How to Use the LPT Port
- 1). Check the specifications of your printer, scanner or other device to ensure it contains a parallel interface. Many new printers and scanners lack a parallel interface and instead use only a USB connection.
- 2). Purchase a parallel printer cable if you do not already have one. You need a parallel cable to connect your scanner, printer or other device to the computer.
- 3). Connect the larger end of the parallel printer cable to the back of the printer, scanner or other device. This connection is long and rectangular, and the cable uses two locking pins to secure it in place.
- 4). Attach the smaller end of the parallel cable to the LPT port on the back of your computer. This PC port is long, rectangular and often red. Secure the cable by turning the thumbscrews as far as they can go.
- 5). Power on your computer and log on. Power on the scanner, printer or other device attached to the LPT port. Watch the screen for the New Hardware wizard to complete the installation. Insert the installation disc that came with the device if you do not see the "Found new hardware" message.
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