Motherboards
By Becca
What is a motherboard and how does it work?
A printed circuit board containing the principal components of a computer or other device, with connectors for other circuit.
A motherboard provides the electrical connections by which the other components of the system communicate (talk with each other).
A typical desktop computer has its microprocesser, main memory, and other essential components connected to the motherboard. In modern computers it is increasingly common to integrate some of these peripherals into the motherboard itself.
An important component of a motherboard is the microprocessor's supporting chipset, which provides the supporting interfaces between the CPU and the various buses and external components. This chipset determines, to an extent, the features and capabilities of the motherboard
The Motherboard is Also Known As
mainboard, mobo (abbreviation), MB (abbreviation), system board, logic board
Important Motherboard Facts
Desktop motherboards, cases and power supplies all come in different sizes called form factors. All three must be compatible to work properly together.
Motherboards vary greatly in respect to the types of components they support. For example, each motherboard supports a single type of CPU and a short list of memory types. Additionally, some video cards, hard drives and other peripherals may not be compatible. The motherboard manufacturer should provide clear guidance on component compatibilities.
Motherboards vary greatly in respect to the types of components they support. For example, each motherboard supports a single type of CPU and a short list of memory types. Additionally, some video cards, hard drives and other peripherals may not be compatible. The motherboard manufacturer should provide clear guidance on component compatibilities.
In laptops and tablets, and increasingly even in desktops, the motherboard often incorporates the functions of the video card and sound card. This helps keep these types of computers small in size.