TestOut LabSim A+ Certification Practice Exam

Which form factor does not have expansion card slots on the motherboard and instead uses a riser card?

1. ATX

2. MicroATX

3. NLX

4. LPX

The correct answer is: NLX

The form factor that does not have expansion card slots on the motherboard and relies on a riser card is known as NLX. The NLX form factor was designed primarily to accommodate low-profile systems, making it useful in compact desktop environments. In NLX configurations, the motherboard does not include traditional expansion slots. Instead, it uses a riser card that allows for the installation of expansion cards at a right angle to the motherboard. This design effectively saves space, which is crucial in smaller cases where managing airflow and physical dimensions is essential. This contrasts with the ATX and MicroATX form factors, which both integrate expansion slots directly onto the motherboard. These designs facilitate a more straightforward installation of various expansion cards, such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network cards, directly into the motherboard. The LPX form factor also utilizes a riser card but is older and less common compared to NLX. The main function of riser cards in both LPX and NLX is to provide the ability to connect expansion cards while conserving space within the computer case.