💻 CompTIA A+ CORE 1 | SERIES 220-1201: Hardware

Start mastering the essential physical components with this dedicated Hardware flashcard pack. You will learn to compare and contrast display components and attributes, summarize basic cable types, and distinguish between RAM characteristics and storage devices. This track covers installation and configuration of motherboards, CPUs, power supplies, and add-on cards, as well as maintenance for printers and multifunction devices. This pack also includes critical details on laptop hardware and components.

What are the benefits of shielded twisted pair (STP) cable?

STP provides better noise protection in high interference environments and has metallic shielding to block electromagnetic interference (EMI).

Which two are types of optical fiber cables?

Optical fiber cables mainly come in two types: Multi-mode fiber (MMF) that works well for short distances with multiple light signals, and Single-mode fiber (SMF) that carries one light signal for clear data over long distances.

Which are punch down block types?

The main punch down block types are 110, Krone, and 66 blocks. The 110 block is common for modern data and telephone wiring. The Krone block is another popular style used internationally. The 66 block is older and mostly found in legacy telephone systems.

Which is a type of ethernet cable?

The main types of Ethernet cables are Cat6, Cat7, and Cat8. Cat6 supports speeds up to 10 Gbps and is common in homes and offices. Cat7 offers better shielding for less interference but uses different connectors. Cat8 is the fastest, made for high-speed data centers with speeds up to 40 Gbps over short distances. There is no standard Cat9 or Cat6d cable

Which video cables are commonly used?    

The most common video cables are HDMI, DVI, and DisplayPort. HDMI is popular for TVs and gaming with both video and audio in one cable. DVI is used mostly in older monitors and supports video only. DisplayPort is favored for high-resolution PC monitors and gaming setups. USB-A and RJ-45 are not typical video cables but serve other purposes.

What are the two wiring options for ethernet cables?

The two wiring options for Ethernet cables are T568A and T568B. The main difference is the swap of the orange and green wire pairs. Both standards work the same for data transmission, but it’s important to use the same standard consistently in a network to avoid issues. T568B is more common in commercial setups, while T568A is often used in government or older networks.

What is the data speed of USB 2.0?

The maximum data speed of USB 2.0 is 480 Mbps (megabits per second), which equals 60 MB/s (megabytes per second). Due to protocol overhead and other factors, real-world transfer speeds are often lower, typically around 30-40 MB/s.

Which USB type supports data transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps and is reversible?

USB-C supports data transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps and features a reversible connector, making it easy to plug in. It combines high-speed data transfer with power delivery, making it popular for fast data, video, and charging needs.

What does GaN stand for?

Gallium Nitride (GaN) is a special material made from gallium and nitrogen. It's used in electronics because it works better than regular materials by handling more power, running faster, and staying cool. This makes devices smaller and more efficient, like chargers and LEDs.

Which are considered emerging trends in IT?

Wireless advancements and AI-powered networking are driving the future of IT by enabling faster, smarter, and more reliable networks. Wireless tech like Wi-Fi 7 and early 6G promises better speeds and coverage, while AI helps networks manage themselves, improve security, and handle growing data demands efficiently. Together, these trends are reshaping how networks support modern digital needs.

Which are fiber optic connectors?

The common fiber optic connectors are SC, ST, FC, and LC. SC is a square push-pull connector used widely in telecom and data networks. ST has a bayonet-style twist lock and is common in multimode networks. FC uses a screw-on adapter and is good for high vibration areas. LC is a smaller form factor push-pull connector popular for high-density setups.

Which are key factors affecting network speed?

The key factors affecting network speed are interference, latency, and bandwidth. Interference weakens signals, latency is the delay in data transfer, and bandwidth is how much data can move at once. Together, they determine how fast and reliable a network feels.

What are some common troubleshooting steps for dual channel memory mode RAM?

To fix dual channel RAM problems, first run memory diagnostics to check for errors, then update the BIOS to ensure your system recognizes the RAM, and finally verify the RAM sticks are in the correct slots for dual channel mode. These steps help identify hardware or configuration issues that might prevent your RAM from working properly together.

What are some limitations of virtual memory?

Virtual memory has some limitations: it can cause increased disk wear due to constant read/write operations, it relies on storage drives which are much slower than RAM, and if overused, it can lead to sluggish system performance. These factors can slow down your computer and reduce the lifespan of your storage device.

What are some limitations of ECC memory?

ECC memory has higher cost due to extra error-checking circuitry, can cause reduced performance because of the time needed for error detection, and has less compatibility as it requires support from specific motherboards and CPUs. These factors limit its use mainly to servers and critical systems.

What does DDR stand for?

DDR stands for Double Data Rate. It is a memory technology that transfers data on both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal, effectively doubling the data transfer rate compared to earlier memory types that transferred data only once per clock cycle. This allows for faster performance and improved system speed.

Which methods can be RAID configured?

RAID can be configured using three main methods: Hardware RAID, which uses a dedicated RAID controller card for better performance and reliability; Software RAID, which is managed by the operating system without special hardware; and BIOS RAID (also called firmware RAID or fake RAID), which is configured through the system BIOS with drivers assisting the OS. Each method offers different trade-offs in cost, speed, and ease of use.

