ARCHIVED: What is the LPX form factor?

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Form factor is used to describe the physical size and shape of a computer device measured by outside dimensions. It is most often used to describe the size of circuit boards, especially the motherboard and expansion cards.

LPX form factor

LPX is an older form factor that has been replaced by NLX. The LPX form factor is usually found in desktop model PCs. The LPX case is a slim-line, low-profile case with a riser card arrangement for expansion cards. This means that expansion boards are parallel to the motherboard, rather than perpendicular to it as in other common form factors, such as AT and ATX. This allows for smaller cases, but limits the number of expansion slots, usually to two or three.

LPX motherboards often have the video adapters integrated onto the motherboard, and they may have integrated sound as well. This can provide a high-quality product at low cost, but can make upgrading or repair difficult. It is not always possible to disable the built-in video adapter cards to allow for an upgrade. LPX motherboards also usually come with serial, parallel, and mouse connectors attached to them, like ATX.

The LPX case and motherboard design are not designed for a home PC builder, as they can be cramped and difficult to work in, as well as being non-standard. They also offer poor expandability, poor upgradability, poor cooling, and difficulty of use for the home PC builder.

For additional information on the LPX form factor, please see:

  http://www.pcguide.com/ref/mbsys/mobo/formLPX-c.html

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Last modified on 2018-01-18 12:31:22.