LaserWriter 16/600 PS: Alternatives to Serial Support (10/94)


Although the LaserWriter 16/600 PS has a localtalk port, it lacks support for serial communications. Our printing environment requires the ability to print using DEC LAT. LAT support is included on the LW Pro 810, and was achieved with other LaserWriters by connecting a DEC Terminal Server to the serial port of the LaserWriter.

Although serial support is not currently included, is it possible for Apple to add such support through a patch or ROM upgrade?

Serial and LAT support were considered for the LaserWriter 16/600 PS, but were not included for performance reason, as well as accounting for a relatively small share of the market. There are some viable alternatives that allow the DEC computers to communicate with the LaserWriter 16/600 PS:

* The cleanest and best solution would be to obtain a TCP/IP stack for the
DEC computers and connect them using Ethernet to the LaserWriter 16/600
PS. Apparently, there are many stacks available, some of which are quite
reliable and fast.

* Connect to the LaserWriter 16/600 PS using PathWorks.

* Obtain a serial to parallel converter.

* Obtain a LAT box from DEC which connects to ethernet, and provides a
parallel output port.


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Published Date: Feb 19, 2012