Atx

Introduction

The ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended) is a motherboard and power supply configuration specification developed by Intel in 1995 to improve on previous de facto standards like the AT design. It was the first major change in desktop computer enclosure, motherboard and power supply design in many years, improving standardization and interchangeability of parts. The specification defines the key mechanical dimensions, mounting point, I/O panel, power and connector interfaces amongst others for an ATX motherboard and chassis.

History

The ATX design was introduced by Intel in 1995 and was a major shift from the previous AT design. The ATX design allowed for a more efficient layout, with the I/O ports and expansion slots in a single line along the back of the case, allowing for easier assembly and upgrades. The ATX design also introduced a new power supply design, which provided a more stable and reliable power source for the computer's components.

Design

The ATX design includes several key features that differentiate it from previous designs. The most noticeable difference is the orientation of the motherboard. In the ATX design, the motherboard is rotated 90 degrees compared to the AT design, which allows for a more efficient layout of the components. This orientation also allows for better airflow within the case, which can help to keep the components cooler and prolong their lifespan.

The ATX design also includes a new power supply design. The power supply in an ATX system is designed to provide a more stable and reliable power source for the computer's components. This is achieved through the use of a larger, more robust power supply unit (PSU), which can provide more power and is more efficient than the PSUs used in previous designs.

The ATX design also includes a new I/O panel design. The I/O panel in an ATX system is located on the back of the case, in a single line. This makes it easier to connect and disconnect peripherals, and also allows for a cleaner, more organized look.

Advantages

There are several advantages to the ATX design. One of the main advantages is the improved standardization and interchangeability of parts. Because the ATX design is a standard, it is easier to find compatible parts for an ATX system. This can make it easier to upgrade or repair an ATX system.

Another advantage of the ATX design is the improved layout and airflow. The orientation of the motherboard and the location of the I/O panel in the ATX design allow for a more efficient layout of the components, which can help to keep the components cooler and prolong their lifespan.

The ATX design also provides a more stable and reliable power source for the computer's components. The larger, more robust PSU in an ATX system can provide more power and is more efficient than the PSUs used in previous designs.

Disadvantages

Despite its many advantages, the ATX design also has some disadvantages. One of the main disadvantages is the size of the ATX system. Because the ATX design includes a larger, more robust PSU and a more efficient layout of the components, an ATX system can be larger and heavier than systems based on previous designs.

Another disadvantage of the ATX design is the cost. Because the ATX design includes a larger, more robust PSU and a more efficient layout of the components, an ATX system can be more expensive than systems based on previous designs.

Variants

There are several variants of the ATX design, including the microATX, Mini-ATX, FlexATX, and Extended ATX (E-ATX). These variants are designed to provide the advantages of the ATX design in a smaller, more compact form factor.