Apple LaserWriter 12/640 PS - Manual (Page 104)

Step 1: Choosing an operating mode
When setting up your printer for a NetWare network, you have a choice of
three operating modes:
m PSERVER mode, in which the printer emulates NetWare’s PSERVER
software and functions as a dedicated print server
m RPRINTER mode, in which the printer functions as a remote printer
m ATPS (AppleTalk Print Spooler) mode, in which the printer functions as a
remote AppleTalk printer
In PSERVER mode, the factory default, print jobs are stored in a queue on a
specified file server and retrieved by the printer.
In RPRINTER mode, the printer depends on the NetWare print server
software—either a NetWare Loadable Module (NLM), an RPRINTER.EXE
executable file, or a value-added process (VAP) running on top of the
operating system—to manage printing. Print jobs are stored in a queue on a
specified file server. When the printer is ready to print the job, the NetWare
print server software copies the job to the printer.
In ATPS mode, the printer uses its AppleTalk protocol support to
communicate with the Novell ATPS NetWare Loadable Module (NLM). The
NLM (included in the NetWare for Macintosh package from Novell) extends
full queue and spooling services to Mac OS clients from a server-based
software process.
There are advantages to each type of operating mode. Your choice will
depend on your networking environment and the types of jobs you will be
printing. Regardless of your choice, you can locate the printer anywhere on
the network.
79 Setting Up the Printer for Windows, DOS, and NetWare Users