Compatibility

Compatibility may refer to:

Computing

• Backward compatibility, in which newer devices can understand data generated by older devices
• Compatibility card, an expansion card for hardware emulation of another device
• Compatibility layer, components that allow for non-native support of components
  • Compatibility mode, software mechanism in which a software emulates an older version of software
• Computer compatibility, of a line of machines
  • IBM PC compatible, computers that are generally similar to the original IBM PC, XT, or AT
• Hardware compatibility, between different pieces of computer hardware
• License compatibility, of software licenses
• Pin compatibility, in devices that have the same functions assigned to the same particular pins
• Software compatibility, between different pieces of software
  • Software incompatibility

Science and mathematics

• Compatibility (biological), a property which is assigned to splits of a given set of taxa
• Compatibility (chemical), how stable a substance is when mixed with another substance
• Compatibility (geochemistry), how readily a particular trace element substitutes for a major element within a mineral
• Compatibility (mechanics), the study of compatible deformations in continuum mechanics
• Electromagnetic compatibility, which studies the unintentional generation, propagation, and reception of electromagnetic energy
• Consistency, logical compatibility between two or more propositions
• Compatible relation, a binary relation that commutes with each operation of an algebraic structure

Other uses

• Astrological compatibility, a branch of astrology that studies relationships by comparing natal horoscopes
• Compatibilism, a philosophical position
• Interpersonal compatibility, the long-term interaction between two or more individuals in terms of the ease and comfort of communication