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Motherboards. Motherboard Basics. Form Factors. Motherboards are available in several form factors, which essentially unify the design of certain aspects of the computer system. The most common form factor is ATX.
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Motherboards Motherboard Basics
Form Factors • Motherboards are available in several form factors, which essentially unify the design of certain aspects of the computer system. • The most common form factor is ATX. • The form factor of the motherboard affects both the power supply and the case design.
Expansion Ports • Motherboards have a variety of expansion ports built into them. These expansion ports are designed to accept specific formats of expansion, or adapter cards. • Today, common expansion ports are PCI, PCI Express, and AGP. • AGP is quickly being replaced by PCI Express.
Onboard Components • Motherboards vary in the number and quality of onboard (built-in) components. • Certain onboard components, such as Audio and Video devices, are generally lower performing than adapter cards which are installed in expansion slots.
A Micro ATX MotherboardNotice that it has fewer expansion slots.
Understanding • Be sure to familiarize yourself with the different styles of motherboards available as well as popular features and reliable manufacturers. • Reading reviews of products is an excellent method of researching before you make purchasing decisions.