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220-1102 Practice Question: A technician is tasked with replacing a failed…
A technician is tasked with replacing a failed power supply in a desktop computer. The old power supply is labeled with a RoHS compliance mark. How should the technician handle the old unit?
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap here is that candidates mistakenly believe RoHS compliance means the device is completely non-hazardous and can be thrown in regular trash, ignoring that e-waste disposal laws apply regardless of RoHS status.
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
✓
Return it to the manufacturer for recycling or dispose of it through a certified e-waste recycler.
The RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliance mark indicates the power supply was manufactured without certain hazardous materials, but it does not make the unit non-hazardous for disposal. Electronic waste (e-waste) like power supplies still contains materials such as lead solder, capacitors, and other components that require proper handling. The correct procedure is to return it to the manufacturer for recycling or dispose of it through a certified e-waste recycler to comply with environmental regulations and avoid legal penalties.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Place it in the regular trash because RoHS means it's non-hazardous.
Why it's wrong here
While the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive limits specific harmful materials like lead and mercury in electronics, it does not render a power supply entirely non-hazardous or suitable for general waste disposal. Power supplies still contain various heavy metals, circuit board components, and potentially residual charge in capacitors that pose environmental risks if landfilled. Proper recycling is essential to prevent soil and water contamination and recover valuable materials.
- ✓
Return it to the manufacturer for recycling or dispose of it through a certified e-waste recycler.
Why this is correct
The most environmentally responsible and legally compliant method for disposing of a failed power supply is to return it to the original manufacturer, many of whom operate take-back or recycling programs. Alternatively, utilizing a certified e-waste recycler ensures that the device is disassembled, hazardous materials are safely managed, and valuable components are recovered in accordance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations. This approach minimizes ecological impact and promotes resource sustainability.
- ✗
Sell it as scrap metal.
Why it's wrong here
Selling a failed power supply as undifferentiated scrap metal is inappropriate because these devices are complex assemblies containing more than just basic metals. They include circuit boards, plastics, and critical components like capacitors, which can retain a dangerous electrical charge even after disconnection. Specialized e-waste recycling processes are required to safely discharge these components, separate materials, and prevent environmental contamination, making general scrap metal yards unsuitable and potentially illegal for such disposal.
- ✗
Store it indefinitely in case it is needed later.
Why it's wrong here
Storing a failed power supply indefinitely is impractical and environmentally irresponsible. Given the rapid pace of technology, the likelihood of needing an exact replacement for an older, failed component is low, and it consumes valuable storage space. Furthermore, hoarding e-waste delays the proper recycling of materials, which could otherwise be recovered and reused, contributing to unnecessary resource depletion and potential environmental hazards if components degrade over time.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Data Destruction and Disposal
Key term
General Data Protection Regulation
A European Union law that gives individuals control over their personal data and sets strict rules for how organizations collect, store, and process that data.
Key term
Compliance
Compliance is the process of ensuring that an organization follows laws, regulations, standards, and internal policies that apply to its operations and data handling.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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