Motherboard Installation and Connectors

Introduction to Installing Motherboards and Connectors

• A key task for CompTIA A+ technicians involves installing and configuring PC hardware, attracting many to IT support.
• IT professionals set up computers and assist users in choosing suitable system configurations and peripherals.
• This often includes connecting peripherals using appropriate cables/connectors and installing adapter cards.
• Completing these tasks requires understanding how peripherals and internal components connect via the motherboard.
• Technicians should distinguish and support both modern and legacy connection interfaces due to varied work environments.

Cable Types and Connectors

• PCs comprise many components that must communicate for proper function.
• Quickly identifying connection interfaces and connectors aids in efficiently installing, upgrading, and replacing PC peripherals.

Personal Computer Components

• Personal computer components are divided into user-handled peripheral devices and internal components that are potentially dangerous if exposed.
• Peripherals handle input (keyboard, mouse, microphone, camera), output (monitor, speakers), or external storage.
• Internal components are housed in the system case/chassis, including the motherboard, CPU, memory modules, adapter cards, fixed disks, and PSU.
• Tower cases, the most common form factor, are designed for vertical orientation on a desk or the floor.
• Maintenance requires understanding how to open a desktop case, typically involving sliding off a side cover secured by screws or clips, potentially with anti-tamper mechanisms.
• The front panel offers access to removable media drives, a power switch, and LEDs that indicate drive operation.
• The rear panel has PSU sockets with an integral fan exhaust; obstruction of the fan can adversely affect cooling.
• The motherboard's I/O ports are located below the PSU, allowing peripheral device connections, with spaces covered by an I/O shield to prevent dust.
• Cutout slots aligned with adapter card slots at the rear panel's bottom allow connections to I/O ports via adapter cards or blanking plates.

Importance of I/O Shields and Blanking Plates

• I/O shields and blanking plates prevent gaps in the system case, which helps prevent dust accumulation, reducing the risk of overheating.
• They reduce the risk of electrostatic discharge (ESD) by limiting exposure to components, protecting against temporary or permanent faults caused by static charges.
• These shields ground external metal parts to the PSU, connecting to the building's ground and safely draining ESD.
• Shields also minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI) from external sources like motors or radios, which can cause temporary or permanent faults.

Peripheral Devices and Hardware Ports

• An input/output (I/O) port facilitates device connection to the PC via a peripheral cable; typically, the device is connected to a peripheral cable that then connects to the I/O port
• Some ports support specific devices like monitors, while others support various device types.
• External ports are located at the PC's rear or front, either on the motherboard or as an expansion card.
• A hardware port serves as the external connection point for a bus interface, which enables data transfer to and from devices.
• Connectors are the peripheral cable parts inserted into ports, with each bus interface type potentially using multiple connector form factors
• Most ports and connectors use edge contacts and keying/asymmetric designs to prevent incorrect insertion.

Binary Data Storage and Units

• Appropriate units are essential when comparing bus interfaces
• Computers use binary data, where each bit has a one or zero value
• Storage is measured in bytes (multiples of 8 bits), and transfer rates are expressed in bits or bytes per second.
• Kilobits (Kb/s or Kbps) and kilobytes (KB/s and KBps) equal 1,000 bits/bytes.
• Megabits (Mb/s) or megabytes (MB/s) equal 1,000x1,000 bits/bytes.
• Gigabits (Gb/s) and gigabytes (GB/s) equal 1,000x1,000x1,000 bits/bytes.

Universal Serial Bus (USB)

• USB provides a standard way to connect most peripherals to a computer, classifying them into human interface, mass storage, printer, audio device, etc.
• A host controller manages each USB, supporting multiple ports.
• Most PC motherboards have multiple USB controllers with three to four ports due to bandwidth limitations.

USB Standards and Transfer Rates

• USB standards improve data rates with each iteration and may introduce new connector form factors.
• USB 2.0 HighSpeed has a 480 Mbps data rate shared among devices and is half-duplex, allowing devices to either send or receive data, but not simultaneously.
• USB 3.x iterations introduced new full-duplex connector form factors, enabling simultaneous sending and receiving of data, and depreciated some older terms.
• USB 3.2 Gen 1 SuperSpeed supports 5 Gbps
  • Connectors include USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, and USB Micro
  • Legacy designation: USB 3.0
• USB 3.2 Gen 2x1 SuperSpeed supports 10 Gbps
  • Connectors include USB-A, USB-C, and USB Micro
  • Legacy designation: USB 3.1 and SuperSpeed+
• USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 SuperSpeed supports 2 x 10 Gbps and uses a USB-C connector.
• USB 3 controllers use two sub-controllers
  • one for SuperSpeed-capable devices
  • the other for legacy HighSpeed, FullSpeed, and LowSpeed USB v1.1 and v2.0 devices
  • This ensures legacy devices will not slow down SuperSpeed ones.

