2. 2
The motherboard is the most important
component of the computer system.
• It is a Printed Circuit Board(PCB) where all
components of the system are connected
• Components are connected by means of
slots, connectors and sockets
• In the motherboard there is a series of chipsets
that are all part of the motherboard
3. 3
Types of Motherboards
Integrated Motherboards
• This arrangement saves a lot of space inside the
system
• Have all the ports for connecting various devices
mounted on the board; peripheral device
slots, input output ports, serial and parallel ports
• Integrated motherboards are cheaper in cost
compared to other but if an individual
component of the motherboard fails the entire
board may need to be replaced which is costly
4. 4
Non-Integrated Motherboard
• This motherboard does not support connecting
devices
• All the input output ports for devices and other
controllers are attached to the system using
expansion boards ,which uses more space in the
casing.
• This type is more costly compared to an
integrated board
5. 5
There are three form factors that tell the
differences between motherboards. These
factors refer to its physical shape, layout and
positioning of the components on it.
1. Obsolete Form Factor
2. Modern Form Factor
3. Proprietary Form Factor
6. 6
1. Obsolete Form Factor
This factor consists of Advanced Technology(AT), Baby AT
and Low Profile Extended (LPX)
Advanced Technology (AT)
• Very large and no longer used by present-day
motherboard manufacturers
• Does not fit into most of the popular system
cases
• Its size makes installation and troubleshooting
difficult
• It supports a maximum of 7 slots
7. 7
Baby AT
• Fits into most of the system cases
• The motherboard is 8.5 inches wide and approx.
13 inches long
• It supports a maximum of 8 slots
Low Profile Extended
• This is used for slim line or low profile cases. It
has a small size and low cost
• It supports a maximum of 8 slots
• Difficult to expand or upgrade
• They have cooling problems and the machine
experiences automatic shut downs
8. 8
2. Modern Form Factor
Consists of ATX ,NLX ,FLEX ATX form factors
Advanced Technology Extended (ATX)
• The most common and most popular form factor
meaning most modern cases are made to match.
• Makes use of the best features of both AT and LPX form
factors.
New Low Profile Extended(NLX)
• Designed keeping in mind easier assembly, reduced
cost, space efficiency and flexibility.
• Usually used in low end PC’s because of limited
expandability but is still quite popular because of its size
and affordability.
9. 9
FLEX ATX
• Derived from the ATX form factor ,uses many of the
same benefits.
• Reduces the size of the motherboard ,resulting in smaller
system designs.
• Backwards compatible with ATX motherboards.
3. Proprietary Form Factor
Balance Technology Extended(BTX)
• Intended to replace ATX.
• Designed to further reduce problems caused by power
consumption and heat production.
