How to choose a good motherboard for your computer. Motherboard power connector

Hi all! Sometimes it becomes necessary to replace the processor in your computer. The reason for this may be a breakdown or an upgrade. And in this article I will tell you how to choose a processor.

Let's first figure out how to choose a processor. The processor is selected according to the following criteria:

1. Manufacturer
2. Processor cache
3. Embedded video

Now let's look at each parameter separately.

1. Let's start with the manufacturer. There are only two manufacturers of processors: Intel and AMD. No one can say which one is better, because both companies are good. Which processor to choose is an individual matter, I can only say that AMD processors are cheaper. Choose according to your computer configuration. If for a powerful gaming computer, it is better to take Intel. For others, AMD will do. I wrote an article for more details.

2. Next, the number of cores. If you have a PC for gaming, you need at least 4 cores. For medium-sized computers, a dual-core is suitable (because most programs use only 2, and even if you have 4, the program will still use 2). You will not find fewer cores in any processor (from new ones, not counting used used processors).

I will explain as clearly as possible: the higher the frequency, the faster the processor will think. That is, the higher the frequency, the more it can perform operations in one second. Try to look for a processor with a minimum frequency of 2.6-2.7 GHz.

I think this is the most important point. Beginners especially need to know, otherwise 100% will buy the wrong processor that they need. In general, a socket is a . There are many different ones: intel has Socket 1150, Socket 1155; AMD has Socket AM3, AM3+, FM2. This is not all, these are just examples. The processor socket name must match the socket name on the motherboard. Otherwise, you simply cannot insert the processor into the socket.

5. CPU cache. Is one of the main parameter when choosing! There is a cache of 1, 2 and 3 levels. This is, so to speak, the RAM of the processor, the more it is, the more information will be processed faster. 1st is the fastest and smallest, and 3rd is the slowest and largest. Sometimes only 2 levels are found on weaker processors. Bottom line: the larger the cache, the better.

The more heat dissipation, the more efficient it will be. Accordingly, the smaller the better.

Technologies that increase productivity. For example, SSE 2,3,4, 3DNow, NX Bit and many others... I was especially pleased with the Intel vPro technology, thanks to which you can even ask intel technical support to block your laptop if it is suddenly stolen.

I will not fool you with all sorts of semiconductors, as described everywhere ... You can read the scientific description on Wikipedia. In a simple variant, the smaller the process technology, the smaller the parts used in the processor, which means that with minimal dimensions, more power can be achieved. The smaller the better, in my i7 the process technology is 22 nm ... Intel threatens to implement 10 nm by 2018 ...

9. And the last - the presence of a built-in graphics core. I will be brief and explain as simply as possible. When the processor has a built-in graphics core, it means that there is a built-in video card. Integrated video cards are available on many motherboards, but they will only work if there is an integrated graphics core in the processor. But not all integrated video cards need this core. In principle, this point is not very important, but it will not be superfluous.

That's all! The main thing is to choose the last socket, a large cache, and the rest from your needs and you can choose a great processor! Good luck!

Choosing a motherboard for an already purchased processor requires certain knowledge. First of all, it is recommended to pay attention to the characteristics of already purchased components, because. it makes no sense to buy a cheap motherboard for a TOP processor and vice versa.

Initially, it is better to buy such basic components as a system unit (case), a central processor, a power supply, a video card. If you decide to purchase a motherboard first, then you should know exactly what you want to expect from an already assembled computer.

Initially, you need to understand which brands are leading in this market and whether they can be trusted. Here is a list of recommended motherboard manufacturers:

If you have already bought powerful and expensive PC components, then by no means buy a cheap motherboard. In the best case, the components will not work at full capacity, lowering all performance to the level of budget PCs. At worst, they will not work at all and you will have to buy another motherboard.

Before assembling a computer, you need to decide what you want to get in the end, because. it will be easier to choose a board without purchasing in advance all the main components for the computer. It is better to buy a high-quality central board (you should not save on this purchase if the possibilities allow it) and then, based on its capabilities, select the rest of the components.

Chipsets for motherboards

The chipset directly determines how many components you can connect to the motherboard, whether they can work with 100% efficiency, which processor is better to choose. In fact, a chipset is something similar to a processor already built into the board, but which is responsible only for the most basic functions, for example, working in the BIOS.

