TITLE
    SerialDMA & Serial Port Arbitrator Compatibility Issue
Article ID:
Created:
Modified:
19026
12/6/95
3/9/98

TOPIC

    This article describes a compatibility issue when using a PCI-based Power Macintosh computer with the 7.5.2 Printing Fix 1.1 and Apple Remote Access (ARA) with some telecommunication applications, or Fax software.


DISCUSSION

    System 7.5 Update 2.0

    The newer architecture of the SerialDMA included in System 7.5 Update 2.0 does not have the same problem, therefore you should install this update which upgrades your system to version 7.5.3. Also, the next version of ARA (Personal Server and Client) will have a new Serial Port Arbitrator that no longer exhibits this problem (there is no known date when a newer version of ARA will be available).

    Explanation and Workaround for System 7.5.2

    Users of PCI-based Power Macintosh (7200, 7500, 8500, or 9500) computers and the 7.5.2 Printing Fix 1.1 may encounter problems. There appears to be a compatibility issue between the Serial Port Arbitrator extension (part of ARA) and the SerialDMA 2.0.2 extension (part of the printer update) if both load at start up. This issue may appear at computer start up or when attempting to dial out to an online service or using a telecommunication application.

    This issue may also affect Global Village Fax features. As mentioned above the SerialDMA 2.0.2 extension conflicts with the Serial Port Arbitrator extension, which inhibits the ability to Fax when ARA is set to answer calls in the Remote Access Setup control panel. In addition, users should rename the SerialDMA 2.0.2 extension (for example, place a space in front, " SerialDMA 2.0.2") so this extension loads before the GlobalFax extension. Global Village is working on a solution to correct this, however, no date is known when this solution will be available.

    Workaround

    To avoid this conflict, try one of the following:

    * Remove the Serial Port Arbitrator extension from the System Folder.
    * If you are using Global Village Fax features, turn off the Fax Receive feature in the Global Village Fax Center whenever dialing out with online service software or telecommunication software.

    For more information on the Serial Port Arbitrator and ARA, please refer to the Tech Info Library article titled, "Serial Port Arbitration and Apple Remote Access". Use the search string "Serial Port Arbitrator and ARA".

Document Information
Product Area: Mac OS System Software
Category: System 7.5.x
Sub Category: System Updates

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