SK0-005 server-hardware-installation-management Practice Question
A server technician replaces a failed RAM module with an identical spare. After installation, the server powers on but emits continuous short beeps and does not complete POST. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?
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
✓
The RAM module is not fully seated in the slot.
Continuous short beeps typically indicate a memory error, and the most common cause after a RAM replacement is that the module is not fully seated. Even though the module is known good and compatible, improper installation can prevent POST. Option C is correct because reseating the module will often resolve the issue. Option A is incorrect because an incompatible module would likely produce a different beep code or no POST at all, but the module is identical and known good. Option B is incorrect because insufficient power would likely prevent the server from powering on at all, not cause RAM beep codes. Option D is incorrect because CPU damage is unlikely from a simple RAM swap and would produce different symptoms.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
The new RAM module is incompatible with the motherboard.
Why it's wrong here
The module is an identical spare, so compatibility is already established. Incompatibility would have been detected before or during initial installation.
- ✓
The RAM module is not fully seated in the slot.
Why this is correct
Continuous short beeps are a classic symptom of a memory issue, and reseating the module is the first troubleshooting step. Even identical modules can be improperly installed.
- ✗
The CPU has been damaged during the installation.
Why it's wrong here
CPU damage is rare during a RAM swap and would typically result in a no-POST situation with different beep codes, not continuous short beeps that point specifically to memory.
- ✗
The power supply is providing insufficient voltage.
Why it's wrong here
Insufficient power would prevent the system from powering on or cause random crashes, not continuous beep codes related to RAM.
Visual reference
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Related to this question
Learn chapter
Server Installation and Site Preparation
Key term
POST
Power-On Self-Test (POST) is a diagnostic process that a computer runs when it first powers on to check that essential hardware components are working correctly before loading the operating system.
Key term
Dual In-line Memory Module
A Dual In-line Memory Module (DIMM) is a small circuit board that holds memory chips and plugs into a computer's motherboard to provide Random Access Memory (RAM).
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed July 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint
This SK0-005 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 SK0-005 exam.