Testing Serial Plotter Connections

 Last reviewed: September 29, 1995
Article ID: Q88375
The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows operating system versions 2.x, 3.0, 3.1, 3.11

SUMMARY

When you print from Microsoft Windows using serial communications (COM) ports, Windows does not detect error conditions on the printer. The communication process is one way.

Steps to Test a Serial Plotter Connection

To test whether a plotter is properly connected to a computer running Microsoft Windows, type the following at the MS-DOS command prompt: 

   echo sp1 ;pd 1000,1000 ;pu > comX:
In the above command, "x" is the number of the serial port being used (for example, COM1).

This test will activate the plotter, select pen 1, and draw a line down the length of the page.

If this test does not work correctly, contact your dealer or hardware manufacturer for assistance. The following is a list of possible problems that will cause the plotter to not function properly:

  • Incorrect switch settings on plotter
  • Incorrect MS-DOS-mode settings
  • Interrupt conflict with another hardware device
  • Bad printer cable
  • Bad serial connection

KBCategory: kbprint kbtshoot
KBSubcategory: win30 win31
Additional reference words: 3.00 3.10 3.11 tshoot dos mode comm

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Last reviewed: September 29, 1995
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