220-1101 Question 384
Single answer5.1 Given a scenario, troubleshoot motherboards, RAM, CPUs, and power.A technician upgrades a desktop PC by adding two new DDR4 memory modules to the two empty DIMM slots. After the upgrade, the system powers on, all fans spin, but there is no display and the motherboard speaker emits a repeating memory-related beep code. The technician removes the two new modules, and the PC boots normally with the original RAM. The new modules are the correct DDR4 type and capacity supported by the motherboard. Which action should the technician take NEXT to most efficiently identify the cause of the problem?
- A
Replace the power supply because spinning fans with no display usually indicates insufficient wattage
- B
Test each new RAM module individually in a known-good slot and verify the modules are fully seated
- C
Update the operating system so it can properly detect the additional memory during POST
- D
Replace the CPU because memory errors during startup are commonly caused by a failing processor
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The most appropriate next step is to isolate and verify the newly installed RAM. In A+ troubleshooting, when a system fails POST after a memory upgrade but works after the new modules are removed, the technician should suspect improperly seated DIMMs, a bad module, or a problem with a particular memory slot before replacing unrelated components. Testing one module at a time in a known-good slot is a standard hardware troubleshooting practice because it reduces variables and quickly identifies whether the fault follows the module or the slot. Motherboard beep codes and POST indicators are commonly used to identify RAM faults before video initializes, so a memory-related beep code is a strong clue. Best practices also include consulting the motherboard manual for supported RAM population order, matched pairs, and slot requirements for dual-channel operation.
- A. Incorrect.
This is incorrect. A power supply problem can cause no-boot symptoms, but the key evidence here is that the system boots normally when the new RAM is removed and that the motherboard is producing a memory-related beep code. That strongly points to the newly installed memory, its seating, or slot/module compatibility rather than inadequate PSU wattage.
- B. Correct.
This is correct. A best-practice next step in RAM troubleshooting is to isolate variables by testing one new module at a time in a known-good slot, while also confirming the module is fully inserted and latched. This helps determine whether one stick is defective, whether a specific slot has a problem, or whether the issue is simply improper seating. This is the most efficient and targeted diagnostic step given that the system works with the original memory installed.
- C. Incorrect.
This is incorrect. The operating system is not involved at the POST stage. If the system cannot complete POST and shows no display while emitting a memory beep code, the problem must be resolved before the OS loads. A candidate might choose this if they confuse hardware detection at POST with memory reporting inside the OS.
- D. Incorrect.
This is incorrect. A failing CPU can cause startup issues, but the symptoms here are more specifically tied to RAM installation. The machine boots with the original modules, which makes the CPU a much less likely cause. Replacing the CPU at this stage would be premature and not consistent with efficient troubleshooting methodology.