What is an expansion card? (One-stop information collection)

An expansion card is a printed circuit board (PCB) that can be inserted into an expansion slot on a computer's motherboard, designed to add more connectors to the computer. Through these additional connectors, users can attach more devices to the computer.

[Definition] What is an expansion card? An expansion card, also known as a plug-in card or an expansion board, is a hardware component that can be inserted into a dedicated slot on a computer's motherboard to add or enhance the computer's functionality. These cards are typically used to provide additional interfaces, graphics processing capabilities, sound output, network connectivity, or other specific features. By using expansion cards, users can customize and upgrade their systems as needed without having to replace the entire computer. Common types of expansion cards include graphics cards, sound cards, network cards, and PCIe cards, among others.

An expansion card (also called an expansion board, add-in card, adapter card, internal card, electronic card, or accessory card) is a printed circuit board that can be inserted into an expansion slot on the motherboard of a computer. It is designed to add functionality or capabilities to a computer system.

A typical expansion card has one or more connectors for attaching external devices, such as a sound card, graphics card, or network adapter.

The expansion card connects to an expansion slot on the mainboard via an expansion bridge, which provides it with the power and data connections it needs to function.

An expansion card typically contains the components shown here:

• Scaffold/backing support
• Internal connectors
• External connectors
• Edge connectors
• Electronic components

【Usage】External Card Function

Now that we know what expansion cards are, let's look at how they're used by computers. They can be used to augment the capabilities and features of a computer's motherboard, for example, by adding additional ports through expansion cards.

For example, you can use an expansion card to add extra ports for connecting peripherals like a keyboard, mouse, or external hard drive. Expansion cards can also be used to add support for graphics or sound cards for better video and audio quality.

Additionally, expansion cards can be used to add support for network interface cards, such as Wi-Fi or Ethernet adapters. This enables the computer to access the internet or connect to other computers over a local area network (LAN).

Finally, an expansion card could provide the necessary slots for connecting additional cards for functions like video or sound capture.

In short, expansion cards can be used to add many different types of capabilities to a computer.

[Type] Common types of expansion cards

There are various types of expansion cards, each providing different functions.

The most common expansion cards include:

• Graphics card - An expansion card for enhancing video quality
• Sound card - An expansion card for recording and playing audio
• Network adapter - An expansion card that enables a computer to connect with other devices on a network
• Video capture card - An expansion card used for recording video
• TV tuner - An expansion card that turns a computer into a TV receiver
• ISA expansion card - An expansion card designed specifically for older ISA expansion slots

By having a clear understanding of expansion cards, users can make informed decisions when selecting compatible ones for their computers. Expansion cards enable users to enhance their computer's functionality and capabilities, allowing them to do more with their PC.

This post covers the definition, usage, and types of expansion cards. We hope it helps you gain a deeper understanding of these cards.