ALFA 20 Connect to Your Computer, Parallel Connection, Attach the Parallel Cable, Setting Up

Connect to Your Computer

Parallel Connection

Attach the Parallel Cable

We recommend that you use a bi-directional parallel printer cable. For best results, purchase a cable marked “IEEE 1284-compliant.”

Important! To comply with FCC regulations, the cable must be shielded and UL and CSA approved.

Note: OKIDATA has tested and approved the following bi-directional cable: Part Number 70000803. See Appendix A for purchasing information.

To connect the printer to your computer:

1.Turn both your printer and computer OFF.

2.Insert the wide connector on the cable into the parallel port on your printer. Make sure the connector is fully inserted, then snap both wire clips into the notches on the cable connector.

3.Insert the other end of the cable into the parallel port on your computer and tighten the screws.

Caution!Be sure not to over tighten the screws — this could damage the screw posts on your computer!

IEEE 1284 Parallel Interface

Parallel cable requirements:

•Cable must be shielded with twisted pair conductors, and must be UL and CSA approved

•Maximum length for bi-directional cable is 6 feet (1.8 meters). For lengths greater than 6 feet, use a cable marked IEEE 1284-compliant.

•Printer connector is an IEEE 1284-B receptacle (36 pins, 0.085” center line)

•Port supports bi-directional IEEE 1284 communications (compatibility, nibble, and ECP modes)

Bi-Directional Parallel Mode

If you are using the Status Monitor software, which provides on-line feedback of the printer status, BI-DIRECTION must be set to ENABLE (default) in the Level-2 printer main menu (see Chapter 3).

The recommended cable length for bi-directional communications is 6 ft. (1.8 meters). The standard parallel cables available at computer stores should work fine. For extended distances, higher quality IEEE 1284-com- pliant cables are available.

Chapter 1: Setting Up E–9