mainboards

Mainboards, or motherboards, are the central circuit boards of computers. They host the central processing unit, memory, storage controllers, and expansion devices, and they provide power and data pathways that link all components together. A motherboard typically includes a CPU socket, DIMM memory slots, a chipset, power delivery circuitry, PCIe expansion slots, storage connectors such as SATA and M.2, USB headers, and audio and network interfaces. It also contains firmware for system initialization and configuration.

Form factors determine size and layout, with ATX, microATX, and Mini-ITX being common. The form factor affects the number of expansion slots and memory slots and compatibility with cases. Compatibility is driven by the CPU socket and chipset; CPUs must match the socket, and memory must be supported in terms of type (DDR4, DDR5), capacity, and speed. PCIe slots enable graphics cards and other add-in cards, while M.2 and SATA ports provide storage options.

Chipsets define feature sets, including I/O options, PCIe lane counts, and USB support, and may influence overclocking capabilities. Firmware, typically UEFI, handles hardware initialization and provides settings for boot order, security, and performance tuning. Installation includes mounting the board in a case, attaching power and cooling, installing the CPU and memory, and connecting drives and peripherals.

Maintenance involves keeping firmware and drivers up to date and ensuring adequate cooling. Motherboards vary for desktops, servers, and embedded systems, reflecting different priorities such as expandability, reliability, and size constraints.