Communication Devices

Devices that communicate with other computers or devices

USB Ports

• Connects the computer to peripheral devices
• USB 2.0 is the new standard

PS/2 Ports

• Used to communicate with keyboards and mice

Serial Port

• Used to communicate with older devices
• Being replaced by the USP port

Parallel Port

• Used to communicate with older devices, particularly printers
• Being replaced by the USP port

Network Card

• Connects the computer to a network or high-speed Internet connection
• The most common format is a 10/100 Ethernet card

Modem

• Connects the computer to standard telephone line

Wireless Card

• Allows the computer to connect to a wireless network
• Would typically replace the Ethernet card 

Infra-red Port

• Allows the computer to communicate with other IR devices, such as printers and handheld devices
• Built-in on the Dell laptop

Dell Computers

Optiplex GX260

• Ethernet: integrated 10/1000 Ethernet connection (faster than 10/100)
• USB ports: six (2 front, 4 rear), USB 2.0 format
• A modem is available as an option

Optiplex GX240

• Ethernet: 10/100 card
• USB ports: four (2 front, 2 rear), USB 1.0 format
• A modem is available as an option

Dimension 8200 Desktop

• Ethernet: integrated 10/1000 Ethernet connection (faster than 10/100)
• USB ports: four (2 front, 2 rear), USB 2.0 format

Dimension 4500 Desktop

• Ethernet: 10/100 card
• USB ports: six (2 front, 4 rear), USB 1.0 format

Latitude

• Ethernet connection (10/100), modem, and infra-red port are standard