How to Find Documentation for Your Motherboard Online

Last Updated: October 21, 2021

If you've ever had to repair an old computer without the motherboard manual, you know just how tricky that can be. Luckily, these days the basic documentation for many motherboards can be found online if you know how to look for them.

Steps

1
Carefully search both sides of the motherboard for the manufacturer name and model number of the board. This can usually be found near one of the four edges of the board on the top side (the side with all the connections, chips, etc. showing).
2
Write down the manufacturer and model number exactly as shown on the motherboard.

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3
Use Google (or your favorite search engine) to search for the motherboard documentation. For best results, form your search by typing the manufacturer name in quotation marks, and then type the word AND, and then type the model number exactly as you saw it on the motherboard. For example:
"Fred's Motherboard Factory" AND FCMB920103
4
Carefully review the search results. Watch in particular for results in PDF format, as most manufacturers that do list their schematics online will do so in PDF (Adobe Acrobat) format.
5
If you do not find the documentation you need within those search results, search just for the manufacturer, and find their telephone number.
6
Contact the manufacturer's customer service department and ask whether they provide motherboard documentation online. In most cases, they will be happy to direct you to the appropriate section of their website.
7
Finished.

Warnings

Always handle electronic components such as motherboards and other computer parts carefully to avoid damaging them.

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Be sure to use an anti-static wrist strap or to discharge any static electricity from your body before handling electronic components.

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