Overview
This lecture covers the key features, types, and common uses of computer motherboards, focusing especially on popular ATX and ITX form factors.
Motherboard Fundamentals
- The motherboard is the main physical component in computers, hosting the CPU, memory, and expansion slots.
- Motherboards provide connections to power and allow system expansion via additional slots.
- All computer processes rely on the motherboard for inter-component communication.
- Power connectors on motherboards are standardized across most models.
Motherboard Sizes and Compatibility
- Motherboards come in various sizes to suit different case sizes and performance needs.
- Most cases and motherboards are compatible, but available features and expansion potential vary with size.
- Desktop computers can accommodate larger motherboards, while small form factor devices require smaller boards.
Choosing a Motherboard
- Choice depends on case size, required expansion, and airflow considerations.
- For most uses, knowledge of 2-3 popular motherboard types is sufficient; exact dimensions are rarely needed.
- Task-specific recommendations: media centers, video editing, and thin clients may each require different motherboard sizes.
ATX and ITX Motherboard Families
- ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended) is standard for desktops, offering many expansion and memory slots.
- ATX motherboards have been used since 1995 and typically have a 20 or 24-pin power connector.
- Mini ITX, introduced by VIA Technologies in 2001, is suited to small form factors with the same screw hole pattern as ATX.
- Mini ITX boards are ideal for compact systems, such as media centers next to televisions.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Motherboard — The main printed circuit board connecting all components of a computer.
- ATX — Advanced Technology eXtended, a common full-size motherboard standard for desktops.
- Mini ITX — A compact motherboard standard, ideal for small form factor PCs.
- Expansion Slot — A socket on the motherboard allowing additional components, like graphics or network cards, to be added.
- Form Factor — The physical size and shape standard of a motherboard or other component.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the differences and use cases for ATX and Mini ITX motherboards.
- Consider scenarios where you would select one motherboard type over another for specific computer builds.