DayStar Digital Solution (Direct LocalTalk Connection)
This solution uses a LocalTalk MicroChannel card within IBM PS/2 MicroChannel systems. The MicroChannel systems are networked using the LT200MC MicroChannel LocalTalk card for MicroChannel bus PS/2s by DayStar Digital. The card uses AppleTalk network protocols and associated software so that MicroChannel PS/2s can communicate with other AppleTalk system components, like the LaserWriter IINT and IINTX. The card comes with software for PS/2s to connect to AppleTalk printers. AppleTalk network products like TOPS are reported to work with the card, too. AppleShare PC 1.0, 1.1 and 1.2 is reported to be incompatible with the DayStar card. For more details, search the Tech Info Library under "DayStar".
3COM Solution (Ethernet to Server to Serial Connection)
Another solution is to use the EtherLink MC PS/2 card from 3COM. This is a more complex solution, because it comprises several components. The card connects MicroChannel PS/2s to Ethernet. The PS/2s can print to a 3COM 3S200 print server serially-connected to a LaserWriter II. Macintoshes may connect through an Ethernet interface card too or directly through the LocalTalk port of the 3S200 server. 3COM servers do not support AppleTalk connections to LaserWriters and can only connect serially. The 3S200 server supports file, mail services, and print services.
Routers (Ethernet to router to LocalTalk connection)
A Kinetics FastPath, Gator Box, or an Apple Internet Router can route EtherTalk data from Ethernet connected AppleTalk systems like Macintoshes, PCs, MicroChannel PS/2s, and DEC VMS systems. The computer systems must have an Ethernet, Token Ring, or LocalTalk interface installed with an AppleTalk driver and appropriate network software. Some PC software packages that run with this configuration are TOPs and AppleShare PC 2.0*. By using the routers, the EtherTalk systems can print to LocalTalk LaserWriters directly through the routers or through print servers from companies like 3COM, Pacer, Alisa, or Apple.
Note: A MicroChannel PS/2 EtherNet or Token Ring Card using AppleShare PC 2.0 must use an AppleTalk Phase 2 router. The Apple Internet Router is a phase 2 router.
PS/2 Note: There are six PS/2 models 25, 30, 50, 60, 70, and 80. Each model can also be bought in a different configuration. The low-end models 25 and 30 retain a PC and/or AT bus architecture that works with the Apple LocalTalk PC card.