Mini-centronics: Hewlett Packer Users Beware

As computer manufacturers begin to phase out old standards (e.g. IEEE 1284, RS-232), there is an increasingly large base of computer users who want to use their old Hewlett-Packer parallel printer with newer usb-only laptop and desktop systems. They purchase a usb to Parallel adapter, only to find that the parallel end doesnt fit on their HP printer. What's the problem?

In 1992, citing compact size and a simple connection to the printer, Hewlett-Packer decided to go with the IEEE 1284C connector, also known as mini- or micro-centronics. However, this connection has proved to be largely unpopular with other manufacturers, resulting in an interface that is nearly unique to HP printers.

As the IEEE 1284 standard became outdated in favor of usb, adapters sprang up to fill the gap between the older parallel printers and newer usb-only computers. However, manufacturers of these adapters went with the most popular printer connector: CEN-36 or centronics, which is considerably larger in size, although comparable in capability to the mini-centronics connection. So where does this leave those with old but useable mini-centronics parallel HP printers?

The answer is found in the centronics to mini-centronics adapter. This adapter converts a larger-sized centronics connection to the smaller, more compact mini-centronics end, allowing people to connect their parallel HP printers to their newer computers. A word of caution: the usb to parallel adapter is still necessary to complete the connection because the conversion from parallel to usb must still be made.

The contronics to mini-centronics adapter is a niche product that can be difficult to find, but it represents the best solution for those wanting to hold on to that old HP printer.

Tara Yoga And Meditation Center Spiritual Retreat Healing

Samsung Z560 - Make a Bold Impression

The latest clamshell mobile by samsung, thesamsung Z560's is not a trendsetter in any means, yet an impressive device for the users who are tired of slim, skinny and flamboyant handsets. The handset comes wrapped in rather ordinary black, but that does not mean its ugly. On the contrary, the intense black colour makes samsung Z560 looks bold, sturdy, masculine and just right for the users to want their gadget to signify 'serious business'. In terms of ergonomics too, the handset does not let down the users. The most noteworthy features being 2-megapixel camera, Bluetooth, a speakerphone, HSPDA capacity, and an external memory slot.

Though the external screen of Samsung Z560'sis little small, it is quite good enough to display most of the essential details. These includes- date, time, signal strength, remaining battery life etc. There is no flash to help visibility in dim conditions but the handset includes the option for change in display contrast. Below the display is the touch sensitive music controls, enabling play/ pause/fast forward/ rewind, when the phone is closed. stereo speakers is stationed on either side of the front flap.

The internal display of Samsung Z560's is large 2.2 inches, and supports 262,000 colours. Like all Samsung handsets, the display of Samsung Z560 poses problem under direct sunlight, but this can be solved with the change in brightness, the backlight time, and the font size, colour, and type. Samsung Z560 continues with simpler menu system, and navigation is also hassle free. For entertainment, the Samsung Z560 offers 2 MP camera, Mp3 player and host of gaming options. You can also personalise the gadget using the variety of wallpapers, background colours, greeting messages and alert sounds.

While under Samsung Z560's multimedia prowess, the handset offers a king size phone book, organiser, integrated email client for yahoo, hotmail, AOL, msn messenger. It also has Bluetooth, usb and stereo profile. As an HSDPA phone, the Samsung Z560 supports wireless broadband data speeds through the 3.5G network.

Carly charu is an expert author and the webmaster of mobile phones.The website having details of Contract phones

and Sim free phones

Chakraclyoga