Almost all motherboards are equipped with chipsets from two manufacturers - Intel and AMD. Depending on which processor you have chosen, you also need to choose a board with a chipset from the manufacturer of the selected CPU. Otherwise, there is a chance that the devices will be incompatible and will not work properly.

About Intel chipsets

Compared to the “red” competitor, the “blue” ones do not have many models and varieties of chipsets. Here is a list of the most popular ones:

• H110- suitable for those who do not pursue performance and require the computer only to work correctly in office programs and browsers.
• B150 And H170– there are no significant differences between them. Both are great for mid-range computers.
• Z170- A motherboard based on such a chipset supports overclocking of many components, making it an excellent solution for gaming computers.
• X99- is in demand in a professional environment that requires a lot of resources from the system (3D modeling, video processing, game creation). Also good for gaming machines.
• Q170- this is a chipset from the corporate sector, it is not particularly popular among ordinary users. The main emphasis is on security and stability.
• C232 And C236- used in data centers, allows you to process a huge amount of information. Works best with Xenon processors.

About AMD chipsets

They are conditionally divided into two series - A and FX. The first is suitable for A-series processors, with already integrated video adapters. The second for the FX-series CPUs that do not have an integrated graphics adapter, but compensate for this with high performance and overclocking potential.

Here is a list of major AMD chipsets:

• A58 And A68H- very similar chipsets that are suitable for a regular office PC. Works best with AMD A4 and A6 processors.
• A78- for multimedia computers (work in office applications, simple manipulations with graphics and video, launching "light" games, surfing the Internet). Most compatible with A6 and A8 CPU.
• 760G- suitable for those who need a computer as a "typewriter with Internet access." Compatible with FX-4.
• 970 - its capabilities are enough to run modern games at minimum and medium settings, professional work with graphics and simple manipulations with video and 3D objects. Compatible with FX-4, Fx-6, FX-8 and FX-9 processors. The most popular chipset for AMD processors.
• 990X And 990FX- an excellent solution for powerful gaming and semi-professional machines. Best compatibility with FX-8 and FX-9 CPUs.

About guarantees

When buying a motherboard, be sure to pay attention to the guarantees provided by the seller. On average, the warranty period can vary from 12 to 36 months. If it is less than the specified range, then it is better to refuse to buy in this store.

The thing is that the motherboard is one of the most fragile components of the computer. And any breakdown of it will certainly lead, at a minimum, to the replacement of this component, the maximum - you will have to think about the complete replacement of a part or all the components that were installed on it. This is equivalent to replacing almost the entire computer. Therefore, in no case can not save on guarantees.

About dimensions

It is also a very important parameter, especially if you are buying a motherboard for a small case. Here is a list and characteristics of the main form factors:

In addition to these form factors, there are others, but they are practically not found on the market for components for home computers.

Processor socket

This is the most important parameter when choosing both a motherboard and a processor. If the sockets of the processor and motherboard are incompatible with each other, then you will not be able to install the CPU. Sockets are constantly undergoing various modifications and changes, so it is recommended to buy models with only the most current modifications so that in the future you can easily replace them.

Sockets from Intel:

• 1151 And 2011-3 - these are the most modern types. If you prefer Intel, then try to buy a processor and motherboard with just such sockets.
• 1150 And 2011 - they are still widely used on the market, but have already begun to become obsolete.
• 1155 , 1156 , 775 And 478 are outdated socket models that are still in use. Recommended for purchase only if there are no other alternatives.

Sockets from AMD:

• AM3+ And FM2+- these are the most modern sockets from the "red".
• AM1, AM2, AM3, FM1 And EM2– are considered either completely obsolete, or are already beginning to become obsolete.

About RAM

Motherboards from the budget segment and / or small form factors have only two slots for installing RAM modules. On boards of standard sizes for desktop computers, there are 4-6 connectors. Motherboards for small cases or laptops have less than 4 slots. For the latter, this solution is more common - a certain amount of RAM is already soldered into the board, and there is one slot nearby in case the user wants to expand the amount of RAM.

