The Motherboard (The Heart of Your Computer) Katie Agnew CEDu Oconomowoc

What does the motherboard do? It is the most essential component in a personal computer. It is the main piece of hardware that contains the micro-processing chip.

Key Components Microprocessor socket – defines what kind of CPU (Central Processing Unit) the motherboard uses Chipset – forms computer’s logic system – usually composed of two bridges that connect the CPU to the rest of the system BIOS chip – controls the most basic functions of the computer and how to repair Real-time clock (battery-operated chip) – maintains system’s time and other basic functions

Other Components Other slots/ports available for peripherals or support system or hardware: Accelerated graphics port (video cards) Integrated drive electronics (interface for hard disk drives) Memory or RAM cards Peripheral component interconnect (PCI) – provides electronic connections for video capture cards and network cards

How it works It is a printed circuit board –Provides all connections, pathways, lines connecting different components of the computer to each other (CPU to everything else) –CPU (chip) is an assembly of transistors (up to 4 million) and other devices that perform programmed tasks –CPU rests in a socket – connects to other components through printed circuits on the board Most important connections are to the CHIPSETS (two bridges – one to main computer memory and one to peripherals) BIOS chip performs key functions like checking power supply, OS before the computer “boots up”

Different shapes and sizes (Form Factors) Form FactorSizeCommon Uses ATX12” x 9.6”Desktop Micro ATX9.6” x 9.6”Desktop Flex ATX9.0” x 7.5” Workstations, gaming systems, in-car computers Mini ITX6.7” x 6.7” Workstations, gaming systems, in-car computers

Two types of motherboards Asus P6T Deluxe Motherboard (ATX) Intel DX58SO Motherboard (ATX) (Both designed for desktop computers and both from leading motherboard processors)

Price comparison Asus P6T Deluxe –As low as $239 ( abber.com/motherboar ds) abber.com/motherboar ds -As low as $245 ( Intel DX58SO –As low as $239 ( abber.com/motherboar ds) abber.com/motherboar ds -As low as $247 (

Stability and Consumer Reports Asus P6T Deluxe –Ranks very high in stability –Consumer report: expensive with the new platform, but it has blazing fast performance, so the price is worth it, appreciates it supporting multiple graphics cards ( Intel DX58SO –Ranks very high in stability –Consumer report: great expansion capabilities, compatible with a wide variety of computers, a little expensive, but lots of options are available (

Technical Specifications – Asus P6T Deluxe Supports 6 DIMM (Dual Inline Memory Module) slots – allows for the maximum amount of memory of this brand (12 GB) Supports 2 graphics cards Offers bandwidth up to 400 Mbps – allows for digital video, hard drives 12 USB 2.0 ports Several expansion capabilities

Technical Specifications – Intel DX58SO Supports 4 DIMM slots – allows for up to 16 GB of system memory Supports 2 graphics cards Offers bandwidths at 10/100/1000 Mbps Supports 12 USB 2.0 ports Several expansion capabilities

Which to Choose? If you are purchasing a computer, most will come with a motherboard that is compatible with your system and is tailored enough to your needs. If you decide to build your own computer, there are several websites and groups out there that can get you a motherboard that suits your needs.

The Motherboard Whichever option you choose, the motherboard will be the most important piece of equipment of your computer. Without it, your computer will not get very far.

References choose-a-motherboard.htmlwww.build-your-own-computers.com/how-to- choose-a-motherboard.html shttp://computers.pricegrabber.com/motherboard s