subject: Best Features of The Micro ATX [print this page] Best Features of The Micro ATX Best Features of The Micro ATX
The Micro ATX, also known as the mATX, is called the standard of mother boards, and was introduced in 1997. Some mATX mother boards are as small as 6.75 inches x 6.74 inches (171.45 mm x 171.45 mm), while the maximum size can reach 9.6 x 9.6 inches (244 x 244 mm). Here are the other well-known features of the Micro ATX.
Designed to Suit New Market Trends
The Micro ATX is designed by Intel, and was designed to suit new fast-changing market trends and technology advancements. The mATX mother board can be used in complete ATX boards, because the I/O panel is quite the same, and both micro and ATX mother boards utilize the same power connectors. As a result, a full-sized ATX's power supply can be used by the Micro ATX. And since both mother boards have the same chipsets, they use much of the same components.
Suitable for Use Where Less Than Four Expansion Slots are Needed
The Micro ATX mother board is very suitable for use where less than 4 expansion slots are required. The mATX answers the needs of consumers who are looking for cheaper solutions for their computer systems, and since it has a much smaller mother board, the expenses associated with the entire system are considerably lessened. The mATX also adds a lot of useful features in one bundle. It includes LAN connection, stereo sound, USB and other helpful elements. This lessens the time, hassle and expense of buying other expensive components separately.
Compatibility and Expandability
The Micro ATX was designed and manufactured to offer full compatibility, which means that an ATX board can be used on a full-scale ATX case. A Micro ATX mother board also has power connectors that are identical to those utilized by ATX boards. This allows for full use of ATX power. The mATX can also fully support half a dozen SATA devices, as well as up to 4 Legacy IDE devices.
Installing the Micro ATX
To install the mATX, secure the board's rise pins to the computer case. A user guide will specify where the pins should go. Next, put the mother board inside the case, and insert and fasten each riser pins. After carefully fastening the pins, hook up the computer case power, and reconnect the hard disk and other connectors.
