Using a LaserWriter IINT on a modern mac?

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Level 1

10 points

Using a LaserWriter IINT on a modern mac?

I recently got an Apple LaserWriter IINT for free and I was wondering if there was a way to get it to work on my late 2012 Mac MIni or if this is just a lost cause? If I got an AppleTalk to Ethernet or a SCSI (I believe that was that other port is) to firewire or usb connector, would it be possible to get it to work with Yosemite? If it wont, I also own an iMac G4, would it be possible to get it to work with that and turn it into a print server that would work with my mini?

Mac mini, OS X Yosemite (10.10.3)

Posted on May 26, 2015 11:20 AM

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Answer 1

rkaufmann87

Level 10

148,458 points

May 26, 2015 1:51 PM in response to therich123

It might work, if it is a network printer get it's IP address (follow the printer manual for getting that) then add the printer in System Preferences - Printers & Scanners and add by IP address. Here are more detailed instructions:

OS X: How to connect to an IP-based printer or AppleTalk printer via IP - Apple Support

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Answer 2

mooblie

Level 4

1,954 points

May 27, 2015 2:11 AM in response to therich123

You need to look (on eBay?) for a drop-in replacement LaserWriter IIg controller board, which will allow you to put the LaserWriter on your local Ethernet network. Then see here for a driver:

Laserwriter II NTX driver for OS X

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Answer 3

therich123 Author

Level 1

10 points

May 27, 2015 12:25 PM in response to mooblie

I'd prefer not to do a logic board upgrade on it at the moment. I am thinking about hooking it up via serial connection (yes, I realize serial is slower than molasses) to a 15 year old budget pc I have sitting in my closet and using it as a print server for the LaserWriter II. I'll try to look for an official windows driver, though I think Win2k covers the LaserWriter II in its generic drivers.

Now, for hooking it up via serial, I heard that the LaserWriter II requires a null modem adapter/cable, is that true or will a standard straight through cable work?

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