an illustrated guide to what motherboard do you need to build your own pc

What motherboard do you need to self build a pc?

Motherboard : Almost everyone knows that the motherboard is the most important component of your computer. At one point or another, every other component connects to the motherboard. Because of this importance it also affects any future possibilities of upgrade.

selecting a motherboard to build your own pc

A good example of this is the software programmes of the future need an increasing amount of ram. First of all what type can your motherboard take. Second, how many slots does it have? Similarly say you want the latest video card. Can your motherboard take it. In addition some features USED to be optional, now they are an integral part of the board for example usb connectors, onboard video cards etc. Don't buy these if they are already on the board.

What options do you have? Generally speaking there are three distinct types of boards:

The most commonly used board comes with a single CPU slot, EIDE controller, and on board video and sound. This is option is acceptable as long as these components are easily disabled (if not then you are buying a new board if the video or sound fails). Most will support a wide range of processors with different voltage/power settings-get a power supply that is appropriate!!

Secondly you can purchase a very basic board. The only thing going for these boards is cost (cheap) These boards tend to have built in sound and video but little else. They certainly will revolt at overclocking and have a limited range of CPU support. The heartache simply isn't worth it-avoid at all costs.

The final type is the mother of all boards. These are the dual processor boards, often with built on NIC and SCSI, a with a whole host of PCI slots. To be honest if you can afford these then you can afford to get someone to build it for you! Some general points:

Slots - How many do you need-how long is apiece of string? Seriously though the more the better. For most of us the standard 4 or 5 PCI slots will be fine and ensure an AGP slot is present and if necessary, ISA or CNR slots.

Board Layout - Where is everything going to go? Would fitting one part stop you fitting another because it is too big - there will be overlap etc. What will you need to take out to get in to other parts (i.e. what will get in the way). Consider also the size of the case-will the board fit EASILY

Motherboard Manuals - Do you get one? Simple enough question, but it would amaze you how often you don't. Second question, is the manual written in your language? Alternatively, do you know EXACTLY who made your board and have you checked out their website for support? Would you buy ANY piece of equipment without a manual? Then don't get a motherboard-highly complex piece of electrical engineering without one.

Hardware Support - How often do you think PC engineers make a living (and have a good laugh) at people who buy a motherboard which states won't support x,y or z. Then, the self builder buys those parts and can't understand why it won't work. Pay CLOSE attention to the specs to make sure that the board will support any hardware you would like to use.

Reviews - What does everyone else (who have already forked out their "hard earned") think of it. Do a search on the Internet for reviews. You should get an honest review somewhere especially of any annoying problems it might have.
See next page for processor

Never carry out any work on your computer whilst is is plugged into the mains power socket, you could cause yourself and your PC damage.

The power supply does not contain any user servicable parts and contains hazardous voltages it should not be opened-even after it has been switched off.

Many desktop and tower cases have sharp edges be careful when working inside the case of your PC.