Epson manual MFJ-1278B MULTI-MODE Computer Interfacing, MFJ Starter Packs

MFJ-1278B MULTI-MODE COMPUTER INTERFACING

COMPUTER INTERFACING

You are now ready to connect your MFJ-1278B to your station's computer or terminal. Throughout this manual we will use the term "computer" to refer to the computer or terminal you use to communicate with your MFJ-1278B.

The MFJ-1278B communicates with your computer through a serial port, using signals corresponding to a standard called RS-232C. Why an RS-232C interface? Nearly every computer in production today either incorporates an RS-232C style serial port as a standard feature, or has one available as an optional accessory, either from the computer manufacturer or from a manufacturer of computer accessories. In addition to the RS-232C port, the MFJ- 1278B has a built-in TTL port to allow interfacing with computers which need TTL signals such as the Commodore C-64, C-128 or the VIC-20.

In order to use the MFJ-1278B with your computer, the computer must have an RS-232C serial port, or a TTL serial port. Also a program which supports the serial or TTL port must be used. The program will typically be called a modem program, terminal emulator, or communications program.

Since there are so many computers on the market today, it is impractical for this chapter to provide detailed instructions for each computer. Detailed information is given for some of the popular models available in the United States. Also provided is general computer interfacing information.

MFJ Starter Packs

MFJ Enterprises, Inc. offers Starter Packs for some of the most popular computers. These Starter Packs contain a terminal program and a cable for connecting the MFJ-1278B to your computer. The Starter Packs available are as follows:

MFJ-1282B: MFJ-1283: MFJ-1289:

Commodore VIC-20, C64, C128 in 5-1/4" diskette.

Commodore VIC-20, C64 on tape.

IBM PC & compatibles in 5-1/4" diskette. (Supports color SSTV and 16 gray-level FAX)

MFJ-1289M: IBM PC & compatibles in 3-1/2" diskette. (Supports color SSTV and 16 gray-level FAX)

MFJ-1287B: Macintosh, in 3-1/2" diskette.

(Supports color SSTV and 16 gray-level FAX)

MFJ-1290: Amiga in 3-1/2" diskette.

(Supports 8 levels SSTV and 8 levels FAX)