USB Connector Types

• Type A: Connects to host devices, shaped like flat rectangles; insert with the USB symbol facing up.
• Type B: Connects to larger peripherals such as printers; square-shaped with a beveled top.
• Type B Mini: Used on older digital cameras, now largely phased out.
• Type B Micro: Updated connector for small devices like smartphones and tablets, flatter than the Mini type.
• USB cables can feature Type A to Type A connectors or convert between different types.
• USB 3 versions of Type A, B, and Micro connectors have additional pins/wires, with USB 3 receptacles often featuring a blue tab or housing for identification.
• USB 3 Type A connections are compatible with USB 1.1/2.0, but Type B/B Micro connections are not.
• USB 3.1 defines the reversible USB-C connector for a consistent hardware interface and robustness.

Cable Length and Power

• LowSpeed devices have a maximum cable length of 3 meters.
• FullSpeed and HighSpeed devices have a 5-meter limit.
• SuperSpeed cables do not have an official maximum length, but the recommendation is that they are about 3 meters.
• Most USB Type A and Type C ports can provide power to connected devices.
• Basic USB ports can supply up to 4.5 watts based on the version of USB.
• Power Delivery (PD) capable ports can supply up to 100 watts given appropriate connectors and cabling.

HDMI and DisplayPort Video Cables

• While USB accommodates many device types, it is not typically used for video due to high bandwidth demands, which are typically provisioned over dedicated video interfaces.
• Video cable bandwidth relies on image resolution and refresh rate.
• 1920x1080 is a typical HD format, and 3840x2160 represents 4K video.
• Refresh rate measures how fast the image is redrawn, in hertz (Hz) or frames per second (fps).
• Uncompressed HD video at 60 fps needs 4.5 Gbps, with 4K at 60 fps needing 8.91 Gbps.
• The refresh rate should match or be evenly divisible by the video source’s frame rate to avoid display artifacts.
• Computer displays are typically LCD thin film transistor (TFT) type, where each pixel has red, green, and blue filters.
• Varying the intensity of each cell creates the color gamut, illuminated by an LED array or backlight.
• LCD/TFT displays are also known as flat-panel displays or, when using LED backlights, LED displays.
• Premium flat-panel monitors use organic LED (OLED), where each pixel is its own light source, enabling better contrast and color fidelity.

High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI)

• HDMI is the widely used video interface found on consumer electronics and PC monitors.
• HDMI supports video and audio, remote control, and digital content protection (HDCP).
• The HDMI specification has been updated to support higher resolutions such as 4K/8K and gaming features like variable refresh rates.
• TV’s and monitors use support for audio is because most have built-in speakers, though the video card should have an audio chipset.
• HDMI connectors come in full-size (Type A), mini (Type C), and micro (Type D) forms, all beveled for proper connection.
• HDMI cables are rated as Standard (Category 1) or High Speed (Category 2)
• High Speed cables required for v1.4 features such as 4K and > 60 Hz refresh rates
• HDMI versions 2.0/2.1 specify Premium High Speed (up to 18 Gbps) and Ultra High Speed (up to 48 Gbps) cable ratings.

DisplayPort Interface

• DisplayPort is a royalty-free standard managed by VESA

VESA

• represents PC graphics adapter and display technology companies.
• DisplayPort, like HDMI, supports resolutions up to 4K, audio, and content protection.
• DisplayPort connectors come in full-size DP++ and MiniDP/mDP types, which are keyed against incorrect orientation issues.
• Bandwidth can be allocated across bonded lanes (up to four), with version 2.0 supporting up to 20 Gbps per lane.
• DisplayPort supports daisy-chaining multiple monitors from one video source, whereas HDMI needs a dedicated video card port for each monitor.

