| Certificates |
| Compliance certificates | RoHS |
| Logistics data |
| Products per master (outer) case | 1000 pc(s) |
| Master (outer) case width | 368 mm |
| Master (outer) case length | 426 mm |
| Master (outer) case height | 278 mm |
| Packaging data |
| Package width | 91 mm |
| Package depth | 81 mm |
| Package height | 13 mm |
| Package weight | 11 g |
| Performance |
| Product colour | Violet |
| Ports & interfaces |
| Connector 1 | USB A |
| Connector 2 | PS/2 |
| Connector 1 gender | Male |
| Connector 2 gender | Female |
| Weight & dimensions |
| Width | 15 mm |
| Depth | 50 mm |
| Height | 7 mm |
| Weight | 9 g |
The
PS/2 keyboard to USB adapter GC46MFKEY from Startech.com is designed to connect a PS/2 keyboard to a computer equipped with a USB port. The device functions as a
converter between the two interfaces, enabling the use of older PS/2 keyboards on modern systems that no longer feature PS/2 ports. The adapter is designed as a
replacement adapter, particularly for keyboards originally supplied with a PS/2-to-USB converter. For devices without a built-in converter, the USBPS2PC from StarTech.com is recommended instead.
Applications
This adapter is suitable for work environments where PS/2 keyboards are still in use, such as office installations, industrial control systems, or older computer systems. It allows connection to modern computers that offer only USB ports, eliminating the need to replace the entire keyboard. Its use is especially beneficial when the existing keyboard is fully functional and only requires interface adaptation to the current computer.
Features and Specifications in Detail
The adapter features a
USB-A plug (male) at one end, which connects into a USB port on the computer. At the other end, there is a
6-pin PS/2 socket (female), into which the PS/2 keyboard plug is inserted. The adapter is
purple in colour, distinguishing it visually from other USB adapters. Its physical dimensions are 50 mm in length, 15 mm in width, and 7 mm in height, with a weight of 9 g. The compact design enables easy handling and saves space.
Technology Explained Simply
The adapter operates as an
interface converter, translating signals from the PS/2 keyboard into a format that can be understood by the computer’s USB port. PS/2 is an older interface that uses serial communication, whereas USB is a universal, high-speed interface. The adapter ensures the keyboard is recognised and usable via the USB connection, without requiring additional drivers or software. Compatibility with USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/s) is ensured by the USB-A plug, which supports the necessary data transfer rate.
Compatibility and Accessories
The adapter is designed for use with PS/2 keyboards originally supplied with a PS/2-to-USB converter. It is not intended for keyboards that do not have such a converter function. As a replacement for the original converter, it is directly compatible with the devices it was developed for. For other applications, the USBPS2PC from StarTech.com is recommended.
Installation and Mounting
Installation is performed by simply inserting the USB-A plug into an available USB port on the computer, followed by connecting the PS/2 keyboard plug into the 6-pin socket on the adapter. The connection is automatically recognised once the adapter is plugged in. No additional settings, drivers, or software are required. The connection is immediately operational.
Operational Advantages
The adapter provides a
cost-effective and reliable solution to continue using existing PS/2 keyboards without switching to new devices. The
lifetime warranty from StarTech.com highlights the product’s quality and durability. Its compact design and simple installation make it a practical solution for temporary or permanent adaptations in existing IT infrastructures. The purple colour facilitates easy identification during use.