Computer Hardware Quiz
Questions: 16 · 10 minutes
1. What is the purpose of error-correcting code (ECC) memory?
To convert graphics output from digital to analog
To increase the electrical power available to memory slots
To permanently store backup copies of the operating system
To detect and correct certain memory data errors
2. Which statement correctly compares a typical NVMe SSD with a SATA SSD?
An NVMe SSD is mechanical, while a SATA SSD has no moving parts
An NVMe SSD communicates over PCIe and can offer more bandwidth than SATA allows
A SATA SSD must be installed in a CPU socket
A SATA SSD stores data only while the computer remains powered on
3. Which component normally holds the data and instructions that running programs are actively using, but loses its contents when power is removed?
Solid-state drive
Power supply unit
RAM
Graphics card firmware
4. What does a desktop computer's power supply unit primarily do?
Store files when the computer is off
Convert wall-socket AC power into regulated DC power for components
Cool the processor by transferring heat to the case
Coordinate instructions between software applications
5. A motherboard manual recommends using slots A2 and B2 for a two-module memory kit. Why should the modules normally be installed in those paired slots?
To increase the storage capacity of the boot drive
To provide additional electrical power to the CPU
To allow the graphics card to use two PCIe slots
To enable the intended dual-channel memory configuration
6. While playing a graphically demanding game, monitoring software shows the graphics processor consistently near full utilization while CPU usage remains moderate. Which upgrade is most likely to improve frame rates at the same resolution and settings?
A larger-capacity storage drive
A motherboard with additional USB ports
A faster compatible graphics card
A different computer case with the same cooling performance
7. Which type of component is designed to retain operating-system files and documents after the computer is shut down?
CPU cache
A storage drive such as an SSD or hard drive
System RAM
A processor cooling fan
8. A newly installed graphics card has two required 8-pin power sockets, but only one is connected. What should be done before testing the computer again?
Move the operating system to a different storage partition
Remove one of the installed RAM modules
Connect the monitor to a USB port instead
Connect all required PCIe power leads from a suitable power supply
9. A desktop has no discrete graphics card, and its CPU model does not include integrated graphics. Why will connecting a monitor to the motherboard's video port not produce an image?
The motherboard video port depends on graphics capability provided by the CPU
Motherboard video ports work only after a second storage drive is installed
The monitor requires additional system RAM installed inside it
Video output is disabled whenever the computer uses an SSD
10. What is the CPU's primary role in a computer?
Providing permanent storage for files
Executing instructions and performing calculations
Converting wall power into regulated DC power
Displaying images directly on the monitor panel
11. Which device can supply temporary battery power during a brief outage so a desktop user has time to save work and shut down properly?
An uninterruptible power supply
A basic power strip
An Ethernet switch
A passive HDMI adapter
12. During a demanding task, a poorly cooled CPU reaches its temperature limit and automatically reduces its clock speed. What is this behavior called?
Memory paging
Drive fragmentation
Thermal throttling
Display scaling
13. A computer becomes sluggish with many applications open. The system reports very little available memory and frequent storage activity from paging. Which upgrade most directly addresses the underlying limitation?
More system RAM
A larger CPU heatsink
A monitor with a faster response time
A higher-capacity power supply with the same components
14. A desktop repeatedly loses its date and BIOS settings after being unplugged, but otherwise starts normally. Which component is the most likely cause?
The CMOS or real-time clock battery
The Ethernet adapter
The CPU cooler
The primary storage drive's data cable
15. A computer has enough RAM but boots slowly and takes a long time to open applications because its operating system is on a mechanical hard drive. Which upgrade would most directly improve those loading times?
Installing a higher-wattage power supply
Adding a second case fan
Replacing the monitor with one that has a higher refresh rate
Moving the operating system to an SSD
16. Before buying a CPU for an existing motherboard, which compatibility details are most important to verify?
The total capacity of the installed storage drives
The monitor resolution and video cable length
The CPU socket plus motherboard chipset and BIOS support
The number and color of the case fans