Motherboard Components

# sockets (or slots) in which one or more microprocessors may be set up.

# slots into which the system's main memory is to be installed (typically in the form of DIMM modules containing DRAM chips)

# a chipset which forms an interface between the CPU's front-side bus, main memory, and peripheral buses

# non-volatile memory chips (usually Flash ROM in modern motherboards) containing the system's firmware or Basic Input and output system (BIOS)

# a clock generator which produces the system clock signal to bring into line the various components

# slots for expansion cards (these interface to the system via the buses supported by the chipset)

power connectors, which receive electrical power from the computer power supply and distribute it to the CPU, chipset, main memory, and expansion cards.