Definition

Noun: - A type of computer interface: A parallel port is a hardware interface on a computer designed primarily for connecting a printer or other peripheral device. It transmits multiple bits of data (typically 8 bits, or one byte) simultaneously over separate wires, in parallel.

Usage

The term "parallel port" is used to specify a particular, largely legacy, type of physical connection on a computer. - It is often contrasted with a serial port, which sends data one bit at a time. - It is commonly associated with the Centronics interface standard for printers.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The old dot-matrix printer must be connected to the computer's parallel port.
  • Most modern laptops no longer include a parallel port, as USB has become the standard.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Context: In technical specifications, you might see references to the specific implementation, such as the IEEE 1284 standard, which defines the bidirectional version of the parallel port.
  • The scanner requires a bidirectional parallel port compliant with IEEE 1284.

Variants and Related Words

• LPT port: An alternative name, especially in Windows operating systems, where parallel ports were designated as LPT1, LPT2, etc. (Line Print Terminal).
• Printer port: A common synonym, as the parallel port was the dominant interface for printers for many years.
• Centronics interface: Refers to the specific connector and protocol originally developed by the Centronics company for their printers.

Synonyms

• Printer port
• LPT port

Antonyms / Contrasting Terms

• Serial port: An interface that transmits data one bit at a time sequentially over a single communication line.
• USB port (Universal Serial Bus): The modern, high-speed serial interface that has largely replaced parallel ports.

Noun

1. an interface between a computer and a printer where the computer sends multiple bits of information to the printer simultaneously