About The Parallel Cable - M-Audio Portman 4x4 Manual

About the Parallel Cable

The PORTMAN 4x4/S ships with a suitable parallel cable.
However, if you need to replace this cable or want a longer one,
there are certain requirements that you should be aware of. A
Centronics cable that works with your printer will usually, but not
always, work with a PORTMAN. There are at least two reasons
why it might not work:
1. The PORTMAN runs at a much higher data rate than a print-
er, and therefore often prefers a shorter (6 feet or less) and
higher quality cable with all of its ground wires present.
2. The PORTMAN uses some of the signals of the Centronics
port that are unused by the printer. Because of this, the PORT-
MAN requires a cable that has all 25 wires present and con-
nected according to Centronics specification. Not all printer
cables have all 25 wires connected.
If you are having trouble using the PORTMAN with your present
printer cable and need to purchase one that will work with the
PORTMAN, you can purchase one from MIDIMAN directly,
through a Midiman Dealer or from your local electronics supply
store. Midiman has found at least one easily-obtainable cable that
is fully Centronics-compliant and verified to work with the
PORTMAN:
In the event that you are going to purchase a cable yourself and
you can not locate a GC Electronics cable, use the following chart
as a guide to the Centronics specification:
Manufacturer:
Part #:
GC Electronics
45-201-BU
11