The first known as legacy-free notebook computer, released in 1988, was the NEC UltraLite laptop, which omitted integrated floppy and with limited internal storage, also can be described as Legacy-free machine. In 1987, IBM released the IBM PS/2 line with new internal architecture the BIOS and the new PS/2 port and VGA port was introduced, but this line was heavily criticized for a relatively high-closed proprietary architecture and low compatibility with PC-cloned hardware. With those parts becoming increasingly rare on newer computers as of the late 2010s and early 2020s, the term 'legacy-free PC' itself have also become increasingly rare. implementation of n-key rollover) not offered by USB. However, the PS/2 keyboard connector still retains some use, as it can offer some uses (e.g. Many legacy-free PCs include modern devices that may be used to replace ones omitted, such as a memory card reader replacing the floppy drive.Īs the first decade of the 21st century progressed, the legacy-free PC went mainstream, with legacy ports removed from commonly available computer systems in all form factors. Legacy-free PCs can be more difficult to upgrade than a traditional beige box PC, and are more typically expected to be replaced completely when they become obsolete.

Netbooks and ultrabooks could also be considered a portable form of a legacy-free PC.

Removing older, usually bulkier ports and devices allows a legacy-free PC to be much more compact than earlier systems and many fall into the nettop or all-in-one form factor. According to the 2001 edition of Microsoft's PC System Design Guide, a legacy-free PC must be able to boot from a USB device. A USB adapter may be used if an older device must be connected to a PC lacking these ports. According to Microsoft, 'The basic goal for these requirements is that the operating system, devices, and end users cannot detect the presence of the following: ISA slots or devices legacy floppy disk controller (FDC) and PS/2, serial, parallel, and game ports.' The legacy ports are usually replaced with Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports.

A legacy-free PC is a type of personal computer that lacks a floppy and/or optical disc drive, legacy ports, and an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus (or sometimes, any internal expansion bus at all).

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