Technology Research and other QL hardware manufacturers have introduced centronics parallel interfaces to allow the QL to drive parallel printers, which are more common than serial interfaced printers.
Some information on how to install these parallel interfaces to work with the QL’s software is given in the INFORMATION section of the QL manual. Additional information may also be supplied by the interface manufacturer. To clarify and amplify some of that information, the following has been compiled.
To use the parallel interface in BASIC programs, call for it exactly as you would the SERI1 and SER2 serial interfaces. That is, specify a channel to open, followed by the periperal designation PAR. Examples:
- 10 OPEN #3, serl
- (opens channel 3 to serial port 1)
- 0 OPEN #5, par
- (opens channel 5 to parallel port)
To install the parallel interface to work with Quill, Archive, Easel, or Abacus, turn on or reset the computer without any cartridges in either microdrive. Select Fl or F2 for monitor or TV. Then…
- Put backup copy of Quill in mdvl (or flpl for disk). Load and = run INSTALL BAS. (If using a disk system, first specify that the disk system is to act like microdrives. This is done with FLP_USE MDV on the Technology Research unit. Then load and run the install program. )
- Specify where the new printer installation data is to be saved by the program when it prompts for it.
- Press the SPACE BAR to indicate a parallel interface will be installed.
- Select the appropriate printer from the menu provided.
- Select EDIT by pressing F2 then use the cursor keys to change PORT: NONE to read PORT: PAR.
- ESC to end editing then F5 to save the new installation information on your microdrive or disk.
- Exit the install program and RESET the computer before trying to use any other program.
If everything has been done right, any print call from within Quill or the other software will now direct output to the parallel interface. A separate microdrive cartridge set up for serial interfaces should be kept for using serial printers.
A FINAL NOTE: There is another alternative. There are serial to parallel cables available for about $45-50 from English Micro Connection which allows the user to plug one end in SER2 and the other end into a parallel printer. No other installation procedures are necessary since the computer still thinks it is dealing with a serial interface and printer.