Supermicro Mini-ITX Quad-Core CPU Combo vs Supermicro Mini-ITX Pentium N3700 Server Motherboard: Spec Comparison
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This comparison of supermicro mini itx a1sai 2550f o quad vs mbd x11sba ln4f b intel covers two compact server boards. Both use Mini-ITX form factors and support DDR3 memory. The main difference lies in their processors. One features the Intel Atom C2550 quad-core chip. The other uses the Intel Pentium N3700. You need to check the socket type and core count to decide which fits your server needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Supermicro Mini-ITX Quad-Core CPU Combo | Supermicro Mini-ITX Pentium N3700 Server Motherboard |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Model | Intel Atom C2550 | Intel Pentium N3700 |
| Core Count | Quad-Core | not listed |
| Processor Socket | not listed | Socket BGA-1170 |
| PCIe Version | PCI-Express 2.0 | not listed |
| SATA Ports | 2x SATA3, 4x SATA2 | not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Supermicro Mini-ITX Quad-Core CPU Combo if
- You need a quad-core processor for better multi-threaded performance.
- You require PCI-Express 2.0 slots for expansion cards.
- You want specific SATA3 and SATA2 port counts listed.
Choose Supermicro Mini-ITX Pentium N3700 Server Motherboard if
- You need a board with a clearly defined Socket BGA-1170 specification.
- You prefer the Intel Pentium N3700 processor architecture.
- You are looking for a server motherboard with bulk packaging options.
Verdict: Choose the A1SAI-2550F-O if you prioritize core count and explicit PCIe and SATA specifications. Pick the MBD-X11SBA-LN4F-B if you specifically need the Pentium N3700 or require the documented BGA-1170 socket. Both boards serve compact server roles effectively based on your processor preference.
Processor and Memory Specs Compared
CPU core count
Product A includes the Intel Atom C2550 processor, which features four cores. This quad-core design allows for better multitasking and parallel processing workloads. Product B uses the Intel Pentium N3700. The data provided does not specify the core count for this chip, so you cannot confirm if it matches the four cores in Product A. For tasks that benefit from multiple simultaneous threads, the known four cores in Product A offer a clear advantage. You should verify the Pentium N3700 specifications separately if core count is critical for your server needs.
Memory capacity
Product A lists four SODIMM slots for DDR3 memory. It supports speeds of 1333 or 1600 MHz and includes ECC support for error correction. The maximum capacity is stated as 64GB. Product B also uses DDR3 memory, but the data does not list the number of slots or the maximum supported RAM. Without knowing if Product B supports 64GB or ECC, you cannot compare their memory limits directly. Product A provides explicit details on high-capacity and error-correcting memory options, which are important for stable server operation.
PCIe slots
Product A features one PCI-Express 2.0 x8 slot. This allows you to add expansion cards like network adapters or storage controllers. Product B is described as a server motherboard with a BGA-1170 socket, but the data does not list any PCIe slots. Since Product A explicitly includes an expansion slot and Product B has no listed expansion options, Product A offers more flexibility for hardware upgrades. If you need to add internal cards, Product A is the only choice supported by the provided specifications.
SATA ports
Product A provides six SATA ports in total. These include two SATA3 ports and four SATA2 ports, allowing for multiple storage drives. Product B is described as supporting SATA3, but the data does not specify the number of ports available. You cannot determine if Product B offers more or fewer connections than Product A. Product A gives you clear visibility into your storage connectivity options with a mix of SATA3 and SATA2 speeds.
USB ports
Product A includes four USB 3.0 ports on the rear panel. This provides fast data transfer speeds for peripherals. Product B is noted to support USB 3.0 in its title, but the data does not list the quantity of ports. You cannot confirm if Product B offers four ports or a different number. Product A ensures you have four high-speed USB connections, which is useful for connecting multiple devices without waiting for data transfers.
Form factor
Both products use the Mini-ITX form factor. This standard size measures 6.7 by 6.7 inches, making both boards compact and suitable for small form factor cases. The data confirms that both Product A and Product B adhere to this standard. Since they share the same physical dimensions and layout style, neither product has an advantage in terms of size. You can use either board in any case designed for Mini-ITX motherboards.
Choose the right Supermicro board
Users needing strong multi-tasking power
Product A includes the Intel Atom C2550 processor with four cores. This quad-core design handles parallel processing and multitasking workloads more effectively than the Pentium N3700. It also supports up to 64GB of DDR3 ECC memory, which ensures data integrity for server applications. The 14W TDP keeps energy use low while maintaining performance.
Users prioritizing network connectivity
Product B is designed as a server motherboard with integrated 4GbE ports. This feature is essential for high-speed data transfer in network environments. It uses the Intel Pentium N3700 processor on Socket BGA-1170. The board supports DDR3 memory and fits the Mini-ITX form factor, making it suitable for compact server racks requiring robust networking capabilities.
Users requiring expansion slots
Product A features a PCI-Express 2.0 x8 slot, allowing you to add expansion cards like network adapters or storage controllers. It also offers four USB 3.0 ports and six SATA ports (two SATA3 and four SATA2). This connectivity provides flexibility for building a customized system with specific hardware requirements.
Users needing memory error correction
Product A supports ECC memory, which detects and corrects data corruption. This is critical for server stability and reliability. It provides four SODIMM slots for DDR3-1600/1333 memory, supporting up to 64GB. This configuration ensures your server runs smoothly without unexpected crashes due to memory errors, unlike standard non-ECC setups.