RAM is divided into several types, which are referred to as "DDR". The most popular and recommended for today are DDR3 and DDR4. The latter ensures the fastest possible computer performance. Before choosing a motherboard, make sure that it supports these types of RAM.

It is also recommended to take into account the possibility of increasing the amount of RAM by adding new modules. In this case, pay attention not only to the number of slots, but also to the maximum amount in GB. That is, you can buy a board with 6 connectors, but it will not support so many GB of RAM.

It is recommended to pay attention to the range of supported operating frequencies. DDR3 RAM operates at frequencies from 1333 MHz, and DDR4 2133-2400 MHz. Motherboards almost always support these frequencies. It is also important to pay attention to whether the central processor supports them.

If the CPU does not support these frequencies, then buy a card with XMP memory profiles. Otherwise, you can seriously lose in RAM performance.

Place for installing video cards

In medium and high-end motherboards, there may be up to 4 connectors for graphics adapters. On budget models, there are usually 1-2 sockets. In most cases, PCI-E x16 connectors are used. They allow you to ensure maximum compatibility and performance between installed video adapters. The connector has several versions - 2.0, 2.1 and 3.0. The higher the version, the better the performance, but the price is correspondingly higher.

PCI-E x16 slots can also support other expansion cards (such as a Wi-Fi adapter).

About additional fees

Expansion boards are additional devices that can be connected to the motherboard, but which are not critical to the operation of the system. For example, Wi-Fi receiver, TV tuner. For these devices, PCI and PCI-Express slots are used, more about each:

• The first type is rapidly becoming obsolete, but is still used in budget and middle class models. It costs significantly less than its newer counterpart, but device compatibility may suffer. For example, the newest and most powerful Wi-Fi adapter will work worse or not work at all on a given connector. However, this connector has excellent compatibility with many sound cards.
• The second type is newer and has excellent compatibility with other components. They have two variations of connector X1 and X4. The last one is newer. Connector types have almost no effect.

Information about internal connectors

They serve to connect important components to the motherboard inside the case. For example, to power the processor and the board itself, install, drive.

As for the power supply of the motherboard, older models work from a 20-pin power connector, and newer ones from a 24-pin one. Based on this, it is advisable to choose a power supply or select a motherboard for the desired contact. However, it will not be critical if the 24-pin connector is powered by a 20-pin power supply.

The processor is powered according to a similar scheme, only 4- and 8-pin connectors are used instead of 20-24-pin connectors. If you have a powerful processor that requires a lot of power, then it is recommended to buy a board and power supply with 8-pin connectors. If the processor is not too powerful, then you can completely get by with 4-pin connectors.

As for connecting SSD and HDD drives, almost all boards use SATA connectors for this. It is divided into two versions - SATA2 and SATA3. If an SSD drive is connected to the main board, then it is better to buy a model with a SATA3 connector. Otherwise, you won't see good performance from an SSD. Provided that you do not plan to connect an SSD, you can purchase a model with a SATA2 connector, thereby saving a little on the purchase.

Integrated devices

Mother cards can come with already integrated components. For example, some laptop boards come with soldered graphics cards and RAM modules. All motherboards have integrated network and sound cards by default.

If you decide to purchase a processor with a graphics adapter integrated into it, then make sure that the board supports their connection (usually this is written in the specifications). It is also important that external VGA or DVI connectors are integrated into the design, which are needed to connect the monitor.

Pay attention to the built-in sound card. For most users, standard codecs such as ALC8xxx will suffice. If you are planning to engage in video editing and/or sound processing, then it is better to pay attention to boards with an integrated adapter with the ALC1150 codec, because it provides excellent sound, but also costs much more than the standard solution.

A sound card usually has 3 to 6 3.5 mm jacks for connecting audio devices. Sometimes there are models where an optical or coaxial digital audio output is installed, but they are also more expensive. This output is used for professional audio equipment. For normal use of a computer (connecting speakers and headphones), only 3 sockets are enough.

Another component that is integrated into the motherboard by default is the network card responsible for connecting the computer to the Internet. The standard parameters of the network board on many motherboards are a data transfer rate of about 1000 Mb / s and an RJ-45 type network output.

