🚀 go-pugleaf

			80286 vs. NEC Printers

The Problem:
    We have (leased) a Compaq Portable II, and with it a NEC P7 printer.
    We have had printer problems, specifically time-outs.  In particular,
    Lotus 1-2-3 gets an "ERROR" condition while printing a particular work-
    sheet, although if the worksheet is saved in a file and DOS is used to
    print it, it prints fine.

    Qwiknet, the project scheduler, is unable to use the NEC printer (either
    the P7 or the older P2/P3) from the Compaq.  The Qwiknet diagnostic program
    QWIKTEST gives a message:
	"Error from first reset.  Status = 1001."

The Diagnosis:
    NEC Tech Support has heard of this problem, and they say it is a timeout
    problem that only happens with the 80286 processor in the Compaq.

The Fix:
    NEC has revised the printer firmware to correct this problem.  They
    should be ready to distribute the new firmware in a week or so, after
    they iron out the business details.

    Meanwhile, they suggest trying the DOS command MODE LPT1:,,P for those
    who are having problems with printing with DOS (which Qwiknet doesn't
    do).

The Credit:
    Greg Matthews at MBI Microsource in Cambridge, Mass. tracked this one
    to its lair for us, and we appreciate it.

	== Christine King
	   ...!cca!ima!inmet!bcking
	   Intermetrics, Inc.  733 Concord Avenue Cambridge MA 02138