The D-Link DP-301 is an Ethernet/Fast Ethernet Multiprotocol Print Server, designed to streamline network printing services. This compact device connects to your Ethernet or Fast Ethernet network, allowing you to strategically place printer services anywhere within your network. Its primary function is to manage the flow of print files from workstations or file servers to connected printers, significantly accelerating print job delivery compared to using a file server or a PC as a print server.

Usage Features:

The DP-301 offers several key usage features that enhance network printing efficiency and flexibility. One of its main benefits is offloading the workload of managing print file traffic from your file servers. This frees up your file servers to dedicate their full capacity to file access and other direct services for network users. In peer-to-peer network environments, workstations can print directly to the DP-301 without imposing an additional load on other workstations or servers.

The print server is equipped with an IEEE 1284 compliant high-speed bidirectional parallel printer port. This advanced port allows for much faster data transmission to high-speed laser printers than a standard PC's parallel printer port, enabling these printers to operate at their full capacity. This is particularly advantageous for environments with high-volume printing needs.

Its compact and portable design makes the DP-301 a cost-effective alternative to PC-based print servers. Since it connects to your file servers directly through the network, you have the flexibility to station the printer at the most convenient location for users, optimizing accessibility and workflow.

The DP-301 boasts extraordinary flexibility in terms of network operating systems and protocols. It supports a wide range of environments, including:

IPX/SPX: Compatible with Novell NetWare 3.x and 4.x, utilizing either bindery emulation or native NDS.
TCP/IP: Supports UNIX lpr/lpd, including HP-UX, SunOS, Solaris, SCO, UnixWare, and IBM AIX, as well as Windows NT.
NetBEUI: Works with Windows NT, Windows 95, Windows for Workgroups, Microsoft LAN Manager, and IBM LAN Server.
AppleTalk: Supports MacOS EtherTalk.

The device's rear panel features a printer port (labeled LPT), a network port (RJ-45 receptacle), and a power input socket. The LPT printer port is configurable through the PS Admin program or via Telnet commands, offering versatile setup options. The network port supports both 10Base-T Ethernet and 100Base-TX Fast Ethernet, with NWay autonegotiation functionality. This allows the DP-301 to automatically detect and set its data rate to the highest possible speed supported by your network, ensuring optimal performance.

For power, the DP-301 uses a 12V 0.5A DC power input. It is crucial to use the power supply included in your package, as substituting it with other equipment may void the warranty.

Maintenance Features:

The DP-301 includes several features to assist with installation, self-testing, and ongoing monitoring. The front panel is equipped with three LED indicators: Pw/Tx, Link/Rx, and LPT. These LEDs provide crucial status signals during power-up, self-test routines, and normal operation.

Upon power-up, the DP-301 performs an automatic self-test. This process involves two main stages:

LED Test Series: Immediately after power-up, all three LEDs (Pw/Tx, Link/Rx, LPT) will illuminate steady green for several seconds. Following this, the LPT indicator will flash three times while Pw/Tx and Link/Rx remain steady. Any irregularity in the LED behavior during this test indicates a problem with the LEDs themselves, prompting the user to contact their dealer for correction before proceeding.
Component Test Series: This series of tests immediately follows the LED tests and checks the DP-301's major components. A normal, fault-free result is signaled by three flashes of the LPT indicator, after which normal print server operation begins. If an error is detected during this stage, the test halts, and the LPT LED continuously flashes a specific pattern to indicate the nature of the fault. The manual provides a table mapping these flash patterns to various error types, such as DRAM Error, Flash Protected, LAN Controller Error, and LPT Error. In cases of a "Firmware Reload Required" error, the PS Admin User's Guide provides instructions for upgrading the print server's internal firmware. For other listed error conditions, users are advised to contact their dealer.

For operational testing and configuration, the DP-301 package includes the PS Admin software, a Windows-based setup and administration program. This program simplifies the configuration and management of your D-Link print servers. The PS Admin software features a "Print Test" function to confirm connections and functionality after installation and configuration. If a Windows environment is not available, the DP-301 also offers a Telnet interface for management communications, allowing all configuration and management commands to be issued and reports to be returned via Telnet.

The DP-301 can be placed on a printer's tabletop or conveniently mounted using the supplied Velcro strips. The bottom housing of the device has corner markers indicating the optimal placement for the Velcro loop tape. Users can choose a mounting surface and orientation that allows for easy visual access to the LED indicators and prevents cramping of the connected wiring.

The D-Link DP-301 is designed to be a reliable and user-friendly solution for enhancing network printing, offering robust protocol support, efficient print job management, and straightforward diagnostic features to ensure smooth operation.

D-Link DP-301 - Page 8

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