Can anybody enlighten a duffer about the difference between a PS2 and an AT Keyboard? I need to connect a new keyboard to an old PC with a DIN socket. I know I can get an adapter but interested in the difference between PS2 & AT before I make a fool of myself!

Simpson

There's not really much difference apart from the size. I believe PS/2 may have more pins to allow for additional functions on the keyboard but that's about it. But even PS/2 is old hat now as most things are going USB.

Yep, AT or "serial" keyboards had a big round plug as fitted to original Pentiums and earlier systems. Since Pentium II kind of time (around 1996/97), all new PCs have had a PS/2 keyboard connector, which is round but a bit smaller. They are generally fitted alongside PS/2 mouse connectors as well. As far as I know, all new PCs still come with a PS/2 mouse and keyboard socket on the motherboard but, as BigT says, the systems might in fact be supplied with a mouse and/or keyboard that uses one of the system's USB ports.

The bottom line is you can buy an AT to PS/2 keyboard adaptor and be confident that it will work as there's no fundamental difference between AT and PS/2 keyboards other than the plug on the end of the cable

Totally clear and helpful as usual - thanks guys!

Simpson

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