COM 1 through COM 8 on the back of the Topaz and Ruby2 are what type of communications ports?

The communication ports labeled COM 1 through COM 8 on the back of the Topaz and Ruby2 terminals are classified as serial communication ports. Serial ports are commonly used for connecting various peripherals and exchanging data over short distances. They transmit data one bit at a time in a sequential manner, making them suitable for devices like terminals, which often require point-to-point connections for service or transaction-based communications.

In this context, the Topaz and Ruby2 terminals utilize these serial ports to interface with other devices, such as printers and computers, allowing for reliable data exchange. Serial communication is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in environments where devices need to communicate with minimal hardware overhead.