttling protects a processor by reducing its operating frequency and power consumption when temperatures become too high. Lowering processor activity reduces heat generation and helps prevent thermal damage. Secure Boot protects the startup process from unauthorized boot software, memory parity helps detect certain memory errors, and drive encryption protects stored information. Technicians should understand thermal throttling because excessive temperatures can cause performance reductions, instability, or unexpected shutdowns. Proper cooling, clean airflow paths, functional fans, and correctly installed thermal interfaces help prevent the processor from reaching throttling temperatures.

Question 126.

Which device provides multiple wired network ports for connected systems?

1. Network switch
2. Wireless adapter
3. Cable modem
4. Bluetooth receiver

Correct Answer: 1

Explanation:

A network switch provides multiple Ethernet ports that allow several wired devices to communicate on a local network. Switches forward Ethernet frames toward the appropriate destination rather than simply broadcasting traffic to every connected port. A wireless adapter provides wireless connectivity, a cable modem connects a network to a cable Internet service, and a Bluetooth receiver handles short-range Bluetooth communication. Technicians frequently deploy switches in offices, server rooms, and home networks where multiple wired devices require connectivity. Port speed, uplink capability, and power delivery are common considerations when selecting a switch.

Question 127.

Which device is primarily designed to provide uninterruptible battery-backed power?

1. Surge suppressor
2. UPS
3. Power strip
4. Voltage transformer

Correct Answer: 2

Explanation:

An uninterruptible power supply, or UPS, provides battery-backed power when normal electrical service fails or becomes unstable. It can give a computer enough time to continue operating temporarily or shut down safely. Many UPS units also provide protection against certain power disturbances. A surge suppressor primarily limits voltage spikes, while a power strip mainly provides additional electrical outlets. A voltage transformer changes voltage levels rather than providing battery backup. Understanding UPS operation is important for protecting systems where unexpected power loss could cause data loss, equipment interruption, or unsafe shutdowns.

Question 128.

Which wireless standard operates in the 5 GHz band and supports high throughput?

1. 802.11b
2. 802.11g
3. 802.11n
4. 802.11ac

Correct Answer: 4

Explanation:

IEEE 802.11ac is a wireless networking standard designed primarily for operation in the 5 GHz band and supports high throughput through technologies such as wider channels and multiple-input multiple-output capabilities. 802.11b and 802.11g are older standards associated primarily with the 2.4 GHz band. 802.11n can operate in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands depending on configuration. Technicians should understand wireless standards when troubleshooting connectivity, selecting compatible equipment, or determining whether a wireless adapter can support a particular access point configuration.

Question 129.

Which component stores firmware settings when system power is removed?

1. Flash memory
2. CPU cache
3. Register memory
4. Video buffer

Correct Answer: 1

Explanation:

Flash memory can retain firmware and configuration information even when system power is removed. Modern systems commonly store UEFI firmware in nonvolatile flash memory, allowing the firmware to remain available after shutdown. CPU cache is volatile and supports fast processor access, register memory is located within the processor, and video buffers temporarily hold graphics-related information. Understanding nonvolatile memory is important when updating firmware or troubleshooting systems that fail to retain configuration information. Technicians should also follow manufacturer procedures carefully during firmware updates because interrupted updates can prevent a system from starting properly.

Question 130.

Which interface is commonly used for external storage with high transfer speeds?

1. PS/2
2. Serial port
3. USB 3.x
4. Parallel port

Correct Answer: 3

Explanation:

USB 3.x interfaces are commonly used for high-speed external storage devices such as portable SSDs and external hard drives. Compared with older USB generations, USB 3.x provides substantially higher data-transfer capabilities, making it suitable for moving large files and performing storage operations. PS/2 is primarily associated with older keyboards and mice, while serial and parallel ports are legacy interfaces used for specialized or older equipment. Technicians should identify USB generations and connector types when selecting external storage solutions and diagnosing performance problems involving external drives.

Question 131.

Which component provides wireless communication for a desktop computer?

1. Sound card
2. Wireless network adapter
3. Video capture card
4. Storage controller

Correct Answer: 2

Explanation:

A wireless network adapter enables a desktop computer to communicate with wireless networks. It may be installed internally through an expansion slot or provided as an external USB device. The adapter communicates with compatible wireless access points using supported IEEE 802.11 standards. A sound card handles audio processing, a video capture card receives and records video signals, and a storage controller manages storage communication. When troubleshooting wireless connectivity, technicians should verify that the adapter is enabled, drivers are installed, antennas are connected when required, and the system can detect available wireless networks.

Question 132.

Which storage technology has no moving mechanical parts?

1. HDD
2. Tape cartridge
3. SSD
4. Optical disc

Correct Answer: 3

Explanation:

A solid-state drive, or SSD, stores data using flash memory and has no moving mechanical components. This design generally provides faster access times and improved resistance to physical movement compared with traditional mechanical hard disk drives. HDDs contain spinning platters and moving heads, tape cartridges rely on moving magnetic tape, and optical discs rotate while a laser reads or writes information. Technicians should recognize the physical differences between storage technologies because they affect performance, durability, power consumption, and appropriate use cases in desktop and mobile systems.

Question 133.

Which protocol automatically assigns IP configuration to network clients?

