CSACM301– COMPUTER SYSTEM

MAINTENANCE

DATE: Friday,20 June 2025

PERIOD: 2.00PM-5.00PM

END OF TERM III EXAMINATIONS

SCHOOL YEAR: 2024/2025
MARKING GUIDE

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SECTOR: ICT & Multimedia
RQF LEVEL: L3 SC
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TRADE: Computer Systems and Architecture

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MARKS: ………/100 CAMIS: …………/60

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DURATION: 3 HOURS
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INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES:
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This Exam paper is composed of Three Sections (A, B, C). Follow the
instructions given below, and answer the indicated questions for a
total of 100 marks

Section A: Seventeen (17) questions, all Compulsory 55 marks

Section B: Among the five (5) questions, attempt any three (3) 30 marks

Section C: Among the two (2) questions, attempt any one (1) 15 marks

Allowed materials:
- Ruler ,Blue or Black pen

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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SECTION A: Attempt all questions (55 marks)
______________________________________________________________________________
01. Read Carefully the following statement related to computer (2marks)
maintenance key terms and answer by TRUE if the statement is
correct or FALSE if the statement is wrong

A. Troubleshooting is the process of identifying and resolving

problems.
B. Diagnosing is the process of fixing a problem.

Answer (With marks Allocations)

A. True /1mark
B. false/1mark

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Reference:

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Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome1, Maintain

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Computer hardware: Curriculum Level 3 in Computer system and
architecture, page 3, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Remembering
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02. Write the letter corresponding to their right answer in the first (4marks)
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column by matching the Software in the second column with their

appropriate description in the third column:
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Answer TERM DESCRIPTION

1. Virus A. Disguises itself as
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1. …..
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legitimate software
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2. Trojan B. Self-replicating program

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2. …..
3. Firewall C. Controls network traffic
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3. …..
D. Detects and removes
4. ….. 4. Antivirus
malware
Answer (With marks Allocations)

Answer TERM DESCRIPTION

1. Virus A. Disguises itself as /1Mark
1. -B legitimate software
2. Trojan B. Self-replicating
2. -A program /1Mark

/1Mark

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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 3. Firewall C. Controls network
3. -C traffic

D. Detects and removes

4. -D 4. Antivirus malware/1Mark

Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome2: Maintain
Computer Software: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and
architecture, page 5 © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Remembering
03. Read Carefully the following statement related to the types of (4marks)
computer System maintenance and answer by TRUE if the statement

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is correct or FALSE if the statement is wrong

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A. Preventive maintenance helps reduce the risk of unexpected
system failures.
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B. Cleaning a computer's internal components is unnecessary if
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the system is working fine.
C. Corrective maintenance is performed only when a problem is
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discovered during routine checks.

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D. Curative maintenance refers to the repair of defective or

damaged equipment.
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Answer (With marks Allocations)

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A. True/1mark.
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B. False/1mark.
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C. False /1mark
D. True /1mark

Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome1: Maintain
computer Hardware: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and
architecture, page 3, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Remembering
04. Read Carefully the following statement related to the Set up the (2marks)
working environment and answer by TRUE if the statement is correct
or FALSE if the statement is wrong
A. Good lighting is important in a computer maintenance
workspace.

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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 B. Organizing screws and small parts during disassembly is
unnecessary.

Answer (With marks Allocations)

A. True/1mark
B. False/1mark
Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome 1 Maintain
Computer Hardware: Curriculum Level 3 in Computer system and
architecture, page 3 © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Remembering
05. Fill-in-the-blank using the following key terms as used in E-waste: (2marks)
Disposal, Refurbishment, Cannibalization, Recycling and E-waste

A. ……….. refers to discarded electronic devices like computers,

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phones, and televisions.

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B. The process of recovering valuable materials from e-waste is called
………….
Answer (With marks Allocations) SC
A. E-waste/2mark
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B. Recycling/2mark
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Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome3: Manage e-
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waste: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and architecture,

page 6, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
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Bloom Level: Remembering

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06. I. Which of the following file types can be deleted using Disk (4marks)
Cleanup?
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A. Temporary files
B. System files required for booting
C. Installed program files
D. User account settings

II. Which of the following shows how can you access the Disk
Cleanup tool in Windows?

A. By opening Task Manager

B. By typing "Disk Cleanup" in the Start menu search bar
C. By formatting the hard drive

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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 D. By pressing Ctrl + Alt + Delete

