Some of the printers we tested take advantage of parallel interfaces that can exchange data between the computer and the printer. Using this bidirectional communication, you can configure these printers from your PC screen using remote-configuration utilities that reflect the capabilities of the printer's control panel. Among other things, you can reset resolutions and default printer languages through these on-screen utilities so you don't have to walk over to the printer to look through the control-panel menu. Here are a few examples of some remote-operator panels we liked best.
TEXAS INSTRUMENTS MICROLASER POWERPRO AND MICROLASER 600
TI's RPC (Remote Control Panel) for Windows and DOS (we used the Windows version) is a snap to use. You just double-click on the RCP icon, and you can set resolutions, set page ori
entation, change paper-tray designations, or anything that you can do with a printer's control panel. If you get lost, there is an on-line help file. RCP is a must for the microLaser 600 because it does not have a physical control panel.
LEXMARK IBM LASERPRINTER 4039 12R PLUS AND 16L PLUS
In the case of the Lexmark printers, the Windows-based MarkVision Printer Utility supports local and remote 4039 printers (via NPAP) in PCL 5 emulation and PostScript Level 2 emulation. Large buttons and helpful illustrations make it easy to change printer settings on your system. A MarkVision icon flashes to let you know when there's a problem; you then open a window for a graphic view of the printer that explains what's wrong.
HP LASERJET 4M PLUS
HP Explorer--which is a collection of DOS-based applications that look very much like Windows applications--consists of a Status Monitor, an RCP, and an on-line manual. The Status Monitor is a TSR program that broadcasts error messages to your screen so you don
't have to walk over to the printer to discover something like a ``Paper Jam'' status message. The Status Window performs similar duties under Windows. The RCP allows you to set passwords to lock the printer's control panel and brings most printer control-panel settings to your desktop. The on-line manual uses colorful illustrations to describe the printer's functions. The RCP and Status Monitor do not work on networked printers.
Illustration: TI's Windows-based control panel
Interactive Printers
