Applications (D317)

Correct Answer A. A damaged USB cable

Explanation

A damaged USB cable can interrupt the physical connection between the external hard drive and the computer, preventing the system from recognizing the device. If the cable is frayed, broken internally, or has bent connectors, it will not transmit power or data properly, resulting in a failed connection.

Why other options are wrong

B. An outdated operating system

While an outdated OS might cause compatibility issues in some cases, most external hard drives use standard protocols that work across multiple versions of operating systems. Unless the drive requires a very specific driver that isn't supported, the OS itself is unlikely to be the main issue.

C. A faulty port

Though a faulty port can prevent detection, it typically affects only one specific port. If another port works, then the issue is isolated. A damaged cable, however, would affect connectivity across all ports, making it a more probable single source of failure.

D. Insufficient power supply

Many external hard drives are bus-powered and don’t require more than what a standard USB port provides. Unless the drive specifically requires external power and it’s not provided, this is a less common reason for a drive not being detected.

Correct Answer C. tablet

Explanation

A tablet would be the most convenient option for Jack because it is portable, lightweight, and offers functionality for browsing the internet, reading emails, and storing basic data while on the go. Tablets are designed for mobility and ease of use, which is ideal for someone who needs to access information during travel.

Why other options are wrong

A. high-end laptop

While a high-end laptop is versatile and capable, it may be heavier and bulkier than a tablet, making it less ideal for frequent travel. A laptop also typically has a shorter battery life compared to a tablet.

B. all-in-one computer

An all-in-one computer is designed for stationary use, typically at home or in an office. It lacks portability and is not a good choice for someone who needs to travel frequently.

D. desktop computer

Desktop computers are not portable, which makes them unsuitable for someone like Jack who needs a convenient solution while traveling. They are designed for fixed locations and cannot be easily carried on trips.

Correct Answer B. It helps track when the file was last used.

Explanation

The last access date of a file refers to the most recent time the file was accessed, whether it was read, modified, or opened. This can be useful for tracking file usage, understanding which files are actively being used, and identifying which files may no longer be needed. It's often used by administrators or users to manage and clean up file systems by identifying outdated or unused files.

Why other options are wrong

A. It indicates when the file was created

The last access date does not show when a file was created. That would be determined by the "created" date in the file's properties, which is different from the access date.

C. It shows the file size

The last access date does not provide information about the size of the file. The file size is typically displayed in the file properties, not through the access date.

D. It determines the file type

The last access date does not help determine the file type. The file type is determined by the file extension (e.g., .txt, .jpg, .doc) or by examining the file's header for metadata, not by the access date.

Correct Answer A. LibreOffice

Explanation

LibreOffice is a free and open-source office suite that includes tools for creating presentations (Impress), as well as word processing, spreadsheets, and more. It is a suitable and free alternative to commercial software like Microsoft Office, making it an ideal choice for Maria's project needs.

Why other options are wrong

B. Microsoft Office

Microsoft Office is a commercial product that requires a paid license. While it offers powerful tools for presentations (PowerPoint), it is not free, which makes it unsuitable for Maria’s requirement for a free alternative.

C. Apple iWork

Apple iWork is a free suite for macOS and iOS users, but it is not available on all platforms (e.g., it doesn't have a full-featured Windows version). Although iWork includes a presentation tool (Keynote), it is not as universally accessible or open-source as LibreOffice.

D. Corel WordPerfect

Corel WordPerfect is a word processing suite, and although it offers some additional tools, it is not focused on presentations. It is also a commercial product, requiring a paid license, and is less common for creating presentations compared to other options like LibreOffice or Microsoft PowerPoint.

Correct Answer B. social networks

Explanation

Business-to-business (B2B) marketing typically uses resources like trading networks, e-mail, online product catalogs, and customized websites to reach business customers. Social networks, while useful for business-to-consumer (B2C) marketing, are not as widely used in B2B contexts. Instead, B2B companies often focus on more specialized and direct methods like e-mail, product catalogs, and trading platforms for targeting business clients.

Why other options are wrong

A. trading networks

Trading networks are a common tool used in B2B to facilitate business transactions, enabling businesses to buy and sell goods and services efficiently. They are an essential part of the B2B ecosystem.

C. e-mail

Email remains one of the most effective tools for B2B communication, used for direct marketing, sales outreach, and customer support. It allows businesses to reach potential clients and partners with personalized content.

