Micro PC Components

Micro PCs can provide all the performance capabilities of a full-sized PC, with a reduction in size and weight. However, due to a micro PCs reduced size, it may not be compatible with some components a full-sized PC would use. When building or upgrading a micro PC, you should always consider the size of the components, to ensure compatibility.

Micro PCs are computers using a motherboard based on the MicroATX or MicroBTX form factors.  Most of these motherboards include on-board video processing, sound processing and integrated network adapters. Due to the reduced size, there are fewer connections available for storage devices. Micro PCs are compatible with standard desktop CPUs, including multi-core processors, and use standard 240-pin Dual Inline Memory Modules. This allows the PC to be fully functional, while maintaining a small physical footprint.

To help maintain the slim profile of many Micro PC cases, there are typically only one or two 5.25 inch bays available. If the case is a tower model, these bays may be vertically oriented, instead of horizontally.  This limits 5.25 inch drive bay accessories that are compatible with many Micro PC configurations.

Due to the reduced size of most MicroATX or MicroBTX cases, choices in power supplies and dedicated video cards may be limited. Today, many high-end gaming computer systems include multiple video cards and 1000-plus Watt power supplies. While many video card manufacturers make low-profile versions of their most popular video cards, the performance of these cards may be reduced.

High-wattage power supplies are often only available in a standard size and produce temperatures in excess of what MicroATX computer setups can safely cool. The cooling systems of most Micro PCs have reduced airflow capacities, compared to the cooling systems of full-sized PCs. While liquid cooling is possible with Micro PCs, the radiators and reservoirs typically require external mounting.