Legacy port

Parallelport PCI Controller

Legacy port

A legacy port refers to a type of computer port or interface that was widely used in the past but has been largely replaced by newer technology. These ports were essential for connecting various peripherals and devices to computers, such as printers, keyboards, mice, and external storage devices. Despite being considered outdated, legacy ports are still found on some modern computers and are used in specific applications where compatibility with older hardware is necessary.

Types of Legacy Ports[edit | edit source]

Several types of legacy ports have been used in computing history, including:

Serial port - Also known as RS-232, this port was commonly used for connecting modems, mice, and other serial devices.
Parallel port - Often used for connecting printers and scanners, the parallel port allowed for the transfer of multiple bits of data simultaneously.
PS/2 port - A 6-pin mini-DIN connector used for connecting keyboards and mice. It was named after the IBM Personal System/2 series of personal computers.
VGA port - The Video Graphics Array port was used for connecting monitors to computers and is still found on some modern systems.
SCSI port - The Small Computer System Interface port was used for connecting a variety of peripherals, including hard drives and scanners.
Game port - Used primarily for connecting joysticks and game controllers, this port was commonly found on sound cards.

Decline of Legacy Ports[edit | edit source]

The decline of legacy ports began with the advent of more advanced and versatile interfaces such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) and HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface). These newer technologies offered faster data transfer rates, greater flexibility, and the ability to connect a wider range of devices. As a result, many manufacturers began phasing out legacy ports in favor of these modern alternatives.

Legacy Ports in Modern Computing[edit | edit source]

Despite their decline, legacy ports are still used in certain applications, particularly in industrial and embedded systems where older equipment remains in use. Some modern motherboards and computers include legacy ports to ensure compatibility with older peripherals. Additionally, USB-to-serial and other types of adapters are available to connect legacy devices to modern systems.