PS/2 Cables - Assorted
Product information
On Sale
+
Description
Circa 1987 to Early 2000's
Overview and Production History:
- Date Made/Introduced: The PS/2 port, which uses this specific 6-pin Mini-DIN connector, was designed by IBM and introduced with their Personal System/2 (PS/2) series of computers on April 2, 1987.
- Historical Significance: The PS/2 port became the de facto industry standard for connecting keyboards and mice to PCs throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, replacing the older, larger 5-pin DIN keyboard connector and the DE-9 serial mouse port. The PC 97 standard introduced the color-coding (purple for keyboard, green for mouse) that many people remember.
- Use Case: The cables are used to provide a dedicated, interrupt-driven connection for input devices. While the industry has largely shifted to USB, some users still prefer PS/2 connections for specific reasons, such as N-key rollover for gaming or security in corporate environments where USB ports are disabled.
- Current Production Status: While most modern consumer motherboards no longer include PS/2 ports, the cables themselves are still in production and available for purchase online. They are used for legacy systems, industrial equipment, and by enthusiasts who use USB-to-PS/2 adapters for compatibility.
PLEASE NOTE: Rental rate is per cable. Various lengths and colors available.