3.0.1 Communications
Using a data detection process, the interface selection occurs automatically in the printer. At power-up, the printer begins monitoring the interface ports for activity. When the host transmits data, the printer port detecting this data is set ‘active’ and remains active as long as data flow continues. Once the incoming (received) data flow stops and the Host Timeout Value (see Section 4.1.6) is exceeded, the detection process will be repeated. In addition, should the data flow stop before a complete label format is received, the format will be ignored and must be sent to the printer again.
þNote: To change an active port immediately, cycle the printer power ‘Off’ and ‘On’.
Parallel Port:
The parallel interface has two menu-selectable modes of operation: uni- directional or bi-directional. Uni-directional mode is forward channel communication and requires a Centronics® cable with a 36 pin male connector. Bi-directional mode is IEEE 1284 Compliant, using forward and reverse channel communications. In this mode, data can be sent to the host provided it is also IEEE 1284 Compliant and has supporting software. This mode requires an IEEE 1284 cable with a Centronics® 36 pin male connector.
NIC Adapter (optional):
The NIC Adapter has several menu-selectable modes; see Section 4.1.6 for details. Refer to the information provided with the option for connection requirements. The following items are accessible from the back of the printer:
∙The LED Indicators provide operational
information: A green LINK LED indicates a good network connection. A green 100 LED indicates a 100BASE-T network connection. The ACT LED (activity) flashes green or red when the server is ready for use.
∙ The Test Button will cause a NIC Configuration label to print.
∙ The Ethernet Reset button will reset the NIC Adapter.
þNote: Following initialization, the printer will indicate ‘Ready’; however, the NIC Adapter will not be ready to receive data until its ‘boot-up’ process is completed. Depending upon the NIC Adapter configuration, this process may take up to two minutes to complete.
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