DEC-CompanionPrinters

This document describes the Digital Companion Printers (LA75 serial and LA75P parallel models), quiet, compact impact printers designed for dependable text and graphics printing in personal and desktop environments.

Key Features:

• Compatibility: Fully compatible with software for Digital printers (like LA50, LA100, LA210) and IBM Proprinter, making them suitable for VAXmates, IBM PCs, PC-compatibles, and VT-family terminals without software rewriting.
• Performance: Offers fast printing up to 250 characters per second (cps) in draft mode, with other modes including memo, near-letter-quality (NLQ), and letter-quality (LQ). Supports full bit-map graphics, allowing text and graphics to be mixed.
• Print Quality: Provides sharp text in various modes (draft, memo, NLQ, LQ) and supports multiple built-in character sets (including U.S. ASCII, IBM Proprinter, Katakana, multinational sets) and text enhancements like superscripts, underlines, and italics. Optional font cartridges are available.
• Ease of Use & Paper Handling: Features easy selection of print settings via front panel switches (eliminating dip switches) or software control. Offers versatile paper handling with a built-in tractor feed for continuous forms (including multi-part forms and labels), a low-tear bar, and direct insertion for single sheets and envelopes. An optional automatic sheetfeeder is available.
• Connectivity: The LA75 (serial) connects to Digital hosts via MMJ or RS232-C, while the LA75P (parallel) uses a Centronics-type interface for IBM PCs, PS/2, and compatibles.
• Support: Backed by Digital's global field service organization.