ICT - Information Communication Technology Computer Hardware and Peripherals Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A technician is upgrading a computer's storage. They want the fastest possible data access speeds for the operating system and frequently used applications. Which of the following storage types would be the BEST choice?
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
- Solid State Drive (SSD) (Correct answer)
- Blu-ray Disc
- Digital Versatile Disc (DVD)
Correct answer: Solid State Drive (SSD)
Solid State Drives (SSDs) use flash memory to store data, offering significantly faster read and write speeds compared to traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) which use spinning magnetic platters. Blu-ray and DVD are optical storage formats primarily used for media and software distribution, not for primary OS installation due to their slow speeds.
Question 2: A user reports that their new wireless mouse is not working. The mouse is powered on, and the correct software is installed. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause of the issue?
- The monitor's resolution is set too high.
- The computer's power supply is failing.
- The USB receiver is not properly plugged into the computer. (Correct answer)
- The keyboard is disconnected.
Correct answer: The USB receiver is not properly plugged into the computer.
For a wireless mouse to function, its USB receiver must be securely connected to a USB port on the computer to establish a communication link. The monitor resolution, power supply health (if the computer is on), and keyboard connection are unrelated to the functionality of a wireless mouse.
Question 3: Which internal computer component is often referred to as the 'brain' of the computer, as it performs most of the processing?
- Random Access Memory (RAM)
- Motherboard
- Power Supply Unit (PSU)
- Central Processing Unit (CPU) (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is responsible for executing instructions and performing the calculations necessary for the computer to function. The Motherboard connects all components, RAM is for temporary data storage, and the PSU supplies power.
Question 4: A user is trying to connect their computer to the local office network using a physical cable. Which type of port on the computer would they most likely use?
- HDMI
- USB
- Ethernet (RJ-45) (Correct answer)
- VGA
Correct answer: Ethernet (RJ-45)
An Ethernet port, which accepts an RJ-45 connector, is the standard for wired network connections to a local area network (LAN). HDMI and VGA are used for video output, and USB is a general-purpose port for various peripherals.
Question 5: Which of the following is an example of volatile memory, meaning its contents are lost when the computer powers off?
- Solid State Drive (SSD)
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
- Read-Only Memory (ROM)
- Random Access Memory (RAM) (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Random Access Memory (RAM)
Random Access Memory (RAM) is a type of volatile memory that stores data the computer is actively using. When the power is turned off, the data in RAM is lost. SSDs, HDDs, and ROM are non-volatile storage, retaining data without power.
Question 6: A technician is troubleshooting a computer that will not power on at all. After confirming the wall outlet is working and the power cord is securely connected, what is the next component they should check?
- The CPU fan
- The Power Supply Unit (PSU) (Correct answer)
- The monitor's power button
- The operating system installation
Correct answer: The Power Supply Unit (PSU)
The Power Supply Unit (PSU) is responsible for converting AC power from the outlet to DC power that the computer's components can use. If the computer shows no signs of life, the PSU is a primary suspect after external connections have been verified. The CPU fan, monitor, and OS are irrelevant if the system is not receiving power.