The main manufacturers of network cards are Realtek, Intel and Killer. I use the products of the first in the budget and middle price categories. The latter are more often used in expensive gaming machines, because. provide excellent performance in online games even with a poor network connection.

The number and types of external sockets depend on the internal configuration of the board itself and its price. more expensive models have additional outlets. List of connectors that are most often found:

• USB 3.0 - it is desirable that there be at least two such outputs. A flash drive, mouse and keyboard (more or less modern models) can be connected through it.
• DVI or VGA - available in all boards, because it can be used to connect a computer to a monitor.
• RJ-45 is a mandatory design element. It is used to connect to the Internet. If the computer does not have a Wi-Fi adapter, then this is the only way to connect the machine to the network.
• HDMI - needed to connect a computer to a TV or a modern monitor. DVI alternative.
• Audio jacks - required for connecting speakers and headphones.
• Output for a microphone or an additional headset. Always included in the design.
• Wi-Fi antennas - available only in models with an integrated Wi-Fi module.
• Button for resetting BIOS settings - allows you to quickly reset the BIOS settings to the factory state without disassembling the computer case. Available only on expensive boards.

Power circuits and electronic components

When choosing a motherboard, be sure to pay attention to electronic components, because. they depend on the life of the computer. On cheap models, ordinary electronic capacitors and transistors are installed, without any additional protection. After 2-3 years of service, they may well oxidize and render the entire system unusable. It is better to choose more expensive models, for example, where Japanese or Korean-made solid capacitors are used. Even if they fail, the consequences will not be so catastrophic.

It is very important to pay attention to the power supply scheme of the processor. Distribution of power circuits:

• Low power - used in budget motherboards, have a power of no more than 90 W and no more than 4 power phases. Only low-power processors with low overclocking potential are suitable for them.
• Medium power - have no more than 6 phases and power not exceeding 120 watts. This is enough for all processors from the middle price segment and some from the high one.
• High power - have more than 8 phases, work perfectly with all processors.

When choosing a motherboard for a processor, it is important to pay attention not only to whether the processor is suitable for sockets, but also to the voltage. On the motherboard manufacturer's website, you can immediately see a list of all processors that are compatible with a particular board.

Budget models do not have this system at all, or they have one small radiator that can only cool low-power processors and video cards. Oddly enough, these cards are the least likely to overheat (unless, of course, you overclock the processor too much).

If you are planning to build a good gaming computer, then pay attention to motherboards with massive copper heatsink tubes. However, there is a problem - the size of the cooling system. Sometimes, due to too thick and high pipes, it can be difficult to connect a video card and / or a processor with a cooler for a long time. Therefore, it is necessary to check everything in advance.

When choosing a motherboard, you need to take into account all the information that was indicated in the article. Otherwise, you may encounter various inconveniences and unnecessary expenses (for example, the board does not support a certain component).

Not the most common problem. Most users do not change the processor until the computer is completely replaced. However, sometimes due to a breakdown or upgrade, it becomes necessary to replace the installed processor. In this case, the question arises of how to choose a processor for the motherboard. In this article, we will analyze this problem and talk about how to choose the right processor.

In order to match the processor to the motherboard, you need to find out which socket it supports. A socket is a connector on the motherboard designed to install a processor. Exist different kinds sockets. Sockets differ in size, shape and number of legs. Therefore, it is not possible to install the processor in the wrong socket.

Now the most popular are the following sockets:

• For Intel processors
  • LGA 1150
  • LGA 1155
  • LGA 1356
  • LGA 1366
• For AMD processors

If you are on a motherboard that is installed in a working computer, then you can find out the name of the socket using special programs for viewing the characteristics of the computer. The most suitable program for our case is the CPU-Z program. With this program, you can find out all the main characteristics of the processor and motherboard.

The name of the socket will be indicated on the first tab of the CPU-Z program, opposite the inscription "Package". Also, using this program, you can find out the manufacturer and model of the motherboard. To do this, go to the "Mainboard" tab.

Just because a motherboard is equipped with a particular socket does not guarantee that it will support all processors with the same socket. Some newer processors may not work. That's why in order to select a processor for the motherboard, you need to go to the website of the manufacturer of this board and view the list of supported processors. Finding the information you need is not difficult. It is enough to enter the name of the motherboard into the search engine and go to the official website of the manufacturer.

