220-1101 Question 413
Single answerCommon symptomsA user brings in a laptop and reports that the system suddenly powers off after 10 to 15 minutes of use, especially when running video meetings or multiple browser tabs. When you inspect the laptop, the bottom chassis feels unusually hot and the fan is running loudly almost constantly. The laptop starts normally again after sitting powered off for several minutes. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause of this symptom?
- A
The laptop display backlight is failing
- B
The laptop is overheating because airflow is restricted by dust buildup or blocked vents
- C
The battery has developed a memory effect and needs recalibration
- D
The operating system is missing critical updates
- E
The SSD has bad sectors that cause thermal shutdowns
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The most likely cause is overheating due to restricted airflow. In A+ Core 1 troubleshooting, common overheating symptoms include loud fans, unexpected shutdowns, intermittent operation, and hot external surfaces. Laptops are especially prone to this when vents are blocked by dust or when they are used on soft surfaces that obstruct intake or exhaust airflow. Best practice is to verify fan operation, inspect vents, clean dust using appropriate ESD-safe procedures and compressed air, and confirm the device is used on a hard, ventilated surface. CompTIA A+ objectives commonly associate thermal shutdown behavior with cooling problems rather than battery calibration, storage failure, or software updates.
- A. Incorrect.
Incorrect. A failing display backlight would typically cause a dim or dark screen while the system may continue running in the background. It would not usually cause the entire laptop to become very hot, the fan to run continuously, and the system to shut down until it cools.
- B. Correct.
Correct. Sudden shutdowns during heavier workloads, excessive chassis heat, and loud continuous fan activity are classic overheating symptoms. In laptops, restricted airflow from dust accumulation or blocked vents commonly prevents proper cooling, triggering thermal protection and automatic shutdown until the system temperature drops.
- C. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Battery memory effect is not a typical issue for modern lithium-ion laptop batteries and would more likely relate to reduced runtime, not heat-related shutdowns under load. This option reflects an outdated misconception that applies more to older battery chemistries.
- D. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Missing operating system updates can cause performance, compatibility, or security issues, but they do not typically produce a pattern of excessive heat, fan overactivity, and shutdown followed by recovery after a cool-down period.
- E. Incorrect.
Incorrect. An SSD with bad sectors may cause boot problems, file corruption, application crashes, or read/write errors. It would not usually create the specific pattern of high heat and shutdown that resolves temporarily after the laptop cools down.