Components of a Motherboard

Study Notes

CPU Socket: Where the CPU (Central Processing Unit) is installed.
Chipset: Controls communication between components, manages data transfer, and provides connectivity options.
Memory (RAM) Slots: Where RAM (Random Access Memory) modules are inserted to increase system memory.
Expansion Slots: Allow installation of expansion cards, such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network cards.
Storage Connectors: Connect storage devices, such as hard drives and solid-state drives.
Power Connectors: Provide power to components, including the CPU, RAM, and storage devices.

ATX (305mm x 244mm): Most common form factor, suitable for most desktop computers.
Micro-ATX (244mm x 244mm): Smaller than ATX, used in smaller systems and home theaters.
Mini-ITX (170mm x 170mm): Smallest form factor, used in compact systems and embedded devices.

USB Ports: Allow connection of peripherals, such as keyboards, mice, and flash drives.
Audio Jacks: Provide audio output and microphone input.
Ethernet Port: Enables network connectivity.
VGA/DVI/HDMI Ports: Allow connection of monitors and displays.
Serial and Parallel Ports: Legacy ports, rarely used in modern systems.

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System): Firmware that controls the motherboard's functionality and settings.
UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface): A more advanced replacement for BIOS, offering improved performance and security.
Overclocking: Allows users to adjust CPU and RAM settings for improved performance.
Fan Controllers: Regulate fan speeds to optimize system cooling and noise levels.

CPU Socket: Installs the Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Chipset: Manages data transfer, communication, and connectivity between components
Memory (RAM) Slots: Holds RAM modules to increase system memory
Expansion Slots: Installs expansion cards (e.g., graphics, sound, and network cards)
Storage Connectors: Connects storage devices (e.g., hard drives and solid-state drives)
Power Connectors: Provides power to components (e.g., CPU, RAM, and storage devices)

ATX: Most common form factor (305mm x 244mm), suitable for most desktop computers
Micro-ATX: Smaller than ATX (244mm x 244mm), used in smaller systems and home theaters
Mini-ITX: Smallest form factor (170mm x 170mm), used in compact systems and embedded devices

BIOS (Basic Input/Output System): Firmware controlling motherboard functionality and settings
UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface): Advanced replacement for BIOS, offering improved performance and security
Overclocking: Adjusts CPU and RAM settings for improved performance
Fan Controllers: Regulates fan speeds for optimized system cooling and noise levels

The main circuit board of a computer that connects and supports all hardware components together
Acts as a communication highway, allowing components to exchange data and instructions
Typically made of a sturdy, non-conductive material, such as fiberglass, to prevent electrical shorts
Mounted with sockets, slots, and connectors to accommodate various components, such as CPU, RAM, and storage devices
Contains a range of integrated circuits, including the chipset, which controls data transfer between components
Often has a BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) firmware to configure and boot the computer
Power supply unit (PSU) connects to the motherboard to provide power to all components
May feature additional components, such as capacitors, resistors, and inductors, to regulate power and signal flow