If you have a motherboard to which you need to match the processor, but the computer does not work or is not assembled at all. Then you can see the name of the motherboard on its box. If there is no box, then carefully inspect the board itself, a name should be applied to its surface.

Once you know the name of the socket and the motherboard, choosing a processor is not difficult. First, choose a processor that is equipped with the desired socket, and then check if it is supported by your motherboard.

It is important to approach the choice of a motherboard with all responsibility, since it is one of the main elements that connects the components of a computer. Even the mouse and keyboard are connected to the motherboard connectors, not to mention the organization of communication with the main components of the PC. The motherboard must be compatible with the processor, so you should choose them either together, or select one of the devices for the other. In addition, it will not be superfluous to take care of a further upgrade in advance, if it is planned in the future. Often, assembling a computer begins with the purchase of a processor and a video card. At the same time, the motherboard is selected appropriate, for example, when you purchase an Intel CPU with the K index, that is, for overclocking, the motherboard chipset must have a Z index that supports this feature. Certain boards are suitable for each processor model, and it's not just about the manufacturer and the socket. There are exceptions when, with a suitable connector, device interaction is not ensured. When buying a motherboard, many parameters are decisive, including sockets (a processor socket that determines which model can be installed), chipsets, form factor (dimensions also matter), interfaces (number and type of connectors), memory slots, and others nuances. , which are the main component of the motherboard, what their functions are expressed in, as well as which chipset is better to choose in this or that case. This element of the motherboard can also be purchased separately, if circumstances so require.

The right choice of motherboard chipset in 20148.

The chipset of a PC or laptop motherboard is a set of chips, its purpose is to ensure the smooth operation of all components, including a processor, video card, hard drives, memory cards and other peripheral devices. In the motherboard architecture in its classic version, there are a south and north bridge (relevant for AMD platforms, Intel has integrated the lion's share of the north bridge functions into the CPU), slots for installing RAM (DDR4, DDR3). The northbridge connects the processor with the graphics adapter, memory card and southbridge, the parameters of the system bus, RAM and video controller also depend on it. Despite the fact that in a modern assembly, computer performance does not depend on the chipset, since the northbridge migrated to processors to increase data transfer speed and reliability, the role of the southbridge should not be underestimated either. It is on him that the functionality of the motherboard depends, thanks to him communication with the periphery is provided.

Often, a cooling chip is placed in addition to the north bridge, since it can overheat from excess load. The south bridge fails for other reasons, for example, shorting the USB port, contact with a faulty drive, etc. It is not necessary to change the entire board. If the motherboard is from a number of top-end ones, it makes sense to change only the chipset; with budget options, such actions are impractical. The main chipset manufacturers are Intel and AMD, familiar to everyone from processors. They make up the largest market share. NVidea was also involved in production, more familiar with its video cards, the role of other manufacturers is not so significant.

How to choose a chipset

The main condition for a successful purchase is full compatibility of components, therefore, when deciding on which chipset to choose a motherboard, you need to take into account the processor model that is installed or planned to be installed. Having initially decided on the platform, Intel or AMD, we proceed to the choice of the CPU. Since the processor and motherboard are in close relationship, we select them simultaneously or under each other. The question of which manufacturer is better is incorrect in this case, so there will be no answer to it, we will consider chipsets from both AMD and Intel. Both corporations produce high-quality products and have long established themselves in the market.

In cases where the CPU is already available, the range of options narrows. If the choice with the platform is most often predetermined, then you will have to carefully read the rest of the board parameters so that the purchase meets the requirements. Thus, the cost of a top model does not make any sense if the computer will be used in an office or at home with minimal use of resources, therefore, first of all, it is worth deciding what tasks the board is selected for, the same applies to the processor or other components involved in the assembly. It is not good if a device with great potential does not use even half of its capabilities, while you need to take into account the material side of the issue, because you have to pay for power and additional functionality. Since all the elements go together, they must be in harmony for the best joint functioning.