Answer (With marks Allocations)

A. Temporary files/2marks
B. By typing "Disk Cleanup" in the Start menu search
bar/2marks
Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome2: Maintain
Computer Software: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and
architecture, page 5 © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Remembering
07. Read Carefully the following statement related to the Troubleshoot (3marks)
software and answer by TRUE if the statement is correct or FALSE if
the statement is wrong

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A. Upgrading hardware always requires upgrading software as

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well.
B. Software updates are only necessary for operating systems.
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C. It's generally a good idea to install software updates as soon as
they become available.
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Answer (With marks Allocations)

A. False/1mark
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B. False/1mark
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C. True/1mark
Reference:
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Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome 2 Maintain

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Computer System Software: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system

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and architecture, page 3, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022

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Bloom Level: Remembering

08. Write the letter corresponding to their right answer in the first (2marks)
column by matching the Set up the working environment the second
column with their appropriate description in the third column:

Answer Safety Practice Purpose

1. Unplugging A. Prevents
1. …… the computer damage from
static
electricity
2. Wearing an B. Prevents
2. …… anti-static electric
wrist strap shock

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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 Answer (With marks Allocations)
Answer Safety Practice Purpose
1. Unplugging the A. Prevents
1. -B computer damage from
/1mark static electricity
2. Wearing an anti- B. Prevents electric
2. -A static wrist strap shock
/1mark

Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome1: Curriculum
Level 3 in Computer system and architecture,3 © Rwanda TVET
Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Understanding

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09. Fill-in-the-blank using the following key terms as used in Computer (4marks)

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System maintenance tools and Materials: Cleaning, hand, diagnose/

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troubleshoot, ESD
A. The reason for using ……… tools is to prevent damage to
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sensitive electronic components caused by static electricity.
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B. Basic implements held and operated by hand, such as

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screwdrivers and pliers, are classified as ………… tools in

computer maintenance.
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C. Tools like multimeters and POST (Power-On Self-Test) cards

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are used to ………… and identify problems within a computer

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system.
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D. Items such as compressed air and isopropyl alcohol fall under

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the category of ………. tools used for keeping computer

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components free from dust and debris.

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Answer (With marks Allocations)

A. ESD /1Marks
B. Hand /1Marks
C. diagnose/troubleshoot /1Marks
D. cleaning /1Marks
Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome1: Maintain
Computer Hardware: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and
architecture, page 3 © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Understanding

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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10. (4marks)
I. Which of the following is NOT a typical software
troubleshooting step?

A. Restarting the computer

B. Checking for updates
C. Physically inspecting the RAM modules
D. Reinstalling the software

II.Which of the following is A "blue screen of death" (BSOD) in

Windows usually indicates:

A. A problem with a specific application

B. A critical system errors.
C. A minor software glitch
D. A hardware failure

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Answer (With marks Allocations)
I.
II.
A. Restarting the computer /2mark
B. A critical system errors /2mark
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Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome2: Maintain
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Computer Software: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and

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architecture, page 5 © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022

Bloom Level: Understanding
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11. Read Carefully the following statement and answer by TRUE if the (5marks)
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statement is correct or FALSE if the statement is wrong

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A. Installing every available software update immediately is

always the best approach.
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B. Regularly backing up your data is a crucial part of preventive

maintenance.
C. Antivirus software alone is sufficient protection against all
online threats.
Answer
A. False/1mark
B. True/1mark
C. False/1mark

Reference:

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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 Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome2: Maintain
Computer Software: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and
architecture, page 5 © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Understanding
12. Write the letter corresponding to their right answer in the first (5marks)
column by matching related hardware fault in the second column
with their appropriate description in the third column:

Answers Hardware Fault Likely Cause

1. …… 1.Computer A. Insufficient
freezes randomly power supply
2. …… 2.Blue Screen of B. Faulty RAM
Death (BSOD) module

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3. …… 3.Slow boot times C. Hard drive

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nearing failure

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4. ……. 4.Overheating D. Driver conflict
or outdated
SC driver
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5. ……. 5.Intermittent Wi- E. Overclocked
Fi connection CPU or
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insufficient
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cooling
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Answer (With marks Allocations)

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ST

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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 Answers Hardware Fault Likely Cause

1.B /1mark 1.Computer A. Insufficient

freezes randomly power supply

2.D /1mark 2.Blue Screen of B. Faulty RAM

Death (BSOD) module

3.C /1mark 3.Slow boot times C. Hard drive

nearing failure

4.E /1mark 4.Overheating D. Driver conflict

or outdated

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driver

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5.A /1mark 5.Intermittent Wi- E. Overclocked
Fi connection SC
CPU or
insufficient
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cooling
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Reference:
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Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome1 Maintain

Computer hardware: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and
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architecture, page 3, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022

Bloom Level: Understanding
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13. Which of the following actions should a developer take when (2marks)
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handling sensitive user data in an application?

