USB to parallel for printer HP LaserJet 4mL

[Warren Block]

On Tue, 20 May 2014, Markus Hoenicka wrote:

> At 2014-05-19 15:49, Matthias Apitz was heard to say:
>> Hello,
>> 
>> I have an older printer HP LaserJet 4mL which always worked nicely when
>> attached to my FreeBSD servers/laptops using its parallel interface.
>> 
>> Now I do not have any such laptop with parallel anymore. Are there any
>> recommendations for an USB to parallel interface for printers?
>> 
>> Thanks in advance
>>
>> 	matthias
>
> Not quite USB to parallel, but rather RJ45 to parallel: we used to have a 
> JetDirect external network adapter for an old LaserJet in our lab which did 
> the trick for us. Used or refurbished ones seem to be affordable. I guess you 
> have some sort of switch or router to connect your laptop to.

I agree that a network connection is more useful.  Some older routers 
had parallel printer ports.  Any generic USB to parallel converter is 
also likely to work.

However, if the price of a used external JetDirect or USB adapter is 
over $20, I would suggest instead upgrading the printer.  Used business 
laser printers aren't too hard to find for $50 or less, and many include 
USB or Ethernet or both.  They will also be much faster.