GPU-based server installation: Practice Questions — System and Server Bring-up (NVIDIA-Certified Professional: AI Infrastructure)

GPU-Based Server Installation — Practice Questions

These practice questions are designed to help candidates prepare for the System and Server Bring-up section of the NVIDIA-Certified Professional: AI Infrastructure exam, focusing specifically on GPU-based server installation tasks.

1. Which of the following is the first step when installing GPUs into a server chassis?

   • A. Connect power cables to the GPUs
   • B. Verify the server is powered off and unplugged
   • C. Install the PCIe riser cards
   • D. Update the server firmware

   Correct answer: B

   Explanation: Before any hardware installation, it is critical to ensure the server is completely powered off and unplugged to prevent electrical damage and ensure safety.

2. What is the primary purpose of installing PCIe riser cards during GPU server installation?

   • A. To provide additional power to GPUs
   • B. To enable GPUs to connect to the motherboard when space is limited
   • C. To improve cooling efficiency
   • D. To update GPU firmware

   Correct answer: B

   Explanation: PCIe riser cards extend PCIe slots to allow GPUs to be installed in orientations or locations where direct motherboard slots are unavailable or obstructed.

3. Which cable type is typically used to connect GPUs to the power supply in AI infrastructure servers?

   • A. SATA power cables
   • B. Molex cables
   • C. 6-pin or 8-pin PCIe power cables
   • D. USB-C cables

   Correct answer: C

   Explanation: GPUs require dedicated 6-pin or 8-pin PCIe power connectors from the power supply to provide sufficient and stable power for operation.

4. During GPU installation, what is the best practice to ensure proper cooling and airflow?

   • A. Install GPUs without spacing to maximize density
   • B. Use blanking panels in empty PCIe slots
   • C. Remove all fans to reduce noise
   • D. Place GPUs vertically without securing them

   Correct answer: B

   Explanation: Blanking panels help maintain proper airflow by preventing air recirculation through empty slots, which is essential for effective cooling of GPUs.

5. After physically installing GPUs, which step is essential before powering on the server?

   • A. Connect the server to the network
   • B. Verify all GPU power and data cables are securely connected
   • C. Install third-party storage devices
   • D. Perform a firmware upgrade on the server BIOS

   Correct answer: B

   Explanation: Ensuring all GPU power and data connections are secure prevents hardware faults and ensures the GPUs will be detected correctly during system boot.

6. Which tool or interface is commonly used to verify GPU installation and status after server bring-up?

   • A. NVIDIA System Management Interface (nvidia-smi)
   • B. Windows Device Manager
   • C. BIOS Setup Utility
   • D. TPM configuration utility

   Correct answer: A

   Explanation: The NVIDIA System Management Interface (nvidia-smi) is a command-line utility used to monitor and manage GPU devices, including verifying their presence and status.

7. What is the recommended procedure if a newly installed GPU is not detected by the server?

   • A. Immediately replace the GPU
   • B. Check physical connections and reseat the GPU
   • C. Ignore and continue with other installations
   • D. Disable TPM and retry

   Correct answer: B

   Explanation: Often detection issues are caused by loose connections or improper seating; checking and reseating the GPU is a critical troubleshooting step before hardware replacement.

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