Thunderbolt and Lightning Cables

• Thunderbolt and Lightning interfaces are most closely associated with Apple products, but Thunderbolt is also being used on Windows and Linux PCs.
• Thunderbolt can function as a display interface like DisplayPort/HDMI or as a USB-like peripheral interface.
• Thunderbolt versions 1 and 2 share the same physical interface as MiniDP and are compatible with DisplayPort; Thunderbolt ports can be recognized by a lightning bolt icon.
• Thunderbolt 2 supports up to 20 Gbps.
• Like DisplayPort, it can daisy-chain multiple monitors.
• Thunderbolt 3 uses the same port, connector, and cabling as USB-C.
• A device plugged into a Thunderbolt 3 port will function as intended, but Thunderbolt devices need Thunderbolt-enabled USB ports to function.
• Thunderbolt 3 can transfer up to 40 Gbps via quality cables up to 0.5 m/1.6 ft.
• Not all USB-C ports support Thunderbolt 3; at the time of writing, updated USB 4 and Thunderbolt 4 standards have been developed.
• Apple's iPhones and iPads include a Lightning port that is reversible.
• Adapter cables like Lightning-to-USB A or Lightning-to-USB C adapters are required to connect Apple devices to PCs.

SATA Hard Drive Cables

• Internal components use cabling to connect to the motherboard port.
• SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) is a standard interface for internal storage drives in desktop PCs, using cables up to 1 m terminated with compact 7-pin connectors.
• Each SATA host adapter port supports a single device.
• The 7-pin data connector does not supply power, but a separate 15-pin SATA power connector is used to connect to the PC's power supply.
• SATA initially supported speeds of up to 150 MBps
• SATA revision 2 supported 300 MBps
• SATA revision 3 supported 600 MBps.

Molex Power Connectors

• Internal storage device data cables are unpowered, so legacy components use Molex connectors to connect to the PSU.
• The color coding of the Molex wire insulation represents the DC voltage
  • Red is 5 VDC
  • Yellow is 12 VDC
  • Black is ground.

External SATA

• External SATA (eSATA) provides a standard for attaching peripheral drives with a 2 m cable
• You must use an eSATA cable to connect to an external eSATA port
• Some vendors use eSATAp
  • A nonstandard powered port compatible with both USB and SATA through an eSATAp cable
  • This interface isn't very popular, and USB dominates the external drive market.

Introduction to Motherboard Installation

• Motherboards house sockets for devices that implement the main system functions
  • Computing
  • Storage
  • Networking
• Understanding motherboard types, capabilities, and connector types aids component upgrades and repairs.
• Computer software and data are processed using binary code, relying on CPU instructions, which facilitates the main computing function of a PC.
• Instructions and data also require storage because the CPU has limited internal capacity
  • Additional storage is provided through system memory (RAM)
    • Nonpersistent, meaning it holds data only when powered on.
• Mass storage devices preserve data when the computer is turned off
• Storage components connect through bus interfaces, storing instructions and data using transistors and capacitors, transmitted via electrical signals.
• The motherboard's system clock synchronizes operations and provides timing for the CPU, measured in MHz/GHz.
• Clock multipliers adjust timing signals for different types of buses, allowing them to operate at varying speeds/frequencies.
• The motherboard type influences system speed and the range of installable/upgradeable system devices and adapter cards.
• Numerous motherboard manufacturers exist, including AOpen, ASRock, ASUSTek, Biostar, EVGA, Gigabyte, Intel, and MSI.
• Each motherboard supports a specific range of CPUs manufactured primarily by Intel and AMD.

Electrical Safety and Electrostatic Discharge

• Upgrading a PC means taking precautions to minimize damage risk
• Disconnect PC from the power supply before working
• Holding the power button clears any charge
• Do not take apart unrepairable pieces like the power supply
• Use tools to minimize damage to components like the CPU, RAM, adapter cards, and the motherboard
• Wear wrist straps to touch the plastic components to prevent static discharge and shock

Motherboard CPU and System Memory Connectors

• Motherboards use a variety of connector and socket types for CPU, memory, drives and adapter cards

CPU Sockets

• Newer motherboards support newer processors from Intel/AMD
• They have different socket designs so only a limited number of processors can be used
• CPU Sockets are typically square and covered by thermal paste, a heat sink, and fan after CPU install
• The function of the CPU is supported by its chipset, which handles the transfer of data, is soldered onto the motherboard, and cannot be upgraded
• Chipsets determine the choice of processors, amount of RAM, and support for video, sound, and networking
• Unsupported parts can be added as an adapter card, though

System Memory Slots

• A computer uses random access memory, so random-access memory (RAM) runs the coding
• Random access memory stores data being modified and is normally in dual inline memory module (DIMM) form
• DIMM slots are numbered, color-coded, and located near the CPU socket
• The type of DIMM supported is noted on labels near the sockets
• Memory controller capabilities and slots determine how much can be installed