1. DHCP
2. FTP
3. SMTP
4. SNMP

Correct Answer: 1

Explanation:

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, or DHCP, automatically provides network clients with configuration information such as IP addresses, subnet masks, gateways, and DNS server addresses. This reduces the need to configure each client manually. FTP is used for file transfers, SMTP is used for sending email, and SNMP is used for network monitoring and management. When troubleshooting network connectivity, technicians often check whether the client successfully received a DHCP lease. A failed DHCP process can result in missing or incorrect network configuration and prevent the system from communicating properly.

Question 134.

Which printer technology uses a heated element to transfer wax-based ink?

1. Laser printing
2. Thermal printing
3. Inkjet printing
4. Impact printing

Correct Answer: 2

Explanation:

Thermal printing uses heat to create printed output. Some thermal technologies use heated elements to activate or transfer specialized printing material, including wax-based formulations in certain implementations. Laser printers use toner and electrostatic processes, inkjet printers spray liquid ink through nozzles, and impact printers physically strike an inked ribbon. Technicians should distinguish printer technologies because their consumables, maintenance requirements, print mechanisms, and common applications differ. Thermal printing is frequently associated with point-of-sale receipts, labels, tickets, and other specialized printing environments.

Question 135.

What component connects a processor to the motherboard electrically and mechanically?

1. DIMM
2. Expansion riser
3. Drive cage
4. CPU socket

Correct Answer: 4

Explanation:

The CPU socket provides the electrical and mechanical connection between a processor and the motherboard. Different processor families use specific socket designs, so CPU and motherboard compatibility must be verified before installation. DIMM slots are designed for system memory, expansion risers provide mounting or connectivity for certain expansion arrangements, and drive cages hold storage devices. Technicians should handle processors carefully because socket contacts can be delicate. Correct alignment is essential during installation, and excessive force should never be used when seating a compatible processor.

Question 136.

Which device converts digital signals for transmission over certain analog communication systems?

1. Modem
2. Ethernet switch
3. Wireless repeater
4. Network bridge

Correct Answer: 1

Explanation:

A modem performs modulation and demodulation to enable digital computer data to travel through communication systems designed around analog signaling methods. The exact technology varies by service, but the modem provides the necessary signal conversion between the local digital network and the service medium. An Ethernet switch forwards frames between wired network ports, a wireless repeater extends wireless coverage, and a network bridge connects network segments at the data-link layer. Understanding modem functionality helps technicians distinguish Internet service equipment from devices responsible for local network distribution.

Question 137.

Which connector is commonly associated with digital optical audio?

1. RJ11
2. USB Micro-B
3. TOSLINK
4. BNC

Correct Answer: 3

Explanation:

TOSLINK is a common connector standard for transmitting digital audio signals over optical fiber. It uses light rather than electrical signaling and is frequently found on home theater equipment, sound systems, televisions, and some computer audio hardware. RJ11 is commonly associated with telephone connections, USB Micro-B is an older USB connector type, and BNC connectors are used in various video and RF applications. Technicians should recognize TOSLINK when configuring digital audio connections because it differs from electrical audio interfaces such as analog 3.5 mm connectors.

Question 138.

Which device detects finger characteristics for biometric authentication?

1. Fingerprint reader
2. Smart card reader
3. Barcode scanner
4. Magnetic stripe reader

Correct Answer: 1

Explanation:

A fingerprint reader captures and analyzes distinctive characteristics of a person’s fingerprint for biometric authentication. The resulting biometric information can be compared with previously enrolled data to verify identity. Smart card readers authenticate users through compatible cards, barcode scanners read printed or encoded patterns, and magnetic stripe readers capture information stored on magnetic strips. Fingerprint authentication is commonly integrated into laptops, smartphones, access-control systems, and other computing devices. Technicians should also understand that biometric authentication is often combined with other authentication factors for stronger security.

Question 139.

Which display technology uses individually controlled pixels that emit their own light?

1. LCD
2. CRT
3. OLED
4. DLP

Correct Answer: 3

Explanation:

OLED displays use organic light-emitting diodes in which individual pixels generate their own light. Because each pixel can be controlled independently, OLED technology can produce deep blacks and high contrast without requiring a conventional backlight. LCD displays use liquid crystals with a backlight, CRT displays use electron beams and phosphors, and DLP technology uses microscopic mirrors to manipulate projected light. Understanding display technologies helps technicians identify differences in construction, image characteristics, power behavior, and typical applications when supporting monitors, televisions, laptops, and mobile devices.

Question 140.

Which technology allows devices to communicate at very short distances without cables?

1. Wi-Fi Direct
2. NFC
3. Ethernet
4. DOCSIS

Correct Answer: 2

Explanation:

Near Field Communication, or NFC, enables compatible devices to exchange information over very short distances. It is commonly used for contactless payments, access credentials, device pairing, and small data exchanges. Wi-Fi Direct provides wireless peer-to-peer networking over greater distances, Ethernet uses physical network cabling, and DOCSIS is associated with broadband communication over cable television infrastructure. NFC requires close proximity between participating devices, making it suitable for intentional tap-based interactions. Technicians should recognize NFC when configuring mobile devices and troubleshooting short-range contactless communication features.