The main circuit board which connects all the device on a microcomputer; Also called main board or system board

·         Chipset

– The chipset controls the system and its capabilities. It is the hub of all data transfer.

– Chipsets are integrated, and are not upgradable without buying a whole new motherboard.

– Some of the items it dictates

∗ Memory controller

∗ Real-time clock

∗ Keyboard and mouse controller

∗ Secondary cache controller

∗ PCI bridge

∗ EIDE controller

·         Motherboards are designed for specific Processors. A single motherboard cannot be used with different types of Processors.

·         The different system bus speeds supported by the Motherboard should be of prime consideration.

·         Form Factors

– The form factor is the physical size and dimensions of the motherboard. The form factor determines the general layout, size, and feature placement on a motherboard.

∗ Baby AT

∗ ATX

∗ Proprietary

·         Onboard devices – Video/Audio/LAN

– Lower cost.

– Lesser Flexibility.

·         Upgradability

– Bus speeds supported.

– Number of expansion slots.

– Number and Types of IO ports available.