IBM 6500-V5P Maintenance Manual - Page 171

Communication Problems Communication Problems Many host-printer communication problems are complex. With the exception of a defective interface cable, most communications problems are not a result of a hardware failure. They usually result from an incompatible configuration of the host computer system, network (LAN, print server, controller, multiplexer, etc.), or the printer. Sometimes the print application program itself is at fault. If you have limited communications background experience, and the cause of the problem is not readily apparent, do the following: 1. Print out the printer configuration. 2. Verify that you have the latest level of code. If not, load the latest level of code. 3. Obtain a copy of the Device Host Configuration if possible. 4. Call your support group for assistance in problem analysis. If you cannot obtain support, or you have previous experience solving host-printer communications problems, the following additional information is provided. You can quickly check the ASCII portion of the printer logic by sending a plain text file from a PC to the printer via the parallel or serial port. For a description of each of the ASCII interfaces, refer to the User's Manual. Problem Printer "hangs" during print job Fails to print from host -or(go to the next page) Table 4. Common Communications Problems Interface Common Causes Any parallel 1. Reload the latest level of code (page 231). 2. Replace the platen open switch. - Interface cable defective - Host/Network configuration - Printer logic - Terminating Resistors - Incorrect printer configuration. Refer customer to the User's Manual. 171