Final answer:
The Single Edge Contact Cartridge (SECC) is a type of packaging used for CPUs in older computer systems, facilitating insertion into the motherboard and providing support for larger heat sinks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Single Edge Contact Cartridge (SECC) refers to a type of packaging for CPU (Central Processing Unit) that was used in older computer systems. This packaging allowed CPUs to be inserted into a slot on the motherboard, unlike the pin grid arrays (PGA) that fit into socketed mounts.
SECCs were mainly used in servers and high-end desktop computers. They were part of Intel's Slot 1 interface, which was introduced in 1997 with the Pentium II processor.
The SECC packaging helped to streamline CPU installation and provided better support for large, heavy heat sinks. This was particularly important at the time because CPUs were generating more heat as they reached higher clock speeds. The physical cartridge provided some physical protection to the CPU, as well as means for easier handling and better heat dispersion.