Using the Serial Interface

If you have a serial printer, modem, mouse, or any other peripheral with a serial interface, you can connect it to one of two serial (RS-232C) ports on the back of the computer. Your computer uses IBM-compatible, 9-pin, male connector, so be sure you have the proper cable. If you are not sure which one you need, or whether you have the right one, check with the store where you bought the cable.

To connect a serial device, follow the same steps outlined above for a parallel device, but connect the cable to the serial port, shown below.

Figure l-4. Serial Port

Setting up the serial port for a printer

If you are using a serial printer but your software does not support a serial printer, you must do two things before you can print:

1-8 Setting Up Your System