Question: What are form factors?

Answer: Motherboards adhere to design specifications called form factors. The form factor determines the physical characteristics of a motherboard, including its dimensions, number of expansion slots, and mounting hole locations, as well as the back panel dimensions, arrangement, and orientation.

Question: ATX Form Factor

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Question: Some of the most common ATX variants and their unique characteristics…

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Question: ITX Form Factor

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Question: NLX (new low profile extended) Form Factor

Answer: Is an old form factor that was designed for use in slimline desktop computers. NLX includes:

-Uses a detachable riser card to provide expansion slots (the motherboard itself has no expansion slots).

-Allows the motherboard so it can slide in or out of the system case easily.

-Was replaced by microATX and Mini-ITX.

Question: BTX (balanced technology extended) Form factor

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Question: Computer cases are designed to fit motherboard form factors. The following table describes the most common types of computer cases:

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Question: When you purchase a computer case, it will usually come with the following components…

Answer: -Computer case

-Power supply (although the power supply might also be separate)

-Case fans

-Plastic or rubber feet that attach to the bottom of the case

-Metal screws and standoffs for attaching the motherboard

-Additional external connectors (such as audio, USB, and FireWire) that connect to motherboard headers