Top motherboards are built on the Z chipset, but this does not mean at all that you need to chase devices from the first lines of the rating. After all, the compatibility of the elements and the expediency of the purchase are more important. To determine which motherboard chipset will be better, you can look at the parameters of the processor, a clear idea of ​​\u200b\u200bwhat tasks the computer is used for is also a decisive factor. Having outlined the goals, we begin the selection. In general it looks like this:

• For an office or home computer (provided that it is not a gamer's computer), a budget assembly is suitable, because it is simply unnecessary to equip the device with high-power components. A board that interacts with a CPU with an integrated graphics core is quite suitable for working in conjunction with the same processor. For a budget build, the H110 or H310 chipset is the best choice. You should not expect great functionality from motherboards based on chipsets of this level, but this does not mean at all that they are bad;
• If the user works more seriously with graphics, for example, uses graphic applications, plays games with average system requirements, an additional video card is purchased, then there is no need for a graphics chipset, it should only support the functioning of the installed video adapter. For an assembly of average power, motherboards based on B 150, B 250 chipsets are suitable.

The range of motherboards based on mid-level chipsets is quite wide. Here you can find models with decent equipment from both Intel and AMD;

• For a powerful computer on which professional work with graphics, demanding programs is carried out, heavy games are launched, both a high-performance processor and an appropriate board that also supports several video cards are selected. Chipsets Z 270 or Z 170 are ideal for overclocking RAM, processor. For some boards on the Z170 there is a modified BIOS, due to which it is possible to overclock processors that do not have a K index via the bus (relevant for Skylake 6th generation). Overclockers will find a suitable motherboard model among the range of boards with older chipsets. Such motherboards have the best equipment, so it will not be difficult to find an instance with an integrated Wi-fi or Bluetooth module (if necessary) or other additional goodies in this category of models. By the way, if the board and the processor do not support overclocking, this does not mean that a computer with such equipment will not be a gaming one. For a gaming computer on Intel, Z370, H370, B360 chipsets are suitable.

The Best Intel and AMD Motherboard Chipsets

As mentioned above, the concept of "the best chipset" is very arbitrary. The best choice will always be the most suitable option for a particular assembly. However, Intel has placed Z chipsets at the top of the food chain, usually (though not always) with more features, so they will lead the ranking.

Intel chipsets

In addition to the letter marking, the chipsets are divided into series (the 300th, 200th, 100th series are relevant today). The 300th is adapted for the eighth generation of processors, the 200th is suitable for the seventh and sixth, the 100th for Intel Core, Pentium and Celeron. Indexes Z, H, B, Q indicate the categories of chipsets (Z - gaming with overclocking capability, H - functional mainstream chipsets, B - for office or home, Q - for business).

300

Let's start the list of Intel chipsets from the top. Motherboards equipped with these particular chipsets shine in the ratings today.

• Z370/390. The difference between the chipsets is not that big. The Z370 chipset is a pioneer in the series, one of the best, but despite overclocking, some of the functionality inherent in subsequent instances of the 300th is missing (compare the same H370 with the new USB1 Gen 2 and support for wireless networks). The new Z390 is a slightly more modernized analogue of the Z370 with the same PCI-Express channel and USB drive configurations, but with the addition of USB 3.1 Gen 2 and Intel Wireless-AC MAC;
• Q As with Z-chipsets, multiple video cards are supported, but there is no overclocking option. It is adapted to business needs, so you can’t count on the assortment of motherboards with its participation;
• The H370, which is a step down, is very similar to its Z370 sibling, and although it does not have overclocking capability, and PCI-Express and USB channels are slightly smaller, the H370 outperforms USB1 Gen 2 and supports Wi-fi and Bluetooth 5.0. If the mainland is not purchased for the purpose of overclocking, then this chipset should be paid attention to when assembling a productive computer;
• The B360 is not as sophisticated a chipset as the one discussed above, but not as limited in functionality as the H310, it has a dual-channel memory controller, USB1 Gen 2, supports version 3.0 buses, and also allows you to use a graphics core integrated into modern Intel processors;
• H310 is a budget version of the series with a minimum set of functions for undemanding users. The chipset does not support the PCI-Express version 3.0 bus, like the other representatives of the series, there is a second one here, which has a lower bandwidth. The situation is exactly the same with the DMI version, the memory controller is single-channel, and in general, many features have been cut.

100 and 200

There is no strong difference between the series, although the 200th and more have been modernized.

