PS/2 Cables

PS/2 cables, named after IBM's Personal System/2 series of computers where they first appeared, are a type of cable used primarily to connect keyboards and mice to a PC. Their design, characterised by a round, 6-pin mini-DIN connector, was a standard for keyboard and mouse interfaces until the advent of USB technology. Although less common today, PS/2 cables and ports are still in use, especially in environments requiring a dedicated keyboard or mouse connection.

Prominent Types of PS/2 Cables

• Standard PS/2 Cable: The most common type used for connecting keyboards and mice to the PC. It typically features a straight, shielded cable with a 6-pin mini-DIN connector.
• PS/2 Extension Cable: Used to extend the length of a standard PS/2 cable, applicable when the PC is located far from the keyboard or mouse.
• PS/2 to USB Adapter Cable: Designed to convert PS/2 connections to USB, allowing older keyboards and mice to be used with newer computers lacking PS/2 ports.
• KVM Switch PS/2 Cable: Specialised cables used to connect multiple nodes to a single keyboard, video monitor, and mouse setup through a KVM (Keyboard, Video Mouse) switch.

Unique Features and Benefits of the Cables PS/2

• PS/2 provides a dedicated connection for keyboards and mice, ensuring consistent performance without the need for additional drivers.
• Many PS/2 keyboards support n-key rollover, enabling multiple buttons to be pressed simultaneously without 'ghosting', making them ideal for gaming and professional typing.
• PS/2 devices typically offer lower latency than USB devices, as they use interrupt-driven communication.
• PS/2 devices are generally plug-and-play, although hot-plugging them (connecting or disconnecting while the computer is on) is not recommended.

Wide Application Range

Although USB has primarily taken over the role of connecting input devices to computers, PS/2 cables remain relevant in specific applications, such as:

• Legacy Systems: Essential in older computer systems where USB ports are limited or non-existent.
• Gaming: Preferred by some gamers for keyboards due to the n-key rollover feature and lower latency.
• Industrial and Commercial Settings: Used in environments where a stable and dedicated input device connection is necessary.
• Server Rooms: Frequently found in server rooms where KVM switches are used to control multiple servers from a single input set.