Msg: 5396 *Conference*
08-31-94 19:28:35
From: ANTHONY FEST
To : COMET _
Subj: REPLY TO MSG #5386 (PRINTERS)
Thank you, Comet, for that lucid explanation of serial and parallel communications. Are serial printers predominant now? I'd planned to buy an HP 310 (portable inkjet), but noted that it didn't have a parallel port. Are comparable parallel printers available, or are parallel printers becoming scarce? I now know, thanks to you, that I have the options of connecting a serial printer (1) via the RS232C port, or (2) connecting to the parallel port through a buffer. Regarding (1), does this tie up the communication capability? (i.e., is it impossible to be online and do serial printing at the same time?) Re (2), I know that some printers have internal buffers, but I didn't know that print buffers could be bought separately... are these specific to particular computers/printers, or does 'one size fit all'? What model do you have? I'm curious about a couple of other things you touched on, namely connecting a CRT and using an external modem. I presume that with the CRT, you can display 80 columns? And all that's required are the CRT, print buffer and appropriate cables? I had thought that external modems were computer-specific and not available for Model Ts. Where can Model T compatible modems be had? It would be great to go online at 2400! Thanks for your assistance! [PS: My computer is a 200, with a Super ROM]