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Motherboard Connectors - CompTIA A+ 220-1101 - 3.4
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Motherboard Connectors - CompTIA A+ 220-1101 - 3.4

Motherboard Power Connectors Explained

Overview of Motherboard Power Connectors

  • The primary power connector on a motherboard supplies power directly from the power supply, providing voltages of 3.3V, ±5V, and ±12V.
  • Initially designed as a 20-pin connector, the standard has evolved to a 24-pin connector to accommodate increased power needs.

Compatibility and Connection

  • A 24-pin connector can be used with older motherboards that have a 20-pin configuration; some modular power supplies allow for this flexibility.
  • The connectors are keyed to ensure correct orientation during installation, preventing incorrect connections.

Additional Power Requirements for CPUs

CPU Power Connectors

  • Some motherboards require additional power for the CPU through a 4-pin ATX connector (Advanced Technology Extended).
  • These connectors typically provide 12 volts specifically for the CPU and are labeled as CPU, P4, or ATX12V.

Visual Identification

  • The location of these connectors is usually near the CPU socket on the motherboard.

Storage Connections on Motherboards

SATA Connections

  • SATA (Serial ATA) connectors are used to connect hard drives and SSDs; they may vary in layout or color but serve the same function.

External Storage Options

  • eSATA connections allow for external storage devices while maintaining performance comparable to internal SATA connections.

Pin Headers and Their Functions

Understanding Pin Headers

  • Pin headers consist of groups of pins located at the edge of the motherboard, connecting various components like USB ports and audio functions.

Specific Uses of Pin Headers

  • Common labels include AAFP (external audio), USB connections, TPM (Trusted Platform Module), and fan control headers.

Case Connectors Integration

Connecting Case Buttons to Motherboard

  • Case buttons such as reset switches and power lights connect via labeled connectors on the motherboard.

Visual Representation

  • Diagrams show how case wires plug into corresponding pins on the motherboard for functionality.

M.2 Connector Usage

M.2 Standard Connectivity

Playlists: CompTIA 220-1101 A+ Training Course
Video description

A+ Training Course Index: https://professormesser.link/1101videos Professor Messer’s Course Notes: https://professormesser.link/1101notes - - - - - Our motherboards provide connection and communication between many different components. In this video, you’ll learn about main power connectors, 4-pin ATX power connectors, SATA connectors, and pin headers. - - - - - Subscribe to get the latest videos: https://professormesser.link/yt Calendar of live events: https://www.professormesser.com/calendar/ FOLLOW PROFESSOR MESSER: Professor Messer official website: https://www.professormesser.com/ Twitter: https://www.professormesser.com/twitter Facebook: https://www.professormesser.com/facebook Instagram: https://www.professormesser.com/instagram LinkedIn: https://www.professormesser.com/linkedin