abstract:In computing, the form factor is the specification of a motherboard - the dimensions, power supply type, location of mounting holes, number of ports on the back panel, etc. Specifically, in the IBM PC compatible industry, standard form factors ensure that parts are interchangeable across competing vendors and generations of technology, while in enterprise computing, form factors ensure that server modules fit into existing rackmount systems.
In fact, Surface Pro will basically be a touch-screen version of an Ultrabook computer, the lightweight laptop formfactor that Intel has been touting for the past year as a Macbook Air competitor.
Additionally, it will draw in many people who have never owned a computer at all, because it has a compelling formfactor and fantastic, intuitive interface.