Motherboard Expansion Slots - CompTIA A+ 220-1101 - 3.4
Understanding Motherboard Communication
Overview of Motherboard Components
- A motherboard contains various components such as CPU, memory, storage, and expansion slots that require communication pathways.
- The communication between these components is facilitated by a series of paths known as a bus, which can be visually traced on the motherboard.
PCI Expansion Slots
- Older computers may feature PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) expansion slots, established in 1994, with both 32-bit and 64-bit bus sizes using parallel communication.
- The physical design of PCI slots allows multiple cards to share the same communication path back to a central controller.
Voltage and Compatibility
- PCI cards support different voltages; for instance, a 32-bit card can operate at either 3.3 volts or 5 volts.
- Specific keys on the cards ensure compatibility with corresponding motherboard slots to prevent incorrect installations.
Transitioning to PCI Express
Installation Process
- Installing an expansion card involves aligning it with the slot and pressing down gently until all contacts are properly seated.
Advantages of PCI Express
- Unlike PCI's parallel connection, PCI Express utilizes serial connections through lanes that enhance data transfer capabilities.
- Lanes in PCI Express are denoted as X1, X2, etc., indicating their bandwidth capacity; more lanes allow for greater data throughput.
Visual Comparison of Slots
- A motherboard may have both PCI and PCI Express slots; they differ in size and contact configuration.
- Many modern adapter cards include locking mechanisms to secure them within their respective slots during installation.
Proper Installation Techniques