What’s a motherboard, anyway?

While I was looking for content to practice my writing, I found that computer hardware is often difficult for beginners to get into because of the jargon, and assumption that everyone who is buying the part already knows what it is. It makes me wonder if this is one of the reasons why building your own computer seems so unapproachable to get into for many people.

My motherboard in particular has a product page that I think could use some editing.

The product page for a motherboard from ASUS

As you can see, the amount of jargon that fills this page seems almost endless. Here’s my edit.


ROG Strix X570-I Gaming “Simplified”

Processor Compatibility

  • AMD AM4 socket easily installs AMD Ryzen 5000/3000/2000 Series and 4000/3000/2000/ G-Series processors

Memory Drives

  • Installs up to two M.2 drives

USB Connectivity

  • Compatible with USB 3.2 (type A, C) and AMD StoreMI for maximum connectivity and data transfer speed

Lighting with ASUS Aura Sync RGB

  • Choose from millions of colour combinations with exclusive ASUS Aura Sync software
  • RGB header and addressable Gen 2 header for precise lighting control

Power Efficiency

  • 8+2 power stages with a ProCool II power connector, alloy chokes and durable capacitors to support powerful multi-core processors

Comprehensive Cooling:

  • VRM and chipset heatsinks create larger surface to help absorb more heat and feature miniature fans
  • Embedded chipset heatpipe
  • M.2 heatsink
  • Aluminum backplate with cyber-text pattern

Gaming Connectivity

  • Supports PCIe 4.0 for new generation graphics cards
  • HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4 compatible for monitors

Networking for Gaming

  • Intel Gigabit Ethernet capable with ASUS LANGuard
  • Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) with MU-MIMO support
  • Gateway teaming via GameFirst V for network optimization and acceleration

5-Way Optimization

  • Automated system-wide tuning, providing overclocking and cooling profiles tailor made for your computer setup

Gaming Audio

  • High-fidelity audio with SupremeFX S1220A
  • DTS® Sound Unbound and Sonic Studio III to draw you deeper into the action

Graphics Card Protection

  • ASUS SafeSlot made with premium components to better install high-end graphics cards, increasing durability

Published by Kevin Siu

Technical Writer | technicalkevin.ca

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