Practice Mode: Identify Motherboard Components, Part 1 Identify motherboard components (Part 1) introduction instruction notepad magnifier contrast Brand AMD Contact method Pin grid array Socket name Type here. Instruction The socket on this motherboard has 942 holes that can hold 942 pins on the processor. • Which processor brand will fit this socket? • What is this socket’s contact method? • Type in the name of the socket. Submit
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
- Processor Brand: AMD
- Contact Method: Pin Grid Array (PGA)
- Socket Name: AM3+
Explanation: The motherboard in question features a CPU socket with 942 holes, specifically designed to accommodate AMD processors that use the Pin Grid Array (PGA) contact method. This socket type is known as AM3+, an evolution of the previous AM3 socket, introduced to support newer AMD processors with improved power efficiency and processing capabilities.
The Pin Grid Array (PGA) contact method involves the processor having pins on its underside, which fit into the motherboard’s socket holes. This contrasts with the Land Grid Array (LGA) method used by Intel processors, where contact pads on the processor align with pins in the motherboard socket.
The AM3+ socket is compatible with AMD FX-series processors, including models based on the Bulldozer and Piledriver architectures. It provides backward compatibility with older AM3 processors, meaning an AM3 processor can work in an AM3+ socket, but an AM3+ processor cannot be used in an AM3 socket due to differences in power delivery and pin count.
AM3+ motherboards often support DDR3 RAM, multiple PCIe slots for graphics cards, and enhanced power regulation. The socket itself was widely used in high-performance desktop systems and gaming setups before AMD transitioned to newer socket standards such as AM4, which introduced support for Ryzen processors and DDR4 memory.
Understanding motherboard socket types is essential for hardware compatibility when building or upgrading a computer. Knowing how processors interface with the motherboard ensures that components work correctly together, optimizing system performance and longevity.