• X299 is worth special attention, it is designed for the Kaby Lake-X and Skylake-X high-performance CPU line without integrated graphics and supports overclocking;
• Z170/270. Like other Z-index carriers, the chipsets are ideal for overclocking processors and are equipped with good functionality;
• H170/270. With motherboards equipped with H chips, the user has much more options than when using B, while there is no overclocking on such motherboards;
• B150/250 is the golden mean between the budget option and the gaming one. Boards based on these chipsets are installed in the assembly of medium power, sufficient to perform various everyday tasks on a PC;
• The H110 has limited functionality, while being great for budget assemblies, because it can be unreasonable to purchase an expensive motherboard with many features, for example, in the case of office work, etc.

Chipsets with the Q index are not too different from H, while they have a certain set of corporate goodies. In all Intel series, there is a certain structure that ranks models based on their inherent bells and whistles. The cherry on Intel's cake may soon be the announced X399 chipset (the name echoes AMD's Ryzen Theadripper CPU model).

AMD Chipsets

The company offers two options for chipset configurations - chipsets, where the south and north bridges coexist in one set and exist separately from each other. Combined variations are oriented for processors with new AM4 and TR4 sockets, a separate configuration is used for earlier sockets.

TR4 processors

Under the powerful AMD Ryzen Theadripper CPUs, the company released the X399 chipset. A significant proportion of controllers have now migrated to the processor, which has increased performance and reliability (it's no secret that the processor cools better). The equipment includes 4-channel RAM, NVMe device connection and other useful things. Overclocking is supported.

AM4 processors

Chipsets for AM4 also have a combined version, and the lion's share of controllers moved to the processor, only peripherals remained for the chipset.

• The X470 is a new top-of-the-line chipset that is a more upgraded version of the X370. The chipset is perfect for gamers, overclockers. Among the features - overclocking, support for multiple video cards, booting from NVMe RAID, etc. In addition, X470 supports AMD StoreMI technology, which allows you to combine hard drives into one volume and automatically move frequently used files to SSD .;
• B350 is a more modest representative of chipsets for gaming computer motherboards, while also providing the ability to overclock and work with multiple video cards;
• A320 is an option for "workhorses" that operate with one video adapter. Overclocking is not supported in this case, but the chipset's capabilities are quite enough to solve urgent problems.

For small form factor motherboards, the X300 chipsets (analogous to the gaming X370) and A300 (analogous to the A320) are produced. The difference lies in the reduced support for connection interfaces.

AM3+ processors

Chipsets for AM3+ sockets are available in a northbridge and southbridge configuration.

• The 990FX and 990X chips are designed for gaming platforms, support overclocking and OverDrive control, there is no integrated graphics. 990FX supports 4 video cards, 990X - two;
• There is also an AMD 970 chipset with similar specifications, but it supports one video adapter;
• The 980G with integrated graphics is ideal for office and low-end home PCs without a connected graphics card. It will be possible to play not too demanding games, if the processor power allows, one video card slot is available.

Processors FM2+

FM2+ chipsets and similar sockets are suitable for A-series and Athlon APUs.

• A88X provide the ability to overclock, support the connection of two video cards, RAID functionality (it is advisable to use with AMD A8 - A6);
• A78 also has an arsenal for overclocking, supports one video adapter (it is better to use it on A6 - A4 CPU lines);
• A58 and more advanced fellow A68H. Both chipsets support dual graphics (improved graphics performance is achieved through the use of hybrid processors in conjunction with some graphics adapters from AMD).

Results

Considering the current market, it should be taken into account that Intel's Coffee Lake generation processors are only compatible with the new 300 chips and the LGA1151v2 socket, while new AMD processors, including the second generation Ryzen, are compatible with AM4. Chipsets from Intel, marked Z or X, allow you to overclock the machine, while others do not, even with a processor with a free multiplier, suggesting such manipulations with its frequency. With AMD, overclocking can be done on a motherboard with an X or B chipset.

When the goals are completely different and the extra spending of funds is not justified, or a very limited budget for the assembly plays a decisive role, you can get by with not particularly outstanding motherboards. By the way, among them you can find interesting specimens with a good set of interfaces and connectors.