220-1101 Question 407
Single answerExtended read/write timesA user reports that opening large spreadsheets and saving files to a desktop PC takes much longer than it did a few weeks ago. The technician notices the hard drive activity light stays on for long periods, applications occasionally pause while accessing data, and SMART monitoring has begun showing warnings. Which component is the MOST likely cause of the extended read/write times?
- A
A failing hard disk drive developing bad sectors
- B
Insufficient video memory on the graphics adapter
- C
A monitor configured to the wrong refresh rate
- D
A USB keyboard drawing too much power from the system
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Extended read/write times on a PC are most commonly associated with storage subsystem problems, especially a failing HDD. Real-world indicators include slow file access, freezing during saves, excessive disk activity, clicking sounds in some cases, and SMART alerts. CompTIA A+ troubleshooting objectives emphasize identifying failing storage devices through symptoms such as poor performance, read/write errors, and SMART warnings. Industry best practice is to back up data immediately, verify drive health with manufacturer diagnostics or SMART tools, and replace the drive if failure is indicated. Other components such as video adapters, monitors, and USB peripherals may cause different types of problems, but they do not typically create storage-specific delays.
- A. Correct.
Correct. A failing hard disk drive (HDD) commonly causes extended read/write times because the drive may need repeated attempts to read damaged areas of the platter or remap bad sectors. Symptoms often include unusually slow file access, system pauses during disk activity, and SMART warnings. On the A+ Core 1 exam, slow data access and prolonged disk activity are classic indicators of storage media failure.
- B. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Insufficient video memory affects graphics performance, such as rendering, high-resolution displays, or 3D workloads. It does not typically cause long delays when opening or saving files to local storage. A candidate might choose this option if they confuse general slowness with storage-specific delays.
- C. Incorrect.
Incorrect. An incorrect monitor refresh rate can cause display issues such as flicker, unsupported display errors, or poor visual performance, but it does not affect how long the storage subsystem takes to read or write files. This distractor targets the misconception that any PC performance issue could be related to display settings.
- D. Incorrect.
Incorrect. A USB keyboard drawing power would more likely cause input instability, disconnects, or device malfunction, not persistent delays in file access. While USB power issues can affect peripherals, they are not a realistic cause of extended storage read/write times.