Apple 12/640PS manual Initial TCP/IP setup, Background information

Initial TCP/IP setup

Before UNIX users can use the printer, the printer administrator must assign an IP address for the printer, as described in the following sections.

Background information

TCP/IP is a protocol commonly used to connect UNIX systems over Ethernet networks. Every TCP/IP device must have a unique IP address. Much of the initial work the printer administrator must do is related to assigning an IP address (and other associated information) to the printer.

Step 1: Installing the printer software

You don’t need to install any special UNIX software to administer the printer. You can control many features of the printer’s TCP/IP interface by using telnet, as explained later in this chapter; you can control other features of the printer by using the Apple Printer Utility program on a Mac OS computer (see Chapter 2) or LaserWriter Utility for Windows (see Chapter 3) on Windows computers.

Step 2: Obtaining an IP address for the printer

To be recognized on your TCP/IP network, your printer must be assigned an IP address. Part of the address identifies your site; the other part uniquely identifies the device. Most sites have a network administrator who dispenses IP addresses for all new network devices. Contact your network administrator for an IP address for the printer.

WARNING If your TCP/IP network contains devices with duplicate or incorrect IP addresses, you may experience unpredictable network behavior, or your network may cease to function. Make sure you obtain a valid and unique IP address for the printer.

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