Motherboards are a crucial component in every computer. Most people would agree that having the right motherboard on your computer is critical to getting all of the benefits from your hardware.
Without the right motherboard, your hardware may not function correctly. Some of these functions include screen brightness, display output, and storage access.
This article will go into detail about what parts of a motherboard are not considered to be field replaceable units (FRU) and what does this mean for you as a user.
User friendly motherboards have easy-to-use features such as software and settings that take less time to set up than with some of the more complicated boards out there. This makes it less useful for users who are looking for a very high level of customization compared with simple board management features.
Motherboards that have FRU capabilities are able to be changed by just removing the old one and putting in the new one, making it more user friendly.
Memory
There is a difference between what type of memory a computer can accept and what kind of memory a computer can use.
Most computers have standard RAM (Random Access Memory) that is soldered to the motherboard. This type of memory can not be removed and put in at a later date!
Using non-standard sized RAM can put your computer in an area where it is vulnerable to damage. Most often, when buying RAM, you get a set of two or four “cables” for $2-$4 extra each, making the cost $8-$12 perComputer.
The differences in speed also make a difference in apps and games that you run, where you store data, and whether or not it is sufficient for your needs.
Graphics card
A graphics card is not considered to be a FRSU. It is, however, considered to be a special device. The differences are as follows:
Graphics card is a field replaceable unit (FRU). It has its own internal components that need to be replaced. These components include the video card, memory cards, and storage devices.
Motherboard does not have its own graphics card. Instead, it has an integrated graphics card called the motherboard GPU. This GPU can be used for gaming or just fun fun stuff like downloading games from websites or installing them on your system.
When installing games, some motherboards do not allow you to install the dedicated graphics card because it is considered a FRSU. You must use the integrated GPU instead.
USB ports
There are two types of USB ports on a computer: a standard, universal standard, and a USB-C. Most modern computers have the standard port, which is a small circular port with a white plug on it. This is the type that connects an accessory like an iPhone or iPad to your computer.
The other type of port is the USB-C, which has a larger circle plug with a gold dot on it. This is the new standard port for most computers, as it connects to all kinds of accessories now.
A USB-C port does not allow you to connect several devices at once; it’s only compatible with one at a time. But if you want just one device connected to your computer, then go for it!
The downside to having only one type of port on your machine is that you must choose which one you need when someone wants to connect an accessory or device.
Sound card
A sound card is an external device that connects to your computer or laptop to allow you to connect speakers and a microphone.
There are many different kinds of cards, so it is not possible to give an all-in-all summary. Instead, we will focus on the components that determine how a card works.
The main function of the sound card is to transfer sound data between your computer and the speakers or microphones. There are two parts of the card that communicate with your computer: a chip and a pin.
The chip sends various data packets such as audio data, control signals, and power management commands. The pin can send either positive or negative charges, depending on what command is sent.
Data transferred between the chip and pin can be in any format including USB, RCA, Toslink, Firewire, PCI-, and even legacy connections if they were used before computers had USB interfaces.
Network connection card
The network connection card is a small card that connects your computer to the Internet. It contains the necessary software and devices to connect your computer to the Internet.
Your network connection card can also be used as a modem, allowing your computer to access the Internet through an external modem.
Although not considered a field replaceable unit, the network connection card can be disassembled and re-assembled as needed. This makes it useful for those who do not have an easy method of connecting their computer to the internet, such as those who use a phone modem or use a free software solution like cyberduck.
When purchasing a motherboard, it is important that you purchase one that is compatible with your processor. Your processor must be able to communicate with the board that is installed on it. If your board does not meet this requirement, your processor may not function properly.
Power connector
Most motherboards include a USB port and/or a HDMI port. However, if you have a standard-sized USB port or a standard-sized HDMI port, then your motherboard does not have an integrated power supply connector.
This is because the power supply must be replaced when it wears out. A replacement power supply costs money and can be difficult to install as it requires removing two covers and installing a new unit.
Power connectors are replaceable on an as needed basis basis. If the user notices that their computer is sleeping or Suspend mode is working more slowly, then they should get it fixed!
Power connectors are also easy to remove and install as they have smaller screws on them. This makes them easier to look at and know when they need to be replaced.
Cooling fan(s)
A cooling fan is not a FRCU, even if it is contained inside an external fan enclosure. A cooling fan can use either direct or indirect exposure to air to function.
Direct exposure requires that the cooling fan housing or a casing for the internal air chamber is directly exposed to air to function. Indirect exposure does not require external airflow but does require power from a field replaceable unit (FRU) supply.
A case may have grill and dust cover materials that are direct or indirect exposure to air, respectively.
Direct exposure: If the cooling fan has no other functions, then it must be physically removed from its housing or external enclosure and placed outside in a windy environment for at least half an hour to hours for the fans to vent enough hot air away. This must be done before any activity that could put stress on the fans such as heavy equipment use, high water activities, etc.
Case connectors
A case connector is a small pin that connects the case to the motherboard. These are typically easy to replace, but if you need to, it can be difficult due to limited access.
Case connectors are typically on the power connection, video connection, and perhaps a USB connection. It is the same connector that lets you plug in your mouse and keyboard as well as your monitor and operating system.
USB is an easy one to replace as most computers have two USB ports and a keyboard or mouse usually requires only one cable to connect.
Power button or reset button? Both have benefits and neither bothers me more than the other. Most motherboards have a power button on the bottom that when pressed brings you back to the initial desktop display screen or off if you wanted to go into sleep mode.
