A computer with a recently replaced CPU will not pass POST. When inspecting the inside of the computer, the technician sees several shorts on the motherboard near the location of the CPU. Which of the

Question

Options

• AThe incorrect heat sink was used on the CPU.
• BToo much thermal paste was applied to the CPU.
• CThe power supply was undersized for the CPU.
• DThe CPU is not receiving any power from the motherboard.

• A
  83% (34)
• B
  10% (4)
• C
  5% (2)
• D
  2% (1)

Explanation

An incorrect heat sink is the most likely cause of the shorts on the motherboard near the CPU. Different CPUs require specific heat sink models with matching mounting hardware. If the wrong heat sink is used, its mounting brackets, clips, or backplate may physically contact and short out capacitors, resistors, or traces on the motherboard that sit near or around the CPU socket. This type of physical contact damage is visible (as shorts) and would prevent POST. Option B (too much thermal paste) could cause overheating or electrical conductivity issues if paste spills onto the PCB, but it typically does not cause visible physical shorts of the type described. Options C and D relate to power delivery, which would not create visible physical shorts on the board.

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