220-1102 Practice Question: A technician is setting up a new workstation in a…

Answer analysis

Option-by-option breakdown

For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.

• ✗

  Continue using the daisy-chained setup since it is convenient and all strips are rated for 15 amps.

  Why it's wrong here

  Continuing a daisy-chained setup, even with individually rated power strips, creates a significant cumulative overload risk on the initial wall outlet and its dedicated circuit breaker. While each strip might be rated for 15 amps, the single wall outlet typically provides only 15 or 20 amps for the entire circuit, which can be easily exceeded by multiple devices. This practice violates OSHA and NFPA safety guidelines, posing a serious fire hazard due to potential overheating of wiring or components.

• ✓

  Remove the daisy chain and plug each device directly into a wall outlet using a single power strip with surge protection.

  Why this is correct

  Removing the daisy chain and plugging each device directly into a wall outlet using a single power strip with surge protection is the safest and most compliant solution. This ensures that each power strip draws power from a properly protected circuit, preventing cumulative overload on a single point of connection. The integrated circuit breaker in the power strip provides overcurrent protection, while surge protection safeguards connected equipment from voltage spikes.

• ✗

  Replace all power strips with heavy-duty extension cords rated for the total load.

  Why it's wrong here

  Replacing power strips with heavy-duty extension cords rated for the total load is an inappropriate and potentially dangerous solution for a permanent workstation. Extension cords are designed for temporary use and typically lack the integrated circuit breakers and surge protection found in quality power strips, making them a fire hazard if overloaded. Furthermore, their presence on the floor creates significant tripping hazards and violates workplace safety standards for permanent wiring.

• ✗

  Install a UPS at the end of the daisy chain to regulate power.

  Why it's wrong here

  Installing a UPS at the end of a daisy chain does not resolve the fundamental issue of circuit overload and can introduce additional risks. While a UPS provides battery backup, surge suppression, and voltage regulation, it does not increase the electrical capacity of the upstream circuit or the initial wall outlet connection. The entire daisy chain, including the UPS, would still draw excessive current through the overloaded initial connection, potentially damaging the UPS itself or tripping the circuit breaker.

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