Motherboard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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motherboard
[ˈmʌðərˌbɔːrd ]
Definition
computer hardware
A motherboard is the main printed circuit board (PCB) in a computer that connects all components and peripherals. It hosts the CPU, memory, and provides connectors for other hardware such as graphics cards and storage devices. Essentially, it acts as the backbone of a computer system, allowing communication between various components.
Synonyms
logic board, mainboard, system board.
Examples of usage
- The motherboard is crucial for the computer's performance.
- I upgraded my motherboard to support more RAM.
- All devices are connected to the motherboard for communication.
- Make sure to check the compatibility of your motherboard before buying a new CPU.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Technology
- A motherboard houses the CPU, RAM slots, and other important connectors, making it the backbone of any computer system.
- Modern motherboards can support multiple CPUs and thousands of gigabytes of RAM, enabling more powerful computing capabilities.
Pop Culture
- In movies and books featuring technology, the motherboard often symbolizes the heart of the computer, depicting a sense of organization and order in chaos.
- Video games sometimes use a motherboard as a plot device, showcasing high-tech hacking and computer system manipulation.
Science
- Advancements in motherboard technology can lead to improved performance in artificial intelligence applications, making machines smarter.
- Research in materials used for motherboards continues to evolve, focusing on making them more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
History
- The first personal computers in the late 1970s, like the Apple II, featured simple circuit boards, but as computers evolved, so did the complexity of motherboards.
- In the 1990s, the introduction of PCI slots allowed for more expansion options, changing how users could upgrade their computers.
Origin of 'motherboard'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'motherboard' originated in the 1980s, used to distinguish the main circuit board from other smaller boards in a computer.
- Before being called 'motherboard', it was known as 'mainboard' and 'system board', but the term 'mother' became popular due to its supportive role.
The term 'motherboard' originally appeared in the early 1980s within the computer industry, referring to the primary circuit board that housed the central processing unit (CPU) and provided the essential circuitry for communication between various components of a computer system. The prefix 'mother' indicates that it is the 'mother' of all other boards in the system, supporting their functions and enabling them to interact. Prior to the use of 'motherboard', various terms such as 'system board' or 'mainboard' were employed, but 'motherboard' soon became the standard nomenclature as computers evolved from simple systems to more complex architectures. As technology advanced, the motherboard became increasingly sophisticated, integrating more functions and components, which has firmly established it as a central element in modern computers.