Installing Motherboards, CPUs, and Memory

Installing Motherboards, CPUs, and Memory

            Installing and upgrading a motherboard requires that you understand the CPU

            models that will work with the motherboard, as well as the appropriate type of

            memory compatible with both the motherboard and the amount of memory it can

            handle. Therefore, we address these three topics together in this section.

            Selecting a Motherboard, CPU, and Memory Combination

            several motherboard form factors, each with different layouts, components, and specifications. Each motherboard is unique in terms of the memory, processor, and type and number of expansion slots it supports.In other words, you cannot tell which components a motherboard supports solely by knowing the form factor of motherboard. Therefore, you must always check the manufacturer’s documentation before you select a motherboard and the components you wish to install on it. Any motherboard manual contains a list of installed and  supported components, such as CPUs and memory.

 CPU Sockets

 

            When selecting a CPU, it is important to make sure that it is compatible with the

            type and speed of the motherboard. Motherboards can typically use only one or two

            processor models and can usually handle only two or three different processor speeds.

            The two major CPU manufacturers, Intel and AMD, each offer, at any given

            time, only a few current processor lines, but numerous processor models within each

            line. One of the many differences between the individual processor models is how

            the processor attaches to the motherboard, referred to as the socket.

            At this writing, the majority of processors from both manufacturers use some

            variation of pin grid array (PGA) socket, meaning that the processor has a square

            array of pins (numbered in the many hundreds) that insert into a matching socket

            on the motherboard. In most cases, the word “socket” is used. In many cases, but

            not in all, a number that indicates the number of pins in the array follows the word

            “socket.” For instance, some AMD processors have 939 pins and use “Socket 939.”

            Read the motherboard and CPU documentation very carefully to be sure that the

            CPU and socket match, because there are many versions of PGA sockets.

            Furthermore, the CPU socket on the motherboard will usually have a mechanism

            to make it easier to install the CPU without damaging pins. The most common

            method involves a lever on the side of the socket that you raise to open the socket.

            To use this type of socket, commonly called a zero insertion force (ZIF)  socket,

          position the CPU with all pins inserted in the matching socket holes. Then close

            the lever, which lets the socket contact each of the CPU’s pins. In all cases, do not

            count on these simple instructions, but follow those provided in the manuals that

            come with the motherboard and CPU.

 Memory Sockets

 

            By knowing a CPU’s address bus width, you will know the maximum system RAM

            capacity it can access. The minimum amount of memory to install is best determined

            by considering the requirements of the operating system to be installed and how the

            computer will be used

            In addition, by knowing the CPU’s data bus width, you will know how many

            RAM modules you must install at a time to create a full memory bank. Before

            purchasing a motherboard, ensure that it has the proper RAM and CPU slots, and

            that the CMOS settings are appropriate for your needs.

            A motherboard must support both the technology and the form factor of a

            memory module, such as SIMM, RIMM, or DIMM. The system must also support

            the data width of the memory as well as its method of error correction. Today’s

            typical motherboard has DIMM or RIMM memory sockets. If you work on older PCs

            with processors predating the Pentium 4, you may see SIMM sockets. Your choice

            of memory modules will depend on what type of memory the motherboard supports.

            Here is a brief description of each type.