IBM 1800409-001A - Manual (Page 90)

Connecting to a PC
If you have a brand-new computer, before connecting the printer,
you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting up the
computer, including (if it’s not already installed) any operating
system software, such as DOS and Windows.
What You Need
To connect your printer to a single PC, you need one of the
following interface cables (not included with your printer, but
available at any computer store):
■ a parallel cable (with 36-pin and 25-pin male connectors)
■ or a serial cable (with a 25-pin male and a 9- or 25-pin
female connector, depending on the computer’s serial
port)
If you’re replacing a printer, you probably already have the
necessary cables.
How to Choose a Cable
We recommend using a parallel cable if possible, because parallel
communication doesn’t require printer configuration, while serial
communication often does. However, if the printer is more than 6
feet (1.8 meters) from the computer, we recommend using a serial
cable for better communication.
NOTE: Interface cables should be no longer than 6 feet (1.8
meters) for parallel or 25 feet (7.6 meters) for serial
communication.
Chapter 3
3 - 1 0 C o n n e c t i n g t h e P r i n t e r