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220-1201 Practice Question: A technician is tasked with connecting a legacy…
A technician is tasked with connecting a legacy parallel port printer to a modern motherboard that lacks a parallel port header. The motherboard has an LPT header (25-pin) but it is not populated with a bracket. What is the best way to add a parallel port?
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
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Purchase an LPT bracket that connects to the motherboard header
The LPT header on the motherboard provides the necessary signals for a parallel port. A bracket with a ribbon cable that connects to this header is the correct solution. A USB-to-parallel adapter would work but may have compatibility issues and is not the best use of the existing header. A PCIe parallel card is an alternative but unnecessary if the header is present.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Install a USB-to-parallel adapter
Why it's wrong here
Installing a USB-to-parallel adapter is a workaround that bypasses the motherboard's native LPT header. While it can provide parallel port functionality, it relies on driver support and USB-to-serial emulation, which may introduce compatibility issues or performance limitations with older, legacy parallel devices that expect direct hardware access. This method adds an external component when an internal solution is available.
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Use a PCIe parallel port expansion card
Why it's wrong here
Using a PCIe parallel port expansion card is a technically viable solution that provides a dedicated hardware parallel port. However, it is generally more expensive and consumes a valuable PCIe expansion slot. Since the motherboard already features a built-in LPT header, this option is an unnecessary expenditure and overcomplication compared to utilizing the existing onboard functionality.
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Purchase an LPT bracket that connects to the motherboard header
Why this is correct
Purchasing an LPT bracket that connects to the motherboard header is the most direct, cost-effective, and appropriate solution. This bracket simply provides the physical DB-25 parallel port connector, routing the signals from the motherboard's integrated LPT header to an available expansion slot opening on the computer case. It leverages existing motherboard capabilities without requiring additional drivers or consuming valuable expansion slots.
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Solder wires directly to the motherboard's LPT header pins
Why it's wrong here
Soldering wires directly to the motherboard's LPT header pins is an extremely risky and unprofessional modification. This non-standard practice carries a high risk of short-circuiting components, causing permanent damage to the motherboard, and voiding any warranty. Furthermore, it lacks proper shielding and strain relief, making it an unreliable and potentially dangerous method for connecting a peripheral.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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