Msg: 5385 *Conference*

08-28-94 17:41:59

From: COMET _

To : ANTHONY FEST

Subj: REPLY TO MSG #5363 (PRINTERS)

Parallel printers accept bits in parallel, whereas serial printers accept bits
one-at-a-time, in sequence.  As a result, when using the Model T's serial port,
you need to specify communication parameters such as baud rate, so the printer
will know the timing between the bits.  Parallel printers get all 8 bits of
byte as well as control signals in parallel, so timing is NOT an issue.
     The Model T is designed to work with a parallel printer, through the
parallel printer port.  This allows you to use the serial or internal prot for
a modem at the same time as you are using a printer.  If you have a serial
printer, you CAN hook it up to the RS-232C port on your computer, and it will
work just fine.
     Another option IS available, if you want to use your parallel port to talk
to a serial printer (or vice-versa).  You can purchase what is called a "Print
Buffer".  This will accept parallel input and produce serial output!  I have
one, which I use to allow me to "print" to a CRT terminal.