Convert Box for DECLaser Installation and

This document is an installation and configuration guide for the "Convert Box for DECLaser," a device designed to enable newer Digital laser printers to process print jobs originally intended for older DEC PPL3 printers. The box acts as an intermediary, connecting to the host computer via a serial interface and to the target printer via a parallel interface.

Key features of the Convert Box include:

• Compatibility with Digital PPL3 ANSI Protocols, allowing emulation of DECLaser 1100, 2100/2200, 3200, and LN03 Plus printers.
• Operating Modes: Data Conversion (PPL3 to PCL 5), Bi-directional Communications Transparent (for job control and status), Autosensing (to automatically detect PPL3 or PostScript jobs), and Hex Dump (for diagnostics).
• Direct Connection via a bi-directional Nibble 1284 parallel interface and a standard serial interface.
• Compact size with a separate AC/DC power supply.

The guide outlines a three-stage installation process: pre-installation checks (verifying host and printer settings), physical connection of the box, and power-on/testing (including internal configuration and font list printouts).

Configuration of the Convert Box can be achieved through physical dipswitch settings (for serial communication parameters, autowrap, paper format, and operating mode) or via software commands issued from the host for more granular control over parameters such as buffer size, timeouts, image offsets, and printing protections.

The document also provides a comprehensive troubleshooting section covering common issues like power-on problems, connection errors, and various printing abnormalities, along with instructions on how to reset the box. It lists supported target printers (LN17, DECLaser 3500, DECLaser 5100) and provides recommended parameter settings for them. Appendices detail specific conversion box commands, factory default settings, and technical characteristics, including interfaces, supported emulations, resident fonts, and physical specifications.