Parallel connectors

Traditional parallel cables use a DB25M connector for the PC end and a male, 36-pin, 0.085-inch centerline Champ connector with bale locks (commonly called a Centronics C36M) for the printer. The IEEE-1284-1994 specification allows these two traditional connectors to be used as before. It designates the DB25M the IEEE-1284-1994 Type A Connector and the C36M the IEEE-1284-1994 Type B Connector. IEEE-1284 also defines a new type of parallel connector, called the 1284-1994 Type C Connector, which uses a 36-pin, 0.050-inch centerline mini-connector with clip latches, and is usually called a mini-Centronics connector. Printer cables are now available that use these connectors in many combinations.

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