What Are the Different Parts of a Motherboard?

A motherboard is the primary circuit board found in many electronic devices that perform complicated processes, such as computers and televisions. Also called a logic board on Apple computers, main board, system board, or mobo for short, the motherboard is where all other components that help the device function are plugged, including peripherals.

Chipset

The chipset is a set of integrated circuits that function together and allow the connection of the main memory, the central processing unit's (CPU) front-side bus, and any peripheral buses.

Clock Generator

The clock generator circuit creates a clock or timing signal that allows the device's many components to synchronize.

Connectors

Power connectors distribute power from the electrical source to the device's components, while additional connectors support the attachment of essential components, such as a keyboard or mouse.

Non-Volatile Memory Chips

These highly specialized chips are able to store information whether the device is powered on or not, and they contain the critical system BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) and firmware in computers.

Slots

Memory slots are designed to house the device's main memory, general slots hold expansion cards, and slots called sockets permit the installation of microprocessors that perform CPU functions.

Resources

• What Is a Motherboard?