3.4 Preparing the Motherboard for Installation
3.4.1 Motherboard location map
A motherboard location map shows where the hardware and major components are located on the motherboard. A motherboard map can be found in the documentation that comes with the motherboard. Typically, everything listed in the specifications section of the motherboard manual is depicted and labeled on the location map. This map is intended to help orient the board layout so components can be identified and properly installed according to the instructions listed in other sections of the manual. For example, notice on the figure that the processor socket location is labeled "Slot 1 Type CPU".

The location map also provides additional information that will be useful during installation and assembly. For example, notice that on the map in the figure, the main memory is subdivided into slots, and the slots are identified and numbered in sequence DIMM bank 1, DIMM bank 2, and DIMM bank 3. This indicates that when the DIMMs are installed, they must be installed in the sequence indicated on the map. Study the motherboard location map before proceeding with any installation. The more familiarity there is with a particular motherboard, the easier it will be to assemble the rest of the computer. If working with a lab partner, study this map with the partner.