Power Supply Units (PSU)

Correct Answer: Rectifier

The component of a Power Supply Unit (PSU) responsible for converting AC power to DC power is the Rectifier.

Rectifiers are essential in power supply units because they convert the alternating current (AC) from the power outlet into direct current (DC) that electronic devices require. This process involves changing the bidirectional flow of electricity into a unidirectional flow.

The other components mentioned have different functions:

Voltage regulator: This component maintains a constant voltage level, ensuring that the output voltage remains stable regardless of input fluctuations or load changes. It does not perform the AC to DC conversion.

Transformer: A transformer's primary function is to step up or step down the voltage of AC power. While it's an important part of many power supplies, it doesn't convert AC to DC.

Capacitor bank: Capacitors in a PSU help to smooth out the rectified DC voltage, reducing ripple and providing a more stable power output. However, they don't perform the actual AC to DC conversion.

The rectifier is the key component that changes AC to DC, making it the correct answer to this question.

Correct Answer: Check the PSU's voltage levels

The best action for the technician to perform is to check the PSU's voltage levels. Random shutdowns can be caused by fluctuations or instability in the power supply's output. By measuring the voltage levels, the technician can determine if the PSU is providing the correct and stable voltages required by the computer's components. If the voltages are out of spec or fluctuating, it indicates a faulty PSU that needs to be replaced. Upgrading the PSU wattage is not necessary unless the current wattage is insufficient for the system, which is unlikely to cause random shutdowns. Bypassing the PSU with a jumper cable is dangerous and should never be done. Swapping the PSU's internal cooling fan would not address voltage issues and is not a recommended troubleshooting step for random shutdowns.

Correct Answer: Molex connector

The Molex connector is the correct choice for connecting a new cooling fan to the power supply unit (PSU). Molex connectors are the standard connectors used to power various components inside a computer case, such as fans, hard drives, and optical drives. They provide a reliable and secure connection, delivering the necessary power to run the cooling fan effectively. SATA connectors are primarily used for connecting storage devices like hard drives and solid-state drives, while PCIe connectors are used for graphics cards and other expansion cards. The 24-pin connector is the main power connector for the motherboard and is not suitable for directly powering a cooling fan.