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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?
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.
Modern ATX power supplies often have a 24-pin connector that is backward compatible with 20-pin motherboards; the extra 4 pins can be slid or snapped off. This allows the PSU to work without modification. Forcing the 24-pin into a 20-pin socket could damage the board.
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 connector is compatible with a 24-pin motherboard socket; the extra 4 pins are integrated. The 20+4 pin design was for backward compatibility with older 20-pin boards. No adapter is needed.
JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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.