HELP! I need to connect two printers (both use c-type cables) to my CPU tower and only have one printer port!?

Question

I KNOW about USB printer cables, but I haven't seen one yet that has the correct printer connector. My printers are the HP LaserJet 1100 and the PSC500, both of which use a IEEE 1284 parallel cable with a C-type connector, which I cannot find. I bought a Port Replicator but have been informed by the manufacturer that it will not support my printers. I have two ideas: one, get a USB cable with a C-type connector or find a USB-to-Printer Port replicator that'll work with one of my printers. Haven't found either one. Can anyone help? Is there such a thing as a Printer Port A-B switch? Thanks!

Answer 1

If by C you mean "centronics" then YES there are A-B switches available, both manual and automatic that use the 1284 cable from PC to switch and 1284-centronics to the printers. (ALSO A-B-C-D!!)



You will just have to "shop around" on the various computer store sites. Remember to use the shortest cables possible. Cables normally do NOT come with these switches, but are purchased locally.



An automatic switch will cost you about $30.00. I use one myself, and it switches depending on which printer I pick from my list.



They can also be used in reverse to connect 2-4 computers to 1 printer.



The OTHER alternative is an PCI accessory card containing additional printer ports. These are ALSO available, from the same sources and are USUALLY cheaper, but require an available slot on the MB.

Answer 2

Yes, there is an A/B switch box you can use. I used one before I had printers with usb connectors. Buy one on ebay.



http://cgi.ebay.com/Printer-selection-box-A-B-switch-used_W0QQitemZ280045593295QQihZ018QQcategoryZ1246QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Answer 3

No. I don't think there's such thing. Go to radio shack or best buy and tell them your problem. They probably have a splitter of somesort. Or just get a wireless printer.