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The motherboard dictates the type of processor you can use, how well the other components communicate, the features on offer and future upgrade potential.

Cheap boards limit processor support, graphics and expansion options. Around £70–£100 gets you the latest technologies.

Most desktop and tower cases use a standard ATX-size motherboard but, if you’re building a small system, look at compact MiniATX or MicroATX designs. If using an existing case, make sure you buy the right form factor.

Your choice is also dictated by the processor. You’ll need Socket 775 for current Intel processors, Socket A for AMD Athlon XP or Duron, and Socket 939 for an
Athlon 64. The Athlon 64 FX series requires Socket 940. If using an older CPU, check the socket type.

We would recommend an Intel P4 or Athlon 64 for a good all-round system. The Athlon 64 can address one terabyte of RAM (1,000GB) and handle difficult calculations with relative ease.

The new generation of processors also change the way data is transferred. Whereas P4s rely on the motherboard chipset to shuttle data between processor
and memory, Athlon 64s avoid this by integrating the memory controller into the CPU die.

Divided into northbridge and southbridge, the chipset handles the communication between all the components and dictates the features on offer. Today’s leading
chipset manufacturers include Via, Silicon Integrated Systems (Sis), ATI, Nvidia and Intel. Chipsets can include integrated graphics.

Today’s motherboards mainly use DDR or DDR2 RAM, available in 200, 266, 333 and 400, 667 and 800MHz modules.

Also consider the number of slots available. Fit dual in-line memory modules (Dimms) in pairs if the chipset supports dual-channel operation.

The latest boards support both older IDE and new, faster Serial ATA (Sata) hard disks. Check the number of connectors available for both.

Some chipsets provide Raid support, so data can be spread across two drives for extra performance or backups. SCSI controllers can be found on more expensive boards, or be added with expansion cards.

Also important is the number of USB2 and Firewire sockets for external add-ons. You may need serial, parallel and PS/2 interfaces if using older legacy peripherals. Look out, too, for onboard Ethernet networking, a built-in 56K modem and onboard
sound. The latter is fine for all but audio buffs or avid gamers.

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