Connections and Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)Phaser® 5500 Laser Printer3-3Choosing a Connection MethodYou can connect the printer to the network via Ethernet or USB. Some printer models alsosupport using a Parallel cable connection. Hardware and cabling requirements vary for thedifferent connection methods. Cabling and hardware listed below are generally not includedwith your printer and must be purchased separately.EthernetEthernet can be used for one or more computers. It supports many printers and computers onan Ethernet network.USBIf you are connecting to one computer, a USB connection offers fast data speeds. However, aUSB connection is not as fast as an Ethernet connection. To use USB, PC users must haveMicrosoft Windows 98 SP2, SE, Windows Me, Windows XP or Windows 2000. Macintoshusers must use OS 9.x or later.ParallelA Parallel cable connection can also be used for connecting to one computer. This type ofconnection provides the slowest data speeds. Parallel connection requires a standard-to-highdensity 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 cableto the printer and the computer while they are both Off, then turn them On, install the printerdriver from the Printer Installer and Utilities CD-ROM, and select the appropriate LPTParallel port.Connecting via Ethernet (Recommended)An Ethernet connection is recommended because it is faster than a USB connection. It alsoallows the user direct access to CentreWare Internet Services (IS). CentreWare IS provides asimple interface that enables you to manage, configure, and monitor networked printers fromyour 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 ConnectionDepending on your particular setup, the following hardware and cabling is required forEthernet.■ 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 twotwisted-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 orDSL router and two or more twisted-pair (category 5/RJ-45) cables are required. (Onecable for each device.)
