The correct choice is the SFX power supply, as it is specifically designed for compact builds like those using a mini-ITX motherboard. The key technical distinction is that SFX (Small Form Factor) PSUs are physically smaller than standard ATX units, which allows for better airflow and reduced cable clutter in tight cases—exactly what the client needs. On the CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 exam, this question tests your understanding of PSU form factors and their appropriate applications; a common trap is confusing SFX with TFX (used in slim cases) or EPS (for servers). Remember that SFX is the go-to for mini-ITX and small form factor builds, while ATX is too large for most compact enclosures. A helpful memory tip: “S” in SFX stands for “Small,” and “A” in ATX stands for “Average” or “ATX is for ATX-sized cases.”
220-1201 Power Supply Practice Question
This 220-1201 practice question tests your understanding of power supply. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A client wants to install a new power supply in a custom PC that uses a mini-ITX motherboard inside a compact case. The current PSU is a standard ATX unit, but the client wants to reduce clutter and improve airflow. Which form factor should you recommend?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
SFX
SFX (Small Form Factor) power supplies are designed for compact cases and mini-ITX builds, offering smaller dimensions while still providing adequate wattage. ATX PSUs are too large for many small cases. TFX is for slim cases, and EPS is for servers.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
ATX (standard)
Why it's wrong here
ATX PSUs are too large for most compact mini-ITX cases, causing poor fit and reduced airflow.
✓
SFX
Why this is correct
SFX PSUs are smaller and designed for compact builds, fitting mini-ITX cases while still providing sufficient power.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
TFX
Why it's wrong here
TFX PSUs are used in slim desktop cases, not typical mini-ITX gaming or workstation builds.
✗
EPS
Why it's wrong here
EPS is a connector standard for server motherboards, not a form factor for consumer PSUs.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
Use explanations to understand the rule behind the answer.
TExam Day Tips
→Underline the problem statement mentally.
→Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
→Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the 220-1201 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this 220-1201 question in full detail.
Identify which 220-1201 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
Power Supply — This question tests Power Supply — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: SFX — SFX (Small Form Factor) power supplies are designed for compact cases and mini-ITX builds, offering smaller dimensions while still providing adequate wattage. ATX PSUs are too large for many small cases. TFX is for slim cases, and EPS is for servers.
What should I do if I get this 220-1201 question wrong?
Identify which 220-1201 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Question Discussion
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