CertiGuide to A+ (A+ 4 Real)  9  Chapter 8: Motherboards

Logical Names 1 MicroATX

Recently, both AMD and Intel have developed 64-bit processing units, which mean that new motherboards have been designed and created to support the effective doubling of processor speeds. While most of these processors are currently used in servers, some are being released in desktop and workstation units. This means the average computer user will benefit for this vast increase in processing technology.

What does this mean for the new A+ technician? Technicians will be called upon increasingly to support both 32-bit and 64-bit CPU capable motherboards. In addition to what you are already learning about processors and motherboards, both modern and legacy, you will now be expected to be able to tell the difference, upgrade, and maintain this new technology. As you advance in your new career, you would be wise to keep up on the latest publications and news on computer hardware development so that you are prepared for the changes that are being released with ever-increasing speed and regularity. The next changes are only around the corner. As technicians, we have the privilege of always being students as well as experts and perhaps teachers and authors. Good luck with your future.

To help you prepare for the future of motherboard technology, let’s now take a look at some of the newer and upcoming motherboard form factors.

Logical Names 1 MicroATX