External Connections
A peripheral, such as a monitor, keyboard, or printer are parts of a complete computer. In order for a peripheral to function it must connect to the computer through one of many types of ports. The back of a computer has many cables running from the computer itself to various peripherals. All connectors have their own naming convention. In this blog I will be discussing a few of the different types of connectors.
USB Connectors - Universal serial bus (USB) is the most general connection for computers. Many devices use a USB connector such as a mouse, keyboard, or printer. USB connections can come in three sizes: A, B, and mini-B. The most common connector is the USB A.
DB Connectors - Have a slight D shape, allowing for only one correct way for insertion. DB connectors can have anywhere from 9 to 37 pins, although under 25 is the most common. DB connectors are the oldest type of connectors. Over the past few years the PC world has moved away from this type of connector, although it is still used normally for video purposes.
RJ Connectors - This is a plastic plug that is most likely used to connect a telephone into the jack. Recent computers only use two types of RJ jacks, RJ-11 (phone jack) and RJ-45. An RJ-11 is used for a modem, while an RJ-45 is a wider jack used for a network connection.
A computer can have close to 50 different types of connections. Almost all connections can fit into one of six types: DIN, USB, FireWire, RB, RJ, and audio. On modern computers the most common connector is a USB.
Source:
Meyers, M. (2012). All-in-one CompTIA A certification exam guide: (exams 220-801 & 220-802). New York: McGraw-Hill.
Good Post.
ReplyDeleteI still use DB 9 serial for connecting to serial devices. But it is almost impossible to find a NEW Laptop with a DB9 port on it. I usually have to purchase a DB9 to USB adapter. I think USB has truly taken over.