The products compared
Supermicro Mini-ITX Quad-Core CPU Combo
Best for: compact low-power server builds
- Form Factor
- Mini-ITX
- Memory Type
- DDR3
- PCIe Version
- PCI-Express 2.0
- Core Count
- 4 Cores
- Dimensions
- 13 × 10 × 2 inches
View on Amazon: Supermicro Mini-ITX Quad-Core CPU Combo Affiliate link
This Supermicro Mini-ITX bundle pairs the A1SAI-2550F-O motherboard with an Intel Atom C2550 quad-core processor. It supports up to 64GB of DDR3 memory and features PCIe 2.0 expansion. You get four USB 3.0 ports and six SATA connections for storage. It suits users needing compact, low-power computing with ECC memory support for reliable server or embedded tasks.
Pros
- Intel Atom C2550 quad-core processor included
- Supports up to 64GB ECC DDR3 memory
- Four USB 3.0 ports for connectivity
- Six SATA ports total (2x SATA3, 4x SATA2)
Cons
- PCI-Express 2.0 limits high-bandwidth expansion
- Only two SATA3 ports for modern drives
- DDR3 memory is older technology
Good fit if
- You need ECC memory for data integrity
- You require a compact Mini-ITX form factor
- You want a low-power quad-core CPU
Skip if
- You need PCIe 3.0 or newer speeds
- You require DDR4 or DDR5 memory support
- You need more than two SATA3 ports
Verdict: Supermicro Mini-ITX Quad-Core Combo offers a compact, low-power solution with ECC memory support. It fits users needing reliable, space-saving hardware for specific embedded or server applications.
Supermicro Mini-ITX Pentium N3700 Server Motherboard
Best for: Compact low-power server builds
- CPU Socket
- Socket BGA-1170
- Form Factor
- Mini-ITX
- Memory Type
- DDR3
- Dimensions
- 23.6 × 23.6 × 33.5 inches
- Weight
- 6 pounds
View on Amazon: Supermicro Mini-ITX Pentium N3700 Server Motherboard Affiliate link
This Supermicro Mini-ITX motherboard pairs an Intel Pentium N3700 processor with DDR3 memory. It uses a BGA-1170 socket and supports 8 GB of RAM. The board is designed for server applications. It fits small form factor cases. You should choose this if you need a compact, dedicated server solution. It is not intended for general desktop gaming or heavy multimedia tasks.
Pros
- Mini-ITX form factor for compact builds
- Intel Pentium N3700 processor included
- Supports DDR3 memory
- Server-grade motherboard design
Cons
- Limited to 8 GB maximum memory
- Uses older DDR3 memory standard
- Pentium N3700 has low performance for modern workloads
Good fit if
- You need a compact server motherboard
- You are building a low-power network appliance
- You require Mini-ITX form factor compatibility
Skip if
- You need more than 8 GB of RAM
- You want modern DDR4 or DDR5 support
- You require high-performance desktop computing
Verdict: Supermicro Mini-ITX Server Board is a specialized option for compact server builds. It suits users who need a small footprint with basic processing power. It is not suitable for high-performance desktop use.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Supermicro Mini-ITX Quad-Core CPU Combo | Supermicro Mini-ITX Pentium N3700 Server Motherboard |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Socket | not stated | Socket BGA-1170 |
| Form Factor | Mini-ITX | Mini-ITX |
| Memory Type | DDR3 | DDR3 |
| PCIe Version | PCI-Express 2.0 | not stated |
| Core Count | 4 Cores | not stated |
| Dimensions | 13 × 10 × 2 inches | 23.6 × 23.6 × 33.5 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 6 pounds |
| Model | A1SAI-2550F-O | MBD-X11SBA-LN4F-B |
| Size | not stated | 8 Gb |
Frequently asked questions
What is the physical size difference between the two boards?
The Supermicro Mini-ITX Quad-Core Combo measures 10 inches in width and 13 inches in length. The Pentium N3700 Server Motherboard has different dimensions, listing a width of 23.6 inches and a length of 23.6 inches. You should verify your case compatibility carefully, as these measurements suggest distinct form factor interpretations or packaging differences.
Does the quad-core board support ECC memory?
Yes, the Supermicro Mini-ITX Quad-Core CPU Combo supports ECC memory. This feature helps ensure data integrity in server environments. The Pentium N3700 board also uses DDR3 memory, but specific ECC support details are not provided in the available specifications for that model.
Which board is better for multitasking workloads?
The Supermicro Mini-ITX Quad-Core CPU Combo is better for multitasking. It features an Intel Atom C2550 processor with four cores. This quad-core design allows for more effective parallel processing compared to the Pentium N3700 found in the other board. You will get stronger performance for concurrent tasks.
Are both motherboards Mini-ITX form factor?
Both products are listed as Mini-ITX form factor. However, the listed dimensions for the Pentium N3700 board appear unusually large for standard Mini-ITX. You should check the exact physical constraints of your build. The Quad-Core Combo lists standard Mini-ITX-like dimensions of 10 by 13 inches.
What type of memory do these boards use?
Both motherboards support DDR3 memory. The Quad-Core Combo is explicitly noted for its DDR3 compatibility. The Pentium N3700 Server Motherboard also utilizes DDR3. You need to ensure your selected RAM modules match the DDR3 standard to function correctly with either board.
Is the Pentium N3700 board suitable for high-performance desktop use?
No, the Supermicro Mini-ITX Pentium N3700 Server Motherboard is not suitable for high-performance desktop use. It is designed for compact server builds with basic processing power. If you need strong multi-tasking power, the Quad-Core Combo with its four-core processor is a more appropriate choice for demanding tasks.