WHAT IS A MOTHERBOARD?

Alternatively referred to as the mb, mainboard, mboard, mobo, mobd, backplane board, base board, main circuit board, planar board, system board, or a logic board on Apple computers. The motherboard is a printed circuit board and foundation of a computer that is the biggest board in a computer chassis. It allocates power and allows communication to and between the CPU, RAM, and all other computer hardware components.

Motherboard overview

A motherboard provides connectivity between the hardware components of a computer, like the processor (CPU), memory (RAM), hard drive, and video card. There are multiple types of motherboards, designed to fit different types and sizes of computers.

Each type of motherboard is designed to work with specific types of processors and memory, so they don't work with every processor and type of memory. However, hard drives are mostly universal and work with the majority of motherboards, regardless of the type or brand.

Below is a picture of the ASUS P5AD2-E motherboard with labels next to each of its major components. Clicking on the image directs you to a larger and more detailed version

How many connections, ports, or slots are on a motherboard?

There is no set standard to how many connections, ports, or expansion slots are on a motherboard. The best method of determining how many connections, ports, or slots are available for your motherboard is to look up the specifications contained in its documentation. If you've lost or discarded your motherboard's documentation, you can often download a free PDF version from the manufacturer's website.

How does a motherboard connect to a computer case?

A computer motherboard connects to a desktop computer case using standouts. Once the motherboard is attached to the case, all other devices connect to the motherboard itself or an expansion card.

What was the first motherboard?

The first motherboard is considered to be one used in the IBM Personal Computer, released in 1981. At the time, IBM called it a "planar" instead of a motherboard. The IBM Personal Computer and the motherboard inside it would set the standard for IBM-compatible computer hardware going forward.

Since there is a motherboard, is there a fatherboard?

No, there is no such thing as a fatherboard when referring to a computer. However, there is such a thing as a daughterboard.

Where did the motherboard get its name?

The daughterboards we mentioned in the previous section are circuit boards that all plug into one larger central circuit board; a motherboard. The smaller boards can be thought of as the main board's "children," hence the name motherboard.

Is there a motherboard in a laptop, smartphone, and tablet?

Yes, although the board is often referred to as a "logic board" and not a motherboard. The logic board is very similar to a motherboard and operates the same way. However, because of size requirements with most logic boards, components like the processor and RAM (in tablets and smartphones) are soldered onto the board. Also, because many of these devices have no upgrade options, there are no slots or sockets like a traditional computer motherboard.