The motherboard is a very important part of the computer as it holds all the parts together. It has many slots for things like video cards, sound cards, and RAM. It also holds the processor, which does all the computing of the system. Most motherboards come with the case, but if you're purchasing one separately make sure that it will be able to fit into your case.

Other names for the motherboard include "mainboard", "system board" and "mobo".

Main parts of the motherboard

• Northbridge/Southbridge – Two of the chips on the motherboard that help the parts of the computer communicate. The Northbridge supports the CPU and RAM, while the Southbridge supports input/output devices.
• CPU Socket – Holds the CPU
• RAM Slots –Slots where RAM memory goes. There are generally between 2 and 4 of these on your standard mobo.
• PCI Slots – Slots that take a variety of cards and hardware devices such as video and sound cards.
• I/O Panel - It helps keep all the connectors in one spot on the computer. It has places for you to plug in devices such as a keyboard, mouse, speakers, microphone, printer, etc.

When buying a motherboard, size and arrangement of the components are important to consider so it will fit in your case. Processor, RAM, SATA, and Expansion support is also good to look at if plan to upgrade your board with better parts in the future.