220-1101 Question 386
Single answerPower-on self-test (POST) beepsA technician is troubleshooting a desktop PC that powers on, but nothing appears on the monitor. The system emits a repeating pattern of long POST beeps before stopping. The monitor and video cable are known good, and the user reports the problem started after they added more RAM. What should the technician do FIRST?
- A
Reseat the newly installed memory modules and verify they are installed in the correct slots
- B
Replace the power supply because POST beep codes indicate insufficient wattage
- C
Update the video driver from Safe Mode to restore display output
- D
Reinstall the operating system because repeated beeps indicate corrupted system files
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
POST beep codes are generated by the system firmware during hardware initialization, often when the system cannot display an error on-screen. While exact beep patterns vary by BIOS/UEFI vendor and motherboard manufacturer, repeated long beeps are commonly associated with memory-related faults on many platforms. CompTIA A+ Core 1 expects technicians to recognize that beep codes point to hardware issues early in the boot process and to begin troubleshooting with recent changes, such as newly installed RAM. Best practice is to consult the motherboard or system manufacturer documentation for the exact beep code meaning, then reseat or test the suspected component before replacing other parts.
- A. Correct.
Correct. POST beep patterns commonly indicate a hardware problem detected before video initializes, and memory issues are one of the most common causes. Since the issue began immediately after a RAM upgrade, the best first step is to reseat the new modules and confirm they are compatible and placed in the proper motherboard-recommended slots. This follows standard troubleshooting practice: start with the most recent hardware change and the least invasive corrective action.
- B. Incorrect.
Incorrect. A failing or underpowered power supply can cause startup instability, but POST beep codes do not specifically mean the PSU lacks wattage. In this scenario, the system powers on and the timing of the issue points to the recent RAM installation, making memory inspection the more appropriate first action.
- C. Incorrect.
Incorrect. POST beeps occur before the operating system loads, so video drivers are not involved at this stage. Safe Mode would only be relevant if the system could complete POST and begin loading the OS.
- D. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Repeated POST beeps indicate a hardware-level fault detected during startup, not corrupted operating system files. Reinstalling the OS would be premature and would not address a memory installation problem.