Parallel (LPT) to USB adapter for Mac?

[Mindflux]

My gf has a parallel port printing Brother Laserjet printer that I know she is not going to want to give up. Does anyone have suggestions for a LPT->USB Adapter cable that works with OS X?

[Queso]

Keyspan (http://www.keyspan.com/products/homepage.2.productList.Parallel.spml) do one. Not cheap mind.

[GimmeSlack12]

I think you can get any LPT to USB converter, but the real issue is whether there are OS X drivers for that printer. I'd say get a new printer, but then again, I'm a billionaire :D

[Queso]

I'm sure that even if the drivers aren't included in default OSX they'll be included in the free Gutenprint (http://gimp-print.sourceforge.net/MacOSX.php3) bundle. The downloadable DMG also contains instructions on how to set it up. No harder than a standard USB printer.

[Mindflux]

I think you can get any LPT to USB converter, but the real issue is whether there are OS X drivers for that printer. I'd say get a new printer, but then again, I'm a billionaire :D


Wouldn't OS X also need drivers for that LPT TO USB converter as well?

[Queso]

Wouldn't OS X also need drivers for that LPT TO USB converter as well?
Yep, but Keyspan have them posted here (http://www.keyspan.com/downloads/homepage_pn_up6c.spml) on their website. Be aware that they haven't fully tested them with Leopard yet.

[MisterMe]

I'm sure that even if the drivers aren't included in default OSX they'll be included in the free Gutenprint (http://gimp-print.sourceforge.net/MacOSX.php3) bundle. ...Not necessarily. It depends on the model. Additional drivers may be found on The Linux Foundation's website (http://www.openprinting.org/printer_list.cgi). Luckily for the OP, Brother is one of the few manufacturers that support CUPS. Therefore, he should also check Brother's website.

[Mindflux]

Well lucky me. Turns out her printer has both usb and parallel. No adapter needed!