TestOut LabSim A+ Certification Practice Exam

Which two devices are most susceptible to issues caused by electrostatic discharge (ESD)?

1. Hard drive; Network card.

2. Processor; Memory.

3. Printer; Motherboard.

4. Sound card; Graphics card.

The correct answer is: Processor; Memory.

The devices most susceptible to issues caused by electrostatic discharge (ESD) are indeed the processor and memory. These components are highly sensitive to ESD because they contain integrated circuits that can be damaged by static electricity. Processors, or CPUs, are crucial components that require precise voltage levels to operate correctly, and even a small static discharge can disrupt their functionality or lead to permanent damage. Similarly, memory (RAM) relies on delicate electrical connections and can also suffer from static interference, affecting its ability to store and retrieve data reliably. Both of these components are often handled during installation or repair, making them particularly vulnerable to ESD if proper precautions, such as anti-static wrist straps or grounding mats, are not used. In contrast, hard drives and network cards, while they can also be affected by ESD, typically have designs that are somewhat more robust against these electrical discharges compared to the sensitive circuitry found in processors and memory.