Understanding Motherboards: Configuration and Maintenance

Sep 10, 2024

Module 2: Motherboards

Objectives

  • Describe and contrast various types and features of motherboards
  • Configure a motherboard using BIOS UEFI firmware
  • Maintain a motherboard:
    • Update drivers and firmware
    • Use jumpers to clear BIOS UEFI settings
    • Replace the CMOS battery
  • Select, install, and replace a desktop motherboard

Motherboard Types and Features

  • CPU Dependency: CPU choice influences motherboard selection.
  • Considerations for Purchase:
    • Form factor
    • Processor socket
    • Chipset
    • Expansion slots
    • Connector slots and ports
    • Cost (personal consideration)

Form Factors

  • Types:
    • ATX (common)
    • Micro ATX
    • Extended ATX
    • Mini ITX
  • Importance: Determines size, power supply compatibility, and case fit.

Chipsets and Processor Sockets

  • Chipset: Works with CPU to control memory, buses, peripherals.
  • Socket: The base for CPU connection.
  • Manufacturers: Intel and AMD.
    • Intel: Business-minded, generally more expensive.
    • AMD: Popular in gaming, cheaper.

Intel Chipsets

  • 600 series, 400/500 series, 300/200 series
  • Sockets: LGA 1700, LGA 1200, LGA 1151

AMD Chipsets

  • STR-X4, TR4, AM4, AM3+ sockets
  • Popular for gaming (e.g., Threadripper processors)

Buses and Expansion Slots

  • Traces: Circuits enabling data transfer.
  • PCI Express (PCIe):
    • Slot sizes: X1, X4, X8, X16
    • X16 used by graphics cards
  • Conventional PCI: Slower, for add-on cards.
  • Onboard Ports: Integrated components like USB, PS2, video, sound, network.

Storage Interfaces

  • SATA: Standard for storage devices (SATA-E, 3.X, 2.X)
  • SAS: Successor to SCSI
  • M.2 Slots: Various keys (B, M, B&M) for mini add-on cards

BIOS UEFI Configuration

  • Functions:
    • Enable/disable ports/components
    • Manage security features
    • Control boot process
  • UEFI Advantages: Required for large hard disks, secure boot.
  • Access: Enter by pressing specific keys during boot (varies by manufacturer).

Secure Boot

  • Prevents malware before OS loads.
  • Requires UEFI and supporting OS (e.g., Windows 10).

Overclocking

  • Increases performance but may reduce longevity and stability.

Password and Encryption

  • Drive Password: Limited protection.
  • Full Disk Encryption: Most secure; protects entire drive.

Updating and Maintenance

  • Drivers: Essential for hardware communication.
  • BIOS/UEFI Updates: Can fix issues or add system support.
  • Flashing Methods:
    • From BIOS/UEFI itself
    • From USB
    • Express updates via manufacturer

Using Jumpers

  • Reset settings if BIOS update fails.
  • Jumper: Two pins on the motherboard.

Installing/Replacing a Motherboard

  • Process:
    • Verify compatibility
    • Remove components
    • Install IO shield and motherboard
    • Install CPU, cooler, RAM
    • Attach cabling
    • Install video card
    • Boot and verify system
    • Install drivers
  • Troubleshooting: Ensure form factors match to avoid alignment issues.

Summary

  • Key skills: Describing types/features, configuring with BIOS/UEFI, maintenance, and installation.
  • CMOS battery holds BIOS settings; removing it resets BIOS.

For further questions or clarifications, feel free to reach out. Enjoy your day!