25pin

The 25-pin connector, commonly referred to as the DB-25, is a type of electrical interface that consists of 25 individual pins arranged in two parallel rows within a D-shaped metal shell. This connector has been widely used in computer and telecommunications equipment since the mid-20th century. Originally designed for parallel and serial communication, the DB-25 USB, or similar variants, are often associated with RS-232 serial ports, which facilitate data exchange between computers and peripheral devices such as modems, printers, and mice.

The DB-25 connector is characterized by its robust construction and standardized pin configuration, which defines the function of each pin for specific signals such as transmit data, receive data, ground, and control signals. The connector’s design allows secure connections and reliable data transfer, making it suitable for environments where signal integrity is essential.

Over time, the use of the DB-25 for serial communication has declined with the advent of USB and other modern interfaces. However, the connector remains in use in certain industrial, scientific, and legacy systems. The pinout specifications for the DB-25 vary depending on the application; for instance, the standard EIA RS-232 serial communication protocol assigns specific functions to each pin, facilitating communication between computers and external hardware.

In addition to serial communication, the DB-25 has been adapted for other functions, including parallel port connections for printers and as an interface in networking hardware. Its widespread historical use has made the DB-25 a recognizable and important component in the development of early computer and telecommunication technology.