expansion port

expansion port

A socket (jack) into which a cable is plugged. The word "port" implies an external connection to a peripheral device, whereas "slot" generally refers to an internal bus connection. For example, USB and Ethernet ports are sockets on the outside of the computer case that a cable plugs into. In contrast, PCI Express (PCIe) slots are sockets on the motherboard that expansion cards are inserted in. See expansion card and plugs and sockets.

Copyright © 1981-2025 by The Computer Language Company Inc. All Rights reserved. THIS DEFINITION IS FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY. All other reproduction is strictly prohibited without permission from the publisher.