MOTHERBOARD
What is a motherboard?
The motherboard is the main board of a computer. It is the connection and communication hub between all components: processor (CPU), RAM memory, storage, graphics card, and more. Without it, nothing works.
Main functions
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Interconnection: connects all the PC components.
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Power distribution: receives power from the power supply and distributes it.
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Control and management: contains the firmware (BIOS/UEFI) and chipsets that manage the hardware.
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Physical support: allows mounting components such as RAM, CPU, GPU, hard drives, etc.
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Expansion: offers slots for additional cards.
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Connectivity: provides USB ports, network, audio, video, etc.
Main components of a motherboard
CPU socket
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The place where the processor is installed.
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Examples: LGA 1700 (Intel), AM5 (AMD).
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Must be compatible with the CPU you want to use.
Chipset
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The “secondary brain” that determines which functions and ports are available (USB, PCIe, etc.).
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Example: Intel Z790, AMD B650.
RAM slots (DIMM)
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Slots where the memory goes.
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Types: DDR4 or DDR5 (they are not compatible with each other).
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Supports certain speeds and capacities depending on the model.
PCIe slots
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Slots to connect graphics cards (GPU), sound cards, network cards, etc.
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Versions: PCIe 3.0, 4.0, 5.0 (higher number = higher speed).
Storage ports
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SATA: for hard drives (HDD) and 2.5" SSDs.
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M.2: for NVMe or SATA SSDs, much faster and more compact.
Form factors (board sizes)
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ATX: standard, larger, more ports.
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Micro-ATX (mATX): smaller, fewer ports.
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Mini-ITX: very compact, ideal for small PCs.
Key compatibility factors when choosing a motherboard
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Socket: must be compatible with your processor.
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RAM type: DDR4 or DDR5, maximum supported capacity and speed.
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Form factor: must fit inside your case (chassis).
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Chipset: defines available features and ports.
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Storage: number of M.2 slots and SATA ports.
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