Compaq LA36 - Manual (Page 149)

D-1
Interface Information
D
Interface Information
This printer can communicate with a computer through either a DEC-423 serial interface or
a Centronics parallel interface. The printer can use both interfaces at the same time when
the
I/F TYPE
option is set to
AUTO
in the Set-Up mode.
This appendix provides information you may need for wiring your own interface cables or
for programming computer-to-printer communications. Most users do not need the
information in this appendix. To simply connect your printer to your computer, follow step
6 “Connecting the Printer to Your Host System” in the Installation Guide.
Parallel Interface
This printer can communicate with the host in two different modes:
• Unidirectional
In this mode, the printer operates an industry standard 8-bit Centronics parallel
interface.
• Bidirectional
This printer supports bidirectional communication per IEEE 1284 Standard Nibble
mode. This printer can switch between Compatible Centronics and Nibble modes.
The interface connector is 36-pin Amphenol type with ESD protection.
The first table gives the connector pin assignments in Compatible Centronics mode, and
the second table those in Nibble mode.
The data transmission rate reaches 5,000 characters per second at the minimum.
Designations of circuit direction are provided to indicate the source of the signals.