Discuss CompTIA 220-1201 Exam Topic 3 Question 20

A technician is troubleshooting a workstation that repeatedly shuts down within ten minutes of being turned on. The technician notices a loud clicking sound coming from inside the case. Which of the following components should the technician check first?

AExhaust fan

BCapacitors

CCPU fan

DIntake fan

Suggested Answer: C

A failing CPU fan may make unusual noises (including clicking) and, if it is not cooling the CPU, the system will quickly overheat and shut down to prevent damage.

From CompTIA A+ 220-1101 Official Study Guide, Objective 4.1 -- Troubleshooting hardware problems:

''Overheating due to a failed or obstructed CPU fan can cause frequent shutdowns. Loud noises are a sign the fan should be checked first.''

Verified Source:

CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) Official Study Guide, Chapter 4: PC Hardware Troubleshooting

CompTIA Exam Objectives 220-1101, Domain 4.1

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15 comments · newest first

Anissa 1 month ago

Intake fan could be faulty too, but I’d start with the CPU fan.

Yaeko 1 month ago

Definitely check the CPU fan first. It's crucial for cooling.

Lorrine 1 month ago

Capacitors could also be an issue, but the sound is key here.

Buck 2 months ago

Exhaust fan makes sense. It could be blocking airflow.

Belen 2 months ago

I agree, but the clicking sound might suggest a problem with the exhaust fan.

Annice 2 months ago

I think the CPU fan is the first thing to check. Overheating can cause shutdowns.

Rodney 2 months ago

Totally agree, CPU fan is a good first check!

Leota 2 months ago

Wait, a clicking sound? Isn’t that a sign of something serious?

Mollie 2 months ago

Exhaust fan could be the issue too, but not as likely.

Stefania 3 months ago

I’d check the CPU fan first, that’s usually the culprit.

Starr 3 months ago

Sounds like a failing hard drive to me.

Lezlie 3 months ago

I would probably start with the intake fan since airflow issues can lead to overheating, but I’m not confident that’s the right choice here.

Buddy 3 months ago

I feel like capacitors could be an issue too, especially if they're bulging, but I don't know if they would cause a clicking sound.

Dorian 3 months ago

I remember a similar question where the exhaust fan was the culprit, but I can't recall if it was related to shutdowns or just overheating.

Valene 4 months ago

I think the clicking sound might indicate a problem with the CPU fan, but I'm not entirely sure if that's the first thing to check.

CompTIA 220-1201 Exam - Topic 3 Question 20 Discussion