220-1101 Question 239
Single answerForm factorsA technician is upgrading an office desktop that uses a very slim desktop case. The existing motherboard has failed, and the technician must choose a replacement that will fit the case and still provide standard rear I/O alignment and expansion support. The case documentation specifies support for Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards only. Which motherboard form factor should the technician choose if the user needs more expansion slots than a Mini-ITX board typically provides, while still fitting the case?
- A
ATX
- B
Micro-ATX
- C
Mini-ITX
- D
E-ATX
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
This question tests practical understanding of motherboard form factors and case compatibility. In real-world PC repair, the technician must verify both physical fit and functional requirements before ordering a replacement board. Since the case supports only Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX, larger boards such as ATX or E-ATX are eliminated immediately. Between the two supported options, Micro-ATX is the better choice because it balances compact size with greater expandability than Mini-ITX. This matches standard PC building best practices: confirm chassis-supported form factors, compare board dimensions and mounting points, and choose the smallest form factor that still meets the user's needs. These considerations align with common manufacturer documentation for cases and motherboards, which list supported form factors, slot counts, and physical dimensions.
- A. Incorrect.
ATX is incorrect. Although ATX is a common desktop motherboard form factor, it is physically larger than Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX. If the case documentation states that only Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX are supported, a standard ATX board will not fit properly in the chassis or align with the mounting points.
- B. Correct.
Micro-ATX is correct. Micro-ATX is smaller than standard ATX but usually offers more expansion slots than Mini-ITX, making it a practical choice when a compact case supports it and the user still needs some expandability. It also uses standard rear I/O shield alignment appropriate for compatible desktop cases.
- C. Incorrect.
Mini-ITX is incorrect. Mini-ITX would fit the case, but it generally provides fewer expansion options than Micro-ATX, often only a single expansion slot. A technician might choose it because it is compact, but it does not best meet the requirement for additional expansion capability.
- D. Incorrect.
E-ATX is incorrect. Extended ATX is larger than standard ATX and is intended for larger towers or specialty systems. It would not fit a slim desktop case designed only for Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX, and choosing it would ignore the documented chassis compatibility requirements.