AMD is developing an open standard for small x86 motherboards, aiming to boost the adoption of reduced-size PCs, also known as ‘small form factor’ computers.
Called DTX, “the specification will only define the mechanical aspects of the PC necessary for interoperability”, said the company. “Having only mechanical requirements leaves adopters free to differentiate themselves through innovation. Currently, AMD believes the only requirement for DTX on chassis design is motherboard mounting points and keep-outs.”
DTX boards has two expansion slots - PCI or PCIe - plus one XpressCard slot and will be suitable for processors up to 65W. To keep costs down, the 200x244mm board has enough room to be made using a four layer PCB. Intended chassis capacity is around six litres.
For even smaller chassis, with sub-35W processors, the firm is specifying 200x170mm Mini-DTX which is likely to require a six layer board.
DTX will bolt directly into an ATX chassis, and DTX-compliant chassis, said AMD, will be able to use motherboards conforming to VIA Technologies’ popular 170x170mm Mini-ITX specification.
“We applaud AMD’s commitment to open standards in developing specifications that enable powerful system options and is backward-compatible with the existing ATX infrastructure,” said Norman Tsai, v-p sales at motherboard maker MSI.
With few exceptions makers of small form factor PCs have created proprietary non-compatible motherboard sizes.
AMD intends to offer the specification for review in the first quarter of this year.