CompTIA
220-802 · Question #657
220-802 Question #657: Real Exam Question with Answer & Explanation
The correct answer is D: PSU. The Power Supply Unit (PSU) is the component most directly exposed to power surges from lightning events and is the most common source of an electrical burn odor after a thunderstorm.
Question
Joe, a technician, is sent out to investigate a PC which refuses to turn on for a customer after a recent thunderstorm. Upon arrival, Joe notices a heavy scent of what seems to have been an electrical burn. Which of the following PC components would be MOST likely at fault for the failure?
Options
- AODD
- BCPU
- CHDD
- DPSU
Explanation
The Power Supply Unit (PSU) is the component most directly exposed to power surges from lightning events and is the most common source of an electrical burn odor after a thunderstorm.
Common mistakes.
- A. An ODD (Optical Disc Drive) is a low-power peripheral that rarely fails from power surges in a way that produces a burn smell, and it is not in the primary power path.
- B. While a CPU can be damaged by power events, it is protected downstream by the PSU and motherboard voltage regulators, making it a less likely first failure point.
- C. An HDD receives conditioned DC power from the PSU and can be damaged by surges, but it does not typically produce a strong electrical burn odor and is less exposed than the PSU.
Concept tested. Diagnosing PSU failure after a power surge
Reference. https://www.comptia.org/certifications/a
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