Motherboards use many acronyms to describe on-board technologies and interfaces.
Computer motherboards have evolved over the years. Starting with Pin Grid Array-based CPU sockets and, eventually, moving on to Land Grid Array Zero Insertion Force motherboards, these advances have allowed for easier installation of CPU's and higher clock speeds. Each time motherboards evolve, the designs and interfaces tend to become more elegant and streamlined.
Motherboard Processor Socket
Motherboards are designated and identified by the type of processor socket they use. There are several types of sockets, which in turn interface with CPUs that fit into them. The two main types of socket in use on motherboards are PGA and LGA. PGA stands for "Pin Grid Array, while LGA stands for "Land Grid Array."
Why Designate
Motherboards are designated by what type of socket they use to inform the buyer what type of CPU will fit in the socket. If all motherboards used the same type of interface to connect to a CPU, designation would not be necessary. But as this is not the case and different types are used, a motherboard is referred to as a PGA or LGA motherboard to inform what type of CPU can work with it.
PIn Grid Array (PGA)
Pin Grid Array motherboard sockets use a network of holes which house pins from a PGA CPU. At installation the pins of the CPU are inserted into the socket's holes, making contact with the motherboard's circuitry. The processor is typically secured to the motherboard by means of a latch which locks into position. This keeps the CPU from moving or falling out of the socket when the PC is moved.
Land Grid Array (LGA)
A Land Grid Array motherboard does not use pins the same way as PGA. It has pins that make contact with the CPU's "lands." Upon installation, the pins of the motherboard make contact with the lands of the CPU, creating the connection. The CPU is locked down much as a PGA CPU, by using a latch mechanism which secures the CPU in place.
Benefits of LGA
LGA has many distinct benefits over PGA. The first is that you don't have to deal with bent CPU pins. PGA CPU pins were known to easily bend, and they are very tough to straighten out. This makes installation impossible until the bent pins are straightened. Another benefit of LGA is that is offers a higher clock frequency on the CPUs due to the larger contact points provided by the land arrays.
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