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Expansion Options

Using a printer
Using a printer

Before you can connect a printer, you must determine whether it requires a parallel, serial, infrared, or a USB interface. Check the printer’s documentation. If you can configure the printer as either a serial or a parallel device, set it up for parallel operation.

You also need a suitable printer cable, which may have been provided with your printer. If not, your company may keep a stock of cables. Otherwise, you can purchase one from a computer or electronics store.

TECHNICAL NOTE: If your printer is ECP- or IEEE- compliant, make sure your printer cable is an IEEE 1284 cable.

Connecting a parallel printer

Parallel printers are the most common type of printer in use today. These instructions assume you have a parallel printer.

1If you have been using the computer, turn it off.2If the computer is connected to an AC power source, disconnect the AC adapter.

CAUTION: Never connect the printer cable while the computer is on. Doing so may damage the printer, the computer, or both.

3 Connect the printer cable to the printer and to the computer’s parallel port. Use the printer cable illustration as a connection guide.