L1: Motherboard Expansion Slots - CompTIA A+ 220-1101 - 3.4

Components of a Motherboard

• Main Components:

  • CPU (Central Processing Unit)

  • Memory (RAM)

  • Storage

  • Expansion Slots

• Communication: All components need to communicate via a bus system.

Buses and Communication Paths

• Communication Paths: Series of connections allowing interaction between CPU and memory.

• Visible Traces: Traces can be seen at the bottom of the motherboard showing communication paths.

PCI Slots and Standards

• PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect):

  • Established in 1994.

  • Supports 32-bit and 64-bit bus sizes.

  • Uses parallel communication.

    

• Expansion Slots:

  • Older computers may have PCI slots.

  • PCI expansion cards come with different widths and voltage options (3.3V and 5V).

    

Physical Characteristics of PCI Slots

• 32-bit vs. 64-bit PCI Slots:

  • 64-bit PCI slots are larger and can transfer twice the data of 32-bit slots.

    

• Voltage Compatibility: Cards carry indicators for voltage capability.

  

Installing PCI Cards

• Mounting Process:

  • Insert PCI card into the correct slot, ensuring copper contacts are aligned.

  • Secure the card using a screw connection.

    

Transition to PCI Express (PCIe)

• Overview of PCIe:

  • Replaces PCI with a serial connection instead of parallel.

  • Features lanes used for communication (x1, x2, x4, x8, x16).

• Bandwidth Capacity: More lanes provide higher data transfer capabilities.

  

PCI Express Characteristics

• Communication Paths: Each PCIe lane has a bidirectional path for data.

• Expansion Slots: Different sizes accommodate various data transfer needs.

  

Combined Motherboard Support

• Motherboard Design: Supports both PCI and PCIe slots for flexibility in expansion options.

  

• Installation Process for PCIe Cards:

  • Align the card with the slot's hook first, then gently push down.

  • If misaligned, remove and reinsert.

  • Secure in place once properly installed.