Internet of Things (IoT) Practice Exam

What is the best method to reduce heat generation inside a computer due to resistor power involvement?

1. Reduce the voltage from the power supply

2. Increase the total resistive value in the circuit

3. Increase the physical size of resistors

4. Use capacitors on the output of the power supply

The correct answer is: Reduce the voltage from the power supply

Reducing the voltage from the power supply is an effective method to lower the heat generation inside a computer, primarily due to the power dissipation characteristics of resistors. Power dissipation in a resistor is calculated using the formula P = V²/R, where P is the power (in watts), V is the voltage across the resistor, and R is the resistance value. By lowering the voltage supplied to the circuit, the power dissipation across the resistors decreases, which in turn reduces heat generation. Heat generation is a crucial concern in electronic systems, as excessive heat can lead to component failure and adversely affect performance. Lowering the voltage translates to reduced current flow for a given resistance, leading to less energy converted into heat. Other alternatives like increasing the resistive value or the physical size of resistors may impact heat generation, but they do not address the root cause as effectively as voltage reduction. Increasing resistance could either limit the current or increase the voltage drop, potentially leading to increased heating under certain conditions. Meanwhile, larger resistors may have better thermal handling but do not necessarily reduce power dissipation directly. Using capacitors at the output of the power supply is generally aimed at smoothing voltage fluctuations and providing charge storage, rather than directly influencing power dissipation