Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) Practice Exam

Which of the following generates mechanical and structural noise in a room?

1. Speakers and microphones

2. HVAC fans, diffusers, and air handlers

3. Projectors and screens

4. Computers and other electronic devices

The correct answer is: HVAC fans, diffusers, and air handlers

HVAC fans, diffusers, and air handlers are significant contributors to mechanical and structural noise in a room because these systems involve moving parts and air movement. The operation of fans generates vibrations that can transmit through building structures, creating sound that can be heard at various locations within a space. Additionally, air moving through diffusers or handlers can create turbulence, producing noise that interferes with audio clarity and overall room acoustics. In contrast, while speakers and microphones can produce sound as part of their function in an AV setup, they typically do not contribute to ambient mechanical noise in the way HVAC systems do. Projectors and screens, while they may generate some level of noise—such as fan noise from the projector—are generally less impactful compared to the continuous operation of HVAC systems. Computers and other electronic devices also produce some audible noise, primarily from their cooling fans, but this level of noise is generally less pervasive compared to the constant operational noise produced by HVAC systems in a room. Thus, HVAC components are the primary source of mechanical and structural noise in indoor environments.