Lecture: Motherboard Components and Communication Paths

Overview

• Components on a motherboard: CPU, memory, storage, expansion slots
• Importance of communication between components
• Modular nature of components

Communication Paths (Bus)

• CPU and memory communication via buses
• Physical manifestation of buses on the motherboard

PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect)

• Definition and history: Standard since 1994
• Bus sizes: 32-bit and 64-bit, both using parallel communication
• Shared communication path to a central controller

Types and Characteristics

• 32-bit PCI Bus: Smaller physical size
• 64-bit PCI Bus: Larger physical size, parallel communication
• Voltage support: 3.3V and 5V

Installation

• Specific slots on cards designate voltage and bus width
• Installation involves aligning contacts and pressing into motherboard slot

PCI Express (PCIe)

• Replaces PCI, uses serial communication instead of parallel
• Communication path called PCIe lanes
• Supports multiple lanes: x1, x2, x4, x8, x16, x32 (written as b1, b2, etc.)

Serial Connection

• Simplicity of serial connections: single path in both directions

Usage of Lanes

• Increased lanes for more bandwidth
• Example: PCIe x4 lane communication paths

Installation

• Similar to PCI but with different slot and contact design
• Installation involves aligning hooks or locks and gently pressing into slot

Example Motherboard Configuration

• A motherboard with both PCI and PCIe slots
• Placement of CPU, memory, and expansion slots

Close-Up

• Zoomed view of PCI and PCIe slots and lane differences
• PCIe adapter cards have hooks for locking into place

Installation Tips

• Ensure proper alignment and gentle pressure
• Adjust settings if installation is difficult