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A. Store all sensitive data in plain text for easier access

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B. Use strong encryption methods to protect sensitive data

C. Store sensitive data only in session cookies
D. Allow users to access all their data without authentication
Answer
B. Use strong encryption methods to protect sensitive
data/2Marks
Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome2: Maintain
Computer Software: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and
architecture, page 5 © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Applying

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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14. Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate word or phrase as used (4marks)
in Computer System maintenance: power down/unplug, small
container/organizer/magnetic tray, anti-static

A. Before starting any disassembly, it's crucial to ……… the

computer and ……. it from the power outlet.
B. When handling internal components, it's essential to wear an
…… strap to prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage.
C. Screws should be stored in a ………. so, they don't get lost
during the reassembly process.

Answer

A. power down/unplug /2marks.

B. anti-static /1mark
C. container/organizer/magnetic tray /1mark

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Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome1 Maintain
SC
Computer hardware: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and
architecture, page 3, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
ET

Bloom Level: Applying

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15. Read Carefully the following statement related to the computer (5marks)
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assembly and disassembly procedure and answer by TRUE if the

statement is correct or FALSE if the statement is wrong
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A. Before disassembling a computer, you should always

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disconnect the power supply and remove any external cables.

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B. When removing internal components, it is safe to use excessive

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force if a part is stuck.

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C. Wearing an anti-static wrist strap helps prevent electrostatic

discharge (ESD) damage when handling sensitive computer
components.
D. It is recommended to keep track of screws and small parts by
placing them randomly on the workspace.
E. The best way to remember the assembly order is to take
pictures or notes during the disassembly process.

Answer

A. True/1mark
B. False/1mark
C. True/1mark

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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 D. False/1mark
E. true/1mark

Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome1 Maintain
Computer Hardware: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system
and architecture, page 3, © Rwanda TVET Board, September
2022
Bloom Level: Applying
16. Which of the following actions is most effective when applying anti- (2marks)
malware protection to an organization’s network?
A. Installing anti-malware software only on company servers
B. Regularly updating the anti-malware software and signatures
across all devices
C. Relying solely on a firewall for malware prevention

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D. Running anti-malware scans only when malware is suspected

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Answer
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B. Regularly updating the anti-malware software and signatures
across all devices /2Marks
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Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome2: Maintain
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Computer Software: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and

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architecture, page 5 © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022

Bloom Level: Applying
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17. Read Carefully the following statement related to the e-waste effects (4marks)
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on environment and human health and answer by TRUE if the

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statement is correct or FALSE if the statement is wrong

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A. Burning e-waste can release toxic chemicals into the air, causing
serious health and environmental issues.
B. Throwing old electronic devices into regular trash bins is an
environmentally safe way to dispose of them.
C. Exposure to toxic substances in e-waste can cause only
respiratory problems in humans.
D. E-waste contains only non-toxic substances that are safe for
humans and the environment.

Answer
A. True /1mark
B. False /1mark

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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 C. False /1mark
D. False /1mark
Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome 3 Manage e-
waste: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and architecture,
page 3, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Applying

Section B: Attempt any three (3) questions (30 marks)

______________________________________________________________________________
18. What are the 5 main challenges in implementing an effective e-waste (10marks)
recycling system?

Answer

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 Lack of Awareness: Many people do not know how to properly

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dispose of e-waste. /2marks
 High Recycling Costs: Proper disposal and recycling require
advanced technology and facilities. /2marks SC
 Illegal Dumping & Informal Recycling: Some e-waste is sent
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to unregulated sites where unsafe methods are used. /2marks

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 Data Security Risks: Improper disposal of electronics can lead

to data breaches. /2marks
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 Limited Regulations & Enforcement: Some countries lack

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strict laws to regulate e-waste recycling effectively./2marks

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Reference:
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Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome 3 Manage e-

