CompTIA Updated 220-1101 Exam Questions and Answers by jonathan

DDR5 SDRAM (Double Data Rate 5 Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory) is the latest and fastest type of RAM for desktop workstations as of 2023. DDR5 SDRAM offers higher speeds, lower power consumption, greater capacity, and improved reliability than previous generations of DDR SDRAM. DDR5 SDRAM can operate at frequencies up to 8400 MHz, compared to 3200 MHz for DDR4 SDRAM, which means it can transfer data faster and more efficiently. DDR5 SDRAM also supports dual-channel memory, which allows two memory modules to work together and double the bandwidth. DDR5 SDRAM is compatible with the latest Intel and AMD processors that support the DDR5 standard.

The other options are not as fast or suitable for a desktop workstation. DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM, and DDR4 SDRAM are older and slower types of RAM that have lower frequencies, higher voltages, and lower capacities than DDR5 SDRAM. DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM, and DDR4 SDRAM are not compatible with the latest processors that support DDR5 SDRAM, and require different motherboards and slots. DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM, and DDR4 SDRAM are more suitable for older or budget systems that do not require high performance or memory-intensive applications.

References:

The best RAM 2023: top memory for your PC1

The best RAM for gaming 2023: Blazing-fast speeds for your PC2

What RAM Speed Do I Need? [2023 Guide] - GamingScan3

Crucial RAM Memory for Desktop Computers4

One of the possible causes of slow OS performance, random shutdowns, and loud fan noise is the CPU overheating. This can happen due to dust accumulation, faulty cooling system, or high CPU usage. Overheating can damage the CPU and other components, so it is important to monitor the CPU temperature and take preventive measures.

References:

The Official CompTIA A+ Core 1 Student Guide (Exam 220-1101) eBook1, page 2-9, section “CPU Cooling Methods”.

The Official CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) Certification Study Guide2, page 2-11, section “Troubleshooting CPUs”.

The most likely component that is failing and causing the PC to overheat is D. CPU fan. The CPU fan is a vital part of the cooling system that prevents the CPU from overheating by blowing air over the heatsink and dissipating the heat. If the CPU fan is faulty, noisy, or clogged with dust, it can reduce the airflow and cause the CPU temperature to rise12. This can result in poor performance, instability, or shutdowns of the PC.

The other components are less likely to be the cause of overheating. RAM, motherboard, and SSD do not generate as much heat as the CPU and usually do not require fans to cool them down1. They may overheat if there is poor ventilation in the case or if they are defective, but they are not as common as a failing CPU fan.

Therefore, the correct answer is D. CPU fan. This is the most likely component that is failing and causing the PC to overheat.

The issue is related to interference from the microwave, which operates at 2.4GHz, the same frequency as some Wi-Fi channels. To avoid this interference, the technician should configure the Wi-Fi access point (AP) to use a 5GHz band, which has more channels and less interference from other devices. Changing the Wi-Fi operation channel may not solve the problem if the microwave interferes with multiple channels. Increasing the power output of the AP may not overcome the interference and may cause more interference to other devices. Changing the SSID to hidden does not affect the interference at all, and may make it harder for users to connect to the network. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-wifi-6-and-why-is-it-important