Mini-ATX

lightbulb

Mini-ATX

Mini-ATX is a compact motherboard form factor commonly used in small form factor computers, offering a reduced footprint and flexibility for building compact systems. It retains the standard ATX mounting hole configuration, ensuring compatibility with most ATX cases.

What does Mini-ATX mean?

Mini-ATX, short for Mini Advanced Technology Extended, is a motherboard form factor smaller than ATX but larger than Micro-ATX. It measures 170mm x 170mm, making it suitable for compact computer cases. Mini-ATX motherboards typically feature reduced expansion capabilities compared to ATX but offer more flexibility than Micro-ATX. They commonly Support up to four DIMM slots for memory and one or two PCIe expansion slots for graphics cards or other peripherals.

Applications

Mini-ATX is widely used in several applications, including:

  • Compact desktop computers: Mini-ATX motherboards are ideal for building small, space-Saving desktop PCS. They provide sufficient expansion options for basic graphics, storage, and networking components while maintaining a compact footprint.
  • Home theater PCs (HTPCs): Mini-ATX’s compact size and low noise levels make it a popular choice for HTPCs, Which are typically hidden in entertainment setups. They offer enough performance for multimedia playback and streaming without compromising on size or aesthetics.
  • Media servers: Mini-ATX motherboards can be used to build dedicated media servers for storing and sharing large amounts of multimedia content. Their compact size allows for easy installation in small spaces, including media cabinets or server racks.

History

The Mini-ATX form factor was first introduced in 1997 by ASRock, a Taiwanese motherboard manufacturer. It was designed as a smaller alternative to the ATX form factor, which was the dominant standard at the time. The smaller size allowed for the creation of more compact desktop computers and media centers.

Since its inception, the Mini-ATX form factor has undergone several revisions to accommodate evolving technology and User demands. The latest revision, Mini-ATX Revision 3.1, was released in 2019 and includes support for the latest Intel and AMD processors, multiple PCIe 4.0 lanes, and improved power delivery capabilities.