How to Find Out What Motherboard You Have
1. Check the Motherboard Box or Manual
If you still have the original box or manual that came with your computer, it may contain information about the motherboard. Look for a label on the motherboard itself or a sticker on the box that lists the make and model of the motherboard. If you have the manual, it may have a section that describes the motherboard or a list of specifications that includes the motherboard information. Keep in mind that this method may not be effective if you have built your own computer or if the computer has been upgraded with a new motherboard.
2. Use System Information Utility on Windows
If you are using a Windows computer, you can use the built-in System Information utility to find out what motherboard you have. To access this utility, press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box, type “msinfo32” and press Enter. This will open the System Information utility. Look for the “System Summary” category and expand it. The motherboard information should be listed under the “BaseBoard” or “Motherboard” section. Keep in mind that this method may not work if your computer is a custom build or if the motherboard information has been removed or altered.
3. Use Terminal Command on Mac
If you are using a Mac, you can use the Terminal app to find out what motherboard you have. Open the Terminal app by searching for it in Spotlight or by navigating to Applications > Utilities > Terminal. Once the Terminal app is open, type the following command: “system_profiler SPHardwareDataType | grep ‘Model Name'”. This will display the model name of your Mac, which should include the motherboard information. Keep in mind that this method may not work if the motherboard has been replaced or if you are running an older version of macOS that does not support this command.
4. Use CPU-Z on Windows or Linux
CPU-Z is a free utility that can provide detailed information about your computer hardware, including the motherboard. It is available for both Windows and Linux. To use CPU-Z, download and install the program from the official website. Once installed, launch the program and click on the “Mainboard” tab. This will display information about the motherboard, including the manufacturer, model, chipset, and BIOS version. Keep in mind that this method may not work if your computer has an obscure or outdated motherboard that is not supported by CPU-Z.
5. Open Up Your Computer and Physically Check the Motherboard
If all other methods fail, you can open up your computer and physically check the motherboard. Before attempting this, make sure to turn off and unplug your computer and take necessary precautions to avoid static electricity damage. Once you have safely opened your computer, look for a label on the motherboard that lists the make and model. The motherboard may also have a silk screen printing that indicates the manufacturer and model number. If you are not comfortable with opening your computer or are unsure about what you are doing, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional.
