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Motherboard Form Factors - CompTIA A+ 220-1101 – 1.14
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Let’s have a look at motherboard form factors.
What is a Form Factor?
A form factor defines certain aspects of the computer, but still allows for some variation in design. For example, it standardizes certain sizes and layouts. The form factor specifies crucial aspects such as a motherboard's dimensions to ensure compatibility, the positioning of screw holes for stable installation and the number of expansion slots for components like graphics cards. It also influences the arrangement and types of ports on the rear panel, facilitating peripheral connections.
It is unlikely that you will get a question about a particular form factor, but it is important to be aware that these standards exist and understand their significance. CompTIA identifies three key standards: Mini-ITX, microATX and ATX.
Form Factor Specifications
The form factor specification also defines how other components connect to the computer. This includes the maximum number of expansion slots. For example, an ATX form factor supports up to seven expansion slots. However, it is important to note that the actual number of usable slots in a case might be less due to layout constraints. Even if a motherboard has the available slots, the case design might not physically accommodate certain cards, for example, extra-long expansion cards. So, it's always crucial to check both the motherboard and case specifications for compatibility with specific expansion cards.
The form factor also defines the IO area, often located on the computer’s back panel, where you connect peripherals like monitors, keyboards and mice. Manufacturers can use this area anyway they like.
The form factor not only dictates the motherboard's size and layout but also standardizes some of the connectors, such as power connectors. This ensures that a power supply designed for a specific form factor will be compatible with any motherboard adhering to that standard. Therefore, when you buy a motherboard with a particular form factor, you simply need to select components, such as a computer case and power supply, that are compatible with that form factor.
ATX Form Factor Air Flow
The ATX form factor is the most popular. In terms of airflow, ATX cases typically employ a front-to-back pattern, drawing cool air from the front and expelling it through the rear and top, creating a positive pressure environment that minimizes dust buildup. However, variations exist based on case design and fan placement, influencing the efficiency of the airflow. This is the opposite of the previous AT form factor.
Small Form Factor (SFF)
Small Form Factor or SFF PCs have become increasingly popular for those seeking a compact computer. They have become popular as general-purpose computers for a lot of businesses. The advantages of SFF PCs include space savings, sleek designs, energy-efficient components, and generally lower noise levels due to smaller fans.
There are a lot of different small form factors available – I have shown four of the more common ones. For the A+ exam, it is doubtful that you will get a question on one of these form factors, so just be aware that they exist.
It is important to remember that there are also some trade-offs with SFF PCs. One of the main limitations is their restricted upgradability compared with desktop computers. The smaller size often means you won't be able to physically fit larger additional hard drives or expansion cards. Additionally, SFF cases typically use smaller power supplies, which can limit the overall power available to the system and restrict your options for adding power-hungry components. Furthermore, while smaller fans can be quieter, they also have less cooling capacity, so SFF PCs can have higher internal temperatures when pushed to their limits.
Nowadays, some of these limitations are less of a concern for general users, as many tasks can be done efficiently with limited local storage due to the availability of online storage and integrated graphics, meaning a graphics card is not required. However, it's still important to be aware of these limitations before choosing an SFF PC, especially if you anticipate needing to upgrade your system down the line.
References
“The Official CompTIA A+ Core Study Guide (Exam 220-1101)” pages 36 to 37
Credits
What is a Form Factor?
A form factor defines certain aspects of the computer, but still allows for some variation in design. For example, it standardizes certain sizes and layouts. The form factor specifies crucial aspects such as a motherboard's dimensions to ensure compatibility, the positioning of screw holes for stable installation and the number of expansion slots for components like graphics cards. It also influences the arrangement and types of ports on the rear panel, facilitating peripheral connections.
It is unlikely that you will get a question about a particular form factor, but it is important to be aware that these standards exist and understand their significance. CompTIA identifies three key standards: Mini-ITX, microATX and ATX.
Form Factor Specifications
The form factor specification also defines how other components connect to the computer. This includes the maximum number of expansion slots. For example, an ATX form factor supports up to seven expansion slots. However, it is important to note that the actual number of usable slots in a case might be less due to layout constraints. Even if a motherboard has the available slots, the case design might not physically accommodate certain cards, for example, extra-long expansion cards. So, it's always crucial to check both the motherboard and case specifications for compatibility with specific expansion cards.
The form factor also defines the IO area, often located on the computer’s back panel, where you connect peripherals like monitors, keyboards and mice. Manufacturers can use this area anyway they like.
The form factor not only dictates the motherboard's size and layout but also standardizes some of the connectors, such as power connectors. This ensures that a power supply designed for a specific form factor will be compatible with any motherboard adhering to that standard. Therefore, when you buy a motherboard with a particular form factor, you simply need to select components, such as a computer case and power supply, that are compatible with that form factor.
ATX Form Factor Air Flow
The ATX form factor is the most popular. In terms of airflow, ATX cases typically employ a front-to-back pattern, drawing cool air from the front and expelling it through the rear and top, creating a positive pressure environment that minimizes dust buildup. However, variations exist based on case design and fan placement, influencing the efficiency of the airflow. This is the opposite of the previous AT form factor.
Small Form Factor (SFF)
Small Form Factor or SFF PCs have become increasingly popular for those seeking a compact computer. They have become popular as general-purpose computers for a lot of businesses. The advantages of SFF PCs include space savings, sleek designs, energy-efficient components, and generally lower noise levels due to smaller fans.
There are a lot of different small form factors available – I have shown four of the more common ones. For the A+ exam, it is doubtful that you will get a question on one of these form factors, so just be aware that they exist.
It is important to remember that there are also some trade-offs with SFF PCs. One of the main limitations is their restricted upgradability compared with desktop computers. The smaller size often means you won't be able to physically fit larger additional hard drives or expansion cards. Additionally, SFF cases typically use smaller power supplies, which can limit the overall power available to the system and restrict your options for adding power-hungry components. Furthermore, while smaller fans can be quieter, they also have less cooling capacity, so SFF PCs can have higher internal temperatures when pushed to their limits.
Nowadays, some of these limitations are less of a concern for general users, as many tasks can be done efficiently with limited local storage due to the availability of online storage and integrated graphics, meaning a graphics card is not required. However, it's still important to be aware of these limitations before choosing an SFF PC, especially if you anticipate needing to upgrade your system down the line.
References
“The Official CompTIA A+ Core Study Guide (Exam 220-1101)” pages 36 to 37
Credits
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