Motherboard Storage Connectors

• One, or more, fixed disks are found inside the PC used for data and software. Disks use either solid state drive (SSD) or hard disk drive (HDD) technology

Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) Ports

• The motherboard uses several SATA ports to connect one or more disks with the option for optical/tape drives
• SATA devices connect to a drive bay and then a SATA cable and power supply via a SATA or Molex connector

M.2 Interface

• Solid state drives fit in an adapter card in an M.2 interface that is oriented horizontally with lengths varying between lengths of 42 mm, 60 mm, 80 mm, or 110 mm
• Labels indicate the sizes supported and there is no need for a separate power cable since M.2 supplies power through the bus

External SATA interface

• A eSATA is a standard to use for external drives that needs a eSATA cable to connect
• It is possible to use a nonstandard vendor eSATAp with USB
• The downside is that eSATA does not provide power over the cable, which is okay for 3.5 inch drives, but is an issue for 2.5 inch portable drives

Motherboard Adapter Connectors

• Expansion slots accept plug-in adapter cards that can perform different functions with 2 main types of expansion slot
• Periperhal Component Interconnect Express is the mainstream interface and is point-to-point

Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe)

• PCIe bus is a mainstream interface using point-to-point serial communications with it's own links
• Transfer rates can be measured in gigatransfers per second (GT/s); Throughput in GB/s is the rate achieved after loss through encoding is accounted for
• Transfer rates depend on the PCIe version supported

Version GT/s GB/s for x1 GB/s for x16

• 2 5 0.5 8
• 3 8 0.985 15.754
• 4 16 1.969 31.508
• 5 32 3.938 63.015
• Each adapter supports a number of lanes that ideally support it; if slots are unavailable, the card fits in other slots
• These slots can also work at x8/x1 with lower number of lane usage
• A shorter slot can also fit a slot that uses down-plugging, but may face obstrucitons
• Labels indicate the lanes each slot supports
• PCI versions are backwards-compatible at the lowest version
• PCIe supplies up to 75W to a port with an extra 75W available via a PCIe connector

Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI)

• PCI is another, legacy form with software-compatible ports on the board and uses parallel communications
• It works at 33.3 MH and transferss up to 133 MBps
• Earliest cards used 5v signals, but switched to 3v, creating keying differences to prevent mismatches

Motherboard Form Factors

• The motherboard form factor describes its shape and type of cases and power supplies, plus cards that can be installed

Advanced Technology eXtended Form Factor (ATX)

• This is the standard form at 12 inches wide by 9.6 inches deep with 7 expansion slots

Micro-ATX (mATX)

• Micro-ATX have standards at 9.6 inches squared and a max of 4 expansion slots and can be mounted in ATX cases

Information Technology eXtended Form Factor

• Small PC like the mini-ITX (6.7 inches squared with one expansion slot), can be mounted in ATX cases or smaller forms even
• Mini-ITX were never produced from the original plain spec

Motherboard Installation

• Motherboards attach to cases through standoffs to prevent contact inside
• The installation procedure involves documenting and checking jumper clips for orientation as well as safety procedures
• Orient the board to match the cut out in the rear and prepare the I/O blanking plate

Other installation steps

• Add standoffs with guide for the hole to match
• Optionally add CPU or memory modules
• Align and check locations
• Secure standoffs with the right screws with firm, careful tightening
• Add power, disk devices, and adapter cards with connectors
• Motherboards also need case buttons, speakers, and fans
• Cases connect to headers on the motherboard
  • This allows for soft power via operating system and an internal hard disk.
  • Internal computer uses 9 pin headers for upto 2 ports.
  • Can be cabled to 2 ports in a 2 by 10 format
  • Make diagram to better disassemble to refer to documentation

Power Connectors

• Can find various connections for power supply and fans
• Used pin Molex KK connections as needed and supported fans with PWM for control
• Fans with connectors are usable on varying pin amounts

Video and Card Captures

• Cards add more not supported on motherboard by using slots, such as PClE and PCl
• Video adapter/graphics card makes the signal
• Cheaper adapter more likely used, if more power 3-d is required you will need add-on and most adapters are Nvidia. ATI/AMD

What video requires

• Graphics Processing Unit or GPU microprocessor for the effects which has the frame rate
• Graphics memory can be added up to 32 GB GDDR that cards use, with 8 GB on average

Sound card

• Connected to speakers, used to record with most connectors being .5mm

Network Card

• Has Ethernet, but can upgrade or add-on