Alternatively called SPP (Standard Parallel Port), unidirectional refers to data either sent or received in one direction. For example, the parallel port on a computer can be unidirectional, allowing the computer to send data to a printer, but not allow that printer to communicate back.

Unidirectional ports were found on computers manufactured before 1995, capable of transmitting data 4-bits at a time, at 40 to 60 KBps over a six foot cable. This standard was later moved into the IEEE-1284, updated, and now known as Centronics mode.

Unidirectional may also describe a type of microphone that is only capable of picking up sound in one direction.

Bidirectional, Centronics mode, Parallel port, Printer terms

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