hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
220-1201 Practice Question: A technician is selecting a power supply for a…
A technician is selecting a power supply for a workstation that will run 24/7 in a dusty environment. The PSU will be installed in a case with limited airflow. Which PSU feature is most important to prioritize for long-term reliability in this scenario?
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
✓
A fan with a fluid dynamic bearing and a dust filter.
In dusty environments with limited airflow, a PSU with a high-quality, sealed bearing fan (e.g., fluid dynamic bearing) and a dust-resistant design (e.g., honeycomb grill, dust filters) is critical. Additionally, a higher efficiency rating (e.g., 80 Plus Gold or better) reduces heat output, easing thermal stress. The most important single feature is the fan's reliability and the PSU's ability to handle particulate ingress.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
A high total wattage rating to ensure headroom.
Why it's wrong here
While a high wattage rating provides a safety margin and prevents overloading the power supply, it does not inherently improve the unit's resilience to adverse environmental conditions such as dust accumulation or restricted airflow. A PSU with excessive wattage can still experience thermal failure if its cooling system is compromised by dust, leading to fan degradation or component overheating, irrespective of its power capacity. Therefore, wattage headroom alone doesn't directly address the specific reliability concerns in challenging environments.
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A modular cable design for easier cable management.
Why it's wrong here
A modular cable design certainly enhances cable management within the computer case, which can indirectly improve overall system airflow by reducing obstructions. However, this feature primarily benefits the internal case environment and does not directly protect the power supply unit's internal components from dust ingress or mitigate the risk of fan failure within the PSU itself. The modularity addresses cable clutter and aesthetics, not the PSU's inherent durability against environmental stressors.
- ✓
A fan with a fluid dynamic bearing and a dust filter.
Why this is correct
A fluid dynamic bearing (FDB) fan offers superior longevity and quieter operation compared to traditional sleeve or ball bearings, especially in environments prone to dust, as the fluid lubrication reduces friction and wear. Coupled with a dust filter, which actively prevents particulate matter from entering the power supply unit, this combination directly addresses the primary causes of PSU failure in challenging conditions: internal dust buildup, overheating, and premature fan degradation. This design significantly enhances the PSU's reliability and lifespan.
- ✗
An 80 Plus Bronze efficiency rating.
Why it's wrong here
While Bronze is decent, a higher efficiency rating (Gold or Platinum) would reduce heat output, which is beneficial in limited airflow, but the fan and dust protection are more critical for long-term reliability in dusty environments.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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