Motherboard
The motherboard contains the most important computer components, such as:
- Processor socket
- South bridge (Once also north)
- RAM memory slots
- Expansion card slots
- Connectors for connecting mass storage
- Interfaces of peripheral devices
- Power connectors
- Bios
The most popular motherboard standards include:
AT
Description
This disc was introduced in 1984. Unlike the previous 8-bit XT model, it has 16-bit architecture. It can handle processors, for AMD Pentium III Intel or Athlon, but it does not have a standard for the specific location of individual components. It is powered by 5 and 12 V voltage, its dimensions are 305 X 350mm.
ATX
Description
The launch date is 1995. The plate which already had the standard, clearly defining the arrangement of individual elements. More port outputs on the back (in AT, it was usually just the keyboard port). The innovative technology is "Soft power" allowing to control the power supply from the SO level. There are also new devices integrated with the disc, eg graphics, sound or network cards. The power supply used by the motherboard is 5, 12, and 3.3 V. Dimensions: 244 X 305mm.
WTX
Description
WTX format is a type of server boards, introduced in 1998. It was created for larger needs, such as several processors and hard drives in the SCSI standard. It has a large number of slots, for memory chips and expansion cards (64-bit PCI, AGP pro). It is possible to connect up to 4 power supplies. Dimensions: 356 X 425mm.
NLX
Description
Headboard for office use, introduced to the market in 1996. Mounted mainly in type, desktop enclosures. It does not have connectors for expansion cards, but it has an additional Raiser Card with outlets for other types of cards. Dimensions: 228 X 254mm.
BTX
Description
The motherboard, which was to replace the ATX format, introduced in 2004. This standard also includes types of power supplies and enclosures. BTX format, introduced several improvements to ATX, m.i.n. more ergonomic airflow was created, providing better cooling, the most hot devices (GPU, RAM). Dimensions: 266 X 325mm.
Despite the improvements, this motherboard standard was not accepted, because when replacing the board, it was also necessary to replace the power supply and housing.
CuR!05iTY
Do you know how many motherboard standards there were / are in circulation?
I counted twenty-two kinds!
Such as "Epic (Express)", "DTX", "PC / 104", and I probably missed something.