How Do I Choose the Best Socket 775 Motherboard?

The socket 775 motherboard is a common Intel® motherboard that supports many different central processing units (CPUs) and, as a result, many different motherboard models have been created. Picking the right socket 775 motherboard can be hard, because many of them come with similar specs. Users should look for a large random access memory (RAM), because more memory means a better workflow. The number of universal serial bus (USB) ports counts as well, because these are needed for regular computing. The front side bus (FSB) speed and audio and video chipset will determine how well the motherboard can move memory and whether the computer is good for audio and video usage.

RAM is important for any computer and, just like all the other chips, RAM chips are installed on the socket 775 motherboard. There are commonly two RAM slots on this motherboard build, and each one is able to hold a maximum of 2 gigabytes (GB), creating a total of 4GB. Some cheaper models have just one slot. If the user is going to use low-memory applications, the single slot may be economically better.

Nearly all external peripherals use a USB port to connect to the computer, the two most common devices being the mouse and keyboard. Unlike the amount of RAM, the number of USB ports on a socket 775 motherboard varies, though from two to four ports is common. Two ports will be fine for users that do not want extra devices, but those looking to use external memory devices or other external hardware should opt for more USB ports.

The FSB unit of the socket 775 motherboard is responsible for carrying the processing to and from the CPU. A higher FSB means the CPU can work faster on calculations, and the motherboard can quickly deliver that processing power to where it is needed. Much like RAM, this depends on the CPU and the user’s needs. If the CPU has a low megahertz (MHz) rating, then a higher FSB count is not going to do much. Users looking to do a lot of video and audio editing, or looking to run complex programs, should seek motherboards with a high FSB.

Each motherboard is set with an audio and video card that helps the computer run audio and video files. For regular computers, the audio and video chipset uses moderate memory, producing good quality but not the best. If the user wants to play games or wants a multimedia computer, he or she should look for an advanced audio and video chipset.