Computer Connectors Guide
There is a variety of input / output connectors and interfaces on today’s computers and communication devices. We have put together some of the popular connectors, ports and sockets in this table to help make them clearer.
Which connector do I need?
| Type of connector | Connector | Port/Jack/Socket |
|---|---|---|
| PS2 (PS/2) for PC
This type of connector is usually used for the keyboard and mouse on the modern PCs. It is usually necessary to reboot your computer after connecting a PS2 device. The PS2 mouse connector and port is usually green in colour to distinguish it from the PS2 keyboard, which is purple. PS2 to USB adapters are available. |
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| Serial (RS-232c) for PC
This is an older interface for connecting low speed devices such as modems to a PC. The connector is usually female while the port or socket is male. The serial port has 9 pins. A number of older devices use a larger 25-pin variant of this type. The serial interface is made obsolete by USB below. |
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| USB for PC and Mac
USB (Universal Serial Bus) is a plug-and-play interface meaning that devices can be hot-plugged and there is no need to turn off your computer when connecting or disconnecting a USB device. Type A USB connector – connects to your computer. |
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| Type B USB connector – connects to a peripheral device, for example, printer, scanner, camera, etc. |  |
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| ADB for Mac
This is an older connector for pre-iMac/G3-model Macs – USB connectors are used on more modern Macs. ADB devices can be plugged into a USB port using an ADB-to-USB adaptor. |
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| AT keyboard for PC
This type of connector is used for the older PC keyboard. Newer PCs typically use PS2 or USB for keyboard connection. PS2 to AT adaptors are available to enable a newer PS2 keyboard to be connected to an older computer with an AT port. |
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