The answer is to install a dedicated GPU into a PCIe slot. This is correct because the motherboard’s video output ports are powered by the CPU’s integrated graphics processor; if the CPU lacks integrated graphics, those ports have no signal source to drive a display. On the CompTIA A+ Core 1 220-1201 exam, this scenario tests your understanding of the relationship between the CPU and video output, often appearing as a troubleshooting trap where a technician assumes all motherboard ports work regardless of the CPU. A common mistake is swapping cables or resetting BIOS, but the fix is always adding a discrete graphics card. Remember the mnemonic: “No iGPU, no onboard view—PCIe card is the clue.”
220-1101 Motherboard Practice Question
This 220-1201 practice question tests your understanding of motherboard. 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 technician is replacing a faulty motherboard in a workstation. After installing the new board, the system powers on but there is no display output from the integrated graphics port. The CPU does not have integrated graphics. What should the technician do?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Install a dedicated GPU into a PCIe slot
If the CPU lacks integrated graphics, the motherboard's video output ports will not function. A dedicated GPU must be installed. This is a common oversight when switching from a CPU with integrated graphics to one without.
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.
✗
Clear the CMOS to reset BIOS settings
Why it's wrong here
Clearing CMOS will not enable integrated graphics if the CPU does not support it.
✓
Install a dedicated GPU into a PCIe slot
Why this is correct
Since the CPU has no integrated graphics, a dedicated GPU is required for display output.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Update the motherboard BIOS
Why it's wrong here
A BIOS update cannot add integrated graphics support to a CPU that lacks it.
✗
Check the monitor cable connection
Why it's wrong here
The cable connection is fine; the issue is that the motherboard's video port has no signal source.
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.
Motherboard — This question tests Motherboard — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Install a dedicated GPU into a PCIe slot — If the CPU lacks integrated graphics, the motherboard's video output ports will not function. A dedicated GPU must be installed. This is a common oversight when switching from a CPU with integrated graphics to one without.
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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