HVAC and PC Management Flashcards
What is the recommended temperature range for HVAC systems in server rooms?
70–74°F (21–23°C)
What is the ideal humidity range to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD)?
40%–70%
Why should server rooms have separate HVAC systems?
For better temperature control and to isolate from the building’s general airflow.
What is a positive pressure system and why is it recommended?
It forces air out of openings to keep dust and smoke out and is more energy efficient.
When should filters be added to air intake systems?
In areas with heavy dust or smoke to remove airborne particulates.
What is Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and what causes it?
EMI disrupts wired network signals and is caused by motors, heavy machinery, and fluorescent lights.
How can you prevent EMI in Ethernet cabling?
Use shielded twisted pair or fiber optic cables.
What is Radio Frequency Interference (RFI)?
Signal interference that affects wireless networks.
What are common causes of RFI?
Cordless phones, microwave ovens, and other nearby wireless devices.
What wireless frequencies are more susceptible to RFI?
2.4 GHz (e.g., 802.11b, 802.11g)
How can RFI be reduced?
Use 5.75 GHz frequency networks or change wireless channels.
What can magnetic fields near a computer cause?
Data loss or undesired effects, especially with hard drives.
Which components are sensitive to magnets?
Hard drives (HDDs), not solid-state drives (SSDs)
What are examples of devices that contain magnets?
Speakers, motors, and generators.
Why are solid-state storage devices safe from magnets?
They do not rely on magnetic charges to store data.
What are common supplies used to clean a computer?
Lint-free cloth, compressed air, anti-static vacuum, denatured/isopropyl alcohol.
When should you power down and unplug before cleaning?
Always — and let components cool for at least 30 minutes.
How should cleaning liquids be applied to components?
Apply to the cloth or tool, never directly to components.
Why is dust buildup dangerous?
It traps heat and prevents proper cooling of components.
How should you clean electrical connectors?
Use a cotton swab with denatured alcohol.
What should you use to clean LCD screens?
A lint-free dry cloth or a bit of isopropyl alcohol (no window cleaner)
How can you clean sticky keyboard keys?
Use lightly dampened lint-free cloth or swabs.
What is used to clean toner in laser printers?
An anti-static vacuum (regular vacuums may build static).
What should you do after receiving a computer shipped in freezing temperatures?
Let it sit for 24 hours before powering on to avoid condensation damage.
