220-1101 Question 430
Single answerSwollen batteryA user brings in a laptop because the keyboard is lifting and the bottom cover no longer sits flat. On inspection, the technician notices the internal lithium-ion battery pack is visibly swollen. The laptop still powers on and the user asks for a quick fix so they can keep using it for the rest of the day. What should the technician do FIRST?
- A
Power down the laptop, unplug it, avoid puncturing or compressing the battery, and follow the manufacturer's replacement and disposal procedures
- B
Run a battery calibration utility to determine whether the swelling is caused by incorrect charge reporting
- C
Press the palm rest and bottom cover back into place so the battery does not shift during transport
- D
Drain the battery to 0% and then continue using the laptop on AC power until a replacement arrives
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The best first action is to stop using the laptop safely and handle the swollen battery according to manufacturer guidance. In A+ Core 1, candidates are expected to recognize swollen batteries as hazardous and to prioritize safety over convenience or continued operation. Best practices include powering off the device, disconnecting power, not attempting to puncture, bend, or reseat the battery, and arranging proper replacement and disposal through approved e-waste or battery-handling procedures. Manufacturer service manuals and battery safety guidance from major laptop vendors consistently warn against using or compressing swollen lithium-ion batteries because of fire and injury risk.
- A. Correct.
Correct. A swollen lithium-ion battery is a safety hazard and should be handled as a potentially dangerous component. The technician should power the device down, disconnect external power, stop using the device, avoid puncturing, bending, or compressing the battery, and follow the vendor's documented service and disposal process. This is the safest and most appropriate first action in a real support scenario.
- B. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Calibration utilities address inaccurate battery meter readings, not physical swelling. A battery that is deforming the chassis has already failed mechanically or chemically and should not be tested further as a troubleshooting step.
- C. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Attempting to force the chassis closed can puncture or compress the battery cells, increasing the risk of leakage, fire, or thermal runaway. This is a common but dangerous mistake when trying to make the system temporarily usable.
- D. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Continuing to operate a device with a swollen battery is unsafe, even if the system is on AC power. Draining the battery intentionally or delaying service increases risk and does not resolve the hazard.