Introduction CARETAKER PLUS INSTALLATION AND OPERATIONS MANUAL
1
Disclaimer
While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual, the
manufacturer assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither does the
manufacturer assume any liability for damages resulting from the use of the information
contained herein. The manufacturer reserves the right to change the specifications,
functions, or circuitry of the product without notice.
The manufacturer cannot accept liability for damages due to misuse of the product or
other circumstances outside the manufacturer’s control. The manufacturer will not be
responsible for any loss, damage, or injury arising directly or indirectly from the use of
this product.
Introduction
Thank you for choosing Caretaker Plus. Designed with your needs in mind, your new
Caretaker Plus will make it possible for you to connect up to eight computers to a single
printer, plotter, or other serial or parallel device for fast, efficient printer sharing.
This manual contains information for the installation and operation of the Caretaker Plus
buffered automatic switch. The unit allows several computers or terminals to have
shared access to a common printer, plotter, or other device. Accessing the shared
device is done simply by sending data to the unit. Since the Caretaker Plus has buffer
memory, each computer may simultaneously send data to the unit. The data is sent to
the shared device in the order it was received.
All equipment is connected by cables to connectors on the Caretaker Plus rear panel.
The unit's external power adapter connector and on-off switch are also on its rear panel.
The Caretaker Plus front panel has 13 LEDs which display status information and 2
switches which are used to control the Led display, run the unit's diagnostics, and
configure the unit.
Features
Two to eight computers share one printer, plotter, or other device
Serial (RS232) or parallel (Centronics), RS422 optional
Uses commonly available cables
Compatible with any computer – PCs, Macs, minis
Compatible with all software and operating systems
Compatible with all printers and plotters
Simultaneous input from all computers
Up to two megabyte buffer
Serial units have programmable baud rate and flow control
Programmable initialization strings and end-of-job form feed
Units can be linked for more than 8 computers
Special noise protection features
Mode, data, busy, and error LEDs show data activity and status
Self-test and diagnostic features
Made in USA