PS/2 is a type of connector and port used primarily for connecting keyboards and mice to a computer. It was introduced by IBM in 1987 with their Personal System/2 series of personal computers, hence the name “PS/2.”
Here are key details about PS/2:
- Connector Type: The PS/2 port uses a 6-pin mini-DIN connector, which is round and typically color-coded — purple for keyboards and green for mice.
- Keyboard and Mouse Connections: PS/2 ports were commonly used for connecting keyboards and mice before the widespread adoption of USB. A PS/2 keyboard or mouse would plug directly into the corresponding PS/2 port on the back of a computer.
- Legacy Technology: PS/2 ports have largely been replaced by USB ports, which offer more flexibility and can support a wider range of devices. However, PS/2 ports are still found on some older systems or specialized hardware, such as servers or certain embedded systems.
- Hot-Plugging: Unlike USB, PS/2 devices should not be plugged or unplugged while the computer is on because the ports are not designed for hot-swapping (though, in some cases, this may not cause immediate issues).
- Advantages: PS/2 connections are known for their lower latency compared to USB, which is why they are sometimes preferred in specialized applications like high-performance gaming or server environments.
Though PS/2 is no longer a mainstream connector, it remains a part of the legacy PC ecosystem.