CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 - Domain 3 Hardware

By Jordan Blake · Updated May 25, 2026

Questions25
Passing Score75%
Format100% Multiple Choice
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Question catalog for this preview

Catalog listing of the 5 preview questions for this quiz.

Question 1

A workstation's BIOS reports "SMART failure predicted on hard disk." What should the technician do IMMEDIATELY?

Answer choices

  • A. Replace the RAM modules

  • B. Run chkdsk /f and continue using the drive

  • C. Back up all data immediately and plan drive replacement

  • D. Run a malware scan

Question 2

Which type of RAM packaging is used in desktop computers with 240-pin DDR4 modules?

Answer choices

  • A. SO-DIMM (Small Outline DIMM)

  • B. DIMM (Dual Inline Memory Module)

  • C. SIMM (Single Inline Memory Module)

  • D. MicroDIMM

Question 3

A PC has a 450W power supply. A technician is adding a discrete GPU that requires a 6-pin PCIe power connector and states 150W TDP. The existing components consume approximately 250W total. Can the current PSU support this upgrade?

Answer choices

  • A. No, the GPU's 6-pin connector exceeds the PSU capacity

  • B. Yes, 250W + 150W = 400W which is within the 450W PSU capacity with some headroom

  • C. No, all GPUs require a minimum 500W PSU

  • D. Yes, but the technician must remove the optical drive to balance the power draw

Question 4

A technician needs to test whether a power supply is functional without a motherboard. Which method allows them to test PSU output voltages using a jumper?

Answer choices

  • A. Connect the PSU to a UPS to test voltage

  • B. Use the paperclip test — short the PS_ON pin (green) to a Ground pin (black) on the 24-pin connector to force the PSU on

  • C. Use a 9V battery to trigger the PSU

  • D. Short the 12V rail to the 5V rail

Question 5

A technician is configuring a new server motherboard and needs to understand the difference between ECC and non-ECC RAM. What is the PRIMARY advantage of ECC RAM?

Answer choices

  • A. ECC RAM is faster than standard DDR4

  • B. ECC (Error-Correcting Code) RAM detects and corrects single-bit memory errors automatically, improving reliability

  • C. ECC RAM is cheaper than standard DIMM modules

  • D. ECC RAM allows overclocking of the memory bus