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Connections and Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)
Phaser® 5500 Laser Printer
3-3
Choosing a Connection Method
You can connect the printer to the network via Ethernet or USB. Some printer models also
support using a Parallel cable connection. Hardware and cabling requirements vary for the
different connection methods. Cabling and hardware listed below are generally not included
with your printer and must be purchased separately.
Ethernet
Ethernet can be used for one or more computers. It supports many printers and computers on
an Ethernet network.
USB
If you are connecting to one computer, a USB connection offers fast data speeds. However, a
USB connection is not as fast as an Ethernet connection. To use USB, PC users must have
Microsoft Windows 98 SP2, SE, Windows Me, Windows XP or Windows 2000. Macintosh
users must use OS 9.x or later.
Parallel
A Parallel cable connection can also be used for connecting to one computer. This type of
connection provides the slowest data speeds. Parallel connection requires a standard-to-high
density Parallel printer cable, (36-pin high-density 1284-C [male] to 36-pin low density 1284-
B [male] cable), with a maximum length of 10 feet (three meters). Connect the Parallel cable
to the printer and the computer while they are both Off, then turn them On, install the printer
driver from the Printer Installer and Utilities CD-ROM, and select the appropriate LPT
Parallel port.
Connecting via Ethernet (Recommended)
An Ethernet connection is recommended because it is faster than a USB connection. It also
allows the user direct access to CentreWare Internet Services (IS). CentreWare IS provides a
simple interface that enables you to manage, configure, and monitor networked printers from
your desktop using an embedded web server. For complete information about CentreWare IS,
click the Help button in CentreWare IS to go to the CentreWare IS Online Help.
Network Connection
Depending on your particular setup, the following hardware and cabling is required for
Ethernet.
■ If you are connecting to one computer, an Ethernet “crossover” RJ-45 cable is required.
■ If you are connecting to one or more computers with a hub, an Ethernet hub and two
twisted-pair (category 5/RJ-45) cables are required.
■ If you are connecting to one or more computers using a cable or DSL router, a cable or
DSL router and two or more twisted-pair (category 5/RJ-45) cables are required. (One
cable for each device.)