Black Box IEEE 1284 manual Introduction, Description, Features

IEEE 1284 SERIAL TO PARALLEL CONVERTER

2. Introduction

2.1 Description

The IEEE 1284 Serial to Parallel Converter lets you connect RS-232/423 serial hardware to a printer or other device equipped with a BiTronics parallel interface. Able to work in either Level 1 Compatible or Nibble modes (according to the IEEE 1284 standard), the Converter supports the high speeds necessary for graphics- intensive laser-printer applications.

On the serial side, the Converter translates Nibble operations into standard Hewlett-Packard®LaserJet® IV serial printer escape sequences. This allows operation with standard printer drivers. On the parallel side, the Model 2030 translates all commands received from the serial device into BiTronics Nibble operations or Compatible operations (depending upon the mode selected).

The IEEE 1284 Serial to Parallel Converter works with all BiTronics Level 1 compatible hardware, including Level 2 hardware with Level 1 backward compatibility. Power may be supplied by both interfaces, or by an optional plug-in AC adapter (PS095).

2.2 Features

•Supports data rates up to 115.2 kbps.

•Supports two IEEE 1284 BiTronics modes: Compatible and Nibble (switchable).

•4KV ESD protection on serial interface.

•Power derived from both interfaces, or from external AC power supply.

•LEDs for Power and Data mode (distinctive blinking).

•Male 36-pin Centronics or Mini-Centronics 36 for parallel connection.

•DEC MMJ jack, RJ-45 jack, or DB25 (male or female) for serial connection.

•Miniature size.

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