Are PCI Slots Still Used?

PCI slots were once the standard internal connection for a variety of computer hardware. This included everything from modems and sound cards to wireless adapters and extra storage controllers.

The slots allowed for easy installation and upgrading of components without having to open up the computer case.

Today, however, PCI slots are no longer found on new motherboards. They have been replaced by the newer and faster PCI Express (PCIe) slots. So, are PCI slots still used?

The answer is yes, but not nearly as much as they once were. Many computer manufacturers still include one or two PCI slots on their motherboards to support legacy devices.

This might include a printer port or serial port that is not found on PCIe cards.

In addition, some graphics cards still use a PCI slot for additional connectivity. This is because PCIe does not yet support the high bandwidth needed for some of the latest graphics cards.

Eventually, though, all graphics cards will transition to PCIe.

So, while PCI slots are still used today, their days are numbered. Most new computers no longer include them, and old devices are being phased out in favor of newer ones that use PCIe.