Basic Computer Hardware Problems

Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a possible cause of a computer failing to detect a flash drive?

Answer 1

Outdated graphics driver

Question 2

What should you do if your flash drive is not recognized by your computer, but works on another one?

Answer 2

Consider that your computer’s USB port might be damaged

Question 3

Before formatting a flash drive to fix recognition issues, what should you always do first?

Answer 3

Back up your data

Question 4

Malware can interfere with the functionality of USB devices. (True/False)

Answer 4

True

Question 5

Cleaning the USB port with compressed air may help if dust is causing connection issues. (True/False)

Answer 5

True

Question 6

List two steps you can take if a USB flash drive is not detected by your computer.

Answer 6

Try inserting it into another USB port; run a full antivirus scan

Question 7

Why is it important to test the flash drive on another computer when troubleshooting detection problems?

Answer 7

To determine whether the issue is with the flash drive itself or the original computer’s USB port

Question 8

What tool is recommended for cleaning debris from a USB port?

Answer 8

A can of compressed air or a clean, dry brush

Question 9

What might be a cause for the computer not detecting a flash drive?

Answer 9

The USB port might be loose or damaged

This can prevent a proper connection between the flash drive and the computer.

Question 10

What could indicate that the flash drive itself is faulty?

Answer 10

If the flash drive doesn’t work on any computer

This suggests that the flash drive may need to be replaced.

Question 11

What issue might arise with the file system on the flash drive?

Answer 11

It might be corrupted

A corrupted file system can prevent the drive from being recognized by the computer.

Question 12

How can malware affect USB devices?

Answer 12

Malware can interfere with USB devices

This can lead to detection issues or malfunctioning of the devices.

Question 13

What physical obstruction can prevent a proper connection in the USB port?

Answer 13

Dust or debris

Cleaning the port can help restore functionality.

Question 14

What is one possible solution if the flash drive is not being detected?

Answer 14

Try inserting the flash drive into another USB port

If this works, the original port might be damaged.

Question 15

What should you do before formatting the flash drive?

Answer 15

Back up your data first

Formatting will erase all data on the flash drive.

Question 16

What is a recommended action to take if malware is suspected?

Answer 16

Run a full antivirus scan on your computer

This helps to remove any potential threats that may affect USB detection.

Question 17

What cleaning method can be used for the USB port?

Answer 17

Use a can of compressed air or a clean, dry brush

This can help remove dust or debris that might be obstructing the port.

Question 18

What is a possible cause for a computer not starting?

Answer 18

Power cord not connected properly

Ensure that the power cord is securely connected to both the computer and the outlet.

Question 19

What might indicate that the power strip or outlet is bad?

Answer 19

The computer does not power on

Test the outlet by plugging in another device.

Question 20

What is a potential issue with the power supply that may prevent a computer from starting?

Answer 20

Power supply button in the power unit may be defective

Check if the power supply button is in the ‘on’ position.

Question 21

What should you check if the power light is off?

Answer 21

Make sure all cables are firmly secured

This includes the power cord and any other connections.

Question 22

What could cause a blank screen on a computer?

Answer 22

Monitor is off

Ensure that the monitor is powered on and functioning.

Question 23

What action can you take if the monitor’s brightness and contrast are too low?

Answer 23

Turn up the brightness and contrast

Adjust the monitor settings to improve visibility.

Question 24

What could be a reason for a computer overheating?

Answer 24

Computer fan may be defective

Check if the fan is spinning; if not, it may need replacement.

Question 25

What is a common issue if a printer will not print?

Answer 25

Printer cables not connected properly ## Footnote Ensure both power and data cables are securely connected.

Question 26

What does a blinking light on a printer typically indicate?

Answer 26

Printer error, such as a paper jam or issue with ink/toner ## Footnote Refer to the printer manual for specific error details.

Question 27

How can you check the status of printer jobs?

Answer 27

Look for the printer icon in the system tray and double-click it ## Footnote This will show the print queue and status of each job.

Question 28

Fill in the blank: If a printer shows an orange or blinking light, it often indicates a _______.

Answer 28

printer error ## Footnote This can include issues like paper jams or low ink.

Question 29

What should you do if the printer has no power?

Answer 29

Check the power indicator button on the printer ## Footnote Ensure the printer is plugged in and receiving power.

Question 30

What is one way to troubleshoot a computer that is not powering on?

Answer 30

Check if the power supply button is in the 'on' position ## Footnote This may resolve issues related to the power supply.

Question 31

True or False: A bad battery can cause a laptop to not start.

Answer 31

True ## Footnote A faulty battery can prevent a laptop from powering on.

Question 32

What should you do if the connections between the computer and monitor are loose?

Answer 32

Remove all cables and re-insert ## Footnote This can help establish a secure connection.

Question 33

What action can help resolve a printer error after it has been turned off?

Answer 33

Try turning the printer off and on ## Footnote This can reset the printer's internal systems.