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Questions and Answers
What characterizes a non-integrated motherboard?
What characterizes a non-integrated motherboard?
Which factor differentiates micro-ATX motherboards from ATX motherboards?
Which factor differentiates micro-ATX motherboards from ATX motherboards?
When was the ATX motherboard introduced?
When was the ATX motherboard introduced?
What is a key feature of AT motherboards?
What is a key feature of AT motherboards?
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Which of the following companies is not a manufacturer of motherboards?
Which of the following companies is not a manufacturer of motherboards?
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What advantage do I/O connectors provide on a motherboard?
What advantage do I/O connectors provide on a motherboard?
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What type of computer architecture do modern motherboards generally support?
What type of computer architecture do modern motherboards generally support?
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Which of the following is a characteristic of USB ports?
Which of the following is a characteristic of USB ports?
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What is the primary role of the motherboard in a computer?
What is the primary role of the motherboard in a computer?
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Which statement correctly defines an expansion slot?
Which statement correctly defines an expansion slot?
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What does the term 'Plug and Play' refer to in computer components?
What does the term 'Plug and Play' refer to in computer components?
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What identifies a PC card?
What identifies a PC card?
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What is the function of the chipset on the motherboard?
What is the function of the chipset on the motherboard?
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Which feature distinguishes an integrated motherboard from a non-integrated motherboard?
Which feature distinguishes an integrated motherboard from a non-integrated motherboard?
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Which of the following is considered a type of expansion card?
Which of the following is considered a type of expansion card?
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What two components combined form the chipset on a motherboard?
What two components combined form the chipset on a motherboard?
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Study Notes
The Motherboard
- The motherboard is the central hub that connects all essential computer components, being the main printed circuit board (PCB).
- Also known as the system board or main board, it incorporates chips, integrated circuits, and transistors.
- Functions as a "parent" board, providing connectors for expansion cards, memory modules, and the processor.
Expansion Slots and Cards
- Expansion slots are sockets on the motherboard where circuit boards (expansion cards) can be inserted.
- Plug and Play technology allows automatic configuration of newly installed cards and devices.
- PC cards are credit card-sized devices used in laptops to enhance capabilities, including modems and additional memory; standardized by PCMCIA.
- Flash memory cards augment memory in handheld computers, digital music players, and mobile phones.
The Chipset
- The chipset coordinates data transfers among computer components like the processor and memory.
- Comprises the Northbridge and Southbridge circuits, ensuring efficient communication.
- Selection of a motherboard with a modern chipset is crucial for future upgradeability.
Types of Motherboards by Device Support
- Integrated motherboards feature multiple components built into the board, such as the CPU, video card, and sound card.
- Non-integrated motherboards utilize installable components and usually have several PCI expansion slots for upgrades; they are becoming obsolete.
Types of Motherboards by Form Factor
- AT Motherboard: Measures around several hundred millimeters and cannot fit in mini desktops; succeeded by Baby AT.
- ATX Motherboard: Introduced by Intel in the mid-90s, it improved layout and integration compared to the AT motherboard.
- Micro-ATX: Maintains ATX benefits while minimizing overall size and reducing supported I/O slots.
Manufacturers of Motherboards
- Various configurations and sizes are available, supporting 32-bit (obsolete) and 64-bit processors and operating systems.
- Notable manufacturers include ASUS, Intel, and MSI.
Ports and Connectors
- Ports connect external devices to the system unit, facilitating communication and operation.
- Common connectors include USB, serial ports, parallel ports, and others for keyboards, mice, monitors, printers, and speakers.
- USB (Universal Serial Bus) ports support a wide range of devices and simplify connections.
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Description
Explore Lesson 3 focusing on the motherboard, the primary component of a computer that connects essential parts. This lesson covers its features, functions, and significance in the overall system architecture.
