Input and output devices have multiplied. Everything from watches to light bulbs are networked (or connected) together. Computers no longer resemble what they once were. Those in the future will probably say the same about computers we use today. .
The desktop computer of today consists of four basic components: input devices, output devices, storage, and the central processing unit (CPU). A motherboard, or main board, connects each of these together to form a functioning unit. The following needs to be considered when buying a motherboard: form factor, chipset, processor, and manufacture. In addition, a suitable case, fan, heat sink, and memory need to be purchased. .
The form factor is the size and shape or the footprint of the motherboard. There are many different form factors; the most common being ATX, AT, LPX and NLX. When building a system from the ground up, the best option is an ATX form factor board. They offer the most current connectors and expansion slots such as AGP, PCI, CNR, USB, and Firewire connectors. In addition, they offer a simplistic power supply connection to the motherboard. The ATX form factor is currently the most widely available. .
There are generally three price levels of boards. The first are the low-cost boards with integrated video and sound. These boards are inexpensive; there is no need to buy separate video or sound cards. Some may think this is a bonus. However, the integrated graphics card may not handle the latest games or graphics or your sound card may not play your favorite band without skipping. Some integrated boards will not allow for future upgrades. There are also those that come with very limited expansion capabilities (i.e. no AGP slot or limited PCI slots).
The next level of boards have limited integrated components such as onboard sound, NIC, and modem. These integrated components can be turned off through the Basic Input Output System (BIOS) or with jumpers to allow use of better card-based components.
