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PD/CD-ROM Drive
A PD/CD-ROM drive is preinstalled in some PC models. This dual-function IDE
drive can be used as a standard CD-ROM reader or as a mechanism for day-to-day
backup and storage of data. Using removable, rewritable optical disks called PD
cartridges, you can save, store, and read files just as you would with a hard disk
drive. PD cartridges, which store 650 MB of data, are particularly useful for
performing system backups and for saving space-consuming data, such as graphic
and multimedia files.
ECP/EPP Parallel Port
Your PC has one 25-pin parallel port. The parallel port is most often used to
communicate with a parallel printer, but it can also be used with other parallel
devices.
The parallel port can operate in several different modes. The default mode for your
computer is SPP (standard parallel port). However, your computer also supports
the ECP/EPP (extended capabilities port/enhanced parallel port) mode. ECP/EPP
has two advantages over SPP. When your computer is in ECP/EPP mode, you can
print documents faster than when the computer is in SPP mode, and you can attach
devices other than printers, such as communication and storage devices, to the
parallel port. You can set modes of operation for the parallel port using the
Configuration/Setup Utility program.
Serial Port
Your computer has one standard 9-pin, 16550-UART serial port that can be used to
communicate with devices such as modems, plotters, and printers.
Universal Serial Bus Port
The Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface is based on a new, emerging technology
being developed to add more diversity and capabilities to personal computers. IBM
has provided one 4-pin USB connector on your computer as a standard feature so
you can be ready to take advantage of new USB devices as they become available.
Using this new technology, you will be able to plug many different types of
optional, USB-compatible devices into the USB port on your computer. Because
USB incorporates Plug and Play technology, you can install and remove devices
without turning off your computer. Once installed, the devices configure
automatically. In addition, an option called a hub enables you to plug in more than
one device at a time. A hub converts a single USB connector into multiple ports
4 Using Your Personal Computer