Mini-centronics: Hewlett Packer Users Beware

As computer manufacturers begin to phase out old standards (e.gIEEE 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 systemsThey purchase a USB to Parallel adapter, only to find that the parallel end doesn't fit on their HP printerWhat'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-centronicsHowever, this connection has proved to be largely unpopular with other manufacturers, resulting in an interface that is nearly unique to HP printers.