Connecting a HP LaserJet Printer DIRECT to a Mac via Ethernet Cable.

[blinky88]

I have just purchased a HP 2300DN LaserJet Printer which has a Jetdirect Fast Ethernet a (10/100 base TX) print server installed and want to connect it 'directly' to my PM7600 (XLR8/G3-400/512Mb) using the Ethernet port using Appletalk.

I can simply use OS 8.6 that is installed on another drive which I use for the internet 'only' and buy a PCI USB Card and connect to the printer without problems, however, I am still running OS 7.6.1 on my work-station and 7.6.1 does not support USB. I have been using this machine with its present OS for around 6/7 years, it is extremely fast, reliable and a crash is a very rare event.

I am hopeful I can connect the 7600 directly to the printer via an Ethernet connection using Appletalk in 7.6.1 ..but.. have no idea how to go about setting it up ..ie.. if it is possible. According to the 7600 user guide the Mac takes a 'twisted pair RJ-45 Cat 6 connection, I have not been able to find out if the HP Jetdirect Card takes the same connection.

If that cable is compatable at both ends, what I need is 'step by step' instructions on how to set it up.

I know absolutely nothing on the subject and would really appreciate help from members with knowledge in this area.

I also have a PC/P4/2.0g running XP Pro which will be connected via the Parallel port, I am not having any problems with this.

[terryj]

Look at the back of the printer.
Does it have a Ethernet Port?
(looks like a BIG phone jack slot?)
it will be RIGHT ABOVE the Parrell Port,
and should have what looks like a Green or Amber light above/below it.
if so,
go to a local Electronics store, and get a
Red Ethernet Crossover Rj-45 cable.
Connect that to the Printer, then connect that to the mac.

You will then need to get a copy of HP Laserjet Utiliities
from HP's website to set the printer up. ie. assign it to
local Appletalk. Once that is done, your all set.

I have a HP 4MV here at the shop that
is connected to a PM 7600/132 that all
I use it for is printing invoices.
The Mac runs OS 8.61, and Filemaker Pro 4.1.
No need for it to be on a network, and it runs fine.

[miksu]

You propably need so-called "cross-connected" Ethernet cable. Using it, your Mac and HP should be compatible. HP is likely to have "auto-negotiating" port, that is, automatic speed recognition.

Instead of AppleTalk, I would use LPR-printing. Don't mix the term with PC's LPR-port (parallel). MacOS 7.6 supports LPR printing, as does HP's print server. You just have to assign IP for Mac and HP. You can find guides easily with google (use LPR and Macos 7.6). And download HP-manual (for IP)

[blinky88]

Thank for the responses, appreciated. I bought the cable today and hope to set it up over the weekend. I haven't had experience with Ethernet at all but you do make it sound pretty straight-forward.

Thanks again