Connecting the Printer to Your Computer

If you want to share the printer, skip the section on choosing an interface. You must first add memory to your computer’s main board as described in the section on installing memory chip sets in Appendix A. Next, follow the instructions in Connecting the Parallel Interface and Connecting the Serial Interface to connect each interface; then see Chapter 3 for details on using SelecType to configure each channel.

Choosing an interface

When connecting the printer to your computer, first determine whether you should use a parallel or serial connection. Many computers provide only one type of connection for a printer. If both types of connections are available, it is usually better to use the parallel interface for the printer, leaving the serial port of your computer free for other devices such as modems. If you are in any doubt about which type of connection to make, consult your dealer.

The printer is set up for parallel communication at the factory. If your computer has a parallel interface, you should be able to connect it to the printer with a properly shielded cable and not change any factory settings.

If, however, you find that you need a serial interface, you must set up Channel S with SelecType. You may also need to use SelecType to change some of the serial settings, such as baud rate or parity, to suit your needs. See Chapter 3 for instructions on using SelecType to change printer settings.

Connecting the parallel interface cable

If you want to use the printer’s standard parallel interface, make sure you have a shielded cable suitable for a Centronics-compatible interface.

2-18 Testing and Connecting Your Printer