USB Alternative
PS/2
PS/2 is a legacy computer input interface used mainly for keyboards and mice.
PS/2 characteristics
Compare its connector, device role, USB overlap, and current status.
| Primary purpose | Keyboard and pointing-device input |
|---|---|
| Common connector | 6-pin Mini-DIN |
| General peripheral data | No |
| Typical devices | Keyboards and mice |
| USB relationship | USB HID devices largely replaced dedicated PS/2 keyboards and mice |
| Hot-plug focus | No; legacy PS/2 systems were not designed around USB-style hot plugging |
| Current status | Legacy and specialized |
Sources: Linux Kernel Input Documentation, Linux Kernel PS/2 Protocol Support, and USB-IF HID and Device Class Specifications.