TITLE
    Line Printers for LocalTalk-Based Network
Article ID:
Created:
Modified: 		5024
3/4/90
7/23/92
TOPIC



    I need a high-speed line printer that can connect to a Macintosh network
    (LocalTalk-based) for times when PostScript isn't necessary. I currently have
    an IBM 3262 and IBM 5262 printer that I would like to use, but I'm willing to
    buy another model or brand, if necessary.

    Can IrmaPrint handle these models?

DISCUSSION

    The IBM 3262 printer can be directly attached to the 5360 System Unit as the
    system printer. This means that it is a System 36 printer -- and, because it
    can be directly attached, it is most likely a Twinax connection. There is no
    method for connecting this printer to a LocalTalk-based network.

    The IBM 5262 printer is a freestanding line printer also associated with the
    System 36. It may have RS-232 interconnection available. If so, the following
    scenario would be applicable.

    (NOTE: A Check with DCA revealed that neither of the mentioned printers is
    supported by IrmaPrint.)

    At Tech Comm we have used a Printronix Model 300XG line printer with a
    Centronics parallel interface. We connected it to a Macintosh II via a
    Tigertronics Model 770 serial-to-parallel converter. The Typewriter driver
    from the Microsoft Word 1.05 disk was moved into the System Folder, selected
    from the Chooser, and set up for 9600-baud and 10-pitch. A 23-page document
    was created and successfully printed via the Typewriter driver to the
    Printronix.

    One current method of connecting this type of printer to the network is from
    Orange Micro, called Orange Port. It looks like a Solana R-Server and allows
    connection of serial devices to an AppleTalk network.

    Solana Electronics also markets devices that are designed to connect
    non-networkable printers to AppleTalk networks. If the printers are serial,
    either the R-Server, the X810.1, or X810.2 could be used. If the printer is
    parallel, then the X810.2 is necessary. The X8120 devices can be set up with up
    to 2MB of memory to be used as data buffer, store and forward messages, and so
    on.


    While we know this scenario functions properly, any serial-to-parallel
    converter should work, and if the printer in question already has a serial
    connection, only network-to-serial conversion would be necessary.

    For more information, search under: "Orange Micro"

    Editor's Note 22 June 199: Solana has discontinued business to our knowledge,
    so we are unable to refer you to them directly for further information.



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