Which workflows are quad channel memory mode RAM best suited for?

Quad channel memory mode RAM is best suited for enterprise workflows, 3D rendering, and scientific computing. These tasks benefit from the increased memory bandwidth and throughput provided by four simultaneous data channels, improving performance and stability in handling large datasets and demanding computations. This mode is commonly used in high-end workstations and servers where efficiency and speed are critical.

What are some advantages of DDR5?

DDR5 offers lower power consumption at 1.1V for better energy efficiency, improved reliability and error correction with on-die ECC, and faster data rates up to 8,000MHz or beyond, delivering higher bandwidth and performance than DDR4. These features make DDR5 ideal for next-generation computing tasks.

What are some advantages of SODIMM modules?

SODIMM modules offer upgradability for easy memory expansion, maintain strong performance comparable to full-sized DIMMs, and provide better energy efficiency with lower power consumption. Their compact size also makes them ideal for laptops and small form-factor devices.

Compared to dual/quad channel memory, triple channel memory mode RAM provides a balance between which two factors?

Compared to dual and quad channel memory, triple channel memory mode RAM provides a balance between performance and cost. It offers better data throughput than dual channel at a lower cost and complexity than quad channel, making it suitable for systems that need improved speed without the higher expense of quad channel setups.

RAID 10 combined which two lower versions of RAID?

RAID 10 (also called RAID 1+0) is a combination of RAID 1 (mirroring) and RAID 0 (striping). It works by creating mirrored pairs of disks for redundancy (RAID 1), then striping data across those mirrored pairs for improved performance (RAID 0). This setup offers both high speed and fault tolerance, making it ideal for critical systems needing data protection and fast access.

Which factors influence CPU compatibility?

The main factors influencing CPU compatibility are the CPU socket type, which must physically match the motherboard; chipset support, which ensures the motherboard can work with the specific CPU generation and features; and BIOS updates, which may be necessary for newer CPUs to function correctly on older motherboards. These three are essential to avoid installation issues, boot failures, or unstable system performance. Other factors like storage type or amount of RAM do not directly impact CPU compatibility.

What are some common motherboard form factors?

Common motherboard form factors include Advanced Technology eXtended (ATX), MicroATX, and Mini-ITX. The ATX is the standard size, offering the most expansion slots and features, making it ideal for desktops with multiple components. MicroATX is smaller, more budget-friendly, and still supports several expansion options, while Mini-ITX is compact, suitable for small form factor PCs, often used in space-saving builds. These three form factors cover most consumer needs and offer different balances of size, expandability, and cost.

Which are two key encryption components for motherboards?

The two key encryption components for motherboards are Trusted Platform Module (TPM) and Hardware Security Module (HSM). The TPM is a microchip embedded on the motherboard that securely generates, stores, and manages cryptographic keys, ensuring data protection and platform integrity. The HSM is a dedicated device providing enhanced physical and logical security for encryption operations, commonly used in high-security environments. Together, they protect sensitive data and strengthen system security at the hardware level.

Which CPU architecture is considered to be older and outdated?

The CPU architecture considered older and outdated is x86, which is a 32-bit design introduced in 1978. It has limitations such as supporting only up to 4GB of RAM and lower processing capabilities compared to modern architectures. In contrast, x64 (also called x86-64) is a 64-bit extension introduced later, offering improved performance, larger memory support, and greater efficiency. This makes x86 the outdated choice compared to x64 and ARM architectures.

Which are types of expansion cards?

Common types of expansion cards include graphics processing units (GPUs) for enhanced graphics performance, network interface cards (NICs) for wired or wireless network connectivity, and capture cards used for recording or streaming video from external devices. Another key type is audio enhancement units (AIUs) or sound cards, which improve audio quality beyond the motherboard's onboard sound. These cards allow users to customize and extend their computer’s capabilities based on specific needs.

What are some recommended BIOS security settings?

Recommended BIOS security settings include enabling Secure Boot to ensure only trusted software loads during startup, setting up BIOS password protection to prevent unauthorized access to BIOS configurations, and updating BIOS routinely to apply important security patches. Additionally, configuring biometrics adds an extra authentication layer, and it's wise to delay BIOS updates by at least one version after release to avoid early bugs. These measures help protect your system's firmware and maintain overall security

Which statements about air cooling and liquid cooling are correct?

Air cooling: Easier to install and maintain, affordable, reliable “all-in-one” solutions, but less efficient at heat dissipation than liquid cooling. Liquid cooling: More efficient, quieter, offers AIO systems, but is harder to install and maintain than air cooling. Ideal for high performance.

If a system has recently been physically moved to a new location and immediately after the move the Power Supply Unit fails to power on, what is the most likely cause?

Most likely cause: After moving, the power switch on the back of the PSU may be off. Always check this first. Other causes could include incorrect voltage setting, loose cables, or insufficient power input, but a switched-off PSU is most common.

220-240 VAC power input is typically found in which regions?

