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220-1201 Practice Question: A technician is replacing a power supply in an…

A technician is replacing a power supply in an office desktop. The new PSU has a 24-pin main connector, but the motherboard has a 20-pin socket. What should the technician do?

⚠ Common exam trap

220-1201 often tests whether candidates know the 24-pin connector's last 4 pins are detachable for 20-pin compatibility, rather than assuming an adapter or brute force is required.

Answer choices

Why each option matters

Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.

Correct answer & explanation

✓

Separate the detachable 4-pin section from the 24-pin connector and use the remaining 20-pin part.

Most modern ATX power supplies use a 24-pin main connector whose last 4 pins are a detachable section, specifically designed so the same PSU can power older 20-pin motherboards. The technician simply separates that 4-pin block and plugs the remaining 20-pin portion into the socket, aligning the retention clip. This is the manufacturer-intended method and requires no adapter or modification.

Answer analysis

Option-by-option breakdown

For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.

  • ✗

    Use a 24-pin to 20-pin adapter.

    Why it's wrong here

    Using a 24-pin to 20-pin adapter is an unnecessary step because the 24-pin ATX power connector is inherently designed for backward compatibility with 20-pin motherboards. Such an adapter introduces an additional point of failure and potential for signal degradation or loose connections, which can compromise system stability. It is best practice to utilize the direct, modular design of the PSU connector itself rather than adding an intermediary component.

  • ✗

    Force the 24-pin connector into the 20-pin socket.

    Why it's wrong here

    Forcing a 24-pin connector into a 20-pin socket is highly detrimental and risks severe hardware damage. This action can bend or break the delicate pins within the motherboard's power socket, rendering the motherboard inoperable and potentially voiding its warranty. Connectors are keyed for a reason, and any resistance indicates an incorrect fit, which should never be overcome with brute force.

  • ✓

    Separate the detachable 4-pin section from the 24-pin connector and use the remaining 20-pin part.

    Why this is correct

    Modern ATX power supplies commonly feature a 24-pin main power connector that includes a detachable 4-pin section. This thoughtful design allows the power supply to be fully compatible with both newer motherboards requiring all 24 pins and older motherboards that only utilize a 20-pin main power input. By separating the modular 4-pin segment, the remaining 20-pin connector fits perfectly, providing stable power without the need for adapters or modifications.

  • ✗

    Return the PSU and buy one with a 20-pin connector.

    Why it's wrong here

    Returning a 24-pin power supply to acquire a 20-pin specific model is an inefficient and unnecessary course of action. Contemporary 24-pin PSUs are engineered with backward compatibility in mind, featuring a modular 4-pin section that allows them to seamlessly connect to 20-pin motherboards. This design eliminates the need for a replacement, saving valuable time and avoiding logistical complications.

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Same concept, more angles

1 more way this is tested on 220-1201

These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.

Variation 1. During a routine hardware upgrade, you need to replace a power supply in a desktop that has a non-modular PSU. After disconnecting all cables, you notice the old PSU has a 20+4 pin main connector, but the new PSU has a 24-pin main connector. The motherboard has a 24-pin socket. What should you do?

medium
  • A.Use the 20+4 pin connector from the old PSU on the new motherboard
  • ✓ B.Connect the new PSU's 24-pin connector directly to the motherboard
  • C.Remove the 4-pin section from the new PSU's 24-pin connector to make it 20-pin
  • D.Use a 24-pin to 20-pin adapter

Why B: A 24-pin ATX main connector is backward compatible with a 24-pin motherboard socket, and the new PSU's native 24-pin connector supplies all required rails (including the additional +3.3V, +5V, and +12V pins) without any modification. The correct action is simply to plug the new 24-pin connector directly into the 24-pin socket.

JA

Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security

Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva

Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint

This 220-1201 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 220-1201 exam.