Re: Best Parallel DM Printer Interface For IIGS?

[supertimer@aol.com (Supertimer)]

"E. Coli" <dewar@NOSPAMgis.net> wrote:

>I have recently acquired an Apple IIGS and I want to use my Panasonic
>PanaPrinter parallel dot matrix printer with it.  What is the best parallel
>card to use with my IIGS?

The best parallel card is no parallel card.  The IIGS is has serial ports
and the best way to use parallel printers is with a serial to parallel
converter.

Global Computer Supplies, http://www.globalcomputer.com/ , has a
bi-directional model (TAC6180) that is excellent.  It supports serial
rates of 300-57600 bps, so using a fast serial driver on the GS can get
you printing at 57600 bps.  I doubt most printers go faster than this.

>Also, I have a 2400bps modem that has a standard
>RS232 serial port and responds to standard "AT" commands.  If I get a cable
>adaptor to adapt the Mini-Din on the IIGS to the DB-9 on the modem, will I
>be able to use it with my IIGS?

Yes; the cable to use is a Macintosh to Hayes Modem cable.  This
can be found in any computer store.  Just ask for a Mac to modem
cable.

The IIGS can also use much faster modems using the same HWHS
cable (all new Mac cables usually are).  The serial port can go up to
57600 (ignore the limit in the control panel...with the right third party
driver, you can get the maximum speed of 57600).