Rosemary McGillicuddy wrote: > >> If its similar to my SMC router, the parallel port doesn't do >> bi-directional printing. > > > Errr - what's bi-directional printing? > Going from win to linux and back, or, in my case linux to win and back? > Rosemary > > Registered Linux User # 386597 http://counter.li.org > "A friend may well be a masterpiece of nature". Emerson > Most newer printers communicate back to the computer they are attached to. This requires more communication lines. You will see that the printer specs call for a bi-directional printer cable and port. This is how the printer sends back information about things like ink levels, as well as how the printer identifies itself so that it can be auto-detected. The printer may also send other information this way. Things like what paper cartridges it has installed, its current status, etc. Without the bi-directional interface, the only status information the printer can normaly send is weather it is on-line, and if it is out of paper.
Some printers will work in both modes, and some will only work in the bi-directional mode. Then you have the Windows-only printers that require special software to work with Linux. They use software running on the computer they are attached to instead of hardware in the printer. These usualy don't work with Linux. For that matter, they usualy don't work with print servers ether. Now, if the printer is connected to a computer, and not the printer port on the router, then this is not a factor. It only becomes a factor when connected directly to the router, using the router's build-in print server. If you are going to use a router with a print server, then you may want to see what the manual says about the printers you can use with it. This limit will usualy apply regardless of the OS used. Mikkel -- Do not meddle in the affairs of dragons, for you are crunchy and taste good with Ketchup!
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