A motherboard is basically the computer’s circuit board. The RAM, CPU, disk drives, optical drives and hard drives are plugged into the computer’s interfaces. Besides a motherboard linking hardware; it is the focal area of the operating system, allowing hardware components of to be accessed. Motherboards become outdated as a result of constant changes in the chipset and processor markets in regard to the upgrade options. Computer upgrades hence require new motherboards and this is where motherboard upgrading comes in.
Motherboard upgrading may also be due to inadequate space for the required RAM, unavailability of slots for sufficient graphics card and motherboard damage. Addition of new memory modules or the upgrading of a processor may not cause Windows XP for example to raise alarm, but the installation of a new motherboard will most likely be a cause for XP to cease booting altogether. There is a procedure for the correct installation of new motherboards and it is rather easy and straightforward. Though complex, motherboards are easily removed from the case by unscrewing a few screws.
The user can decide whether to keep the original computer parts or buy new ones with the computer. If the original parts are retained, the new motherboard should be compatible with these parts. To find out the various parts in the computer the user accesses the Device Manager and once this is accomplished, the user can shop for the motherboard. Web sites are advisable for comparing and contrasting different models.
When shopping for motherboards, it is important to ensure they are inclusive of; adequate RAM slots, PCI slots compatible with the graphics card, CPU sockets compatible with CPU, adequate USB slots and an optional onboard sound which saves money and offers an extra PCI slot. After choosing the motherboard, one should ensure that all the parts fit.
To install the new motherboard, the CPU is first put on the motherboard and the latch closed, then RAM is slotted into its slot whereby it must be aligned, the motherboard may require an alignment of the legs it is screwed onto after which the motherboard can be screwed in. The next step involves reconnecting the power supply, fan and heat sink, graphics card and reattaching all the wires taken out into the respective slots. The computer is then turned on and the sound of a beep is an indication of the detection of the hard drive by the motherboard.