Compatibility With ATX Boards

Micro ATX, sometimes termed mATX or uATX is a standard for computer motherboards. The micro ATX was established in 1997. The maximum size of a micro ATX motherboard is 9.6 inches x 9.6 inches or 244 mm x 244mm. The smallest micro ATX motherboard is 6.75 x 6.75 inches (171.45 x 171.45 mm). The size of a standard ATX motherboard is 12 x 9.6 inches (305 x 244 mm). The central processing units (CPUs) that are supported by micro ATX motherboard are VIA, INTEL and AMD.

Micro ATX motherboard was specially created to be backward-compatible with ATX. If you are unaware of what ATX is, it is a computer form factor that was created by INTEL. It was a change for years in computer case, power supply and motherboard versions. AT was the default form factor for computer systems until it was changed by ATX. The main reason for the transformation from AT to ATX was that ATX tackled many of the glitches that were encountered with AT by system manufacturers.

It effectively adapted to new market trends and computer developments. They provide the same benefits of ATX but micro ATX motherboards improved upon specific areas of ATX. Micro ATX motherboards can be used in complete ATX boards particularly since the I/O panel is exactly the same. Both micro ATX and ATX motherboards use the same power connectors and therefore, full sized ATX power supplies can be used with micro ATX. Both types of motherboards use the same chipsets therefore enabling them to use much of the same elements. Micro ATX are much smaller than ATX types, therefore, they are typically fitted with less expansion slots.

In order to effectively utilize the available expansion slots, and case space, they are popularly produced with a full range of peripherals that can form the basis of small form factors and medium center computer systems. Because of so many incorporated elements on the motherboard, the demand for having several expansion slots is significantly decreased, and consequently, the use of micro ATX motherboards grew.

Micro ATX motherboards are ideal for use where less than 4 expansion slots are needed. The present tendency in computer technology is one where customers are searching for inexpensive solutions for their computer systems. Micro ATX also deals with this matter, in that, being a much smaller motherboard the cost requirement associated with the total system set up is greatly lessened so that the end user can benefit from more inexpensive computer systems.

Previously, stereo sound, LAN connection, USB and other practical elements were purchased separately and connected to a computer system. Nowadays, with micro ATX, all these components and more are incorporated thus reducing the trouble, the time and the cost of buying and setting up these required elements at a future date.

Micro ATX supports:

1. Present processor technologies
2. The transition to more advanced processor technologies.
3. AGP high performance graphics solutions
4. Smaller power supply form factor

There are useful tips that you must consider when purchasing a micro ATX. Some of these tips are provided below.

1. It is of utmost importance that you find out whether the motherboard will do all that you want to get done or not. The success of most motherboards is determined by how the computer is used and for what purpose.
2. Before you buy a micro ATX, be certain that it will work with the parts that you already own.
3. Similar to any other electronic device, when buying a micro ATX make sure you are getting a high quality motherboard. Always try to buy from suppliers that are prominent and reputable in the business of computer technology.

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