Motherboards, while often overlooked, form the backbone of a workstation. Compatibility with high-performance CPUs, multiple RAM channels, PCIe lanes for GPUs, and support for fast storage devices are key factors. Workstation-class boards typically include better power delivery, advanced thermal management, and enterprise features such as remote management and diagnostics. Brands like ASUS ProArt, Supermicro, and HP’s Z series motherboards cater specifically to professional workloads.
Thermal design and cooling solutions are essential for consistent performance. SolidWorks workloads can push hardware to high thermal limits, especially during rendering or simulation. Efficient air or liquid cooling systems ensure the CPU and GPU maintain optimal temperatures, reducing the risk of throttling or hardware degradation. Custom-built workstations often feature larger cases with better airflow, while OEM models like those from Dell or HP use proprietary cooling systems for thermal efficiency.