Motherboard replacement requirements
The motherboard serves as the central connection point for everything inside a computer. All of the peripherals plug into the motherboard, and it passes all of the data between the memory and the CPU. Even the tiniest computers in existence still have some form of motherboard.
CPU
The most important item when replacing a motherboard is the CPU. The CPU type and CPU socket on the motherboard must match exactly. In addition, some motherboards will only accept certain CPUs, even if they have the same socket type. If you are replacing a motherboard and the existing CPU is being used, different brands of motherboards can fill the replacement, as long as the new motherboard will accept the existing CPU. If you are replacing the CPU along with the motherboard, make sure the new motherboard accepts the new CPU. This information can be found in the motherboard's specifications.
Memory (RAM)
The second most important item is memory. Current memory standards are DDR2 and DDR3. Within each of those standards, there are sub-standards that represent different speeds. For example, DDR2 is available at 533 MHz, but most newer motherboards will accept only 667 or faster speeds. If you want to replace the motherboard while using an existing CPU and memory, be sure the new motherboard will accept both.
Motherboard Connectors
If you are replacing a motherboard for an existing system, make sure the new motherboard supports all the connections required. For example, many new motherboards no longer have IDE or Parallel ports. If you are using an IDE drive or a Parallel port printer, an add-on card may be required to work with the new motherboard.
Card slots
Card slots for internal expansion cards have changed over time. For example, ISA slots were a mainstay on motherboards for nearly 20 years, but they no longer appear on any new motherboards. PCI slots are starting to become a rare commodity as well, since the newer PCI-E standard is taking over. AGP for video cards was a standard for nearly 10 years, but no new motherboards still support this slot standard. If you need to support any internal expansion cards, be sure the new replacement motherboard has enough of the correct slots to cover your needs.
Tags: replacing motherboard, sure motherboard, will accept, Card slots, expansion cards