Chipset
A chipset is a set of microchips designed to work together in order to perform a set of certain functions. For example, in computers, the chipset serves as a connecting component that enables the joint operation of memory subsystems, CPU, input/output and others. The chipset of computer motherboards consists of two main microchips (sometimes they are combined into one chip):
1. MCH - Memory Controller Hub - northbridge - provides interaction between the central processing unit (CPU) with memory and video adapter (PCI Express). In new chipsets, an integrated graphics subsystem is often present. The memory controller can be integrated into the processor (for example, Opteron, Nehalem, UltraSPARC T1).
2. ICH - I/O Controller Hub - southbridge - provides interaction between the CPU and hard disk, PCI cards, IDE interfaces, SATA, USB and others.
Sometimes the Super I/O chip is also considered part of the chipset, which connects to the southbridge and is responsible for low-speed ports RS232, LPT, PS/2
Source: ORDER OF ROSTRUD No. 108 dated 14.05.2009
"ON APPROVING THE FORM AND PROCEDURE FOR SUBMITTING DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS ON THE USE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES IN THE ACTIVITIES OF TERRITORIAL OFFICES OF ROSTRUD IN SUBJECTS OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION (INFORMATIZATION PASSPORTS)"