Zip drive and printer chained to LPT1

Hi, daisychaining a zip and a printer often proves to be more of a headache than it is worth (hp, for example, suggests that its printers not be placed in a daisy chain configuration). It may be better to attach an A B switch and manually switch between the two devices as needed. That way, each device "thinks" it is the only one using the port (you can also purchase an A|B switch that automatically switches from one device to another, but it's more expensive). Hope this helps.

I agree that daisy chaining can be a headache and sometimes won't work at all, but it is just as economical to install a second LPT port in the computer as to buy a switchbox and cables. Configure the ZIP to use one port and the printer to use the other and you won't have to mess with it again.

I have a Iomega DittoMax Pro backup tape drive on my primary PDC NT4.0 Server on LPT1. I also have a printer attached. Had the same problem at first, then I found that the cables were reversed. Iomega products are O.K., but their documentation sucks.

Anyway, recheck your cables. It might be a simple fix.

George

I have to agree with jlessick. In the past, I've always put in an extra LPT Port. Parallel ports were never meant from design to have items daisy-chained on them. This is just something that the companies rigged up because they try to make the install simple. Fact is, the only time I've seen it work right all the time is with an HP Printer and HP Scanner. Forget it, buy another parallel port for your system.

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