All LaserWriters: Connecting to IBM or IBM-Compatible Computers

How do I connect an Apple Personal LaserWriter NT to an IBM compatible
computer?

The following cable configurations will support serial connections to the
Personal LaserWriters, the original LaserWriters and the LaserWriter II family.

Use a RS-232 Null Modem cable. The DB-25 end goes into the printer, and
depending on what kind of port it has, either a DB-9 or DB-25 goes into the
computer.

Cable configuration for DB-9 to DB-25:

PC Printer
DB9 DB25

1 4
2 2
3 3
4 5&6
5 7
6&8 20
7 8
9 NC

PC Printer
DB25 DB25
1 1
2 3
3 2
4 5
5 4
6 8&20
7 7
8&20 6


PC Printer
DB 25 DB9 (LW Pro)
1 5
2 2
3 3
4 8
5 7
6 1&4
7 5
8&20 6


PC Printer
DB9 DB9
1&4 6
2 3
3 2
5 5
6 1&4
7 8
8 7

Article Change History:
11/18/93- Added corrected cable pinouts
Published Date: Feb 18, 2012