PC Support

  1. Home
  2. Computing & Technology
  3. PC Support

Universal Serial Bus - USB

By Tim Fisher, About.com

Definition: Abbreviated USB, it is a standard type of connection for many different kinds of devices. Generally, it refers to the types of cables, ports and connectors used to connect these many types of external devices to computers.

The Universal Serial Bus standard is a popular one. USB ports and cables are used to connect devices such as printers, scanners, flash drives, external hard drives and more to a computer. In fact, USB has become so popular, it's even used in nontraditional computer-like devices such as video game consoles, wireless phones and more.

Also Known As: USB
Examples: "You can tell how popular USB devices have become based on how many USB ports computer manufacturers include on new PCs. My latest PC had 8 USB ports as the standard option!"

Explore PC Support

About.com Special Features

Build Your Own Website

Step-by-step advice on how to do everything from choosing a Web host to promoting your content. More >

Connect Your Home Computers

Easy ways to connect two computers for networking purposes. More >

PC Support

  1. Home
  2. Computing & Technology
  3. PC Support
  4. Glossary / Terms
  5. U
  6. USB Definition - What is USB? - Universal Serial Bus

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.