Datasheet
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Chapter 1
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Personal Computer System Components
Centronics
The last type of port connector is the Centronics connector, a micro ribbon connector named
for the Wang subsidiary that created it. It has a unique shape, as shown in Figure 1.44. It
consists of a central connection bar surrounding by an outer shielding ring. The Centronics
connector was primarily used in parallel printer connections and SCSI interfaces. It is most
often found on peripherals, not on computers themselves (except in the case of some older
SCSI interface cards).
FIGURE 1.44 A Centronics connector
Common Peripheral Interfaces and Cables
An interface is a method of connecting two dissimilar items together. A peripheral interface
is a method of connecting a peripheral or accessory to a computer, including the specifica-
tion of cabling, connector and port type, speed, and method of communication used.
The most common interfaces used in PCs today include:
Parallel
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Serial
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USB
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IEEE 1394 (FireWire)
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Infrared
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RCA
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PS/2
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For each type, let’s look at the cabling and connector used as well as the type(s) of
peripherals that are connected.
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