Yui Shin <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

[stuff deleted]

> The best solution is to install another LPT/Serial I/O card. They're
> inexpensive, and easy to setup. In fact, they're about half the price
> of a mid grade A/B printer switch.

I agree here. This is the way I have done many setups. Besides the obvious
advantages of avoiding damage to your printers, the following become apparent..

1.) You can print to both printers simultaneously. Many times I am printing a
word dsocument on my laser, and a color graphics presentation on the HP deskjet.

2.) If you share any of your printers to other systems on a network, then you
don't have to worry about remote users printing to the wrong printer.

3.) If you have an A/B switch, and forget to switch to the right printer, you
will likely get garbage which could do strange things to the printer, or waste
paper and ink/toner.

4.) Many printer drivers (particularly HP) want to communicate bi-directinally
with the printer, using a switch will likely cause confusion for the driver.


--
Russ Poffenberger               Engineering Specialist
Schlumberger Technologies ATE   DOMAIN: [log in to unmask]
1601 Technology Drive
San Jose, Ca. 95110             Voice: (408)437-5254  FAX: (408)437-5246

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