Optimizing Printing
Performance over a
Parallel Port
Advanced Printer Operations 4-3
You may need additional memory (DIMMs) for the following:
To print complex graphics
For increased collation performance
For increased spooling performance
For duplex printing on large media sizes
Optimizing Printing Performance over a Parallel Port
»Note:

This information applies only to PCs with Windows 95/98. On PCs wi th

Windows 2000/NT 4.0, the parallel port is controlled by printer driver softwa re.

The parallel port on your PC is designed to operate in various communication mo des
or protocols. These modes control how the PC communicates with your printer. Two of
these modes are
SPP–Standard Parallel Port -this is the default mode on most PCs (occasionally
referred to as compatibility, normal, or output only)
ECP–Extended Capabilities Port
The speed that SPP communicates over the parallel port varies on different PCs. It's
likely that the current settings for your PC will meet your common printing needs.
However, in the event that performance over the parallel port is inadequate (for exam-
ple, with large, complex print jobs), you will need to change the communication mod e
of the parallel port to ECP mode.
Caution:

Using the wrong type of parallel cable can also cause poor performance. Be

sure that you’re using a Centronics IEEE 1284 bidirectional paral lel cable.

ECP Setting Instructions

You can configure the parallel port mode on Windows 95/98 systems via your com-
puter's BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). The BIOS is responsible for controllin g the
many of the hardware settings on your PC.