Mini-ITX Addendum to the MicroATX Specification

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1 Executive Summary
The Mini-ITX addendum to the microATX Motherboard Interface Specification details
the use the Mini-ITX form factor standard, developed by Via Technologies Inc, for
compatibility with Intel based platforms. This document defines only the specific
features in Intel’s Mini-ITX based platforms that differ from those of microATX and
should be used in conjunction with the governing microATX specification.
A smaller motherboard layout offers system developers the ability to create new and
innovative system designs. This smaller version of microATX allows and encourages
developers to build within the sub 8 liter chassis volume for a variety of new
applications.
Described within this document are requirements and characteristics of a Mini-ITX
motherboard, so that a motherboard may function and fit appropriately when paired
with a Mini-ITX chassis. Beyond this, it does not detail processor, memory, graphics
or other system features required to meet the Mini-ITX form factor. These items are
left to system designers and integrators within the guidelines of the microATX
specification.
A further refinement of Mini-ITX boards is the Thin Mini-ITX board definition. Its
smaller size enables system integrators to integrate sub-4 liter systems, such as Tiny
PCs and All-In-One PCs, using a standard building block approach.
Table 1. Mini-ITX Addendum Feature Summary
Feature
Benefit
170mm x 170mm motherboard size
Smaller board size enables a smaller system
size.
Mini-ITX: Standard microATX 1.2 or later I/O
panel
ATX I/O shield does not need to be retooled.
Motherboard can be used in an ATX, microATX,
or Mini-ITX chassis.
Thin Mini-ITX: A Mini-ITX board targeted for
smaller system form factors with a 20mm tall
PCB and component volumetric, and a 1” back
panel I/O height
A Thin Mini-ITX board can use a thin back
panel I/O shield when targeted for Tiny PCs
and AIOs. The same board can be used in a
Mini-ITX, microATX, and ATX chassis when
used with a regular ATX I/O shield.
Same motherboard mounting holes as in
microATX
Compatible with microATX chassis. No need to
retool current chassis.
Current processor and future processor
technologies
Chassis will work for multi generation socketed
processor technology.
This addendum does NOT define:
 Specific power supply form factors
 Thermal design guidance to chassis vendors (covered in TASC guide listed in
Reference Documents)