SATO XL400/410 - Manual (Page 169)

Programming Manual 5. Interface Specifications
SATO RISC Printers 169
5. Interface Specifications
5.1 Overview
This section explains the interface specifications for the SATO RISC print-
ers. These specifications include detailed information on how to properly
interface your printer with your host system and includes data about the
following:
• Interface Types
• Using The Receive Buffer
• RS232C Serial Interface
• Centronics Parallel Interface
• I/F Connector
5.2 Interface Types
In order to provide flexibility in communicating with a variety of host com-
puter systems, the SATO RISC printers can be configured for operation
with either parallel or serial data transfers. Both a parallel Centronics and
a serial RS232 interface are supplied with the standard printer.
The Centronics Parallel interface will probably be the most useful in com-
municating with IBM PCs and compatibles. The RS232C Serial interface
allows connectivity to a number of other hosts. For instructions on how to
properly configure the printer for either of these interface types, see the
printer configuration instructions in Section 2 of your service manual.
NOTE: Both the Centronics and RS232C interfaces are
active at the same time, i.e. data can be received on
either one, however no provision is made for port
contention. If data is transmitted to both ports simul-
taneously, it will cause the data in the receive buffer
to be corrupted.
WARNING: Never connect or disconnect interface cables or use
a switch box with power applied to either the host or
the printer. This may cause damage to the interface
circuitry in the printer/host and is not covered by
warranty.