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The Motherboard (The Heart of Your Computer). Katie Agnew CEDu 581 - 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.
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The Motherboard(The Heart of Your Computer) Katie Agnew CEDu 581 - 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”
Two types of motherboards • Asus P6T Deluxe Motherboard (ATX) • Intel DX58SO Motherboard (ATX) (Both designed for desktop computers and both from leading motherboard processors)
Asus P6T Deluxe As low as $239 (http://computers.pricegrabber.com/motherboards) As low as $245 (www.amazon.com) Intel DX58SO As low as $239 (http://computers.pricegrabber.com/motherboards) As low as $247 (www.amazon.com) Price comparison
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 (www.techspot.com/review) 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 (www.motherboards.org) Stability and Consumer Reports
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 • www.tech-faq.com • www.techtutorials.info/motherbd.html • www.build-your-own-computers.com/how-to-choose-a-motherboard.html • http://computers.pricegrabber.com/motherboards • www.amazon.com • www.techspot.com/review • www.motherboards.org • www.intel.com