CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005)Server Hardware Installation and ManagementMedium
A server administrator is performing a routine check on a server and notices that the temperature sensors are reporting unusually high temperatures, particularly around the CPU and memory modules. The server is housed in a rack with other equipment, and the data center's ambient temperature is within acceptable limits. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause of the localized overheating?
- AFailure of one or more internal server cooling fans.
- BIncorrect hot aisle/cold aisle containment implementation.
- CA faulty temperature sensor reporting inaccurate readings.
- DInsufficient overall data center cooling capacity.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Failure of one or more internal server cooling fans.
Localized overheating around specific components like the CPU and memory, while the ambient data center temperature is acceptable, strongly suggests a failure of the server's internal cooling mechanisms, such as one or more cooling fans.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Incorrect hot aisle/cold aisle containment would cause hot spots or general overheating within the rack, but the scenario specifies 'localized' overheating around specific internal components while the data center ambient is good.
- C. While possible, a faulty sensor is less likely to show 'unusually high temperatures' specifically around CPU/memory due to a 'localized' issue; it would more likely show a constant incorrect reading or no reading at all. A fan failure is a direct mechanical cause.
- D. Insufficient overall data center cooling would lead to high ambient temperatures throughout the rack or data center, which is contradicted by the scenario.
Server Internal Cooling Failure
A malfunction of a server's internal cooling components, most commonly fans, leading to localized overheating of critical hardware like CPUs, memory, or GPUs.
- Often indicated by high temperatures reported by internal sensors.
- Can occur even when ambient data center temperatures are normal.
- Requires immediate attention to prevent hardware damage or thermal throttling.
Memory trick: If it's 'Hot Inside', check the 'Fans'.