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IT Support & Hardware · Foundational

Motherboard Form Factor

A standard that defines a motherboard's dimensions, mounting holes, and I/O placement.

Definition

Form factors such as ATX, microATX, and Mini-ITX ensure motherboards fit compatible cases and power supplies. Larger boards offer more expansion slots and DIMM slots. A case typically supports its own form factor and anything smaller.

Example

A microATX board fits in an ATX case, but an ATX board will not fit a Mini-ITX case.

Exam tip

Match board, case, and PSU form factors when building or replacing parts.

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