What is mini-ITX?

The motherboards are plates with circuits found inside electronic devices. It holds all the necessary circuits for the basic functionality of the device. PC motherboards generally come in a form factor or size and shape called ATX . Mini-ITX is a factor for the production of smaller and quieter computers than typical desktop computers and towers. The traditional ATX board is 300 mm x 240 mm; The mini-ITX board is barely one-third size, 170 mm x 170 mm. The size reduction is achieved by removing a number of expansion slots and soldering components to the motherboard instead of connecting their bulky sockets.

mini-ITX motherboard also use processors or CPUs that are once or two generations behind the most modern state. The CPU is not made by Intel, but they are Pentium Intel Clones and retain their full compatibility. In addition to being smaller than newer processors, speed is lowered. In semiconductors the amount of heat is generatedthe device proportional to the speed at which it runs; By accepting lower power levels, mini-ITX motherboards can eliminate most of the bulky cooling devices found in ATX systems. In particular, they can be built without fans.

Mini-ITX-based PCS uses a small size and creates computers that look completely unlike the "beige box" prevailing in offices and houses. Small size and simple cooling requirements allow the computer to be built of almost anything; Mini-ITX boards were mounted inside toed, antique wooden radios and Art Deco jewelry. One intrepid individual even built a computer inside George Foreman Grill. Because the lack of whirlpools allows silent operation, mini-ITX boards often occur in computer home theater systems.

VIA Technologies works on a even more motherboard standard called Nano-ITX. It will be just120 mm x 120 mm or about 5 inches on the side. Computers built using Nano-ITX will roughly be paperforward size.