Definition: A hexadecimal identifier assigned by a USB vendor to identify a specific product or product family.
Explanation
The Product ID (PID) is a hexadecimal number assigned by a USB device manufacturer to uniquely identify a specific product or product family. It is reported by the USB device during the enumeration process when connected to a Windows computer. The PID works alongside the Vendor ID (VID) to help the operating system recognize and load the appropriate drivers for the device. Unlike textual product names, the PID is a numeric code used internally by the USB system and is essential for device identification at the hardware level.
Example
For example, a USB hardware identifier might appear as USBVID_090C&PID_1000, where ‘1000’ is the Product ID assigned by the vendor with VID ‘090C’. This PID helps Windows distinguish this product from others made by the same vendor.
Who This Is For
This term is important for developers, IT administrators, hardware engineers, and software developers who need to identify, manage, or troubleshoot USB devices at a technical level. It is also useful for inventory systems and diagnostic tools that require precise hardware identification.
Related Terms
Vendor ID, USB Enumeration, SCSI Product, USB Device Descriptor
Also Known As
PID, USB Product ID