CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)Hardware and Network TroubleshootingMedium
A desktop PC powers on with fans spinning and case lights active, but there are no POST beeps and no video output to the monitor. The technician has already verified the monitor and cable work on another machine. Which step should the technician perform NEXT?
- AReseat the RAM modules and reboot
- BReplace the motherboard
- CReplace the power supply unit
- DReinstall the operating system
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Reseat the RAM modules and reboot
With confirmed power and a known-good monitor/cable, the next logical step in the troubleshooting sequence is to reseat easily removable components like RAM, since improperly seated memory is a common cause of no POST/no video with no beep codes. Replacing major components should only follow simpler, less invasive checks.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Replacing the motherboard is a drastic step that skips simpler diagnostics.
- C. The PSU is likely functional since fans and lights are active.
- D. An OS reinstall is irrelevant since the system never even reaches POST.
No POST/No Video Troubleshooting
When a PC powers on but produces no beeps and no display, technicians should check simple causes like RAM seating before replacing major components.
- Power/fans on ≠ successful POST
- Reseat RAM and expansion cards first
- Escalate to PSU/motherboard only after ruling out simple causes
Memory trick: When in doubt, reseat it out (and back in).