If your office is updating its computer hardware, note that IBM motherboards are an excellent choice. Motherboards are the main component found in PC and MAC computers, allowing various components to communicate with each other. The motherboard is a landing spot for the computer's microprocessing chip and everything that is connected to it. It is essential because the parts that run your company's computers are plugged into their motherboards by way of slots or ports.

The original motherboard hardware for IBM PCs was the AT IBM motherboard. Since then, computers and motherboards have advanced. Today a number of manufacturers such as Intel and ASUS supply motherboards for PC computers. As you search for IBM Motherboards information, keep these points in mind:

1. An IBM Motherboards provider also will probably stock other compatible brands of motherboards. Make sure the one you select fits your firm's computers.

2. You might find IBM motherboards sold under the name Lenovo. Be sure to check Lenovo suppliers as well.

3. Make sure the Pin Grid Arrays (PGAs) and chipsets of the IBM motherboards you select work with your firm's computers.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Search online catalogs for IBM motherboards

You can find IBM motherboards and hundreds of other components through both the IBM and component suppliers' websites. For large business purchases, check the catalogs of both to compare prices and shipping information.

I recommend: Comparison shop for IBM motherboards at NexTag. You can find specifications and prices for several different models. At Shop.com you can view an IBM Motherboards list that includes system boards for Aptiva.

Check the form factor of the IBM motherboards you plan to purchase

Form factor refers to the general 'geography' of the system board, including the size and location of features. Because of size and shape variations, each form factor uses a different type of case. However, only a couple of the more than a dozen form factors have dominated the PC industry. The AT and Baby AT forms apply to earlier model years, basically up to 1997. ATX has dominated since, with BTX and other forms entering the field.

I recommend: Become.com offers a variety of IBM/Lenovo motherboards for both laptops and desktops. Spare Parts Warehouse carries an array of IBM/Lenovo parts, including motherboards and CPUs.

Find the IBM motherboards with the configuration your office needs

The traditional PGA is the Socket 7. Many current socket arrays are customized by the CPU maker who created it, such as AMD and Intel, and don't fit the Socket 7 set up. The socket arrangement is named for the number of pins in the PGA. Look closely at the IBM motherboards specifications as your prepare for your purchase.

I recommend: Find refurbished IBM motherboards for Socket 7 PGA as well as several other arrangements at Server Supply. At JNCS, you can select the IBM motherboard and components and J&N Computer Services will configure it for you. See the warranty information at their website.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  You might not need to replace your IBM motherboards. Look for companies that specialize in system board repair and refurbishment.
• •  Motherboard/CPU combinations are available for some IBM motherboards. Check with suppliers on availability.