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Computers: PS/2 Versus USB Ports
 PS/2 is usually only used for keyboards, mice, and trackballs. These devices, along with digital cameras, printers, and others, can be connected to USB ports as well. USB can receive data more quickly than PS2, but either type of port is more than fast enough for mice, keyboards, and trackballs. It is more advantageous for devices which send or receive large amounts of data, like digital cameras and MP3 players.

An advantage USB has in comparison to PS/2 is that devices are "hot-swappable"; they can be unplugged and plugged in to the computer while it is powered on. On the other hand, USB accessories are harder to use in some operating systems (especially 16-bit systems like DOS and Windows 3.x), and many older computers lack USB ports. Most non-portable computers have two PS/2 ports, so there is no need to conserve use of them.

Overall, with the exception of some specific situations, neither type of ports have any major advantage versus the other for connecting keyboards, trackballs, and mice to computers. If an equivalent PS/2 device can be purchased less expensively, it is probably the best choice.

History of Computer Mice
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