User's Manual

CHAPTER 2: Introduction

2. Introduction

2.1 Overview

The Ethernet to Twinax/Coax Print Server connects an IBM

or IBM compatible

twinax or 3270-coax printer to an AS/400

or IBM mainframe across an Ethernet

topology using SNA and TCP/IP protocols. It lets you retain your investment in

expensive but reliable twinax or 3270-coax printers where you have converted from

twinax or 3270-coax to Ethernet.

The print server also allows PCs and other ASCII hosts (such as UNIX

servers)

using Windows

, OS/2

, or DOS to send text (non-rasterized) print jobs across

LAN/WANs to SCS twinax or SCS/DSC 3270-coax printers. This increases the

value of your twinax or 3270-coax printers by allowing them to be used for more

than just a host printer.

The print server connects to the IBM host using any one of several protocols.

These include SNA(APPC), AnyNet

, PPR/PPD, TN5250e, and TN3270e. For

AS/400 connectivity, generally TN5250e is used to connect 3812-1 printers while

AnyNet is used for all IBM dot-matrix printers as well as page printers. SNA(APPC)

can be used for connecting all AS/400 printers if there are no routers in the LAN.

IPDS printers will be connected using PPR/PPD (an IBM proprietary TCP/IP

protocol) in both the AS/400 and IBM mainframe environments. Other IBM

mainframe printers (SCS/DSC types) are connected using TN3270e. Choose the

protocol that best fits your needs.

Here are the steps you’ll take to set up the print server:

• Install the print server itself.

• Install the PrintControl utility.

• Configure the print server for the host connection.

• Configure the print server for the attached twinax or 3270-coax printer.

• Configure the AS/400 or IBM mainframe.

2.2 The Complete Package

When you receive the Ethernet to Twinax/Coax Print Server, check the packaging

for water or physical damage, and notify the carrier immediately if any damage is

evident. If not, keep the original packaging in case the print server needs to be

moved or shipped. At the time of this writing, the following items are included in

the package: