7 types of motherboard external connectors

One of the elements that has the most relevance within the computer hardware It is the motherboard, also known as the motherboard. All other components of the computer are connected to it or depend on it for their operation.For example, thanks to the motherboard's external connectors, it is possible to connect and use all types of peripherals.

In this post we will focus particularly on the types of external connectors on the motherboard. What are these connectors and what are they used for? How many types are there and what functions do they perform? Answering these and other questions will help you learn more about your computer's hardware and take full advantage of its motherboard's potential.

What are external motherboard connectors?

At some point, we've all looked at the back of a desktop computer and noticed the number of connectors or ports there. We might wonder, what is this or that particular connector for? What am I supposed to plug in here? Yes, these are the external connectors on the motherboard, very important elements within the operation of any computer.

Of course, motherboards of theLaptops also have external connectors, but in less quantity and variety than desktop computers. This is because laptops have less space available to include several of these connectors, while a tower has much more. In both cases, the presence of these inputs (and outputs) is essential to perform different functions and use other hardware components.

Essentially, the external connectors on the motherboard They are ports that allow you to connect different components to the computer.They are called external because they are visible to the naked eye and can be used without having to open the computer case. On desktop computers, a few connectors are on the front, while the largest variety and number of these are on the back.

In the case of laptops, the external connectors of the motherboard are distributed on the sides of the computer.. Several of them are located on the right side of the base, and only a few on the left side. In more modern laptop models, we do not see the presence of ports on the front and back sides.

What role do they play?

We are seeing that the external connectors of the motherboard are like the input and output ports of the computer. Through them we can connect other devices to the computer, either to facilitate communication with it or to improve one of its functions. The most common use we give to these ports is to connect peripherals and input/output hardware.

It is worth noting that as computing and hardware have evolved, New ports have emerged and others have fallen into disuse.Modern computer manufacturers make sure to include just the right amount and variety of connectors on their models. Of course, it is always possible to add new hardware to the computer, which often includes one or more ports.

7 types of motherboard external connectors

Let's look at 7 types of external connectors on a computer's motherboard. We'll take desktop computers as a reference because they come with a wider variety of ports. Most are present in modern computers, while others are only seen in older computers.But, whatever, they are connectors and deserve a place on the list.

Usb connector

As is well known, the USB connector has replaced other types of ports, becoming the standard for connecting different types of peripherals to the computerIn addition to being very versatile and easy to use, it is characterized by offering high speed in data transfer.

Another advantage is that many USB devices can be powered directly from the port, eliminating the need for external power supplies. latest version, USB-C, comes in all modern computers and allows you to charge other devices, transfer data and connect displays.

HDMI connector

Another standard in computers, smart TVs and devices for transmit high definition audio and video. The HDMI connector (HDMI) has replaced older connectors on motherboards such as VGA and DVI because it offers superior audio and video quality.

On one hand, Transmits both video and audio in a single cable, reducing the number of connections. In addition, as Supports 4K and higher resolutions, delivers crisp, detailed picture quality. You can find it in modern desktops and laptops, as well as monitors, smart TVs, and other equipment.

Audio jack

Most modern motherboards include high-definition audio connectors. These ports allow you to connect speakers, microphones, headphones and other digital audio systemsThey usually support multiple audio channels and deliver high-quality surround sound.

Towers and laptops have one or more of these portsDesktop computers come with a pair on the front panel and a few more on the back. Laptops, on the other hand, come with one, usually on the right side, as Bluetooth technology is the preferred choice for these devices.

Ethernet input

The Ethernet port is one of the motherboard connectors that is most visible, at least in desktop computers. In this port we have to connect a network cable to access the internet from the computer.

You've probably noticed that Modern laptops no longer have an RJ-45 network port.. Most have replaced wired connectivity with Wi-Fi. However, there are USB adapters that include a network connector, if you want to enjoy a more stable connection on your laptop.

PS/2 Motherboard External Connectors

Older computers have external PS/2 motherboard connectors. They were used to connect mouse and keyboard (the first one in the green port and the second one in the purple one). As we have already said, they were replaced by the USB port.

VGA/DVI connector

Another relic, used for Connect monitors, TV screens and projectors to the motherboard. The last to disappear was the VGA connector, definitively replaced by the HDMI port.

Thunderbolt connector

We left the novelty for the end. The connector Thunderbolt comes by default on some modern motherboards, and gets transfer large amounts of data at high speeds. It combines the capabilities of USB, DisplayPort and PCIs in a single port, allowing you to connect different types of devices, such as high-resolution displays, external hard drives and external graphics cards. The main advantage of this connector is the speed at which you can transfer data, up to 80 Gb per second (Thunderbolt 5).