Regions with typical 220-240 VAC power input include Europe, Asia, and Australia. Japan and North America mostly use lower voltages (100-127 VAC). This standard is common globally except in a few areas, reflecting regional electrical infrastructure choices.

Which type of power connector is used for legacy (IDE) hard drives and optical drives?

Legacy IDE hard drives and optical drives use a 4-pin Molex power connector. This connector is non-reversible and supplies power directly from the PSU. It differs from newer SATA power connectors, which have more pins and a different shape.

What are the primary benefits of modular power supplies?

Modular power supplies offer improved cable management, allowing unused cables to be removed. This reduces clutter, leading to better airflow and cooling inside the PC case. This improves system performance and extends component lifespan by maintaining lower temperatures.

Which power supply wattage value would be regarded as the minimum acceptable level for a basic office PC?

For a basic office PC, the minimum acceptable power supply wattage is typically 300W. This provides enough power for low-power CPUs, integrated graphics, and a few drives. Higher wattages are for gaming or workstations requiring more power but 300W is sufficient for basic tasks.

Which core computing components would receive their power from the 12V rail of the power supply?

Core components powered by the 12V rail include the CPU, hard drives, and fans. The 12V rail supplies the higher voltage needed for motors and processors. Components like the chipset, RAM, and USB devices use lower voltage rails such as 3.3V or 5V.

When installing a printer, at which point is it recommended to connect your computer to the device?

Connect your computer to the printer during driver or software installation, when prompted by the setup wizard. Installing drivers first ensures the OS correctly recognizes the device and applies the right configuration for smooth operation.

Which features of shared printing are provided by a print server that would not be available through direct sharing or cloud printing?

Print servers provide user access control and usage monitoring/logging. These features allow centralized permission management and detailed print activity tracking, which direct sharing or cloud printing generally lack. This improves security and auditing in shared print environments.

In which locations would you be more likely to encounter a thermal printer?

Thermal printers are commonly found in Point of Sale (POS) systems and Pharmacies for receipts, labels, and tickets. They are fast, low-maintenance, and ink-free. Less common in home offices, large print shops, or enterprise offices.

Which device connectivity options would be most commonly available for a printer?

The most common printer connectivity options are Ethernet (wired network), Wi-Fi (wireless network), and USB (direct wired connection). Bluetooth and NFC are less common choices for printers.

What is the step where toner adheres to the exposed areas of the drum?

Developing. During this step, toner particles adhere to the neutralized areas on the drum exposed by the laser, forming the image before transfer to paper.

Configuring the DPI value of a print job affects which attribute of the job?

Configuring the DPI (dots per inch) of a print job affects the quality of the print. Higher DPI means more dots are printed per inch, producing sharper, clearer images and finer detail. Lower DPI can result in blurry or pixelated prints, while higher DPI improves print resolution and clarity.

What feature or characteristic is unique to impact printers?

The unique feature of impact printers is that they can create carbon copies by physically striking an inked ribbon against multiple layers of paper simultaneously. This mechanical impact allows printing on multipart forms, which other printer types can’t easily do. This makes impact printers ideal for invoices and receipts requiring duplicates. They are durable and reliable for heavy-duty, multipart printing tasks.

The unique feature of impact printers is their ability to create carbon copies. They strike an inked ribbon against multiple layers of paper, allowing printing on multipart forms. This mechanical impact makes them ideal for documents requiring duplicates, like invoices and receipts. They are durable and reliable for heavy-duty task

Which scanning service can be used to send the scan results directly to a shared folder on a network?

The scanning service used to send scan results directly to a shared folder on a network is called Scan to SMB (Server Message Block). This method allows direct transfer of scanned files to a shared folder on a networked computer, typically used in office or enterprise environments.

If the installation of a new driver on a Windows PC fails and your device no longer functions, what is the easiest option in terms of correcting the issue?

The easiest way to correct a failed Windows driver installation is to roll back the driver. This restores the previous working version, immediately fixing issues caused by the new one. It's done via Device Manager (Properties $\to$ 'Roll Back Driver'). This method is much faster and safer than reinstalling the driver or replacing the device.

What method of 3D printing uses resin instead of a type of plastic?

Stereolithography (SLA) uses liquid resin that hardens with UV light to create detailed, smooth prints. It differs from filament-based methods like Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), which use plastic filament.

Updating drivers and firmware helps to maintain which aspects of a printer?

Updating drivers and firmware helps maintain a printer’s bug fixes, operating system compatibility, and overall performance reliability. Firmware updates fix known bugs, improve security, add new features, and ensure the printer works smoothly with new OS versions and software. These updates prevent errors and extend printer lifespan

A PIN-based security feature on a printer refers to which aspect of securing a print job?

A PIN-based security feature on a printer refers to authenticating document retrieval. It requires users to enter a PIN at the printer to release their print job, ensuring only authorized individuals can access sensitive documents and preventing confidential printouts from being left unattended.

Which statements about inkjet printers are correct?

Inkjet printers have a lower initial cost than laser printers. They are better for high-quality color and photo printing because they use thermal pressure or electric currents to transfer ink to paper. However, they aren’t suited for fast, high-volume text printing or toner fusing like laser printers.