Computer Ports

A port is a physical docking point by which an external device can be connected to the computer. This can also be a programmatic docking point, through which information is transmitted over the computer or on the Internet.

serial port

• Used for external modem and old computer mouse
• Two versions: 9pins, 25 pin models
• Data travels 115 kilobytes per second

parallel port

• Used for scanners and printers
• Also called printer port
• 25 pin models
• IEEE 1284-compliant Centronics Port

PS / 2 port

• Used for older computer keyboards and mouse
• Also called mouse port
• Most old computers provide two PS / 2 ports, for each mouse and keyboard
• IEEE 1284-compliant Centronics Port

Universal Serial Bus (or USB) Port

It can connect all external USB devices like external hard disk, printer, scanner, mouse, keyboard etc.

• It was started in 1997
• Most computers provide at least two USB ports
• Data travels at 12 megabits per second
• USB compatible devices can get power from USB port