Unit 3 (Motherboard Questions)

Which of the following motherboard form factors is typically the smallest and often used in space-constrained systems like mini-PCs?

• ATX

• Micro-ATX

• ITX

• Extended ATX

Answer explanation

The ITX form factor is the smallest among the options listed, making it ideal for space-constrained systems like mini-PCs. ATX, Micro-ATX, and Extended ATX are larger and not typically used in such compact designs.

What type of expansion slot is primarily used for high-performance graphics cards and offers the fastest data transfer rates?

• PCI

• PCIe

• SATA

• AGP

Answer explanation

The PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) slot is specifically designed for high-performance graphics cards, providing significantly faster data transfer rates compared to older standards like PCI and AGP.

Which component on a motherboard provides non-volatile storage for BIOS/UEFI settings and often includes a small battery to maintain its data when the system is powered off?

• RAM slots

• CPU socket

• CMOS chip

• Northbridge

Answer explanation

The CMOS chip provides non-volatile storage for BIOS/UEFI settings and includes a battery to retain data when the system is off. This distinguishes it from RAM slots and the CPU socket, which do not serve this purpose.

A user complains their computer is randomly rebooting. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause related to the motherboard?

• A failing CMOS battery

• Overheating of the CPU

• A loose connection in the RAM slots

• An outdated BIOS

Answer explanation

Overheating of the CPU is a common cause of random reboots, as it can trigger thermal protection mechanisms on the motherboard. Other options like a failing CMOS battery or loose RAM connections are less likely to cause this issue.

Which of the following connectors on the motherboard is used to provide power to the CPU?

• 24-pin connector

• SATA connector

• EPS connector

• Molex connector

Answer explanation

The EPS connector is specifically designed to provide power to the CPU, supplying the necessary voltage and current. The 24-pin connector powers the motherboard, while SATA and Molex connectors serve different purposes.

What is the primary function of the chipset on a motherboard?

• To manage communication between the CPU and peripherals

• To store the operating system and user data

• To provide audio and network connectivity

• To convert AC power to DC power

Answer explanation

The primary function of the chipset on a motherboard is to manage communication between the CPU and peripherals, facilitating data transfer and coordination among various components.

Which of the following describes the purpose of a "trace" on a motherboard?

• A type of integrated circuit that controls data flow.

• A conductive pathway that connects components.

• A socket for installing RAM modules.

• A heat sink designed to cool the chipset.

Answer explanation

A "trace" on a motherboard is a conductive pathway that connects various components, allowing them to communicate and function together. This is essential for the overall operation of the motherboard.

A technician is installing a new M.2 NVMe SSD. Which motherboard component will they directly interact with?

• SATA ports

• PCIe slots

• M.2 slot

• Front panel connectors

Answer explanation

The technician will directly interact with the M.2 slot on the motherboard to install the new M.2 NVMe SSD, as this is the designated interface for connecting such drives.

Which of the following is a common symptom of a failing capacitor on a motherboard?

• Loud fan noises.

• Distorted audio output.

• System instability and random crashes.

• No video output, but the system powers on.

Answer explanation

A failing capacitor can lead to system instability and random crashes due to power delivery issues. This is a common symptom, while the other options are less directly related to capacitor failure.

What is the purpose of the front panel connectors on a motherboard?

• To connect external storage devices.

• To provide power to the graphics card.

• To connect the power button, reset button, and front panel LEDs.

• To connect the network adapter.

Answer explanation

The front panel connectors on a motherboard are used to connect the power button, reset button, and front panel LEDs, allowing users to control the computer and receive status indicators.