What Is A Pico-ITX Motherboard? Small But Powerful!

What Is A Pico-ITX Motherboard?

The Pico-ITX form factor is a tiny computer motherboard format introduced by VIA as an evolution of the nano-ITX form factor. The Pico-ITX standard was developed based on feedback from motherboard manufacturers and system integrators who wanted to make smaller systems while still having the ability to stand out in terms of features and performance. 

The Pico-ITX standard only has space for a single SO-DIMM slot. This means that you can’t upgrade your RAM or CPU later on without replacing your entire motherboard (and all of its attached components). Pico-ITX motherboards are often used to build tiny computers that can be mounted to the back of a monitor.

A Pico-ITX motherboard is a small motherboard that is used in small computers. It is smaller than a Mini-ITX motherboard but still larger than an ITX motherboard. Pico-ITX motherboards are designed for use in embedded and industrial applications where space is at a premium, and the processor needs to be as small as possible to fit into cramped environments.

Pico-ITX motherboards can be mounted to the back of a monitor or LCD display, allowing you to create your own computer system without having all of the wires hanging off of it, looking messy. These types of computers are often used with digital signage displays or kiosks that require constant updates via WiFi while remaining compact enough to fit into tight spaces like an office cubicle without taking up much room at all.

Specifications Of A Pico-ITX Motherboard

The dimensions of Pico-ITX motherboards are 3.94 x 2.83 inches (10 x 7.2 cm). Compared to Mini-ITX, which measures 6.75 x 6.75 inches (17 x 17 cm), Pico-ITX is only 25% smaller. There are no DIMM slots for memory modules and only one SIMM slot for SSRAM and/or flash memory modules (which are not common). Pico-ITX motherboards are small and lightweight. They aren’t upgradable, so you won’t be able to add more RAM or a new graphics card once your system is up and running.

They also have fewer ports than other motherboards, which means you’re limited in what type of peripherals (like monitors) you can use. You’ll also have a hard time finding one that has an internal WiFi antenna, so if WiFi is important to your setup, this might not be the right motherboard for you.

The following are standard specifications for a Pico-ITX motherboard:

Advantages Of A Pico-ITX Motherboard

A Pico-ITX motherboard allows you to use it in applications with limited space and power. Pico-ITX motherboards have been used in embedded applications such as industrial automation and automotive electronics. They are also good for DIY enthusiasts who want a small form factor computer.

This type of motherboard is the smallest available, making it ideal for those who are looking for something portable or space constrained. It can easily fit into devices such as tablets, laptops, and cell phones. Its size also makes it easier to integrate into systems such as industrial control units or home automation devices since it uses less power, takes up less space, and costs less than other microcomputer boards. 

The Pico-ITX boards also consume less electricity than other types because they don’t need extra cooling like a laptop or desktop computer would need when running at full capacity (it’s always a good idea to make sure your computer is correctly ventilated).

Disadvantages Of A Pico-ITX Motherboard

Of course, there are some disadvantages to using a Pico-ITX motherboard. Here are some of the most common issues:

Limited upgradability and expansion slots. Because of its miniaturized nature and size, a Pico-ITX motherboard isn’t designed with expansion in mind. This means that you will have limited room for upgrading your system in the future, particularly when it comes to adding new components like RAM or storage drives (such as SSDs). Also, while other motherboards allow you to add multiple hard drives, and some even support triple displays, Pico-ITX motherboards only support one drive at most and only have one display output (if any).

Limited ports and slots. With this type of PC board, there aren’t many ports and slots on them; you’ll only be able to connect basic peripherals such as USB devices or monitors before running out of space on your back panel of your computer case.

Limited CPU support. As previously mentioned, because they’re so small—and like this lack room for cooling fans—most Pico-ITX motherboards only support low-power CPUs. This means that if you need more power than these chips provide, then perhaps another form factor would be better suited for what you’re trying to accomplish instead!

Those who want to use their PC for gaming should also consider other form factors like Mini ITX because they offer more storage options than Pico ITX boards do. Also, keep in mind that a lot of custom cases don’t support Pico ITX boards due to their size, so you might have trouble finding an enclosure that fits your board properly unless it comes with its own case built-in.

Average Price For A Pico-ITX Motherboard

Pico-ITX motherboards are available in a variety of price ranges. They typically cost between $200 and $300, with more expensive boards having more ports and slots. For example, if you want to use your Pico-ITX motherboard to run a server or connect multiple hard drives, it’s going to cost you more than the one that’s intended for just running your home office computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrap Up

Pico-ITX motherboards are a great way to get started with building your own PC. They are small and compact yet powerful enough for most everyday tasks. Plus, they’re compatible with Intel Core processors, so you can use them in any number of projects. If you’re looking for something small yet powerful, then Pico-ITX might be just what you need!