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Parallel Ports
Unlike serial ports, parallel ports allow your computer to
communicate one entire byte at a time. Eight wires are
included in the cable to permit the transmission of each of the
eight data bits simultaneously. Extra wires are included in the
cable for control signals. Your Computer uses the industry
standard “Centronics-compatible” parallel printer port
interface.
MS-DOS uses the label “LPTl” (Line Printer #l) for the first
parallel port. Additional parallel ports can be added to your
computer through the use of multi-function boards. These ports
would be labeled LPT2, LPT3, etc.
Connecting Printers
Most, but not all, printers use the Centronics-compatible
parallel port.
To install this type of printer, connect an appropriate cable
between the parallel port connector on the rear panel of the
system motherboard in the main system unit and the input
connector on the printer. Information on the correct cable will
be found in your printer’s manual.
serial interface port. See the printer’s manual for complete
7-4 Expanding Your System