HP 887A Motherboard: Comprehensive Architecture, Specification Breakdown, and Upgrade Guide
The HP 887A uses a proprietary form factor designed to slide seamlessly into small form factor (SFF) or slimline cases. Because it relies on mobile and low-power architectures, its layout differs significantly from standard ATX or Micro-ATX retail boards. Specification
Have you revived an old HP 887A system? Share your upgrade experiences in the comments below.
The HP 887A motherboard offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for users seeking high-performance computing. Some of the key benefits include: hp 887a motherboard
Generally supports DDR4 memory; most laptop variants feature two SODIMM slots for user upgrades. Features integrated AMD Radeon Graphics. Expansion & Storage: Typically includes an M.2 slot for NVMe SSDs.
The physical layout of the rear I/O and internal headers emphasizes functional, day-to-day usability. Connection Type Port Description Speed / Standard Realtek RTL8111GSH LAN controller Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mb/s) Audio Realtek ALC3247 Audio Codec High Definition Audio with Jack Detection USB Support USB Type-A Ports Combination of USB 3.2 Gen 1 & USB 2.0 Display Integrated Port HDMI 1.4 (Active with integrated graphics) The PCIe 4.0 NVMe Storage Dilemma
: Users often note that system assessment utilities (such as CPU-Z) mention a maximum supported link speed up to PCI Express 4.0 within certain system buses. However, physical traces and controller limitations restrict the M.2 storage pipeline to PCIe Gen 3 lanes . Share your upgrade experiences in the comments below
If you are looking to upgrade, repair, or repurpose an HP system built around the 887A, understanding its specific architectural constraints, proprietary headers, and component compatibility is critical. Core Specifications Matrix Specification Details SSID (System Board ID) Form Factor Customized Micro-ATX (approx. 24.0 x 24.0 cm) Chipset Processor Socket AMD Socket AM4 Memory Support Dual-Channel DDR4 (Up to 3200 MHz natively) Power Connectors Standard ATX 24-pin + 8-pin EPS Processor and Socket Compatibility
The (often identified by part numbers such as 887A or printed circuit board identifiers like PCA-887A ) is a proprietary system board developed by Hewlett-Packard, primarily utilized within their line of All-in-One (AiO) desktop PCs.
The HP 887A motherboard is a prime example of the proprietary designs that HP used extensively in their consumer and business desktops during the early 2010s. While not a household name like "ROG" or "Aorus," the 887A powered countless HP Pavilion, Compaq Presario, and HP Pro series machines. Understanding its specs, limitations, and upgrade paths is essential for anyone looking to revive or repurpose an old HP desktop. Features integrated AMD Radeon Graphics
Typically lacks a standard 2.5" SATA drive bay unless a specific ribbon cable and bracket are included with the chassis. 🔌 Connectivity & I/O USB: Usually includes USB Type-C and USB Type-A ports. Display: 1x HDMI output.
For the tinkerer willing to hunt down adapter cables and BIOS workarounds, the 887A is a hidden gem. For everyone else? It’s a reminder that “free” or “cheap” motherboards often come with hidden costs.
| Feature | Details | |---------|---------| | | Micro-ATX (24.4 cm x 24.4 cm approx.) | | CPU Socket | LGA 1155 | | Chipset | Intel H61 Express (most common) or B75 (less common) | | Memory | 2 x DDR3 DIMM slots, max 16GB (unofficial 32GB support) | | Memory Speed | 1066/1333/1600 MHz (depends on CPU) | | Expansion Slots | 1 x PCIe x16 (v2.0 or v3.0), 1 x PCIe x1, 1 x PCI (legacy) | | Storage | 4 x SATA 3Gb/s (SATA II), some revisions have 2 x SATA 6Gb/s | | Rear I/O | 4 x USB 2.0, 2 x USB 3.0 (if B75 chipset), VGA, RJ-45, Audio jacks, PS/2 (keyboard/mouse combo) | | Power Connector | Standard 24-pin ATX + 4-pin CPU | | Audio | Realtek ALC662 (5.1 channel) | | LAN | Realtek RTL8111E (Gigabit Ethernet) |
: Users report excellent stability for AutoCAD and 3D slicing applications.
Unlike standard ATX or Micro-ATX boards, the HP 887A relies on customized form factors and custom power pinouts designed strictly to fit into specialized HP cases. Specification Details Dual-channel DDR4 Memory Slots 2 Slots (Supporting up to 3200 MHz) Storage Capacity 1x M.2 NVMe Slot Graphics Interface PCI Express 3.0 / 4.0 Compatibility Integrated Audio Realtek High Definition Audio Network Interfaces RJ-45 Ethernet & M.2 Wi-Fi module slot Key Technical Features 1. Dual-Channel Memory Speed