If you understand how a computer operates inside and out, you may be familiar with the computer motherboard. Should you not be, it’s most likely something you’ve never encountered. But fear not—we will clarify everything you require to know.
As the home of other essential parts like the processor and RAM, motherboards are essential to a PC’s operation. We will give you all the information you require about this essential part because a computer cannot function without it.
Before getting too technical, let’s examine the motherboard’s historical background first.
When Was The Computer Motherboard Invented?
A component known as a “planar” was developed back in 1981. Later on, this part would be referred to as the motherboard.
Most likely, you’re wondering how the motherboard came to be. It’s as easy as it seems. The “motherboard” is the focal point of a PC, much like the “mothership” would be the center of a fleet. Connecting extra circuit boards can expand the primary circuit board.
How Does Computer Motherboard Function?
Now that you know its history, let’s examine its functionalities.
Your computer motherboard lets you attach extra parts like a processor and memory. It has sockets where you can attach these additional parts. The sockets on your motherboard may differ based on your kind because different motherboard types have different processor pin configurations.
The motherboard’s chipset determines which specific processor model you can use with this particular motherboard, and the socket determines the type of processor that you may install on it.
Like processors, the kind of motherboard you have can influence the quantity and type of RAM you can install. The maximum amount of RAM a motherboard can physically support is limited, so it’s a good idea to purchase a board with more memory than you will initially need because you can upgrade RAM at a low price, and it is frequently updated.
Form factor, as it is called, describes the motherboard’s actual layout. The form factor influences the arrangement of individual parts as well as the design of the computer casing. Most PC motherboards adhere to one of several specific form factors, which allows them to fit into a typical case.
Types Of Computer Motherboard
The motherboard, also called the main circuit board or system board, comes in various sizes and shapes, along with different ports. Models could be clearer because they are made up of various features. But fear not—this guide will teach you everything you need to know about the various kinds of computer motherboards.
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Micro ATX
Do you intend to have a home theater PC? In that case, you must select micro ATX, which is easy to install if you have limited desk space. Home theater PCs do not require many expansion slots, so micro ATX boards are ideal because they have enough expansion slots to run two graphics cards simultaneously.
These motherboards are for users who value performance. These computer motherboards are ideal for gamers or those seeking high performance.
Many Micro ATX options are available, such as Gigabyte’s GA-Z170N-WIFI, which has dual-band WIFI. It also includes Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity. Another option is Intel’s Core i7-6700K Skylake processor, ideal for gamers.
Compared to full ATX boards, these are smaller and cheaper.
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AT Motherboard
If you want a PC with extended ATX, AT motherboards are the best option because they have larger physical dimensions. You cannot use it as mini desktops. Aside from that, you should add new drivers.
Power connectors require sockets and six-pin plugs. However, you need help identifying them easily and thus have difficulties connecting them.
In the 1980s, AT motherboards were widely used. These are ideal for mid-range builds that prioritize expansion over storage.
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ITX Motherboard
If you’re looking for a computer motherboard that’s ideal for small PCs or home theater PCs, the ITX motherboard is a good choice. The motherboard is as small as a credit card. As a result, they are ideal for smaller spaces.
ITX motherboards will allow you to build super-small computers with excellent performance.
The only issue is that they do not support SLI or Crossfire, so you cannot use them for gaming.
However, these are your best options if you want to stream movies or TV shows on your home theater PC.
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Flex ATX
FlexATX is a more power-efficient alternative to ATX and mini-ITX. Because of its small size, You can use it in small form factor computers such as HTPCs. You can install it in a small case suitable for an optical drive. They have audio I/O connectors but need more PCI slots.
Various types of motherboards will continue to evolve in size and nature, and manufacturers may introduce advanced versions. However, the above types will help you determine when to use them. When purchasing the appropriate computer motherboard, you must consider price, power requirements, case design, functionality, and other factors.
Key Components Of Computer Motherboard
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CPU Socket
The CPU socket is a motherboard component that allows you to connect the processor, which is necessary for a PC to function. Determine which CPU socket your motherboard has if you intend to replace your processor.
Different pin layouts can influence which processors you can attach. Some processors will not work with your CPU socket because of a different pin layout.
Most common computer processors are:
- Intel Processors
- Core i9 Processors
- Core i7 Processors
- Core i5 Processors
- AMD Processors
- AMD Ryzen 9 Processors
- AMD Ryzen 7 Processors
- AMD Ryzen 5 Processors
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Memory Slot
The memory slot (or RAM slot) is where you insert RAM into the motherboard. Most motherboards have two to four memory slots, which determine the RAM type used by the computer.
The two most common types of RAM are SRAM (Static Random Access Memory) and DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory), which come in various sizes and speeds. This is further classified as DDR (Double Data Rate) RAM, the most recent being DDR4 RAM.
The number after DDR refers to RAM generation. So, for DDR4 to exist, DDR3, DDR2, and DDR1 came first. These different generations of RAM require different slots on a motherboard, so if you have a motherboard with a memory slot that supports DDR4 RAM, you cannot insert DDR3 RAM or earlier.
It is critical to select the correct motherboard, as it will only be compatible with one of these RAM types.
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Expansion Slot
The expansion slot, also known as a bus slot or simply an expansion port, is a port inside the computer motherboard that serves as an installation point for any additional components to be connected.
Here are the most common expansion slots:
- AMR
- CNR
- EISA
- ISA
- PCI
- PCI Express
- VESA
However, most of these slots are no longer in use, so you’re more likely to encounter AGP, PCI, and PCI Express ports.
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Power Connectors
Power connectors are in charge of supplying electricity to the motherboard and its connected components. They include the main ATX power connector and additional CPU and graphics card connectors.
What Is a Dual CPU Motherboard?
A dual CPU motherboard has two CPUs (or processors). Typically, these motherboards have two CPU sockets to hold the chipset. Furthermore, dual-processor motherboards typically have higher performance (if not double the power) than single-CPU motherboards, such as faster speeds.
Why Do We Need a Dual CPU Motherboard?
The purpose of a dual CPU Motherboard is not only to increase the number of ports and I/O but also to stack additional computing cores for improved parallel performance and multitasking, such as opening 10 Chrome tabs or exporting one video while editing another.
Conclusion
In terms of function, a motherboard is straightforward; it serves as the home for various components required by your PC. Understanding the various components and their functions can become overwhelming. But we will be here all day!
Hopefully, we’ve shed some light on the topic by discussing some of the most common areas of a computer motherboard and the various types that exist.
Direct Macro should be your priority if you need to buy a computer motherboard.