220-1202 Operational Procedures Practice Question
A technician is preparing to replace a faulty power supply in a desktop computer. Which of the following safety precautions should the technician take? (Choose two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap here is thinking that turning off the power supply switch is sufficient, but the cord must be unplugged to ensure no power is present.
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
✓
Disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet before opening the case.
Disconnecting the power cord and wearing an antistatic wrist strap are essential safety precautions when working inside a computer. These steps prevent electric shock and electrostatic discharge, protecting both the technician and the components. The other options introduce risks such as magnetic interference, electrical hazards, or static buildup.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet before opening the case.
Why this is correct
Disconnecting the power cord removes the risk of electric shock and prevents the system from powering on accidentally. It is a fundamental safety step before working inside any computer. This precaution also allows the power supply to discharge residual power, reducing the chance of damage to components.
- ✗
Leave the power cord connected but turn off the power supply switch.
Why it's wrong here
Leaving the power cord connected, even with the switch off, still provides a path for electrical current and keeps the system grounded. This can be dangerous if the switch fails or if there is a short. The power cord should be completely disconnected before opening the case.
- ✓
Wear an antistatic wrist strap connected to a grounded surface.
Why this is correct
An antistatic wrist strap prevents electrostatic discharge (ESD) from damaging sensitive electronic components. Connecting it to a grounded surface equalizes the technician's potential with the equipment. This is essential when handling internal components like the power supply and motherboard.
- ✗
Use a magnetic screwdriver to retrieve screws from inside the power supply.
Why it's wrong here
A magnetic screwdriver can damage sensitive components or interfere with the power supply's operation. It may also attract metal debris that could cause short circuits. Using a magnetic tool inside a power supply is unsafe and not recommended.
- ✗
Work on a carpeted floor to cushion the components.
Why it's wrong here
Carpet generates static electricity, increasing the risk of ESD damage to components. Working on a carpeted floor is strongly discouraged unless antistatic measures are in place. A hard, non-conductive surface is preferred to minimize static buildup.
Go deeper
Related to this question
About these practice questions
This 220-1202 question is part of Courseiva's 687-question bank — original exam-style content with full explanations and wrong-answer analysis, never real exam questions or exam dumps. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
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 220-1202 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 220-1202 exam.