User guide

A
Printer Communication Interfaces
This appendix provides information on the serial and parallel interfaces of the
printer and describes the mechanism for the automatic port selection. Sections
include:
• Data communication interfaces, Section A.1
• The serial port, Section A.2
Serial data character format, Section A.2.1
Serial data synchronization, Section A.2.2
• The parallel port, Section A.3
• Automatic port selection, Section A.4
A.1 Data Communication Interfaces
The printer works as part of your computer system, providing hardcopy output
of text and graphics. You connect the printer to the computer through either
the serial or parallel data communication interface at the rear of the printer.
The interface is typically referred to as the ‘‘serial port’’ or the ‘‘parallel port.’’
A.2 The Serial Port
The serial port used by the printer conforms to the CCITT X21 and X23
standards. The interface cables needed to make the communication link
depend on the system to which your printer is connected. See the printer
installation guide for details.
Printer Communication Interfaces A–1