ST

waste: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and architecture,

page 3, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Analyzing
19. Why is it important to follow an organized sequence when assembling (10marks)
a computer, and how does this impact troubleshooting? at least 5
key points.
Answer
 An organized sequence ensures that components are installed
correctly./2marks
 Preventing errors like incorrect cable management./2marks
 Preventing errors like loose connections./2marks
 Preventing errors like missing parts. /2marks

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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  This structured approach makes troubleshooting easier
because it allows for step-by-step verification of each
component. /1marks
 Reducing the time needed to identify and fix issues. /1marks
Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome2 Maintain
Computer System Software: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system
and architecture, page 5, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Analyzing

20. Compare the environmental impact of informal e-waste recycling (10marks)

versus regulated e-waste recycling facilities.
Answer
 Informal recycling, often done in developing countries, involves
burning or dismantling electronics without safety measures.

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/2marks

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 releasing toxic chemicals into the air, soil, and water. /2marks
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 This leads to severe environmental damage and health risks
for workers. /2marks
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 In contrast, regulated facilities use safe extraction processes.

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/2marks
 proper waste treatment, and pollution control methods,
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significantly reducing harm to both humans and the

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environment. /2marks
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Reference:
IT

Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome 3 Manage e-

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waste: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and architecture,

KI

page 3, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022

ST

Bloom Level: Evaluating

21. How would you evaluate the impact of disk partitioning on system (10marks)
performance? at least 5 key points.
Answer

 Faster Data Access: By separating system files from data,

access speeds can be improved because data is less
fragmented. /2marks
 Optimized Disk Usage: Allocating specific space for
applications, system files, and user data can optimize disk
space usage, reducing unnecessary writes and increasing
efficiency. /2marks

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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  Reduced Disk Fragmentation: Partitioning limits
fragmentation by keeping system files and user data separate,
which can prevent overall system slowdowns. /2marks
 Improved Disk Read/Write Efficiency: Disk operations can
be more efficient when partitions are aligned properly and are
of optimal size for specific tasks. /2marks
 System Recovery Speed: A dedicated partition for backups or
system recovery can speed up recovery processes in case of
system failure. /2marks
Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome2 Maintain
Computer software: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and
architecture, page 5, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Evaluating

L
22. You are choosing between two different RAM modules for a computer (10marks)

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upgrade. Module A is faster but more expensive. Module B is slower

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but more affordable. What 5 factors should you consider when
making your decision? SC
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Answer
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 Compatibility with the System /2marks

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 Performance Requirements /2marks

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 Budget Constraints /2marks

 Future Upgrade Potential /2marks
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 Power Consumption & Heat Generation/2marks

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KI

Reference:
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome1 Maintain
ST

Computer Hardware: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and

architecture, page 3, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Evaluating

Section C: Attempt only one (1) question (15 marks)

______________________________________________________________________________
23. Design a basic troubleshooting guide for users to follow when their (15marks)
computer won't turn on. The guide should include simple steps that
users can perform themselves before contacting technical support. at
least 5 key points.

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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 Answer

 Check the Power Supply /2marks

 Inspect the Power Button /2marks
 Verify Monitor and Display /2marks
 Disconnect External Devices /2marks
 Perform a Hard Reset /2marks
 Test the Power Outlet /2marks
 Try a Different Power Cable /2marks
 Listen for Beep Codes or Error Lights/1marks
Reference
Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome1 Maintain
Computer Hardware: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and
architecture, page 3, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Creating

O L
24. Design a backup strategy for a company with employees working (15marks)

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remotely. How would you secure and manage their data backups?
Answer
SC
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 Cloud Backups: Use cloud-based backup services (e.g.,

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Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive) to allow remote workers to

back up their files automatically. /3marks
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 Encryption: Encrypt all sensitive data stored on remote

devices and in the cloud to prevent unauthorized access. .
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/3marks
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 Syncing and Versioning: Enable file versioning to allow

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users to restore earlier versions of documents if needed. .

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/3marks
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 Backup Frequency: Set daily automated backups for

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essential data, with weekly backups for less critical files. .

/3marks
 Remote Recovery: Implement a self-service recovery portal
that allows remote employees to restore their data in case of
accidental deletion or system failure. /3marks
Reference

Computer system maintenance, Learning Outcome2 Maintain

Computer software: Curriculum Level 3, in Computer system and
architecture, page 5, © Rwanda TVET Board, September 2022
Bloom Level: Creating

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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 END OF MARKING GUIDE

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SC
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KI
ST

Level 3 CSA Module codeCSACM301–Computer System Maintenance–

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