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MICRO ATX

Micro ATX, otherwise referred to as mATX or uATX is a standard for computer motherboards. The micro ATX was established in 1997. The biggest 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 particularly 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 designs. AT was the default form factor for computer systems until it was replaced by ATX. The main reason for the change from AT to ATX was that ATX dealt with many of the difficulties that were met with AT by system developers. It effectively suited new market developments and computer advancements. They supply the same benefits of ATX but micro ATX motherboards improved upon certain areas of ATX. Micro ATX motherboards can be used in full ATX boards especially since the I/O panel is identical. Both micro ATX and ATX motherboards use the same power connectors and as a result, full sized ATX power supplies can be used with micro ATX. Both types of motherboards use the same chipsets hence allowing them to use much of the same elements. Micro ATX are much smaller than ATX kinds, therefore, they are usually fitted with fewer expansion slots.

In order to effectively exploit the available expansion slots, and case space, they are widely produced with a full range of peripherals that can form the basis of small form factors and medium center computer systems. As a result of so many integrated elements on the motherboard, the need for having several expansion slots is largely lessened, and accordingly, the use of micro ATX motherboards increased.

Micro ATX motherboards are perfect for use where less than 4 expansion slots are required. The present trend in computer technology is one in which consumers are seeking lower cost solutions for their computer systems. Micro ATX also deals with this matter, in that, being a much smaller motherboard the cost requirement connected to the complete system set up is greatly reduced so that the consumer can gain from more affordable computer systems. Previously, stereo sound, LAN connection, USB and other useful elements were bought independently and connected to a computer system. Nowadays, with micro ATX, all these components and more are incorporated hence decreasing the hassle, the time and the expense of purchasing and setting up these required components at a later time. Micro ATX supports:

•    Current processor technologies•    The changeover to more advanced processor technologies.•    AGP high performance graphics solutions•    Smaller power supply form factor

There are helpful tips that you must bear in mind when buying a micro ATX. Some of these tips are offered below.

-   It is of greatest 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 influenced by how the computer is used and for what purpose.

-   Before you purchase a micro ATX, be certain that it will work with the parts that you already have.

-   Just like any other electronic device, when buying a micro ATX ensure you are getting a high quality motherboard. Always try to purchase from suppliers that are prominent and reputable in the business of computer technology.