D. online product catalogs

Online product catalogs are a critical component of B2B marketing. They allow businesses to showcase their products or services to potential buyers and provide detailed information on offerings, pricing, and specifications.

E. customized Web sites

Customized websites are often used by B2B companies to create a personalized experience for clients. A company’s website serves as a primary platform for promoting products, services, and providing detailed information for potential business customers.

Correct Answer A. connected devices interacting without human intervention

Explanation

Machine-to-machine (M2M) communication specifically refers to direct communication between devices using any communications channel, including wired and wireless. It allows devices such as sensors, meters, or other smart technologies to exchange data and perform actions without human input. This technology is widely used in industries like manufacturing, logistics, and smart home systems.

Why other options are wrong

B. using values or algorithms to provide data-backed decision options

This describes data analytics or decision support systems, not M2M communication. While M2M might collect data, the decision-making component is a separate process involving analysis rather than communication between machines.

C. application of scientific knowledge to efficiently solve real-world problems

This defines technology in general rather than specifically M2M communication. M2M is a type of technological application but the statement is too broad and not specific to the concept.

D. procedure helping organizations evaluate the possible effects that new processes, systems, and products will have on business operations

This aligns more with business impact analysis or change management processes. It doesn't describe the autonomous data exchange between machines, which is the core of M2M communication.

Correct Answer D. If the app server goes down or is terminated, you cannot use the app.

Explanation

Web apps rely on an active connection to a remote server. If the server is unavailable, either due to maintenance, a crash, or permanent termination, the web app cannot function, rendering it inaccessible to the user. This dependency on a server is a significant disadvantage compared to standalone applications that can operate independently. While web apps offer flexibility and accessibility, their reliance on external infrastructure is a vulnerability.

Why other options are wrong

A. Data between your device and the server cannot be encrypted.

This is incorrect because modern web apps typically use encryption protocols like HTTPS to secure data in transit. Encryption is a standard security feature and not a disadvantage specific to web apps. In fact, many web apps are designed with strong security practices, including end-to-end encryption.

B. Your data is stored locally on your computer.

This is not a disadvantage of a web app but rather of traditional desktop applications. Web apps are designed to store data on the server or in the cloud, allowing for remote access and collaboration. They actually reduce reliance on local storage, which can be an advantage in many cases.

C. Installing it may slow your computer down for other uses.

Web apps generally do not require installation since they run in a web browser. This makes them lightweight compared to traditional software. Therefore, they are less likely to consume significant system resources or affect the performance of other applications on your device.

Correct Answer A. Make sure the cord or cable is connected properly

Explanation

When troubleshooting an external device, the first step should always be to check the physical connections. Loose, disconnected, or improperly connected cables are often the cause of malfunctioning devices. Ensuring that the device is properly plugged in is the most basic and immediate action to take.

Why other options are wrong

B. Access the system alert message bank for information about updated drivers

While updating drivers can sometimes resolve device issues, this step should not be the first action. Checking physical connections should be the initial step before diving into software-related troubleshooting.

C. Close then re-open the software that is used with the device

Closing and reopening software may help in certain situations, but it does not address hardware-related issues, such as disconnected cables or faulty connections. It's better to start with checking the hardware connections first.

D. Re-boot the computer

Rebooting can sometimes fix issues, especially software-related ones, but it is not the first step. If the problem is due to a connection issue or hardware fault, rebooting the computer won't solve the problem unless the device is properly connected.

Correct Answer B. Transfer contents to an external storage device

Explanation

Before restoring the operating system, it's essential to back up any important data to an external storage device to prevent data loss. Restoring the operating system typically involves erasing or overwriting the existing data on the system drive, so transferring important files ensures they are preserved.

Why other options are wrong

A. Disconnect all output devices

While disconnecting output devices might be suggested in specific cases, it is not necessary before restoring the operating system. The primary focus should be on protecting data by backing it up, not on disconnecting peripherals.

C. Disconnect the UPS

There is no need to disconnect the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) before restoring the operating system. The UPS provides backup power during the restoration process and ensures that the process is not interrupted by a power outage.

D. Remove the internal hard drive on which the operating system is stored

Removing the internal hard drive is unnecessary and could complicate the process. It is more practical to back up the data before starting the restoration and then proceed with the operating system restoration process.