220-1101 Question 248
Single answerForm factorsA technician is upgrading a small office desktop that currently uses a microATX motherboard in a compact tower case. The office manager wants to replace the board with a full-size ATX motherboard to add more expansion cards, but wants to keep the existing case and power supply if possible. After checking the system, the technician confirms the power supply has standard ATX power connectors. Which factor is MOST important to verify before ordering the new motherboard?
- A
Whether the existing case has mounting points and physical clearance for an ATX motherboard
- B
Whether the CPU supports hyper-threading on the new motherboard
- C
Whether the system memory is ECC or non-ECC
- D
Whether the monitor supports the same video resolution as the current system
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
This question tests practical understanding of motherboard and case form factors. In real deployments, technicians must confirm that the motherboard form factor is supported by the chassis, not just by the power supply. ATX motherboards are typically 12 x 9.6 inches, while microATX boards are smaller, typically up to 9.6 x 9.6 inches. Many cases designed for larger boards can accept smaller boards, but the reverse is often not true. Best practice is to verify the case manufacturer's supported motherboard form factors, standoff layout, rear I/O opening alignment, and internal clearance before ordering parts. This aligns with standard PC hardware installation practices and CompTIA A+ Core 1 objectives covering motherboard and case form factors.
- A. Correct.
Correct. Form factor compatibility is the key issue in this scenario. A full-size ATX motherboard is larger than a microATX board. Even if the power supply uses standard ATX connectors, the upgrade will fail if the case does not have the proper standoff locations, rear I/O alignment, and internal space for the larger board. Verifying case support for the motherboard form factor is the most important step.
- B. Incorrect.
Incorrect. CPU feature support such as hyper-threading may matter for performance or processor compatibility, but it is not the main form factor issue described in the scenario. The question is focused on whether the larger motherboard can physically fit and be installed properly in the existing case.
- C. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Memory type matters when selecting compatible RAM and motherboard combinations, but it does not address the primary concern of replacing a microATX board with a full-size ATX board in the same case. A technician might consider memory later, but form factor fit must be verified first.
- D. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Monitor resolution compatibility is unrelated to motherboard form factor. A technician might check display outputs after the upgrade, but that does not determine whether the motherboard can be mounted in the existing chassis.